Abstract:
A motivational device having an enclosure comprising an electronics receiving area, a closure plate, at least four sides and a door within a front plate. The electronics receiving area has a top surface, a bottom plate, a front plate and sides and contains a microprocessor programmable with primary user-determined criteria and an access code and providing data entry and data display. The at least four sides are connected to the electronics receiving area and closure plate and enable viewing of the interior of the enclosure while preventing access. The unlocking and locking of the door is electronically controlled and also enables viewing of the interior of the enclosure.

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     The disclosed invention relates to a reward system that can be used for children and/or adults. Points are awarded based on predetermined behavior and the “reward”, locked into a case or enclosure, remains within the enclosure until a preset number of points are received. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Motivation can be difficult for both children and adults and many methods have been used in an attempt to increase motivation. In children the lack of motivation is generally focused around the areas of behavior and education. 
     Motivating a child to exhibit good behavior is a challenge faced by every parent. Parents often resort to punishment for bad behavior as a means for motivating good behavior. However, child development specialists generally agree that negative rewards for bad behavior are not as effective as positive rewards for good behavior. 
     In an attempt to increase reward motivation in education, computer programs and freestanding machines have been developed. Most of these, as used in education to motivate student learning, reward the student for correct answers using only intangible rewards. 
     A diversity of educationally oriented commercial copyright software, shareware software, and public domain software exists and can be found in the homes of most owners of personal computers. These educational programs quiz students with questions on a variety of subjects including spelling, language, math, and other subjects. A large percentage of the educational software includes graphic effects, tallying of scores, printed readouts, and special audio effects to reward students upon successful completion of the problem and motivate continued utilization of the software. However, students frequently become less and less motivated by these pseudo-rewards due to their intangible and repetitive nature. In fact, many students tend to stop using the educational software programs altogether. 
     One issue with computer games, marbles in the jar, and other reward systems on the market is the lack of reward tangibility. Especially for children, the promise of a reward they cannot see or touch makes it difficult to focus on the objective and be motivated to continue the positive behavior. 
     Other examples of reward systems would be Use Your Marbles, Smilemiles.com and sticker charts. Use Your Marbles is a very simple reward system with the reward written on a board instead of being in an enclosure or having a picture of the reward. It consists of a jar of marbles and two shot glass size glasses which hold 4 marbles per day. The kids lose their marbles for bad behavior during the day. The marbles remaining at the end of the day go into the big jar. After the marbles reach the reward line, they get the reward. This system does not have the visual stimulation or the usefulness of the disclosed system and it is doubtful that anyone would use this system other than for young children. Online reward systems such as Smilemiles.com require a computer and do not provide the tangible reward as with the disclosed system. 
     Entry of data may also be delayed if the computer is in use or otherwise inaccessible. Sticker charts can be fun for younger children however as the children get older there is little appeal to getting a star on a chart. Further, not many adults would consider using sticker charts for themselves. Even small children become bored quickly and lose interest in sticker charts. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     In the disclosed invention, the selected prize is tangible and positioned at the entry area of the points for the child to see and in some instances touch. In this way, every time the points awarded for good grades or behavior are entered, the child sees the prize. 
     Children are not the only ones who benefit from a reward at the end of a goal. Many diet gurus advise taking clothing of the desired size and hanging it in a visible place. The problem with this is progress is not recorded unless a chart is kept at some location. With the disclosed device, the clothing would be out of the way and, as the daily weight is entered, the system can be programmed to have coordinating graphics and sound. 
     The disclosed system can also add fun way the monitor progress with already existing programs for dieting, smoking, etc. by setting and reaching goals. 
     A motivational device having an enclosure comprising an electronics receiving area, a closure plate, at least four sides and a door within a front plate. The electronics receiving area has a top surface, a bottom plate, a front plate and sides and contains a microprocessor programmable with primary user-determined criteria and an access code and providing data entry and data display. The at least four sides are connected to the electronics receiving area and closure plate and enable viewing of the interior of the enclosure while preventing access. The unlocking and locking of the door is electronically controlled and also enables viewing of the interior of the enclosure. 
     The sides, top and front of the device are at least opaque or alternatively can be transparent. When opaque material is used the interior of the enclosure is viewed through windows. To prevent access to the interior, the windows are covered with an open weave material or a transparent, solid material. The construction of the device can be such that it can be stored and shipped flat with all components separate, and assembled by the user. In some embodiments, the method of attachment can be such that the device can be easily disassembled. 
     The data entry can be through a keypad, arrows or touch screen. The display can be through standard screen or incorporated into the touch screen. Preferably the front plate of the electronics receiving area is angled to enable easier viewing and use. The electronics optimally also have graphics and sound and are programmable by the primary user through data entry and/or downloading. Point charts can also be provided to reflect the points awarded or removed for an event. 
     When more than one secondary user is desired, a second partial enclosure can be used that is connected to the electronics receiving area. This enables two separate enclosures and separate users. 
     To use the device, a reward item is placed into the primary user programmed enclosure with the total number of points required to unlock the door entered using the access ID. Points are either added or subtracted, depending upon the action, each entry being met with sound and graphics. When the desired number of points has been reached, the door is unlocked and the reward removed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a perspective view of an example embodiment of the disclosed motivational system having a button keypad, screen and mesh walls in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 2  is a perspective view of an alternate example embodiment of the disclosed motivational system having a touch screen keypad, touch screen and transparent, solid walls in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 3  is front view of example note boards, in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of another example embodiment of the disclosed motivational system having dual enclosures, a touch screen keypad, touch screen and transparent, solid walls in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 5  is a perspective view of a further embodiment having a side opening door and the points chart in the base, in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 6  is a flow chart of an example sequence for the reward system, in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 7  is an exploded view of the individual components of the motivational device in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 8  is a cutaway view of an assembly system for the device in accordance with the invention; 
         FIG. 9  is a cutaway view of an alternate assembly system for the device in accordance with the invention; and 
         FIG. 10  is an alternate embodiment to the motivational device in accordance with the invention. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Definitions 
     As used herein the term “enclosure” shall refer to any enclosure, such as a box or sphere on a base, having any number of sides. 
     As used herein the term “primary user” shall refer to any person having the access code to program the microprocessor. 
     As used herein the term “secondary user” shall refer to any person for whom the device is being used. In some instances, where an adult is using the device for themselves, they would be both the primary and secondary user. 
     The disclosed system increases motivation by a combination of the proximity of the reward and the use of interactive feedback by having the reward immediately accessible upon achievement of the predetermined number of points or through the meeting of other criteria. Generally the criteria can be translated into points, e.g. completing a daily exercise routine with a reward at the end of the week, however in some instances the criteria is not easily translated to points. In these instances, the specific goals or steps can be programmed into the microprocessor, along with applicable graphics, and reflected on the screen. 
     A reward of choice (or a representation of such if larger than the enclosure) is locked in the enclosure (while remaining visible) and when the predetermined number of points have been gained, the enclosure will open so the reward can be retrieved. It is 100% customizable and can be used in any situation in which a little extra motivation in reaching a goal would be useful. 
     The disclosed system provides the little bit of extra motivation needed to encourage people to meet their own goals or help people to encourage good behavior from others (children, students, employees, patients, etc). It will allow people to “keep an eye on the prize”, while providing positive reinforcement for making advancement towards meeting their goals and encouragement when they may slip. Children can gain points for specified chores, good behavior, good grades or whatever the parents are trying to motivate them to do better. Adults can use it as motivation to keep up exercise routines, eat healthy, clean the house, cook dinner, save money, or anything else they may want to work on. They could also use it to help them stop bad habits, such as smoking, drinking, cussing or any other habits they would like to break. They could get a specified amount of points for each day they did not do whatever they are trying to stop (the points being based on how long they feel they should go prior to gaining the reward). If they perform the act, they have to start back at zero. The uses are limitless. 
     The reward can be anything that will encourage the person needing the motivation with the general stipulation being that it must be eventually affordable and obtainable. In most instances it would not be very motivating to include a picture of something beyond ones means or that is otherwise unobtainable, although this can be applicable in some situations. The reward does not have to be something that costs a lot of money and can be such items as a handmade coupon for an extra ½ hour of TV time or for one night of staying up later than usual. It could be as simplistic or complex as necessary to accomplish the set goals. The reward merely needs to be desirable. The reward could also be something that is already owned that has been taken away for bad behavior. If a teenager stays out past curfew too many times, their car keys or their cell phone could be put into the enclosure and they would have to earn the right to get them back. The same goes for a younger child. A favorite toy could be taken away due to bad behavior and they would be required to earn the toy back. It could be used for a special toy that a parent wants to give to their child, but does not have a “reason” or “excuse” to buy it, such as Christmas or a birthday. Instead of just buying their children things for no reason, they can put them in the enclosure and require the children to earn them. This is a great way for kids to gain the concept of having to work for something and earn it, rather than just have everything handed to them. Adults working on losing weight could have a reward of a gift card to their favorite clothing store which they will get once they have lost a set number of pounds. The reward could be a vacation or a high dollar purchase and once 100% of the money needed has been saved, the enclosure will open signifying that they are ready to start booking their vacation or to make the high dollar purchase they have been working towards. Again, the possibilities are limitless. 
     The reward system can be manufactured from plastics, composites, wood, metal or other materials convenient that meet the criteria set forth herein. The method of manufacture will be dependent upon the material used and will be known to those skilled in the art. Although it is convenient for the box to collapse for storage, it is not necessary and the entire enclosure can be molded vs. assembled. 
     In the embodiment of the reward system  100  illustrated in  FIG. 1 , a cage, or other enclosure,  110  and has been secured to a base  130  that contains the electronics used to control the reward system  100 . The enclosure  110  comprises a frame  112  having three closed sides of the enclosure  110  and leaving the fourth side open for the door  120 . Although the door  120  as illustrated in this embodiment opens upward, it should be noted that this is not necessary, as illustrated in  FIG. 5 . In any embodiment the door can open from either or both sides or from the bottom. Where space is an issue, the door can even slide within the enclosure, similar to a roll top desk. 
     The enclosure  110  as illustrated in this Figure uses a wire, or mesh,  116  to enclose the reward. This can provide some benefits when used with children as the reward can be positioned to be touched by the child. In this embodiment, the top  114 , frame  112  and base  130  are adjacent to one another with the door  120  opening upward bringing it parallel to the plane of the top  114 . The top illustrated in this embodiment is solid, however it could also be open and covered with the wire  116 , similar to that illustrated in  FIG. 2 . 
     The base  130  has, in this embodiment, a raised key keypad  134  and screen  132  placed upon the base  130 . The keypad  134  and screen  132  as illustrated extend out from the base  130  at an angle to facilitate data entry and reading. In situations where the reward is too large to fit into the enclosure  110 , a picture in a frame can be substituted, or some other representation of the reward. Although not illustrated, the floor  122  can include notches or flanges to receive a frame (not shown) which can also be provided by the manufacturer. Alternatively, a free-standing frame can be used. 
     The screen  132  displays the number of points that have been earned currently and/or a graphic displaying the progress, such as a jar filled to the same percentage as the percentage of the goal that has been reached. 
     The screen  132 , in conjunction with the microprocessor, can show a variety of graphics, based on whether points were gained or lost. Depending upon the method of input, new graphics can be provided and/or downloaded to personalize the system for age, sex and activity. The microprocessor integrates the functions of the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer onto one semiconductor chip or integrated circuit (IC). In essence, the microprocessor contains the core elements of a computer system, its computation and control engine. A power supply, memory, peripheral interface ICs, and peripherals (typically input/output and storage devices, keyboard, and/or display) form the complete computer system of the present invention. 
     The base  130 , which contains, in the preferred embodiment, a microprocessor can be updated through the inclusion of a USB port to receive a keyboard or ports to transfer data from computer to computer. Additionally a wireless card, Bluetooth capability, hardwire internet connection or any other means of transferring or inputting data as known in the current art can be included. An output is preferably also provided to enable printing, transfer to a PC or laptop, smart phone or any other electronic device. Alternatively, a small printer can be included within the electronics base  130 , eliminating the need to connect to an external printer. A speaker system can be connected to the microprocessor, providing motivational/encouraging sounds, songs and/or phrases. In this embodiment, the screen  132  only shows preprogrammed data and is not used for programming. 
     To enable transfer between devices, a software program/application is initially downloaded, wirelessly or hardwired, from the disclosed device to the receiving device. This enables easy transfer of a manufacturer determined format and data. More expansive programs can be downloaded from the manufacturer to enable reports, updates, etc. 
     In the embodiment of the reward system  200  illustrated in  FIG. 2 , the mesh  116  has been replaced with Plexiglas  216 , glass or other clear material secured within the frame  212 , that will prevent access to the reward. The solid top  114  has also been replaced with a clear top  214  and door  220 . The base  230  has an angled front  236  into which keypad  234  and touch screen  232  have been set. The number pad  234  in this embodiment is preferably a touch screen and can be used for programming in conjunction with or separate from the touch screen  232 . The programming of the reward system  200  using the touch screen  232  and keypad  234  can be similar to the programming of a telephone, TV or other device that does not have a keyboard. 
     As part of the overall system charts  270  and  272  can be provided, constructed with dry erase material, touch screens, LCD, etc., listing the ways in which points are earned and lost. A pre-filled chart  270  can be provided along with a blank chart  272  on which people can create their own point system. If so desired, the pre-filled chart  270  can be used on one side with constant items while variable items, such as gardening, can be added to the blank chart  272 . Alternatively, the chart can have two sides (or split screen) displaying pre-filled items on one side and a blank chart on the other. There are a number of ways that the charts  270  and  272  can be incorporated with the reward system  100  and  200  that will vary depending upon the space available and location. 
     The reward system is preferably powered by rechargeable batteries and comes with a recharger, with the option to plug the device directly into the power source. Standard batteries can also be used. Alternatively, batteries can be omitted and the reward system  100  and  200  plugged directly into an outlet. Depending on the design, the reward system  100  and  200  can be hung on the wall or sit on a table or desk. For designs that are sold to hang on walls, the open back can be replaced with a solid material and hanging hooks can be placed on the frame, all as well known in the art. 
     The door  120  or  220  is locked through a number of methods, preferably being released though electronic means when the preprogrammed number of points is reached. In most designs the door will rest against a stop plate  512  of  FIG. 5 , to provide space for the lock and to prevent the door from continuing inward. The design of the door and locking mechanism can take on many designs that will be evident to those skilled in the art. In some embodiments it could be beneficial to lower the drain on the batteries and have manual locks used. 
     The goal is to reach a predetermined number of points and for purposes of simplicity herein the goal will be 100 points to open the enclosure door  120  and  220  for the person to retrieve their reward. The chart  270  or  272 , preferably displays the points so that rewards and losses can be viewed and anticipated. For example, 5 points for cleaning the bedroom, 5 points for doing the dishes, 5 points for doing laundry, 5 points for picking up toys, as well as actions for which the person will lose points. Loss of points can include such actions as −5 points for talking back, −5 points for hitting a sibling, −5 points for bad grades, −5 points for not listening, and loss of points for failing to abstain from a negative habit, etc. 
     If the reward is large, each task can be worth fewer points, making it necessary to complete more tasks in order to obtain the 100 point goal. Alternatively, the reward can be something smaller, meant to be easier to achieve (such as something given at the end of each day). In that case, the tasks can be worth more points, meaning it would take fewer completed tasks to get the reward. As stated heretofore, the 100 point is an example and instead of altering the points per activity, the total points required can be altered. 
     The points can also be inputted using a “plus” button, a “minus” button and a numeric keypad  134  and  234 . The “plus” button followed by the number of points earned or the “minus” button followed by the number of points lost or arrowed button as used in volume control. When points are added, a motivational graphic is shown on the screen, as well as motivational sayings, such as “Great job!”, “You&#39;re doing great”, “Keep up the great work!”, “You&#39;re almost there!” 
     When points are subtracted encouraging sayings will play, such as “You can do better than that!”, “Don&#39;t give up!”, “Come on!”, “You can do this!” 
     Alternatively, or in addition to, manually adding or subtracting the points with the keypad, the touch screen can be programmed with a variety of activities common to the household and directed to the task and age. The person could then activate the screen, go to a reward section and press the icon to indicate that activity. The points are automatically entered or subtracted and the appropriate animation and saying displayed. 
     In a highly programmable system, upon initiation of the system at purchase, at the start of a new reward or any time during the reward process, the total points to be can be programmed by the code holder. For example, in embodiments where the programming accepts the action, the points can be preprogrammed in and represented by an icon. Once the parent enables points to be entered, the child can press the icon and congratulatory words and the number of points received, as well as other data, can be displayed. This enables the system to be used not only as a tool for motivation but also to enhance math and reading skills. This is accomplished most easily through the use of a downloadable program onto a computer at which point the points, displays, etc. would be programmed. The data would then be downloaded into the reward system microprocessor. 
     To be truly effective, especially with young children, the time span between the act and the entry of the points should be as short as possible. Further, in the busy lives everyone leads today, more and more time is spent away from home. To enable the minimal time between the act and the point entry, a phone or other smart device application can be downloaded for point entry directly to the phone. The application data would then be downloaded from the phone or smart device onto the computer via means available to the phone or smart device. Alternatively, points can be sent to the computer via text for direct entry into the program. The specific manner of communication between the reward program and updating the specifics to the reward system software will be known to those skilled in the art. 
     To prevent tampering, the person responsible for adjusting the points will develop a code that would be required to be entered prior to adjusting the points, whether adjustment is through icons or keypad. The code can be set any number of ways, depending on the system. Depending upon the system, it could be preferable that the password be entered a second time for confirmation. After the password is set, it would need to be entered each time the points need to be adjusted. Alternate methods, such as swipe cards, fingerprint recognition, coded passwords, etc., can also be used and will be evident to those skilled in the art. A manual override key can also be incorporated into the system in the event passwords are forgotten and the system is permanently disabled. 
     Although the reward system can be non-electronic, its primary value would be the versatility achieved using computer, LCD display charts, and automatic opening of the doors upon achieving the preprogrammed number of points. An additional benefit to a computer based design would be the ability to have multiple secondary users in the same system. Each secondary user would be programmed in with their points per task and total points for reward as well as individual primary user programmable, audio and visual feedback and interaction. The ability to provide age/task/event specific graphics and sound adds to the appeal of the system, especially for children. 
     In instances where there are multiple people using the system it may be necessary to add a second enclosure unit as illustrated in  FIG. 4 . The addition of the enclosure  450  on top of enclosure  410  can be either a factory design or the system can be upgradable for multiple enclosures. In this embodiment, the frames  412  and  452  would have the ability to be electronically plugged in together to enable the electronics within the base  430  to release both enclosures  412  and  452 . The system can be programmed by the primary user through the keypad  434 , touch screen  432  or software download. 
     In  FIG. 5 , the chart  536  has been placed on the base  530  and would display the points gained or lost for each item. The chart  536  can be, as stated heretofore, either a manual entry (chalk, whiteboard, etc.) or an electronic touch activated screen. Although this embodiment has the chart  536  positioned between the screen  532  and the keypad  534 , this is by way of example and any dimensioning and/or placement can be used. In this embodiment, the door  520  has also been hinged to open at the side and locking against stop plate  512 . 
     An example flow chart  600  is illustrated in  FIG. 6  showing one possible path of logic that can be taken although other paths will be known to those skilled in the art. Upon initialization and check status of the system  602 , whether or not a code has been set during the code check  604 . If no code has been set  610 , the system displays set code  612  and the primary user takes action to set the code which is verified  614  and then saved  616 . Once the code is saved the code is entered into the system  630 . 
     If there is an access code  620 , the system requires the primary user to enter access code  630  and, once the code is entered  630 , the system to check whether there is a project in process  632 . In some situations, such as where the primary user is also the secondary user, the access code  630  can be overridden, thereby eliminating the need for entry. If there is no project in progress,  634 , the primary user can either exit  636  or start a project  650 . To start a project, the predetermined points needed  652  to release the reward are entered with the primary user being given the choice between default  654 , last entered  660  and set new  670 . The default  654  would be the manufacturer&#39;s set points, for example the 100 points can be used herein. Previously entered  660  would be listing of the prior set number of points stored in the system for the user to select  662  and verify  664 . The set new  570  asks the primary user to enter the total of points  672  and then save  674  this number into the system. At this point the system requests the primary user to select tasks  656  and the points per task  658 . Once completed, the enclosure door is open  680  for the article to be put inside. 
     The system then moves to yes  682  a project is in process  632 , displaying whether this is an increase or decrease  684  and requesting the entry of the increase or decrease  686 . If it is an increase  688  the appropriate display is shown and the system checks to see if the points now meet the predetermined points needed  652  and, if so  698 , opens the enclosure  700 . If the points are not met  694 , the updates are saved  696  and the system exits  702 . When the points are decreased  690  the appropriate display is shown and the updated points saved  696  and the system exited.  702 . 
     It will be noted by those skilled in the art that not every detailed step is illustrated in the flow chart  600  and that some steps, such as those described subsequent to predetermined points needed  652  can, preferably, be repeated after the select tasks  656  and select points per task  658 . Steps can also change sequence. The addition of each check point and decision that can be made by the microprocessor would be too extensive and would not affect the overall concept of the reward system. 
     In  FIG. 7  the motivation system  800  has been exploded to illustrate one design for a collapsible unit. In this embodiment, a series of bottom connectors would be placed on the bottom of the sides  822  and  825 , back  824  and front  820  and a series of top connectors placed on the top of the sides  822  and  825 , back  824  and front  820 . Two examples of connection methods are illustrated in  FIGS. 8 and 9 . 
     In  FIG. 8  the bottom tabs  850 A and top tabs  850 B extend from the top and the bottom of the sides  822  and  825 , back  824  and front  820  and are dimensioned to be received in slots  860 A in the base  830  and  860 B in the top  840 . The slots  860 A and  860 B are spaced from the edge of the base  830  and top  840  a sufficient distance to enable the sides  822  and  825 , back  824  and front  820  to remain flush with the edge of the base  830  and top  840 . The tabs  850 A and  850 B in this illustration are known in the art and are used as examples only as other types of snap tabs will be evident to those versed in the art. 
     In  FIG. 9  the side  902  (and remaining non-illustrated sides, back and front) have top connectors  912 B and bottom connectors  912 A that extend at right angles from the surface to be adjacent to the top  904  and base  906 . The connectors  912 A and  912 B are attached to the top  904  and base  906  through use of bolts  914  that are received in threaded holes  920 . Again, this is an example of one method only and other methods will become evident to those skilled in the art. 
     In the alternate embodiment of  FIG. 10 , the electronics receiving area  956  has been placed on the top of the motivational device  950 . The keypad  960  and display  962  are now on the top of the enclosure. The sides  952  and front  954 , along with the back (not illustrated) are made of a transparent material such as Plexiglas and glued together. The base  958  can be manufactured from any material that will support the device  950 . In this illustration there is no actual door and the front  954  is hinged at hinges  970  to swing down completely once released from the lock  972 . Alternatively a door could be positioned within the Plexi as with other embodiments. 
     There can eventually be numerous models geared toward different target audiences with charts customized for each group. 
     Simple math may be necessary in establishing the point system initially. A few examples could be provided in the instructions. For 20 tasks required to reach 100 points, each task would be worth 5 points or 10 tasks, each task would be worth 10 points. If you need $1,500 saved to go on a the trip, each $75 saved would be worth 5 points. 
     Although only rectangular enclosures are illustrated herein, it should be noted that any shape can be incorporated as long as it can hold the reward or a representation thereof. 
     The disclosed rewards system has a flexibility it provides that enables it to be used for all age groups and for most any use. 
     Examples of Potential Uses: 
     Parents: 
     Potty Training (kids gain points for going in the potty, washing hands, having no accidents for a certain period of time, etc.) 
     Rewarding good behavior (kids gain points for picking up their toys, listening, being well-behaved at the store, getting good grades, doing homework, sharing, doing chores, meeting curfew, exercising, eating healthy etc.) 
     Discouraging bad behavior (kids lose points for not listening, talking back, poor grades, getting in trouble at school, being mean to their siblings, breaking curlew, being disrespectful, etc.) 
     Family Unity: 
     Families could work towards rewards together, such as eating out or going to a movie (the menu for a favorite restaurant could be put in the enclosure or an ad for a movie the whole family wants to see could be printed out and placed in the enclosure.) 
     Teachers: 
     In the classroom points can be gained from reading books, good grades, fundraising, etc. When 100 points, for example, have been reached by the class, they get to have a pizza party or have some other fun activity. A picture depicting a party could be put in the frame and put into the enclosure of the reward system. 
     Counselors: 
     Counselors can use it to help their patients. They could set it up prior to the arrival of each patient (putting in the reward for that patient and entering the number of points that patient has earned). The reward system can be used to encourage positive behaviors and discourage negative behaviors making habits and breaking habits. 
     Couples: 
     Couples can use the reward system to improve their relationships. Each person uses the reward system to work towards a reward of choice and gains points in doing things for their partner. 
     Individuals: 
     Individuals can use the reward system to help motivate themselves. If they are unable to discipline themselves enough to not cheat the system, they could ask a friend or relative to be in charge of inputting the points. Again, it could be used to encourage good behavior (exercising, eating healthy meals or whatever they are trying to do more of) or to discourage bad behavior (smoking, drinking, cussing or whatever they are trying to do less of), 
     Employers: 
     Companies can use it to motivate employees. The employees an compete for a bonus check, gift card to a restaurant, etc. 
     The reward system can also come in age related themes as well as being sized for the appropriate end use. Any of the features disclosed herein can be used with embodiments other than the one with which it is described. 
     BROAD SCOPE OF THE INVENTION 
     While illustrative embodiments of the invention have been described herein, the present invention is not limited to the various preferred embodiments described herein, but includes any and all embodiments having equivalent elements, modifications, omissions, combinations (e.g., of aspects across various embodiments), adaptations and/or alterations as would be appreciated by those in the art based on the present disclosure. The limitations in the claims (e.g., including that to be later added) are to be interpreted broadly based on the language employed in the claims and not limited to examples described in the present specification or during the prosecution of the application, which examples are to be construed as non-exclusive. For example, in the present disclosure, the term “preferably” is non-exclusive and means “preferably, but not limited to.” In this disclosure and during the prosecution of this application, means-plus-function or step-plus-function limitations will only be employed where for a specific claim limitation all of the following conditions are present in that limitation: a) “means for” or “step for” is expressly recited; b) a corresponding function is expressly recited; and c) structure, material or acts that support that structure are not recited. In this disclosure and during the prosecution of this application, the terminology “present invention” or “invention” may be used as a reference to one or more aspect within the present disclosure. The language of the present invention or inventions should not be improperly interpreted as an identification of criticality, should not be improperly interpreted as applying across all aspects or embodiments (i.e., it should be understood that the present invention has a number of aspects and embodiments), and should not be improperly interpreted as limiting the scope of the application or claims. In this disclosure and during the prosecution of this application, the terminology “embodiment” can be used to describe any aspect, feature, process or step, any combination thereof, and/or any portion thereof, etc. In some examples, various embodiments may include overlapping features. In this disclosure, the following abbreviated terminology may be employed: “e.g.” which means “for example.”