Abstract:
A kiosk dispenses and receives recorded optical media using an interconnected central server, through an Internet Service Provider. The central server has databases and processing capabilities and is connected to a credit verification system. The databases collect inventory administration information and customer data (e.g., credit card information and email addresses) from the kiosks. The central server initiates credit verification, sends receipts to customers via email and maintains databases for remote inventory-control and administration of the kiosk network. A kiosk may identify a recorded disk for automated restocking and perform quality assessment of a recorded disk. The kiosk may provide publishing-on-demand or act as a portal for remotely served advertisements. The kiosk preferably includes a rotatable carousel with a selection of DVDs. A digital camera captures a digital image of a disk barcode and internal software rotates the image to “read” the barcode, to control inventory and access issues.

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/903,444, filed Jul. 9, 2001 which claims priority to 60/216,854, filed Jul. 7, 2000 and is continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/578,631, filed May 25, 2000 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,444,296, each of which are incorporated herein by reference. 
    
    
     FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a method and apparatus for dispensing recorded optical disks, e.g., DVDs, employing computers and software. More particularly, this invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing automated retail distribution of recorded optical disks. Still more particularly, this invention relates to a method and apparatus for providing a freestanding distribution and retrieval system for recorded optical disks, which is linked to a central server computer using the Internet. 
     Problem 
     One method commonly used for distribution of optical recorded media is a retail outlet. A retail outlet may sell or rent the optical recorded media. A large optical media inventory is common at a retail location, and staff is required for sales, rentals and restocking. A building is required to house this inventory and to provide a retail location. A computer system is usually employed to track inventory of rentals and sales. A retail outlet for recorded media is very expensive to construct and operate. Because of these factors, there is considerable overhead required to run a rental or sales business for recorded media. 
     Another method of media distribution is a limited scale operation. A convenience store might offer a limited selection of items for sale or rent. However, staff is still needed for sales, rentals and restocking. A significant limitation of the retail distribution model for optical recorded disks is the overhead required to operate a business. 
     One way that retailers and manufacturers have sought to reduce costs is through electronic commerce (EC). A system of distribution using EC can reduce overhead associated with retail locations and with sales operations. In this type of business model a central warehouse or warehouses ship an order submitted via the Internet 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 or 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 it must be return-shipped to the distribution location. 
     An advantage of an Internet-based distribution, however, is that a customer may set up an account, pay electronically, and provide invaluable information to a retailer, wholesaler or the media industry. What is needed is an Internet-based distribution system that allows a customer instant distribution or retrieval of optical recorded media (e.g., DVD disks) that does not require a retail outlet with the attendant staff and other costs of doing business. In addition, there is a need to provide automated services for payment and quality assurance such that a distribution system is simple and inexpensive to construct and maintain. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The above and other problems are solved, and an advance in the art is made, through the invention by methods and systems for Internet-based automated distribution and collection of optical recorded disks. 
     A first aspect of the invention is the ability to provide automated distribution of optical recorded disks, such as DVD-type optical disks. A stand-alone automated kiosk serves as a distribution point for an integrated system of automated distribution linked via the Internet. The kiosk is an Internet-connected, electro-opto-mechanical system providing storage, maintenance, marketing and dispensing and retrieval of optical recorded disks. A carousel or shuttle system provides access to multiple media selections within the kiosk. Multiple kiosks may be connected to the system via the Internet for simultaneous use by users at different locations. Multiple kiosks may further be managed from a central location, such as to provide remote maintenance and efficient operation of commonly-owned multiple kiosks through multiple locations. 
     In one aspect, a user interacts with the system via a touch screen. The system software guides each customer through the process, preferably using linked pages connected to a database. A selection is entered on the touch screen to choose one or more items for rental or sale. The selections are added to a “shopping cart,” or a temporary database represented on the display, that is approved by the customer. A credit or debit card or other membership information may be entered using a magnetic strip card reader or other device that imports the data to a verification module. Approval or denial of credit is accomplished via a local database, and/or via a connection to the system central server computer, and/or via a connection to banking services. If the credit or debit is approved, the on-going transaction is attached to a customer, approval for the price of the disk is entered, and a dispensing system is activated. A database then queries software for the requested item location. A carousel or shuttle system manipulates the media until it is aligned with the dispensing/retrieving slot. A door mechanism is activated to open, and a mechanism is activated to push the optical recorded disk partially out of the slot to make it available for hand retrieval by the customer. The disk is contained within a special case, preferably. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides for emailing transaction information to a customer. By way of example, during the disk dispensing operation, an option to receive an e-mailed receipt is given. The option contains a touch-screen keyboard pop-up for the purpose of entering email address characters and other data. A consumer enters an email address via the touch screen keyboard. Receipts may include transactional information as well as advertising and links to specific web sites. All receipts are given by e-mail reducing the expense of a kiosk since a hard-copy receipt printer is not required. Additionally, the system acquires e-mail addresses from customers allowing post transaction interaction while the consumer is on online. These receipts may also contain advertisements and promotional information as well as web links. These advertisements and promotions may be targeted to customers based on their profile data. 
     Optionally, users of a system of the invention may access the Internet to review one or more kiosks in the area, or elsewhere, so as to pre-locate a desired optical media for purchase or rent. Such users may enter email addresses and purchase information at a computer connected with the Internet, and hence with the system, to facilitate these operations; these users may then physically access an appropriate kiosk to obtain their chosen optical recorded media. 
     Yet another aspect of the present invention is the ability to receive returned optical recorded media to the system. The customer activates a return process by selecting “return rental” button from the touch screen menu or by presenting the disk to the system bar-code reader or optical sensor. The carousel or shuttle system positions to accept the disk at the opening. An initial sensor detects if the recorded disk belongs to the system and activates a door mechanism to allow placement of the recorded disk in the opening. If the recorded disk does not register as a system disk, the door mechanism will not allow the disk to enter the opening. Once registered, the individual code associated with each item is entered into the database and the position in the carousel or shuttle is stored. An open transaction is closed when the item is returned and logged in the database, or sold. The location of each item is stored in the database upon insertion through the return slot. Recorded disks are stored in case containers specific to the system; these cases may include certain lock and key structures that enable early identification of the case. Preferably, item-specific identifiers—e.g., barcodes—are present on the optical recorded media to further identity of the individual disk. 
     Still another aspect of the present invention is automatic restocking of the kiosk system. Customers return the optical recorded media to the system. A single-touch selection or sensor-activated initiation of the system starts the process. The kiosk system rotates the carousel into the appropriate alignment of the opening to the selected inventory slot. Once in the appropriate alignment, and upon recognition of the system-specific barcode, the door opens for acceptance of a cased recorded disk. As the case passes through, the door mechanism pivots to decline additional insertions until the system is ready. The location information is then stored in the computer, restocking information is downloaded to the central server, and the disk becomes available for subsequent rental or sale. 
     Optionally, users of the system in certain markets (i.e. airports) may elect for the ability to return the optical media to administration by means of a mail-back program. For example, business reply envelopes can be made available to users at the kiosk and, for an additional cost, can simplify the return process for the user (i.e. a one way commuter). 
     In one aspect, the invention provides a “thin client” optical media rental system. Each kiosk of the system is a thin client connected to a core server through the Internet. As used herein, “thin client” means that each kiosk provides basic electro-opto-mechanical functionality sufficient to perform the operations required at the kiosk; but the overall system intelligence resides at the core server. This aspect provides certain advantages to facilitate maintaining a plurality of connected kiosks dispensing an array of optical media (e.g., DVDs) at different locations. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a special optical media housing, typically in the form of a DVD case, with a “lock and key” structure to facilitate automated rental returns. In a related aspect, each such housing has a sensor, e.g., a magnetic actuator, attached thereto; the kiosk senses the actuator to determine that the case belongs to the kiosk (or to one of a connected array of kiosks grouped or linked to the central server). Preferably, the case sensor is an optical sensor formed by a hole and a blocked zone; the kiosk picks up the right sequence to accept that housing to the kiosk. This process is sometimes called “pre-scanning” herein. In pre-scanning, the kiosk will not open its door to accept a housing with optical media unless the kiosk first detects the case sensor. Preferably, the kiosk door also remains closed unless the bar codes are read from the optical recorded media, as described below. 
     In another aspect, once the kiosk determines that the housing is acceptable, the kiosk scans at least one bar code on the optical media. Preferably, two bar codes are read, specifying a “group” association and an individual media identification. A “group” bar code specifies how one optical media may travel between kiosks (for example, one distributor may control several kiosks and yet permit returns to any of the kiosks). An “individual media identification” bar code may generally be a serialization of one DVD in an array of DVD disks. 
     In another aspect, the invention provides a bar code scanning process for accepting returned optical recorded media to one or more kiosks connected to a core server. An optical reader scans the optical media through a clear case housing. The case preferably has an indented zone in its center so as to clearly read the bar code(s) through the case. The process preferably performs multiple “reads” of the bar code(s) to ensure that the kiosk (and hence the system) correctly identifies the optical recorded media. In one aspect, the kiosk takes a digital picture of the media during the return process; it then attempts to read the bar code(s) from the digital picture. If unsuccessful, kiosk software “rotates” the image so as to read the bar code(s) from a different angle. This process may continue; but it is generally successful within one or two subsequent rotations. 
     In yet another aspect, a system of the invention includes a central database connected to a plurality of kiosks. All transactions such as “rent” and “returned data” at each kiosk are downloaded to the central database server. Preferably, each kiosk maintains a backup memory of certain information from the central database server, so that transactions may occur even in the event of communication failure between the kiosk and database server. By way of example, each kiosk may contain 12 G-bytes of memory to store the certain information from the database server. 
     In still another aspect, the invention provides an automated customer profiling system. The system tracks interactions from customers at either a connected kiosk or at a computer connected to the database server through the Internet. Customers may be profiled according to individual information, such as movie-type preferences. Such a system may further send and accept “e-coupons” so as to discount certain rental offerings at one or more local kiosks. By way of example, the system may send an email to a customer to offer a discount rental for a DVD optical media at a near-by kiosk; that customer may accept the discount by interaction with the central database server through the Internet, or he may print the coupon and enter the coupon code at the near-by kiosk. E-coupons may thus incorporate promotion codes as individual numbers that are entered at the kiosk for discounts; accordingly, in one aspect, a kiosk of the invention includes a keyboard graphically represented at the kiosk touch screen. In one preferred aspect of the invention, discount magnetic stripe cards (i.e. grocery store club cards) are used for promotional discounts. In another preferred aspect of the invention, e-coupons used at a kiosk within the system of the invention may be tracked to assess advertising effectiveness. 
     Users of kiosks of the invention are preferably characterized by unique credit card numbers. Information that is attached to a user profile generated at a kiosk includes e-mail address and transactional data. Additional information can be initiated through the Internet or added to a pre-existing account, including phone number, address, and/or membership data 
     In another aspect, a system of the invention provides real time inventory of connected kiosks. A user of the system can access the Internet and review the DVDs available at any of the connected kiosks. Inventory statistics are also prepared, preferably; such statistics are useful for example to flag those movies often rented and those that are not, so that multiple versions of highly rented movie may be made available to users. 
     In one aspect, a kiosk of the invention includes a vertical carousel housing  102  DVDs; the volume footprint of the carousel housing is approximately 24″×25″×15″. A kiosk with such a carousel may be mounted in four different ways: on a pedestal, on a wall, on a counter-top, or in a wall. In the latter case, a “quick mount” frame is used to house the kiosk for mounting within a wall, in another aspect. A kiosk of the invention preferably is “plug and play”, requiring only a phone line and a power cord, to begin operations. By way of example, a user of the kiosk purchases or rents the kiosk for use at his store; he mounts the kiosk on a store wall, plugs the kiosk to 110V power, and connects the kiosk to a phone line, which in turn connects internal kiosk intelligence to the central database server. 
     In another aspect, the mechanical design of a kiosk of the invention preferably utilizes a camshaft to time the door, the door lock, and the pinch rollers. 
     In another aspect, the kiosk is cooled by sinking heat to the housing to dissipate internally generated heat, thus eliminating external fans and other means of housing penetration. 
     In still another aspect, mechanical elements of the kiosk are preferably extruded and welded to other components in an efficient process flow. 
     In one aspect, a kiosk of the invention utilizes a card reader and associated software to read and conduct transactions with magnetic stripe cards such as credit cards, debit cards, club cards, or smart cards. In a preferred aspect, the card reader performs age verifications, to ensure rentals are made to appropriate age groups; as such, one card reader of the invention also provides for reading driver licenses or other identification. 
     One preferred kiosk of the invention includes an advertising module. Advertising information, such as trailers and advertisements, are downloaded from the central database server and stored on a local drive. Advertising information may be “customized” to any kiosk location according to typical user preferences and, for example, specific demographics. The advertising information may further include video advertisements played at the kiosk for display to users thereby. Play-lists may thus be customized for each location, and locally selected, but administered centrally through connection between the kiosk and the central server. Simplified administration screens connecting administrators to the central server facilitate control and selections at a connected kiosk. 
     Advertisements used in kiosks of the invention may be digital still images or motion video in MPEG2 format, or other suitable formats. Advertising files are inventoried on the core server and then downloaded on request to the requested kiosks. This file is then stored locally at the kiosk (e.g., within kiosk memory) and may be inserted into the advertising play list in as many slots as needed. The list plays continually in a looped format during requested hours. Play lists may be shown on an LCD display on the face of the kiosk and/or on additional external monitors. 
     The invention is next described further in connection with preferred embodiments, and it will become apparent that various additions, subtractions, and modifications can be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       A more complete understanding of the invention may be obtained by reference to the drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  illustrates the recorded media distribution system of the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a block diagram of a system kiosk, in accord with the invention; 
         FIG. 3  illustrates a system central server, in accord with the invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a block diagram data exchange within the distribution system, according to the invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a flowchart of a system transaction, in accord with the invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a block diagram of an exemplary computer system of the invention, suitable for use with a kiosk or system central server database; 
         FIG. 7  is a depiction of a bar code and optical disk used in accord with the invention; 
         FIG. 8  is an exemplary perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a kiosk, in accord with the invention; 
         FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of internal mechanics, including a carousel, for a kiosk of the invention; 
         FIG. 10  shows a perspective view of spindle mechanics for the carousel of  FIG. 9 , and further illustrates placement of speakers for a kiosk of the invention; 
         FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of a carousel of the invention; 
         FIG. 12  shows an encoder and motor for use in a kiosk of the invention; 
         FIG. 13  shows other internal drive shaft and electromechanical components within a kiosk of the invention; 
         FIG. 14  illustrates opto- and electro-mechanical components of a kiosk using digital cameras and input/output mechanics for optical recorded media, in accord with the invention; 
         FIG. 15  shows further detail of the mechanics of  FIG. 14 ; 
         FIG. 16  shows further detail of the mechanics of  FIG. 15 ; 
         FIG. 17  shows camshaft operation detail within a kiosk of the invention; 
         FIG. 18  shows a front view of a carousel of the invention; 
         FIGS. 19-22  illustrate additional detail of parts extruded in making the carousel of  FIG. 18 ; 
         FIGS. 23-24  show a case for enclosing an optical recorded media, in accord with the invention; and 
         FIG. 25  illustrates operation for inserting a disk case into a kiosk, in accord with the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS 
     In the following detailed description of the present invention, a method and system are provided for Internet-based and automated recorded media distribution and retrieval; specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be obvious, however, to a person skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details, and changes may be made to the description herein without departing from the scope of the invention. 
     The integrated recorded media distribution system is centered on combining instant physical access to recorded media with the convenience of Internet based e-commerce. The system is particularly adapted to support Digital Versatile Disk (DVD) recorded media, and other optically recorded disks. 
     In the preferred embodiment, an Internet-connected central server integrates customers, suppliers, employees, kiosks, owners, and the video industry in a “Hub and Spoke” system that is preferably automated and interactive, providing real time business-to-consumer and business-to-business capabilities. 
     The system kiosks are part of the Hub and Spoke network system. The kiosks act as brick and mortar spokes, providing a faster, more convenient way for customers to obtain and return DVD videos or other optical recorded media. Each kiosk is a self-service unit that combines electromechanical dispensing devices and components, Internet connectivity and a touch screen monitor for customer interaction. The compact nature of the DVD format allows up to 102 disks to be stocked in a kiosk, like the kiosk shown in  FIG. 8 . The kiosk&#39;s small space requirement allows placement in high-traffic locations that are more convenient than traditional retail locations. Internet connectivity allows customers to have the choice of shopping online or on-site or to access a variety of real-time services. 
     Each kiosk is a self-service unit that includes an internal processor, Internet connectivity, and a touch screen monitor for customer interaction. The small physical footprint of the kiosk enables it to be placed in a variety of locations. The kiosks can operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, providing instant electronic access to products. The kiosks are fully automated providing customer service through the Internet; on-site staffing is not required to support customer needs. The system web site provides 24-hour access to on-line customer support. It also provides access to specific kiosk inventory, movie trailers and reviews, customer inquiries, special orders, regular individually tailored e-mailed updates, and overall service. The integrated remote kiosk monitoring system allows low cost inventory management, tailored marketing promotions, operations planning, advertising management, and system diagnosis. 
     In the preferred embodiment, the kiosks are physically designed to meet American Disabilities Act (ADA) specifications so that they may be placed in public facilities. The kiosks also preferably meet other regulatory requirements of public transportation facilities, universities, and office buildings. 
     The system central server supports a World Wide Web site. The central server includes promotional drivers and accessory services that route through the system website in conjunction with the kiosks. Customers may use the Internet to query a specific kiosk for availability, or to purchase new and used optical recorded media, register for e-mailed updates, or to participate in various targeted programs. 
     The integrated system allows fast transactions. A simple and easy to use title search process minimizes shopping time and allows rapid transactions. Transaction times from walk-up to walk-away can be less than 40 seconds and average 2.5 minutes. Return of media is also simple, as the disks only need to be re-inserted into the dispensing/retrieval mechanism. Upon the return of a disk at a kiosk, the internal computer reads individual identification information from the disk and restocks it automatically. 
     The system allows remote price changes and can also gather up-to-the minute product availability and customer data. Thin-client computing technology keeps hardware costs low and speeds up application deployment by centralizing management, and enhancing security. E-mailed receipts generated from the kiosks through the central server allow ongoing access to customers after the completion of the transaction. 
     Recorded disk pricing may be determined on a kiosk-by-kiosk basis based on local market conditions. Pricing also varies depending on market elasticity; for example, premiums may be placed on DVD videos available in airport terminals. Differentiated pricing can be used for newer releases vs. older releases. In addition, rental terms and promotions may vary based on kiosk locations and the time of week, and can be adjusted remotely on demand. 
     At a kiosk such as shown in  FIG. 8 , a graphical user interface (GUI) utilizing a touch screen display provides a user-friendly interface even to consumers lacking computer experience. Once a touch screen is activated, a computer in the kiosk generates a touch-selectable list of available media: movie genres such as Action, Drama, Romance, and Comedy, for example. By touching on one of the genres, a selection of associated titles and/or a promotional picture may appear on the screen. Touching an image causes basic information to be displayed about that media such as cost and rating, along with an option to rent or purchase the media. When selection of media is complete, a credit, debit card, and/or other membership ID is requested to execute the transaction and then the disk is dispensed to a customer. 
     Return of rental media is similar; a customer may select “Rental Return” button on a touch screen, and then insert a disk into an opening in the kiosk. An optical scanner first verifies that the disk belongs to the system before accepting a disk. 
     Internet connectivity and a dynamic customer database provide product promotion capabilities and consumer access. Product information and promotions may be tailored to each location&#39;s demographics and additionally to each kiosk&#39;s rental and sell-through history. Advertising is available on the kiosk, kiosk screen, additional associated monitors, disk cases, dispensed coupons, e-coupons, e-mailed receipts, and through various web-based interactions. Advertising with the kiosk system provides mechanisms to promote specific marketing initiatives as well as additional local and global advertising. The system website allows consumers to search for kiosks and to query a specific kiosk for available content. The website also carries updated lists of used media for sale at discounted prices at individual kiosks. A customer may reserve and pay for a DVD stocked at a specific kiosk from the website, then pick up the DVD within a specified time period at the specific kiosk. Once a customer enters e-mail information at the kiosk or at the website, that customer is eligible to receive frequent tailored e-mailed updates and e-coupons from the central server on current promotions. 
     Additional products potentially distributed through the kiosks include a variety of recorded media such as books on optical recorded disks, DVD music videos, DVD-ROM, DVD video games, DVD-Audio, SA-CDs and CDs. The modularity of the system allows for easy adoption of additional disk-based content distribution. 
     Some portions of the following detailed description are presented in terms of procedures, logic blocks, processing steps, computer program code and other symbolic representations of data operations within a computer memory. A procedure, logic block, process, etc., is a self-consistent sequence of steps or instructions leading to a desired result. The steps are those requiring physical manipulations of physical quantities. 
     A practitioner will recognize that all of these and similar terms are to be associated with the appropriate physical quantities and are merely convenient labels applied to these quantities. Unless specifically stated, terms such as “processing,” “computing,” “calculating,” “determining,” “displaying,” refer to the action and processes of a computer system or similar electronic computing device. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a computer system  612  suitable for use in the kiosk of  FIG. 8 , or in central server  103 ,  FIG. 1 . In general, computer system  612  used by the preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a bus system  600  for communicating information between system components. A central processing unit  601  for processing information and instructions is coupled to bus system  600 . A processing unit may be a processor, a microprocessor or any group or combination of processors or microprocessors. A random-access memory  602  for storing information and instructions for the central processor  601  is coupled to bus system  600 . A read-only memory  603  for storing static information and instructions for the processor  601  is coupled to bus system  600 . A data storage device  604 , such as a magnetic or other disk drive, for storing information and instructions is coupled to bus system  600 . A display device  605  for displaying information to the kiosk user is coupled to bus system  600 . An alphanumeric input device  606 , including alphanumeric and function keys (e.g., a touch screen), for communicating information and command selections to the central processor  601 , may be coupled to bus system  600 . A cursor control device  607  for communicating user input information and command selections to the central processor  601  may be coupled to bus system  600 . A signal-generating device  608  for communicating data or signals between devices external to system  612  and processor  601  may be coupled to bus system  600 . 
       FIG. 1  illustrates a preferred embodiment of an optical disk distribution system  100 . Generally, system  100  distributes recorded optical media in disk form; for example a Digital Versatile Disk (DVD), or a Compact Disc (CD). A disk, recorded disk, DVD, CD, or recorded optical media are used interchangeably herein to refer to an optical recorded media. System  100  integrates one or more kiosks  101  with a server system  103  through a virtual network  107  that uses the Internet  104 . Server system  103  is connected to the Internet  104  also for direct linking to individual email accounts  105  and  105 ′. Server  103  supports a World Wide Web page set  108  for general access by customers using the Internet  104 . Generally, access to system web page set  108  supported by server  103  is through an Internet Service Provider (ISP) that provides an Internet connection for a personal computer  106 . Kiosk  101  has a display  106  for viewing and entering information. Kiosk  101  dispenses and receives disks  102 , via an opening in its front. 
       FIG. 2  illustrates a schematic embodiment of a kiosk  200  (e.g., kiosk  101 ,  FIG. 1 ). Kiosk  200  is a self-contained unit dispensing system that contains computer devices and mechanical devices. A central processing unit  201  is operably connected to a system bus  250 . System bus  250  may be a single bus or a series of busses for communicating data or signals between various devices and central processing unit  201 . A memory device  202  for storing instructions and/or other information is operably connected to system bus  250 . A data storage device  203  for storing data, or containing databases and/or other instructions, is connected to system bus  250 . A display device  204  having alphanumeric input capability is operably connected to system bus  250 . A magnetic card reader  211  for reading magnetically imprinted cards is operably connected to system bus  250 . Any device suitable for uniquely identifying a customer such as a smart-card, license reader, fingerprint scanner/identifier, or other identification device may be substituted for, or augmented to, magnetic card reader  211  when appropriate. An optical reader  205  for reading bar codes is operably connected to system bus  250 . Reader  205  may include a digital camera to view optical media and an associated housing, to facilitate access control of media to the kiosk. A disk shuttle assembly  206  for accessing and storing disk media is operably connected to system bus  250 . A media storage unit  207  for storing optical media  214  is contained in kiosk  200 . Shuttle assembly  206  may be contained in, or integrated with, media storage unit  207  for accessing optical media  214 . A kicker device  208  for dispensing or receiving optical disk media  214  is operably connected to system bus  250 . A communications device  216  such as a modem or network connection is operably connected to system bus  250 . An optional audio device  212  for providing kiosk sound capability may be connected to system bus  250 . An optional DVD-Ram or DVD-ROM drive  213  for reading data from, or writing data to, optical media may be operably connected to system bus  250 . An optional coupon-dispensing device  217  may be operably connected to system bus  250 . An optional alarm state recognition device or algorithm  218  may be connected to system bus  250 . An optional secondary transaction device  219  for processing custom banking processes such as local debit card transactions may be connected to system bus  250 . 
     An optional error detection system  209  for detecting damaged optical disc media may be internal to or external to kiosk  200 . When error detection system  209  is internal to system kiosk  200 , error detection system  209  is operably connected to system bus  250 , and DVD-RAM or DVD-ROM drive  213  is operably connected to system bus  250 . Other output/input signal devices  210  may be connected to kiosk  200 , as needed. By way of example, one input device  210  includes a digital camera for capturing images of persons and/or objects near to kiosk. Such a camera is useful, for example, in capturing the user while he or she inputs identification or credit card information; later the information may be compared to the input data in the case of fraud. By connecting camera device  210  to bus  250 , images captured thereby may be downloaded to the central server, as needed, in this process. 
     An optional advertising device  215  for broadcasting advertising and promotional materials to additional monitors may be internal or external to kiosk  200 ; when advertising device is internal to kiosk  200 , advertising device may be operably connected to system bus  250 , as shown. 
     Those skilled in the art should appreciate that kiosk  200  may alternatively function with computer system  612  as at least part of internal schematic items  201 ,  202 ,  203 ,  204 . 
     Each kiosk  200  preferably has a database stored in memory  203  of its kiosk inventory; and this inventory is preferably duplicated at the core server  103 ,  FIG. 1 . Memory  203  also preferably stores a set of kiosk parameters specific to a kiosk. This set is fed from the core server  103  and includes any local language translations, logos, color schemes, advertisements or video graphics, and the advertising play list. All transactional data passes through to core server  103  and is preferably not stored, long term, in local memory  203 . 
     Kiosk  200  interacts with a central server preferably as shown in  FIG. 1 . Central server  103  preferably polls each individual kiosk  103  (e.g., kiosk  200 ) for status information, every five or ten minutes, for example. If the information from kiosk  200  is not normal, then one or more alarm states are generated to administrators of the central server. Alarm states may be generated for any of a variety of reasons, for example indicating: that kiosk  200  is not on; an incorrect inventory; security breaches; incorrect readings by any internal device or sensors; and combinations thereof. This feature is very powerful to assist in management of the array of kiosks. Alarm state messages may be relayed to a core server administrator by email, pager messages, cell phones and the like, and in near real time to indicate a problem at any of the connected kiosks  101 . 
       FIG. 3  is an illustration of a preferred embodiment of a central server computer  300 . The system central server computer  300  may also be computer system  612 . System server  300  provides command and control and collects and delivers data to and from kiosk  200 . Server computer  300  has a central processing unit  301  that is operably connected to server system bus  350 . A memory device capable of storing instructions  302  is operably connected to server system bus  350 . A database  303  for storing data is operably connected to system bus  350 . A communication device  351  capable of transmitting and receiving data or html  304  is operably connected to system server bus  350 . An optional second communication device  353  for exchanging data for commercial transactions  305  may be operably connected to server system bus  350 . An optional secondary transaction server device  306  for processing secondary transactional data such as grocery store club card data may be operably connected to server system bus  350 ; server device  306  may alternatively be a connection to facilitate connection to a remote server to accomplish like function. 
       FIG. 4  depicts a preferred embodiment of the system data transfer mechanism  400 . Mechanism  400  for example facilitates item  107  of  FIG. 1 . A virtual network connection  107  provides data exchange between kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 , and server computer  300 ,  FIG. 3 . The kiosk-server virtual network system  107  can be a local network system or a remote network system that may utilize an html-based data exchange, e.g. an intranet or extranet. The exchange of data in html format includes an html request  425  and an html page  435 ; alternative communications between server computer  300  and ISP  401  may occur through signal line  420 . Both kiosk  200  and server computer  300  may request and receive data using the html protocol, allowing a two-way data-exchange system. The use of the html protocol allows an Internet browser to be a system interface, and additionally allows system  100 ,  FIG. 1 , to be administered by an Application Service Provider (ASP) using the Internet. An ASP provides software applications across the Internet by basing resident software on central server  103  that is accessed using an Internet browser. The use of ASP&#39;s is desirable where the functionality of a network is desired, but the use of a private server-system is impossible or impractical. An Internet Service Provider (ISP)  401  may also be an ASP. ISP  401  provides a connection to the Internet to individual computer users. 
     Exchange of data using virtual network  107 ,  FIG. 1 , is accomplished in a secure manner using methods of data encryption and decryption known in the art. Secure transfer of data through ISP  401  provides a virtual private network connection. An additional data exchange may occur on a dedicated private network connection for banking services, or alternatively using a virtual network as in item  107 . Server computer  300  may obtain credit or debit or other membership authorization using information received from a customer. A credit authorization request  412  is transmitted from server  300  to a bankcard verification service  410 , which generally is a secure server computer. After receiving credit authorization request  412 , bankcard verification service  410  processes credit authorization request  412 , and transmits a response  411  to server computer  300 . Response  411  is conveyed to kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 , through virtual network  107 ,  FIG. 1 . 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a preferred embodiment of a disk-dispensing transaction process  500 , in accord with the invention. Process  500  begins with a request to dispense a media selection from kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 , in step  501 . Information including, for example, credit-card number, and/or license or identification information, is next received from a customer to kiosk  200 , in step  502 . Kiosk  200  then securely transmits data received in step  502  to ISP  401 ,  FIG. 4 , in step  503 . Data securely transmitted in step  503  is received to ISP  401  in step  504 . Data received to ISP  401  in step  504  is securely transmitted to system server  300 ,  FIG. 3 , in step  505 . Data securely transmitted to system server  300  in step  505  is next received at system server  300  in step  506 . System server  300  next securely transmits debit and/or credit authorization request data to a credit verification server in step  507 . System server  300  next securely receives credit authorization data from a credit verification service in step  508 . System server  300  next securely transmits authorization data received in step  508  to ISP  401  in step  509 . In step  510 , data transmitted by system server  300  in step  509  is received by ISP  401 . In step  511 , ISP  401  securely transmits to kiosk  200  authorization to dispense requested media received from system server  300  in step  510 . In step  512 , kiosk  200  securely receives authorization to dispense media transmitted from ISP  401 . Optionally, in step  513 , an email address is securely received for customer. In step  514 , kiosk  200  dispenses requested media to a customer. In step  515 , system server  300  transmits to ISP  401  an e-mail receipt for a debit transaction occurring in steps  507  and  508  for an e-mail address supplied in step  513 . In step  516 , ISP  401  transmits email receipt data received from system server  300  in step  515  to an email address received in step  513 . 
     In a preferred embodiment of the invention, shown in  FIG. 7 , an optical bar code  701  uniquely identifies each recorded disk  700 . A region on the case between the media outside diameter  705 , and the center region  704  may be used for a label region  702 . A center region  704  exists between the label region  702  and the center hole  703 . The center region  704  may contain printed information (e.g., a bar code) on both single-sided and double-sided optical media. For recorded disk  700 , barcode  701  is read by capturing a digital picture of barcode  701 , and then internal software to kiosk  200  rotates an image of barcode  701  to perform one or more “pseudo” scans of barcode  701 . 
       FIG. 8  is an exemplary perspective-view embodiment of a kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 . A kiosk housing  900  forms an enclosure. The outer dimensions of housing  900  may be about 25″ tall, 25″ wide, and 15″ deep. A computer, e.g., computer  612 ,  FIG. 6 , or CPU  201 ,  FIG. 2 , is included inside housing  900 . A touch screen display  904  is positioned on the front of housing  900 . Display  904  may show advertising play list images and movie trailers in addition to providing user interface functions described herein. An input/output slot  940  is positioned on the front of housing  900  to dispense and receive optical recorded media disks. A magnetic strip reader  911  is positioned on the front of housing  900 . A transfer mechanism/controller is included in housing  900  to manipulate disks into and out of housing  900 . This transfer mechanism may be shuttle/carousel  206 ,  FIG. 2 , or the structures illustrated in  FIGS. 9-18   
     In the preferred embodiment, touch screen display  904  has an LCD backed up by a metal plate to protect internal components should the LCD break. Around display  904  is a cast bezel  920 , providing protection for the customer and the display  904 . The display LCD may be sealed to bezel  920  to protect it from fluids and moisture. Bezel  920  is angled at the top  921  to discourage people from placing objects on it. 
     Access to inside of housing  900  is through a cam lock  924 . Access within housing  900  facilitates mounting or dismounting of housing  900  to walls or other surfaces; internal access is also used to access power and communications connections. The key for cam lock  924  cannot be removed in the unlocked position. 
     Magnetic strip reader  911  is used by kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 , to identify a customer or member, and/or to bill the customer, and/or to verify age. Reader  911  is thus preferably usable with magnetic strips used in driver&#39;s licenses, credit cards, membership cards, student body cards, etc. 
     All cases and optical media inventory normally enter and exit thru Input/output slot  940 . Housing  900  and slot  940  thus cooperate to protect media inventory; specifically, inventory cannot be removed from housing  900  (e.g., by stealing) without breaking the housing and optical media. Authorized access can only occur through use of cam lock  924  and special tools used to disassemble the carousel from the spindle (described in more detail below). Slot  940  is also constructed to prevent a person from inserting a finger into internal working mechanisms. 
     Cast covers  926  and  927  protect input/output mechanisms of slot  940 , and further shields the bar code scanner/camera (described in more detail below) housed internally to housing  900 . Cast covers  926  and  927  may only be removed from the inside with tools. 
     Housing  900  includes a sheet metal enclosure  901  with welded seams  903  to protect internal components from moisture, dirt and vandalism. Sheet metal enclosure  901  is shaped to provide a 5-degree back-angle tilt to the faceplate  907 . This angle assists in viewing LCD  904  as well as providing a gravitational vector that assists the seating of disks in carousel  950 . Enclosure  901  has a flat bottom to allow for counter-top installation, and a sloped top to discourage customers from placing objects on the kiosk. Kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 , runs without an external cooling fan and mounts easily on a wall, thru a wall, on a countertop, or on a pedestal. Enclosure  901  serves as a “heat sink” to radiate heat from heat-generating inner components, such as a computer  612 , and drive motors (described in more detail below). Housing  900  also has a full-length side piano hinge  905  to protect the kiosk from vandalism and contamination. A cast main faceplate  907  serves as the front of housing  900  and provides a mechanically stable platform for the working elements of kiosk  200 ; it also serves to deter penetration by vandals. The remaining seam  909  between faceplate  907  and enclosure  901  is baffled and gasketed to protect against penetration by mechanical means or by dust or liquids. 
       FIG. 9  shows a perspective view of electromechanical elements that are internal to housing  900 . A carousel  950  that rotates to dispense optical disks holds  102  cases; carousel  950  is lightweight and easy to fabricate using interlocking aluminum extrusion. The extrusions after assembly are jigged and welded to minimize run-out and to assure stability. Carousel  950  is preferably driven by chain drive  952  to ensure “no-slip” operation. An eject mechanism  954  dispenses optical recorded media from housing  900 , through input/output slot  940 ; mechanism  954  connects to faceplate  907  by two mechanical screws. One cable (not shown) serves to power and control mechanism  954 , via the internal computer and connected power. A servo-controller and RS232-485 converter  956  drives the carousel motor  958 . Carousel drive motor  958  may, for example, mount within housing  900  by three mechanical screws; two cables generally connect to motor  958  to provide power and electrical control. 
       FIG. 10  shows further detail of internal mechanics of kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 , within enclosure  900 ,  FIG. 8 . A spindle assembly  960  holds carousel  950  for rotation thereon.  FIG. 11  shows a perspective view of carousel  950  alone. Each slot  951  of carousel  950  holds one optical media disk within a case, described in more detail below. Carousel  950  has a central hub  953  for mounting on spindle assembly  960 . Carousel  950  is removed from spindle assembly  960  by three mechanical screws (not shown).  FIG. 10  also shows a more detailed view of speakers  962 , providing audible tones, music and communications to users of kiosk  200 . Speakers  962  for example may be audio device  212  of kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 . 
       FIG. 12  shows an encoder  970  that is used by kiosk  200  to accurately position carousel and spindle  950 ,  960 . The standoffs  972  act as supports and as preload springs for drive chain  952 . A sprocket  974  drives chain  952  and, thereby, carousel  950 . Gear motor  958  provides the torque and speed to accurately position carousel  950 . 
       FIG. 13  shows further detail of mechanical components within housing  900 . The gear motor  959  rotates cam  980  to move eject arm  976  in and at a controlled speed and position. Optical sensors  978  provide feedback with motor  959  to accurately position eject arm  976  in the “Out” position (i.e., clear for carousel rotate) and in the “In” position (i.e., arm  976  is in position for kiosk  200  to sense an incoming case). A flag  992  trips optical sensors  978  above. An optical sensor  982  provides additional feedback indicating that an eject maneuver is in fully ejected position; a flag  988  trips optical sensor  982  in performing this function. An optical sensor  984  picks up a flag on carousel  950  as a home reference for carousel position. The offset value is adjusted in operating software. A reflective optical sensor  986  senses the presence of a case in a slot  951 ,  FIG. 11 . A mechanical switch  990  senses a case during a return to a slot  951 . Eject arm  976  supports mechanical case switch  990  and pushes a case into the input/output rollers (described below) during an eject cycle. 
       FIG. 14  shows additional features of a kiosk of the invention, including internal electro-optical and electromechanical components to facilitate the operations herein.  FIG. 14  specifically shows these components used in conjunction with the input/output slot  940 ,  FIG. 8 . A digital camera  1000  couples to a mount  1002 , as shown. One suitable camera for camera  1000  is a 3Com 00371800 HomeConnect PC Digital Camera. Camera  1000  captures an image approximately 1.6″ in diameter, through its illustrative field of view  1003 . This image is then processed by the internal kiosk computer (e.g., computer  612 ,  FIG. 6 ) to assess barcodes, patterns and/or characters on a disk  700 ,  FIG. 7 . A special pattern may be placed on optical media label  702  and next to barcodes  701  to deter fraud. Barcodes  701  captured by camera  1000  as a digital image can be decoded at various angles. The image is stored locally or at the core server  103 ,  FIG. 1 , for post processing should an issue arise regarding a related transaction. Illumination for camera  1000  in capturing the digital image is through active illumination (e.g., a light). A gear motor  1004  provides the torque and speed to accurately position a case in or out of a slot  951 . A gear motor  1006  provides the torque and speed to accurately drive a cam that operates the door, door lock and pinch rollers (discussed below). 
       FIG. 15  shows additional features of a kiosk of the invention, including internal electro-optical and electromechanical components to facilitate the operations herein.  FIG. 15  specifically shows these components used in conjunction with the input/output slot  940 ,  FIG. 8 . A ridge  1012  provides relief for the post machining of cast main plate  907 , and further provides a reference for gasketing and a shield against mechanical penetration. Cable routing apertures  1014  facilitate cable connections through bezel  920 ; cable routing apertures  1015  facilitate cable connections through main plate.  907 . Drive gears  1016  rotate the intake/output rollers  1018 . A pair of case glides  1020  physically guides a case into and out of kiosk  200 . 
       FIG. 16  shows additional detail of the input and output mechanism of kiosk  200 . The pinch rollers  1030  force a case through guides  1020  against the intake/output rollers  1018 ,  FIG. 15 , and also set the case during a return. A door  1032  prevents an unauthorized case or object from entering the kiosk and shields inventory when carousel  950  is rotating. The case sensors  1034  determine whether a case is valid to trigger an image read by camera  1000 ,  FIG. 14 . The activation sequence of sensors  1034  is used to determine if a case is removed prematurely during a return cycle or if a case is adequately ejected during an output cycle. The case sensor LEDs  1036  provide the operating light for case sensors  1034 . Optical sensors  1038  provide the feedback required to position camshaft  1048  ( FIG. 17 ). Sensor  1038  (a “door closed” sensor) may be used to show when door  1032  is fully closed so that carousel  950  can be safely rotated with a clear doorway. A door lock  1040  automatically latches and locks door  1032  as soon as a case clears the doorway during either an input or output cycle. 
       FIG. 17  shows additional features of a kiosk of the invention, including internal electro-optical and electromechanical components to facilitate the operations herein.  FIG. 17  specifically shows these components used in conjunction with the input/output slot  940 ,  FIG. 8 . A flag  1042  trips “door closed” sensor. A door cam  1033  operates to open and close door  1032 . A door lock cam  1044  operates the door lock  1040 . A gear  1046  drives camshaft  1048  for cams  1033 ,  1044 , and  1052 . Three flags  1050  position cam shaft  1048  in following four distinct positions: 
     Door  1032  closed and lockable; pinch rollers  1030  open 
     Door  1032  open and unlocked; pinch rollers  1030  open 
     Door  1032  open; pinch rollers  1030  closed 
     Door  1032  closed and locked; pinch rollers  1030  closed 
     Two pinch roller cams  1052  move pinch rollers  1030  to closed and open positions. 
       FIG. 18  shows a front view of carousel  950 . Carousel  950  is preferably extruded as a series of parts shown in detail within  FIGS. 19-22 .  FIG. 19  shows the center extrusion hub  950   a .  FIG. 20  shows the inner ring extrusion  950   b .  FIG. 21  shows the spoke extrusion  950   c .  FIG. 22  shows the outer ring extrusion  950   d . Carousel  950  is thus extruded in three main sections: (1) the center extrusion hub  950   a  has the inside portion  1200  of the disk alignment fins and slots for the spoke extrusions  950   c ; (2) the spoke extrusions  950   c  are notched at  1202  to align with the slots in the center extrusion hub  950   a  and ring extrusions  950   b ,  950   d ; and (3) outer ring extrusion  950   d  contains outside disk alignment fins  1204  and is also slotted at  1206  to accept spoke extrusions  950   c . The finished outer ring extrusion consists of six sections  950   d  welded together with six spoke extrusions  950   c  to complete carousel  950 . 
       FIG. 23  shows an inside view of one case  1100  suitable for housing optical recorded media for input and output with a kiosk  100  such as described in connection with  FIGS. 8-17 .  FIG. 24  shows an outside view of case  1100 .  FIG. 7  shows case  1100  in a closed position, housing disk  700 .  FIG. 25  illustrates case operation through intake slot  940 . A disk  700  sits within insert molds  1102  and around central hub  1104 . Case  1100  has a hole  1106  used by sensors  1034  to detect whether case  1100  is suitably keyed for kiosk  200 ,  FIG. 2 . Intake Slot  940  is shaped to align case  1100  with sensors  1034 ,  FIG. 16 , in the kiosk intake housing. An example of keying is as follows: one sensor  1034 A is aligned with hole  1106 , providing an “open position”, and the 2nd sensor  1034 B is blocked by the case  1100  in a “closed position”. Arrows  1130  indicate common direction for the case  1100  inserted into slot  940 . 
     In operation, the intake mechanisms of kiosk  200  preferably operate according to the following steps: 
     After dispensing a disk, carousel  950 ,  FIG. 11 , is rotated such that an available return position is adjacent the input/output slot  940 ,  FIG. 8 ; the return position being a slot  951  that does not contain a disk  700 . 
     To initiate a return, a “return rental” button is triggered at the touch screen display  904 ,  FIG. 8 . 
     A disk  700  within a case  1100  is inserted into the intake slot  940 ,  FIG. 8 , until it reaches a door stop  1032 ; at this position, sensors  1034  on case  1100  are read to activate the barcode scanning process. 
     Barcode  701 ,  FIG. 7 , is read: the barcode image is scanned to acquire the appropriate code response; if the code is not acquired, the image is rotated  30   o  and is re-scanned; this cycle is repeated until the codes are acquired, or for a maximum of three cycles. Once the code is decoded, bar code  701 A,  FIG. 7 , is read to determine which group code disk  700  is associated with; if cleared, kiosk door  1032 ,  FIG. 16 , is opened by rotating cam shaft  1048 . The group code  701 A identifies the disk as originating from a specific “kiosk group”. Door  1032  is opened if the kiosk is associated with the group code. Concurrently, the kiosk reads a serialized code from bar code  701 B to identify the individual disk  700  and to register it with the disk inventory database. The inventory database information is eventually relayed to core server  103 ,  FIG. 1 . 
     If a disk is accepted, the cam motor rotates camshaft  1048  to unblock door  1032  and then to clamp rollers  1018 ,  FIG. 15 , onto the case. The intake roller motor is activated to pull the case into a carousel slot  951 . The camshaft continues to rotate to prep the door block spring. At the end of the intake motion, the case clears the door and allows the door block spring to move the intake block into a closed position. The intake rollers complete the transport of the disk into a free carousel slot  951 . 
     A rear slot sensor  986 ,  FIG. 13 , verifies the existence of a case in the slot and sensor  990  verifies the completed transport of the case through the intake rollers  1018 ,  FIG. 15 , and into carousel  950 . 
     A transaction finishes with the insertion of the serialized disk information into database tables. 
     In operation, kiosk  200  has a resting state that performs the following steps: 
     Door  1032  is locked. 
     Eject arm  976 ,  FIG. 13 , is in a read position. 
     Carousel  950  is held at an open slot  951 . 
     Rollers  1018  are opened. 
     In operation, kiosk  200  preferably operates to accept returns (e.g., recorded disk media  700 ,  FIG. 7 , in a case  1100 ,  FIGS. 23-24 ) according to the following sequential steps and/or states: 
     Kiosk  200  is in a resting state. 
     A return-rental button is triggered by a user of the kiosk, by pressing a graphical representation of the button on touch screen  904 . The return-rental button triggers activation of the light for camera  1000 . 
     A user inserts a disk  700 , within a case  1100 , to slot  940 . 
     Kiosk case sensor reads case  1100 . 
     Kiosk reads disk bar code  701 . 
     Kiosk rollers  1018  close. 
     Kiosk door  1032  opens. 
     Intake roller  1018  on. 
     Door  1032  ready to close. 
     Case-in switch  990  read. 
     Rollers  1018  stop. 
     Door  1032  closes and locks. 
     Eject arm  976  retracts. 
     Carousel  950  moves to open position. 
     Rollers  1018  open. 
     Eject arm  976  moves to read position. 
     Kiosk in resting state. 
     In operation, kiosk  200  preferably operates in a rental transaction according to the following sequential steps and/or states: 
     Kiosk in resting state. 
     Sensors  1034 A and  1034 B checked for intake blockage. 
     Eject arm  976  retracts. 
     Carousel  950  moves to position. 
     Door  1032  opens. 
     Disk  700  ejected. 
     Rollers  1018  close. 
     Output roller  1018  on. 
     Disc  700  in case  1100  removed. 
     Door  1032  closes and locks 
     Carousel  950  moves to open slot  951 . 
     Eject arm  976  moves to read position. 
     Kiosk  200  in resting state 
     The above is a description of a method and system for Internet-based automated disk distribution and retrieval. It is expected that others will design alternative methods and systems for Internet-based disk distribution using stand-alone automated kiosks as set forth in the claims below either literally of through the Doctrine of Equivalents.