Patent Publication Number: US-2003227550-A1

Title: System and method for providing a customized imaging product or service

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION  
       [0001] The present invention relates generally to photography and film units. More particularly, the present invention relates to the automated vending of customized photographic products and services.  
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION  
       [0002] Vending kiosks, also typically referred to as vending machines, are well known for the automated dispensing of a product. Vending kiosks can operate autonomously and accept payment with cash or credit/debit cards.  
       [0003] Various products can be dispensed from vending kiosks, including photographic products. An example of a vending kiosk dispensing a photographic product is the “Kodak Max Vending Machine” which dispenses photographic products provided by Eastman Kodak Company, for example, photographic film, one time use cameras (OTUCs), and pre-paid film processing mailers.  
       [0004] U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,923,906 (Zander), 5,963,752 (Zander), 5,991,548 (Zander), 6,038,401 (Zander), all commonly assigned and incorporated herein by reference, describe an apparatus and method for loading of film into and/or vending of photographic cameras.  
       [0005] U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,351 (Bostic) describes an automated, interactive system for products which must be processed.  
       [0006] However, vending kiosks typically dispense products. That is, while pre-paid film developing mailers can be purchased using the vending kiosk, vending kiosks are not designed to accept/receive exposed film for processing.  
       [0007] Film drop boxes are well known. Film drop boxes are typically located at a retail location such as a mass/food/drug store. A user typically fills out a photofinishing service request form printed on a film processing envelope with user information (e.g., name, address, phone number, etc.) along with photofinishing information (e.g., the type of film that is to be processed, the type of output products that are requested such as prints, Picture CD&#39;s, Photonet Online, etc.). The user then places the film in the envelope and places the envelope into a film drop box or gives it to a retail clerk. The envelope is then transferred to a film processing laboratory, where the film is processed and the order completed.  
       [0008] Typically the user must return to the same retail location (i.e., where the film was placed in the film drop box) to retrieve the completed order. If at any point along the way between the film drop box, retail clerk, and the various equipment and sorting stations within film processing laboratory, the film is accidentally separated form the envelope, the user&#39;s images may be lost.  
       [0009] With the Advanced Photo System (APS), each roll of film has a unique ID number that the user can manually transcribe to the film processing envelope, but most users are unaware of this capability. In addition, manual transcription is time consuming, inconvenient and prone to transcription errors.  
       [0010] Custom machine readable “bar codes” and other similar printed data encoding methods can be used to label and identify film with user identification and service requirements. However, these custom printed systems of identification require mechanical label printers that are prone to jamming, require routine refilling of label stock, have a limited data volume capacity, and usually include no closed loop check to verify that the label was correctly printed. In addition, any label and printed information on the external surface of a roll of film could be easily damaged or removed resulting in the loss of linkage back to the original user.  
       [0011] Typically imaging systems such as kiosks (for example, the Kodak Picture Maker manufactured by Eastman Kodak Company) provide for the scanning of prints and creating reprints and enlargements. Kiosks can also make prints and enlargements from film images, if equipped with a film scanner, and from digital camera cards if equipped with a camera card reader. The kiosk can also be used to add decorative borders and text and do other manipulations to the image to increase its value. It is known to network imaging systems such as kiosks. A networked kiosk is able to send and receive digital files from a remote location.  
       [0012] Accordingly, while such apparatus may have achieved certain degrees of success in their particular applications, a need continues for a system and method to overcome the aforementioned problems. In particular, a need continues to exist for a vending machine adapted to distribute imaging products and services customized to an individual.  
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION  
       [0013] An object of the present invention is to provide a system and method of generating a customized imaging product for a user, and providing the customized imaging product to the user.  
       [0014] These objects are given only by way of illustrative example. Thus, other desirable objectives and advantages inherently achieved by the disclosed invention may occur or become apparent to those skilled in the art. The invention is defined by the appended claims.  
       [0015] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system for generating a customized imaging product. The system comprises input means for providing custom information; means for customizing an imaging product to generate the customized imaging product in accordance with the custom information; and a delivery section for dispensing the customized imaging product.  
       [0016] According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a system comprising an input device for providing custom information; a radio-frequency device for encoding the custom information in a radio-frequency identification transponder disposed on or within an imaging product to produce the customized imaging product; and a delivery section for dispensing the customized imaging product to a user.  
       [0017] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for providing a customized imaging product. The method comprises the steps of providing an imaging product; providing custom information; modifying the imaging product using the custom information to generate the customized imaging product; and delivering the customized imaging product.  
       [0018] The present invention provides a system and method of generating a customized imaging product for a user, and providing the customized imaging product to the user. 
     
    
    
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS  
     [0019] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.  
     [0020]FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of an embodiment of a camera having a radio-frequency identification transponder with the positions of a film unit and transponder being indicated by dashed lines.  
     [0021]FIG. 2 shows a schematic view illustrating use of the transponder in the camera of FIG. 1.  
     [0022]FIG. 3 shows a front view of a kiosk in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0023]FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of a kiosk to show the interior of the kiosk in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0024] FIGS.  5 ( a )-( e ) show a camera being customized in the customization area of the kiosk.  
     [0025]FIG. 6 shows a flow diagram of a first method in accordance with the present invention for providing a customized imaging product.  
     [0026] FIGS.  7 ( a ) and ( b ) show the kiosk in communication with a remote location by means of a communication network or wireless communication, respectively.  
     [0027]FIG. 8 shows the kiosk of FIG. 3 having a receiving area for receiving a customized imaging product.  
     [0028] FIGS.  9 ( a )-( h ) show a customized camera being received by the kiosk.  
     [0029]FIG. 10 shows a flow diagram of a second method in accordance with the present invention for providing a customized imaging product and service.  
     [0030]FIG. 11 shows a flow diagram more particularly describing the first and second method in accordance with the present invention.  
     [0031]FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram more particularly describing the method of selecting an imaging product and the personalization of the imaging product.  
     [0032]FIG. 13 shows a flow diagram more particularly describing the method of obtaining the imaging service. 
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION  
     [0033] The following is a detailed description of the preferred embodiments of the invention, reference being made to the drawings in which the same reference numerals identify the same elements of structure in each of the several figures.  
     [0034] The present invention provides a system and method of providing a personalized or customized imaging product or service. More particularly, the present invention employs a radio-frequency identification transponder disposed on an imaging product, such as a camera or roll of photographic film, wherein the transponder is programmed with customized information. That is, information which is custom or personal or specific to a particular user/purchaser.  
     [0035] Radio-frequency identification transponders are well known and are widely available in a variety of forms. These RF transponders include a non-volatile memory, such as an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory) semiconductor component integrally contained in the transponder. Stored in the non-volatile memory are encoded data. Inlay transponders are identification transponders that have a substantially flat shape. The antenna for an inlay transponder is in the form of a conductive trace deposited on a non-conductive support. The antenna has the shape of a flat coil or the like. Leads for the antenna are also deposited, with non-conductive layers interposed as necessary. Memory and any control functions are provided by a chip mounted on the support and operatively connected through the leads to the antenna. Inlay transponders have been used as layers of identification tags and labels to provide encodements that are accessible at a distance.  
     [0036] U.S. Pat. No. 6,381,416 B2 (Manico), commonly assigned and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a film unit comprising a radio-frequency identification transponder.  
     [0037] U.S. Pat. No. 6,173,119 BI (Manico), commonly assigned and incorporated herein by reference, discloses a camera having a radio-frequency identification transponder.  
     [0038] Referring to FIG. 1, a camera  10  has a body  12  having an image capture assembly  14  disposed in a casing  16 . During use, a film unit or image capture unit  18  is disposed in the body  12  in operative relation to the image capture assembly  14 .  
     [0039] For convenience, the camera  10  is generally discussed herein in terms of a film unit  18  including photographic film, but it will be understood that the term “image capture unit  18 ” or “film unit  18 ” is broadly defined and is inclusive of a camera  10  having a film unit  18  that stores information in digital form using electronic, or magnetic, or optical memory or the like.  
     [0040] Camera  10  comprises a radio-frequency (RF) identification transponder  20 . As illustrated in FIG. 1, body  12  holds radio-frequency identification transponder  20 . However, radio-frequency identification transponder  20  can be positioned in a variety of locations on camera  10 . For example, transponder  20  can be held by film unit  18 , either external or internal to film unit  18 . Still further, camera  10  can comprise more than one transponder  20 . For example, a first transponder can be held by body  12  while a second transponder is held by film unit  18 , or alternatively, body  12  can hold two transponders. The first and second transponder can store the same or different encodements, and be independently or commonly accessible by a radio frequency.  
     [0041] The term “radio-frequency identification transponder” is used herein to refer to any of a class of compact radio receiver-transmitters which are powered by an ambient radio-frequency field (indicated by line pattern  22  in FIG. 2). Generally, transponder  20  is accessed by modulating the field  22  with an appropriate communication signal. The transponder  20  reacts (indicated by arrow  24  in FIG. 2), responsive to the communication signal. The communication signal  22  is generated and the encodement is detected by a communication unit or transceiver  26 . It is noted that in order to access from or provide information to transponder  20 , no physical contact with the read/write device is required. Other systems which require physical contact are prone to wear, such as at the electrical contact points, or require physical securement to these points. Further, because of the physical contact requirement, the shape/design of a product incorporating a memory device requires that the contact portion be accessible to the read/write device.  
     [0042] A dispensing unit, such as a kiosk, a vending system, or automated machine, is provided to customize camera  10  and dispense the customized camera to a user, wherein the camera is customized by programming the transponder  20  with information specific to the user. As such, the present invention relates to a system for providing a customized imaging product. Such dispensing units are intended to operate autonomously, and can be a free-standing unit located at a retail or non-retail location, or a unit located as a component of architecture (such as mounted within a wall). A user can interact with the dispensing unit either in an indoor and outdoor environment, and either walk-up or drive-through.  
     [0043] An exemplary dispensing unit is generally illustrated in FIG. 3 as kiosk  30  for dispensing imaging products, such as photosensitive film, an image capture device, digital camera, a single use camera, a compact disc, a memory card, a floppy disc, a removable hard drive, or the like. For ease of discussion, camera  10  will be used as the imaging product selected by a user to be customized and dispensed from kiosk  30  though it is recognized that one or more imaging products can be dispensed from kiosk  30 .  
     [0044] As illustrated, kiosk  30  includes a body  32  having a display side  34  providing an interface with the user/operator/purchaser/customer of imaging products dispensed from kiosk  30 . The interface includes an input device/means for obtaining information from the user as well as providing information or instructions to the user. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the input means of display side  34  comprises a monitor or display  35 , a selection area  36  defining imaging product features, a payment area  38 , a delivery area  40 , and an input device  41 .  
     [0045] Display  35  provides an area for displaying information, such as instructions or advertisements or the like, to communicate with the user. As illustrated in FIG. 3, display  35  is displaying as an advertisement for the kiosk.  
     [0046] Selection area  36  displays products and/or services from which the user can select. Icons, text, symbols, images, or other graphical indicators can be used to represent the products/services. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 3, an icon  42  of a camera is displayed along with textual information  44  of camera features which can be selected (i.e., one-time-use-camera, flash, no flash). An icon  46  of a 35 mm roll of film is displayed along with textual information  48  of film features which can be selected (i.e., 35 mm, ASA number). An icon  50  of an APS roll or film is displayed along with textual information  52  of film features which can be selected (i.e., APS, ASA number). Similarly, icon  54  represents a Picture CD product, icon  56  represents a Picture Disk product, icon  58  represents a service of prints/enlargements, while icon  60  represents Photonet On-line, a service wherein images are stored digitally on a server which can be accessed through the internet. Other imaging products and/or services can be similarly represented in selection area  36 , including photosensitive film format, film speed, illumination means, number of exposures, film type including color, black/white, color negative or reversal, memory size, memory type, digital resolution, number of images, zoom, water resistance, output format, processing method, image print size, image print type, image storage device type including on-line storage or disc storage, print modification, annotation, borders, graphics, designated recipient, owner/user, delivery location and address, processing time, concatenating with other images, generation of software or hard display albums, website, payment means including debit card, credit card, and cash, later billing, and credit to account.  
     [0047] The user can communicate with selection area  36  by means of an RF-enabled tag. For example, the user can employ a “loyalty card” comprising an RF tag wherein the RF tag is encoded with user information and preferences, for example, name, address, a preference for  4 × 6  prints, and/or a preference for an index print. Accordingly, if selection area  36  includes an RF reader, the encoded information can be read/transferred to kiosk  30 . Alternatively, such a loyalty card can comprise magnetically encoded information or electrically stored information.  
     [0048] Payment area  38  includes one or more payment mechanisms for accepting payment from the user. One payment mechanism illustrated in FIG. 3 is a card reader  62  which includes a slot  64  for accepting a debit/credit card or a keypad  66  for entering a debit/credit cart number. A receipt area  68  can be provided for providing a receipt to the user. Another payment mechanism illustrated in FIG. 3, is an alternate payment mechanism  70  configured to accept cash payment or any other form of acceptable payment. A further payment mechanism, not shown, can include a bar-coded or RF-enabled keychain fob (also referred to as a key tag; the MOBIL SPEEDPASS is an example of a RF-enabled key tag).  
     [0049] Delivery area  40  provides a means for delivering the customized imaging product to the user. As shown in FIG. 3, delivery area  40  is configured as an opening in display side  34  for accessing the customized imaging product, though other configurations may be known to those skilled in the art.  
     [0050] Input device  41  can comprise a keyboard, as shown in FIG. 3, or other input means known to those skilled in the art. For example, display  35  could be employed as an input device if configured as a touchscreen. Other suitable input devices can include a card reader, radio-frequency reader, retinal scan, facial recognition, and a telecommunication device. Input device  41  is employed to obtain information from the user, information such as the user&#39;s name, address, telephone number. Input device  41  can be used to communicate with selection area  36 .  
     [0051]FIG. 4 shows a cross-sectional view of kiosk  30  illustrating an exemplary interior of the kiosk. A plurality of cameras  10  are disposed within kiosk  30  in a product area  72  supporting a supply of imaging products (i.e., the cameras). For the arrangement shown in FIG. 4, camera  10  is moved, one at a time, from product area  72  to customization area  74  upon activation of kiosk  30 , i.e. a user providing payment and making an imaging product selection. For other arrangements known to those skilled in the art, more than one camera  10  can be moved simultaneously. Those skilled in the art will also recognize that various means/methods can be used to move camera  10  from product area  72  to customization area  74 . One method, illustrated in FIG. 4, employs a movable conveyance illustrated as a conveyor  76  which is incremented a predetermined amount to move one camera  10  from product area  72  to customization area  74 . As illustrated in FIG. 4, the movement of conveyor  76  causes one camera  10  to leave the conveyor and drop through an opening, shown as a hopper  78 , to enter customization area  74 .  
     [0052] The specific camera  10  selected for movement to customization area  74  can be dependent on the selections made by the user at selection area  36 . For example, if the user selected a camera with a flash, a camera with a flash unit will be moved to customization area  74 . Similarly, if the user selected a camera without a flash and having 35 mm, 200 speed film, a camera without a flash unit having 35 mm, 200 speed film will be moved to customization area  74 .  
     [0053] Referring now to FIG. 5( a )- 5 ( d ), customization area  74  provides means for customizing the imaging product (i.e., camera  10 ) to generate the customized imaging product. Means for customizing camera  10  comprises a radio frequency communication device  80  for encoding an encodement(s) in transponder  20 . Radio frequency communication device  80  comprises transceiver  26  and is adapted to work collaboratively with other components of kiosk  30  and will be described in more detail below.  
     [0054]FIG. 5( a ) shows camera  10  entering customization area  74  through hopper  76 . Customization area  74  can include means (not shown) for detecting the presence/absence of camera  10 , such as an IR detector or pressure sensor or the like.  
     [0055] Referring now to FIG. 5( b ), once at customization area  74 , communication device  80  is activated to customize camera  10 , whereby encodements specific to the user are encoded in transponder  20  to generate a customized imaging product, referred to as camera  10 ′. The encodements can include information relating to the user, imaging product, sale of the imaging product, or services related to the imaging product. For example, user information could include name/address/phone number or a designated recipient other than the user. Imaging product information can include camera serial number, date of manufacture, camera functions/features such as shutter speed, zoom and flash, and camera configuration including number of exposures, black/white, color, push process, borders, and/or annotation. Sales information can include sales date, sales location, receipt information such as whether a receipt was provided to the user, and/or payment method. Services information can include the services that were purchased for the camera, including Picture CD, Picture Disk, print and enlargements, digital effects, enhancements and/or modifications (such as sharpening, color changes, custom text and graphics, artifact removal and the like) and/or Photonet Online.  
     [0056] Once camera  10  is encoded to generate customized camera  10 ′, the encodements encoded in transponder  20  can be verified by determining if transponder  20  reacts to a verification signal sent by communication device  80 . Transponder  20  reacts (indicated by arrow  24  in FIG. 5( c )), responsive to a communication signal generated and the encodement is detected by communication device  80  to determine if the information was properly encoded in transponder  20 .  
     [0057] Once encoded and verified, customized camera  10 ′ is presented to the user. In a preferred embodiment, customization area  74  is disposed adjacent to delivery area  40  as illustrated in FIGS.  5 ( a )-( d ). As such, access to camera  10 / 10 ′ can be precluded until encodement and verification of transponder  20  has occurred. Access until then can be precluded by means/methods known to those skilled in the art, for example, a door or other covering  82 . As illustrated in FIG. 5( a ), covering  82  is disposed in front of delivery area  40 , while in FIG. 5( d ), covering  82  has been moved away from delivery area  40 , thereby allowing access to customized camera  10 ′. The user is now provided with an imaging product which has been customized to the user&#39;s specifications.  
     [0058] An optional door/covering  81  can deliver a defective product to a holding area  84 . Examples of defective products which would be delivered to holding area  84  include camera  10  having a non-operable or incorrectly operating transponder  20 . Door/covering  81  can also be employed if the user does not remove camera  10 ′ from delivery section  40  within a predetermined time period.  
     [0059] Accordingly, the present invention provides a system for providing a customized imaging product. The system includes an imaging product; input means for providing custom information; means for customizing the imaging product to generate the customized imaging product; and a delivery section for dispensing the customized imaging product.  
     [0060]FIG. 6 provides a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the present invention for providing the customized imaging product disclosed above. At step  150 , an imaging product is provided. Custom information is also provided (step  152 ). The custom information is used to modify the imaging product to generate a customized imaging product (step  154 ) which is delivered to a user (step  156 ).  
     [0061] It may be desirable to transmit the custom information collected at step  152  to a remote location. For example, the payment information using a credit reader  62  can be transmitted so that payment can be verified/obtained. Similarly, the custom information can be used to determine when kiosk  30  needs to be serviced or when kiosk  30  requires stocking of imaging products. Still further, custom information can be used to determine when a predetermined amount/quantity of imaging products have been received at kiosk  30  and collection is required.  
     [0062] Referring now to FIG. 7( a ), kiosk  30  can be networked via a communication network  90  to a remote location. The remote location can be a service provider  92 , such as an internet service provider or online photofinisher, or a product/service provider  94 , such as a wholesale lab, manufacturer, or retailer. Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 7( b ), kiosk  30  can be configured with a wireless communication system  96  for wireless communication  98  to service provider  92  or product/service provider  94 . Custom information collected at the remote location can provide a product and service provider with sales and marketing information, allowing a retailer to produce user profiles.  
     [0063] While kiosk  30  has been disclosed as being configured to dispense a customized imaging product, kiosk  30  can be configured to receive the customized imaging product. That is, when the user has exposed the photographic film of camera  10 ′ and desires to have the exposed film of camera  10 ′ developed, kiosk  30  can receive camera  10 ′ and provide the user with a desired output imaging product and/or service.  
     [0064] If kiosk  30  is configured to receive an imaging product, and that imaging product is not previously customized in accordance with the present invention, kiosk  30  can obtain user input and then program encodements in transponder  20  to customize camera  10  at the time it is received at kiosk  30 . In this manner, camera  10  can be customized to generate camera  10 ′ whereby a photofinisher receiving camera  10 ′ from kiosk  30  can use the encodements to perform the appropriate customization.  
     [0065]FIG. 8 shows kiosk  30  having a receiving area  100  for receiving camera  10 ′, i.e., the customized imaging product. While FIG. 8 shows receiving area  100  as being separate and distinct from delivery area  40 , those skilled in the art will recognize that receiving area  100  and delivery area  40  can be configured to be the same area. For ease of discussion, receiving area  100  will be shown as being distinct from delivery area  40 .  
     [0066] Referring now to FIG. 9( a )-( h ), there is shown customized camera  10 ′ being received by kiosk  30 . Receiving area  100  comprises an opening  102  having a door or covering  104  to preclude access to opening  102 . Initially, covering  104  covers opening  102  to prevent kiosk  30  from receiving camera  10 ′, as shown in FIG. 9( a ), or unauthorized items. Upon activation of kiosk  30  by the user to indicate that customized camera  10 ′ is to be deposited, covering  104  is moved away from opening  102  to expose receiving area  100 , as shown in FIG. 9( b ). (It is noted that activation of kiosk  30  can occur at interaction with payment area  38 .) The user places customized camera  10 ′ in receiving area  100  (FIG. 9( c )) and covering  104  moves to cover opening  102  to indicate receipt of customized camera  10 ′ (FIG. 9( d )).  
     [0067] With door  104  covering opening  102 , radio-frequency communication device  80  transmits a radio-frequency field  108  with an appropriate communication signal to access transponder  20  disposed on/within customized camera  10 ′, as shown in FIG. 9( e ). Referring now to FIG. 9( f ), the encodements earlier programmed in transponder  20  are transmitted back to communication device  80 . If no or incorrect encodements are transmitted to communication device  80 , covering  104  can open and a message can be indicated to the user that the item placed in receiving area  100  cannot be accepted/received by kiosk  30 . (Other messages can be indicated to the user. For example, alternately, a message can indicate to the user that the encodements can be made at this time.) If the encodements transmitted to communication device  80  are acceptable, customized camera  10 ′ can be accepted by kiosk  30  and placed in a holding area until collected. For example as shown in FIG. 9( g ), a door or covering  110  can be moved to expose an opening  112  to a holding area  114  for holding customized imaging products received by kiosk  30 . Once customized camera  10 ′ is moved to holding area  114 , covering  110  is moved back into place, thereby covering opening  112 , as shown in FIG. 9( h ).  
     [0068] Holding area  114  can comprise a plurality of holding sections, bins, or the like, for example, a section for defective products, a section for imaging products submitted by the user which require processing, a section for APS, 35 mm, or digital film products, and/or a section for imaging products requiring special handling.  
     [0069] Holding area  114  can comprise a plurality of areas for pre-sorting of customized cameras  10 ′ for processing. For example, one of the plurality of pre-sort areas can be designated for customized cameras  10 ′ requiring an imaging service of prints, while another one of the plurality of pre-sort areas can be designated for customized cameras  10 ′ requiring a imaging service of Picture CDs.  
     [0070] The encodements transmitted from transponder  20  to communication device  80  can be transmitted to service provider  92  or product/service provider  94  by means of communication network  90  or wireless communication system  96  as aforementioned. In particular situations, it may be desirable to verify that the encodements from transponder  20  correspond or are associated with custom information stored at service provider  92  or products/services provider  94 . That is, customized camera  10 ′ is transported to holding area  114  only upon verification of the custom information. As such, receiving area  100  is responsive to the input means or payment means.  
     [0071] Holding area  114  can comprise a processor for processing customized camera  10 ′ within kiosk  30 . Such processing means are known to those skilled in the art, for example, as disclosed by U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,351 (Bostic). Alternatively, holding area  114  can comprise a pouch or other container to collect customized camera  10 ′ for transport to a photofinishing lab for processing in accordance with the custom information of customized camera  10 ′. Still further, holding area  114  can be configured to process specific or unique film types. For example, holding area  114  can be configured to include a thermal processor or scanner. Yet further, holding area  114  can comprise a plurality of transport means, such as pneumatic tubes/cylinders or enclosed conveyors, to transport camera  10 ′ to a designated processing area.  
     [0072] Kiosk  30  can further comprise a service area (not shown) for holding the imaging services associated with customized camera  10 ′ for pick up by the user. That is, if the custom information of customized camera  10 ′ included an imaging service, for example prints, enlargements, or Picture CD, the user can return to kiosk  30  to collect the imaging services selected and paid for. The services area can be configured as a slot in kiosk  30  having an opening from which the user can collect the imaging services. Still further, services area can be delivery section  40 ; that is, the services purchased by the user can be delivered to the user by means of delivery section  40 . Access to the user&#39;s imaging services can be obtained, for example, through the inputting of an access code to kiosk  30  using the input means. Another example for obtaining the services is by the use of a “loyalty card” or credit card comprising an RF tag which is read by kiosk  30  and corresponds the user&#39;s services with the user for pick-up.  
     [0073] If kiosk  30  comprises a printer, prints and enlargements can be printed on demand at kiosk  30  when the user interacts with the kiosk. The images to be printed can be transmitted to kiosk  30  using communication network  90 , 98 .  
     [0074] As such, the user need not return to the same kiosk from where camera  10 ′ was originally purchased or where the user dropped off camera  10 ′ for processing.  
     [0075] The services purchased by the user can be delivered in pouches/packages comprising a radio frequency tag, so as to verify the contents and/or intended recipient.  
     [0076] Accordingly, the present invention provides a system for providing an imaging product and service. The system includes input means for providing custom information; means for associating the custom information with the imaging product to produce a customized imaging product; a delivery section for dispensing the customized imaging product; a receiving area for receiving the customized imaging product; means for identifying the customized imaging product; and means for associating the custom information with the customized imaging product to provide the imaging service.  
     [0077]FIG. 10 provides a flow diagram of a method in accordance with the present invention for providing the customized imaging product disclosed above. At step  200 , custom information provided to a system related to an imaging product and service. Using the system, the imaging product is modified using the custom information to produce a customized imaging product (step  202 ). The customized imaging product is dispensed from the system (step  204 ) to a user. Once used by the user, the user returns the customized imaging product to the system, whereby the customized imaging product is received at the system (step  206 ). The system identifies the customized imaging product which has been received (step  208 ), whereby the custom information is associated with the customized imaging product to provide the imaging service associated with the customized imaging product (step  210 ).  
     [0078]FIG. 11 provides a flow diagram of more particularly describing the methods in accordance with the present invention disclosed in FIGS. 6 and 10. FIG. 12 shows a flow diagram more particularly describing the method of selecting an imaging product and the personalization of the imaging product, and FIG. 13 shows a flow diagram more particularly describing the method of obtaining the imaging service.  
     [0079] With regard to FIG. 11, at step  300 , the user initiates interaction with kiosk, for example by providing payment. The supply of products/services which are available for sale is determined (step  302 ). Instructions can be provided to the user (step  304 ), whereby the user enters the selections (steps  306  and  308 ). A total cost of the product/service can be provided to the user (step  310 ). If currency is used, additional monies may be required (step  312 ). If the selection is a service(s), the imaging product is received by the kiosk (step  314 ), and the custom information is read (step  316 ). The imaging product is then accepted by the kiosk for processing (step  318 ). If the kiosk is networked, the custom information can be transmitted to a remote location, such as to a photofinishing lab (step  320 ). If the selection is a product, the appropriate product is transported from the supply area to the encoding area (steps  322  and  324 ), and the transponder is encoded and the product provided to the user (step  326 ).  
     [0080] It is noted that the steps as described in FIG. 11 may be completed in an alternate arrangement. For example, the flow diagrams of FIGS. 12 and 13 show payment of the product/service being requested after selection of the product/service.  
     [0081] Accordingly, the present invention comprises an automated film processing capability incorporated into a user-operated, networked, vending machine that dispenses film and cameras as well as photographic services. The photographic services can be provided via the vending machine or ordered from it via the network connection for remote fulfillment. Film and cameras can be individually customized, providing access to a numerous photographic products and services without the requirement of a retail clerk and accessible whenever convenient to the user.  
     [0082] In an alternate embodiment, the means for customizing the imaging product in customization area  74  comprises an indicia writing device, such as a barcode writer, which is well known to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, to customize camera  10 , the barcode writer would produce a customized adhesive label comprising the custom information. Portions of the customized adhesive label can be pre-written, while other portions would be written upon activation of kiosk  30 . The customized adhesive label would be applied to camera  10  in customization area  74  (using an application device known to those skilled in the art) prior to covering  82  being activated to provide the user access to customized camera  10 ′. Upon return of the customized camera  10 ′ to kiosk  30 , the verification means would comprise a barcode reader or barcode scanner disposed adjacent or within receiving area  100  to read the custom information from the customized adhesive label.  
     [0083] In a further embodiment, the means for customizing the imaging product in customization area  74  comprises communication device  80  and a supply of customizing agents in the form of adhesive-backed transponders adapted to be securely adhered to an imaging product, such as camera  10 . (For example, an adhesive can be applied to one side of transponder  20  illustrated in FIG. 1.) Accordingly, to customize camera  10 , communication device  80  would encode encodements in at least one of the supply of adhesive-backed transponders. Then, the encoded customizing agent would be provided to the user for adhesion (by the user) to camera  10  to generate customized camera  10 ′. Or alternatively, the encoded customizing agent can be automatically applied within kiosk  30  to camera  10  to generate customized camera  10 ′. Further, the transponder can be applied to the camera  10  in manufacture, and the pre-applied transponder can be encoded using kiosk  30 . Accordingly, upon returning camera  10 ′ to the kiosk or a photofinishing outlet, the transponder can be removed from camera  10 ′ and affixed to a photofinishing envelope, thereby providing photofinishing/services instructions to a photofinisher.  
     [0084] It is noted that the present invention is not limited to the customization of a product to be dispensed from kiosk  30 . In a similar embodiment to that described above, the means for customizing the imaging product comprises communication device  80  and a supply of customizing agents in the form of adhesive-backed transponders adapted to be securely adhered to an existing imaging product which is not necessarily dispensed by kiosk  30 . Accordingly, to customize an existing image product, communication device  80  encodes the encodements in at least one of the adhesive-backed transponder from the supply. Then, the encoded customizing agent is provided to the user for adhesion to the existing imaging product, which could have been in the user&#39;s possession prior to interaction with kiosk  30 . In this manner, kiosk  30  produces a customizing agent, i.e., the encoded transponder, which when applied to an existing imaging product, creates a custom image product according to the provided custom information.  
     [0085] In a preferred embodiment, it is desired to provide a plurality of cameras  10  having the same or associated encodements (e.g., a sequence of encodements, credit card number, time/date of purchase, location of purchase, identification, concatenation of sequence and fixed id number) so that any resulting customized cameras  10 ′ are associated. Accordingly, any imaging services provided would maintain the association. For example, a number of cameras may be purchased for a single event such as a wedding. The cameras would be associated by comprising a sequence (e.g., 1 of 10, 2 of 10, etc) and/or a single identification number shared by all the cameras. Thereafter, all the services (e.g., images) could be combined for delivery to the user, for example, provided on a single CD or photo album, or floppy disk. Multiple versions/copies of this service could be made available to a plurality of customers.  
     [0086] In yet a further embodiment, non-traditional or special films can be employed to produce images, for example, by processing with heat or with viscous developers. U.S. Pat. No. 6,369,873 (Levy), commonly assigned and incorporated herein by reference, describes a thermal processing kiosk for processing thermal film. Polachrome Instant Slide Film, manufactured by the POLAROID CORPORATION, produces images with viscous developers. An example of an integrated processor/scanner system is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,627,016 (Manico), commonly assigned and incorporated herein by reference. Still further, traditional or conventional films can be processed with non-standard, variant processes, such as the Konica QD-21 process manufactured by KONICA CORPORATION, or simple, less complex methods which provide rapid access to images when compared to conventional film processes such as the Kodak C-41 process. However, variant processes and special films typically produce images that are incompatible with optical, analog printing techniques. Digital scanning and image processing algorithms provide a means to obtain high quality images from special films and conventional films that have been processed by non-standard means. With the use of special films or conventional films with variant processes, images can be accessed more quickly than with conventional means, perhaps reducing processing time by at least 80%. Also, with digital scanning and image processing, high quality images can be obtained and because the images are digital, they can be conveniently stored, transmitted, and edited in a kiosk/vending machine self service environment.  
     [0087] Accordingly, kiosk  30  can dispense imaging products comprising traditional films and/or non-traditional (i.e., special) films. Further, kiosk  30  can accept/receive imaging products comprising traditional films and/or non-traditional films.  
     [0088] Kiosk  30  can comprise a system for processing the imaging product received by the kiosk, whether the imaging product comprises traditional or non-traditional film. For example, if the imaging product is traditional film, kiosk  30  can comprise an automated vending system such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,113,351 (Bostic). If the imaging product is non-traditional film, such as thermal film disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,369,873 (Levy), kiosk  30  can comprise a thermal processor and scanner to process an exposed thermal film.  
     [0089] In such a manner, the service(s) can be provided “on-site” at kiosk  30 . That is, the user can wait while the processing of the product/service is being conducted, or return (either after a short period of time or at a later time) to retrieve the product/service ordered from the kiosk. As aforementioned, in addition to hardcopy prints, the product/service can include the writing of CDs, memory cards, DVD, digital prints, enlargements, index prints, and floppy disks.  
     [0090] Accordingly, display  35  of kiosk  30  can display one or more of the user&#39;s images which have been processed by kiosk  30 , or downloaded to kiosk  30  over the communication network from a remotely located kiosk. The displayed images can be a thumbnail display (i.e., low resolution), a high resolution display, or a thumbnail display of a plurality of images (e.g., an index print). In addition, kiosk  30  can be employed to modify an image display on display  30  (e.g., zoom, crop) as is known to those skilled in the art, such as the Kodak Picture Maker.  
     [0091] Yet further, if kiosk  30  is networked over a communication network, the user can direct kiosk  30  to send/transfer/transmit the order to a second kiosk for pick up of the order at the second kiosk. Alternatively, one or more images could be sent from kiosk  30  via email or “instant messaging” to the second kiosk. In addition, the first kiosk can direct the services to another location, such as a fulfillment center or a home computer.  
     [0092] Kiosk  30  can be located at private and public places, for example, stadiums, airport terminals, bus stations, train stations, schools, and office buildings. If located at an airport terminal, kiosk  30  can be used by travelers concerned with the sensitivity of photographic film to x-rays and gamma rays. That is, there is a concern that photosensitive films, particularly high speed films, may be adversely affected by the x-rays of security screening devices employed to scan luggage. Film will not be exposed to security x-rays if not carried through a security gate. Accordingly, a user/traveler can purchase a photosensitive product (such as a single-use-camera or film) from kiosk  30  located at the airport of the traveler&#39;s destination, wherein kiosk  30  is located outside of the secured area. After taking pictures to expose the film, the traveler can return the camera/film to kiosk  30  located at the airport terminal outside the secured area. Alternatively, the traveler can return the camera/film to another kiosk located at a different location, for example, at a car rental location or a museum (i.e., any compatible kiosk). The traveler can wait for the processed images, or the traveler can provide instructions for transmitting/sending the images to another location for pickup, for example, the next destination of the traveler or the traveler&#39;s home.  
     [0093] The invention has been described in detail with particular reference to a presently preferred embodiment, but it will be understood that variations and modifications can be effected within the spirit and scope of the invention. The presently disclosed embodiments are therefore considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention is indicated by the appended claims, and all changes that come within the meaning and range of equivalents thereof are intended to be embraced therein.  
                               PARTS LIST                                                10   camera            10″   customized camera            12   body            14   image capture assembly            16   casing            18   film unit            20   radio-frequency identification transponder            22   field; communication signal            26   communication unit; transceiver            30   dispensing unit; kiosk; vending machine            32   body            34   display side            35   monitor or display            36   selection area            38   payment area            40   delivery area            41   input device; keyboard            42   icon; camera            44   textual information; camera            46   icon; 35 mm film            48   textual information; 35 mm film            50   icon; APS            52   textual information; APS film            54   icon; Picture CD            56   icon; Picture Disk            58   icon; prints/enlargements            60   icon; Photonet On-line            62   payment mechanism; card reader            64   slot            66   keypad            68   receipt area            70   payment mechanism; cash            72   product area            74   customization area            76   conveyor            78   hopper            80   radio frequency communication device            81   door; covering            82   door/covering            84   holding area            90   communication network            92   service provider            94   product/service provider            96   wireless communication system            98   wireless communication           100   receiving area           102   opening           104   door/covering           108   radio-frequency field           110   door/covering           112   opening           114   holding area