Method of maximizing statistical data throughput at remotely located electronic donation processing devices, and electronic device for managing statistical information

Abstract

The invention provides a method of capturing monetary donations or monetary gifts made by donors or gift givers at points in time and space in which said donors or gift givers are optimally motivated to make said donations or gifts, said donations or gifts being the donation or gift perferences of respective donors or gift givers. The method comprises the steps of inputting a multiplicity of sequences of data comprised of monetary donations or monetary gifts. The monetary donations or monetary gifts are made by a plurality of said respective donors or gift givers consecutively free of input of information unrelated to said respective monetary donations or monetary gifts at a multiplicity of distinct sites where said donations and gifts are being received in one variant. The sequences or strings of data are temporarily captured at the multiplicity of distinct sites on a plurality of respective electronic devices physically located at said sites to obtain temporarily captured sequences. The temporarily captured sequences are then transmitted from the electronic devices to a processing device remote from a plurality of said distinct sites for processing. The method further comprises the optional the step of statistically manipulating at least a respective sequence of said data. In one variant, the present invention provides a donation kettle for accepting information from an information bearing card. The electronic terminal includes means for tallying the amount of card donations accepted, and collecting, analyzing, and displaying information regarding the donation.

Claims

I claim:

1. A computer implemented method of capturing monetary donations or monetary gifts made by donors or gift givers, comprising:

inputting sequences of data comprised of monetary donations or monetary gifts, said monetary donations or monetary gifts made by a plurality of said respective donors or gift givers at a multiplicity of geographically distinct sites where said donations and gifts are being received; temporarily capturing said sequences at said multiplicity of geographically distinct sites on a plurality of respective electronic devices physically located at said sites to obtain temporarily captured sequences; transmitting said temporarily captured sequences from said electronic devices to a processing device remote from a plurality of said distinct sites for processing; said processing comprising entering a debit representative of a respective monetary donation or monetary gift to an account of a respective donor or gift giver; and, entering a credit representative of a respective monetary donation or monetary gift to an account of a recipient of said respective monetary donation or monetary gift.

2. The method of claim 1 in which said monetary donations or monetary gifts are input unimpeded by input of additional information.

3. The method of claim 1 in which the step of inputting comprises the step of reading electronically.

4. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of tallying said monetary donations or monetary gifts at a remote processing device.

5. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of statistically manipulating at least a respective sequence of said data.

6. The method of claim 1 further comprising the step of statistically manipulating a plurality of said sequences of data to obtain statistically manipulated data.

7. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of statistically manipulating a plurality of said sequences of data to obtain statistically manipulated data and generating a record comprising said statistically manipulated data.

8. The method of claim 1 further comprising the steps of statistically manipulating a plurality of said sequences of data to obtain statistically manipulated data, and generating a record comprising said statistically manipulated data, and in which said statistically manipulated data is selected from the group consisting of total donations or gifts received; a histogram; a donation or gift average per donor or gift giver; an arithemetic mean, said arithmetic mean selected from the group consisting of a mean of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a mode, said mode selected from the group consisting of a mode of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a median, said median selected from the group consisting of a median of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a weighted mean, said weighted mean selected from the group consisting of a weighted mean of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a harmonic mean, said harmonic mean selected from the group consisting of a harmonic mean of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a geometric mean, said geometric mean selected from the group consisting of a geometric mean of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a logarithmic mean, said logarithmic mean selected from the group consisting of a logarithmic mean of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, and size of gifts; a root mean square, said root mean square selected from the group consisting of a root mean square of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a root sum square, said root sum square selected from the group consisting of a root sum square of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a normal distribution curve, said normal distribution curve selected from the group consisting of a normal distribution curve of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a spread, said spread selected from the group consisting of a spread of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a variance, said variance selected from the group consisting of a variance of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a standard deviation, said standard deviation selected from the group consisting of a standard deviation of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a skewed distribution, said skewed distribution selected from the group consisting of a skewed distribution of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a sampling, said sampling selected from the group consisting of a sampling of number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a condifence level, said confidence level selected from the group consisting of a confidence level associated with a number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; a regression analysis, said regression analysis selected from the group consisting of a regression analysis associated with a number of donors, number of gift givers, quantity of donations, quantity of gifts, size of donations, size of gifts, and combination thereof; and, a donation or gift average of a sub-group of donors or gift givers.

9. The method according to claim 7 further comprising the step of ascertaining the donation or gift giving habits of an entity from said statistically manipulated data.

10. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of retrieving petition data or intention data from said electronic devices.

11. The method according to claim 1 further comprising retrieving petition data or intention data from said electronic devices, and correlating said petition data or intention data with data comprised of monetary donations or monetary gifts.

12. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of presenting display options on a respective electronic device of increasing absolute value and of an order inducing the making of greater monetary donation or monetary gift amounts.

13. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of retreiving status data of said electronic devices,

whereby the functioning of a respective electronic device is readily ascertained.

14. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of manually manipulating a touch sensitive screen to input said monetary donations, monetary gifts, or portions thereof.

15. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of energizing said electronic devices with a rechargeable source of energy.

16. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of presenting multiple display options to said donors or gift givers to induce entry of portions of said sequences.

17. The method of claim 1 in which the step of inputting comprises the step of reading electronically data from respective record bearing media of said respective donors or gift givers, said record bearing media selected from the group consisting of smart cards, magnetically striped cards, and contactless cards.

18. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of electronically preauthorizing portions of said sequences.

19. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of electronically conveying to said donors or gift givers audible messages after donations or gifts are received on said electronic devices.

20. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of electronically conveying to said donors or gift givers audible messages attracting said donors or gift givers to make donations or gifts on said electronic devices.

21. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of selecting a respective recipient from a group of prospective recipients to which respective donations or gifts are designated.

22. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of selecting a respective fund associated with a particular charity to which a plurality of said donations or gifts are designated.

23. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of generating a receipt for a donor or gift giver for a plurality of donations or gifts made by a respective donor or gift giver from a site remote from said distinct sites.

24. The method according to claim 1 in which there are a plurality of docking stations for said electronic devices, and said method further comprises the step of communicatively and removably attaching said electronic devices to said docking stations for transmission of said sequences to said processing device.

25. The method according to claim 1 in which there are a plurality of docking stations for said electronic devices, said method further comprising the step of networking said docking stations for transmission of said sequences to said processing device.

26. The method according to claim 1 in which there are a plurality of docking stations for said electronic devices, said method further comprising the step of energizing said electronic devices with a source of energy eminating from docking stations.

27. The method according to claim 1 further comprising the step of permanently mounting a plurality of said respective electronic devices in a plurality of docking stations, each respective docking station fastened to an interior or exterior portion of a building.

28. The method of claim 1 further comprising linking said electronic devices to each other so that said electronic devices can communicate electronically with each other.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to an electronic kettle that records, and manages statistical information about a multiplicity of contributors and donation kettle system for easily gathering statistical information for a charitable organization from a plurality of remote locations, and the like.

Donation kettles are commonly located at or near shopping centers, stores, and the like. Generally, the presence of donation kettles increases near a holiday season. Donation kettles are generally attached to stands. Stands are made of steel, iron, bronze, and other metals and used to support a donation kettle at a height that accommodates the making of a cash or coin donation. Stands frequently have a sign located on the top of the stand to indicate the charitable organization is requesting a donation.

A contributor visits a donation kettle commonly to make a donation to a charitable organization. A contributor drops a donation into the donation kettle. A donation is most often in the form of cash or coin.

A primary problem exists with respect to tha ability to secure and immediately record statistical information about a plurality of successive contributors. Consequently, there exists a need for a method, electronic terminal, and method of immediately recording statistical information concerning a plurality of successive contributors, including, by way of example, the identity of successive contributors, average contribution amounts made by a pluralityof successive contributors, and real time tallies of contributions.

Moreover, another shortcoming of making a donation at a donation kettle or a plurality of donation kettles is that there is no integration of information associated with a plurality of individual donations. Consequently, there exists a need for a donation kettle network that integrates a plurality of individual donations made at a donation kettle at varying times and/or remote locations.

It is, therefore, an object of the present invention to provide an electronic kettle which allows a plurality of successive contributors to enter information about themelves thereon, immediately records the information, automatically tallies the statistical information and/or associates information from an information bearing card of the successive contributors to databases of charitable organizations including identities of contributors, and contribution amounts.

It is yet another object of the present invention to provide a donation kettle network that can collect, integrate, and display information associated with successive individual donations and provide useful quantitative data.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

These and other objects of the present invention are achieved in an electronic donation device accepting information from an information bearing card of successive contributes.

The invention provides a method of capturing monetary donations or monetary gifts made by donors or gift givers at points in time and space in which said donors or gift givers are optimally motivated to make said donations or gifts, said donations or gifts being the donation or gift perferences of respective donors or gift givers. The method comprises the steps of inputting a multiplicity of sequences of data comprised of monetary donations or monetary gifts. The monetary donations or monetary gifts are made by a plurality of said respective donors or gift givers consecutively free of input of information unrelated to said respective monetary donations or monetary gifts at a multiplicity of distinct sites where said donations and gifts are being received in one variant. The sequences or strings of data are temporarily captured at the multiplicity of distinct sites on a plurality of respective electronic devices physically located at said sites to obtain temporarily captured sequences. The temporarily captured sequences are then transmitted from the electronic devices to a processing device remote from a plurality of said distinct sites for processing. The method further comprises the optional the step of statistically manipulating at least a respective sequence of said data.

In one variant, the present invention provides a donation kettle for accepting information from an information bearing card. The electronic terminal includes means for tallying the amount of card donations accepted, and collecting, analyzing, and displaying information regarding the donation.

In another varinat, the present invention also provides a donation kettle that provides a docking station for an integrated card donation processor and/or a portable card processor.

The present invention further yet provides a method for processing a donation obtained via a donation kettle by a card account processor.

The present invention provides a donation kettle network including a plurality of donation kettles. These and other objects will become apparent in the course of a detailed description of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an overall system configuration of a donation kettle network according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary donation kettle with a card donation processor, a keyboard, a speaker, a display, a terminal, a cash donation, a credit card donation, a debit card donation, and an attendant.

FIG. 2a is a schematic block diagram of an embodiment of a donation kettle with a card reader and associated circuitry, communication circuitry, a keyboard and associated circuitry.

FIG. 2b is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a donation kettle with a card reader and associated circuitry, communication circuitry, a receipt generator (a printer and associated circuitry), a terminal, and a card account processor database.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary donation kettle with a card donation processor docking station, a card donation processor with a keyboard, and a display, a terminal, a cash donation, a credit card donation, a debit card donation, and a locking assembly.

FIG. 3a a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a donation kettle with communication circuitry, a display and associated circuitry, a card account processor database.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary donation kettle, a slot for accepting cash and/or a coin donation, a card donation processor docking station, a card donation processor with a keyboard and a display, a terminal, a cash donation, a credit card donation, and a debit card donation.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary donation kettle, and a removable surface containing a card donation processor, a means for mounting a card donation processor on the surface, a slot for accepting cash and coin donations, and a credit card, debit card, and cash donation.

FIG. 6 is an illustration of a software routine of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is an illustration of the excercise of a method of the present invention with a variant of the electronic device of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is an illustration of a routing scheme of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is an illustration of a variant of a routing scheme of the present invention.

FIGS. 10-12 are perspective views of user interfaces of electronic devices of the present invention.

FIG. 13 illustrates relationships between the contribution potential of contributors or gift givers and other related variables.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1 is an overall configuration of a donation kettle network according to the present invention.

In one embodiment, an electronic device is a donation kettle 100 that gathers a cash donation 143. In a second embodiment, an electronic device is a donation kettle 100 that gathers a credit card donation 145. In a third embodiment, an electronic device is a donation kettle 100 gathers a debit card 150 donation. The term "card" when used without the descriptors "credit" or "debit" refers to both a credit card and a debit card and includes IC Cards ("smart cards"), magnetically striped cards, and other forms of information bearing cards. The term "card" also contemplates a private label card issued or maintained by a charitable organization or an affiliate of a charitable organization, and a prepaid card that can be purchased by cash, check, credit, or debit card. Further, the use of the term donation kettle is only illustrative as used herein and should not detract from the scope of the invention in that other electronic, magnetic, and optical devices can be used herewith in the same manner as donation kettle 100 to enable the method described herein.

By way of example, a donation kettle 100 collects and provides information about a contributor and a donation. Using a communication link 140, preferably an RF (radio frequency) communication link, an infra-red or other free-propagating electromagnetic energy communication link, a donation kettle 100 communicates the information about a contributor to terminal 120 in one embodiment.

In an alternate embodiment, the donation kettle 100 first stores the information about the contributor and/or the donation it has accepted in a data storage 302 (FIG. 1a), and then at a latter time communicates it to terminal 120 via communication circuitry 990 (FIG. 1a) and a communication link 140, e.g. after a single session of donation collection. Terminal 120 might be located on-site at a charitable organization or at some remote location, by way of example, at an accountant's office. Terminal 120 then communicates the information about the contributor and/or the donation via a communication link 1030, which by way of example, might include a telephone hookup, with a card account processor database 1032 (FIG. 2b), or the like.

In yet another embodiment, donation kettle 100 communicates information about the contributor, and/or the donation directly via communication link 1030, by way of example, a telephone hookup, thereby bypassing terminal 120 to a card account processor 1032 (FIG. 2b), and the like. The card account of the contributor is appropriately charged the amount of the donation, or debited for the donation, as appropriate, and the account of the charitable organization is augmented respectively.

In yet a further embodiment, a first donation kettle 100 communicates contributor information, status information, and/or donation information to a second donation kettle 100 via communication circuitry 990 (FIG. 1a) and a communication link 140. In yet another embodiment, a plurality of donation kettles 100 communicate contributor card information and/or donation amount information to terminal 120 via communication link 140. Terminal 120 communicates contributor card information and/or donation information to a card account processor database 1032 (via link 1030) (FIG. 2b). In yet an alternate embodiment, a plurality of donation kettles 100 communicates contributor card information and donation information to a modem for transmission to a card account processor database.

By way of further example, a donation kettle 100 contains a credit card donation processor 160, and/or a debit card donation processor 240. Such a processor directly utilizes a cellular communication link, or other standard telephone hookup. The present invention further contemplates that reader 307 (FIG. 1a) can read IC cards, PCMCIA cards, and/or coded cards. Donation kettle 100 stores a contributor's card account and donation information in data storage 302 (FIG. 1a). After a donation session, communication link 1030 is connected directly to the processor 160/240, and communication circuitry 990 via communication link 1030 transfers the contributor and donation information to a card account processor database, and the like. The card account of the contributor of the charitable organization is appropriately charged or debited the amount of the donation and the account of the charitable organization is augmented respectively.

It will further be appreciated that theft of a donation kettle 100 that contains a card processor 160/240 may be less likely since there is no cash to be stolen but rather electronic card information which will be difficult, if not impossible, for a thief to utilize.

The present invention also provides a method of processing a donation obtained via donation kettle 100 by a card account processor. A card donation processor 160/240 obtains card account information and/or information representative of a donation amount from a contributor. The card account processor receives card account information and/or the donation amount information via a direct communication link, by way of example, link 140, and/or an indirect link, e.g. link 140 and link 1030 via terminal 120. In one embodiment, terminal 120 contains a modem and related circuitry. The card account processor enters a debit representative of the donation amount to an account of an contributor, and enters a credit representative of said donation amount to an account of a charitable organization. Card account and/or donation information is submitted in batch to a card account processor in one embodiment. Similarly, card account and/or donation information collected via a worship terminal, worship terminal network, offering plate, and/or offering plate network can be transmitted in batch to a card account processor.

The present invention includes a set of software routines which run on donation kettle 100 to tally a plurality of donations. In an alternate embodiment, a set of software routines run on terminal 120. A software routine tallies a credit card 145 donation, a debit card 150 donation, a cash donation 143, and combinations thereof, for a single contributor or a plurality of contributors. Moreover, a software routine performs a number of arithmetic functions including but not limited to, by way of example, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, as well as statistical calculations. A software routine is linked to commercially available accounting programs in one embodiment.

In an embodiment, a plurality of successive contribution data, comprising card information from an information bearing card and associated numerical contribution amount information, are grouped together. The grouped information is then transmitted to a card account processor. The card account processor authorizes a sub-group of contribution data for further processing. The authorized and unauthorized contribution data can be transmitted to a donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100, fund-raiser's terminal 120, a donation kettle electronic contributions management organization database, or combination thereof, for exclusion of the unauthorized contribution data. The unauthorized contribution data can be deleted if desired at a card account processor. The unauthorized contribution data are excluded from the group, and the authorized contribution data, e.g. card information and contribution amount information, are re-transmitted to the card account processor. Means responsive to information sent via a transferring means enters a debit representative of the contribution amount information to an account of the contributor. Means responsive to information sent via the transferring means enters a credit representative of the contribution amount information to an account of a donation kettle electronic contributions management organization. The contribution data is further processed and a record of the contribution for substantiating a contribution is forwarded to a contributor or fund-raiser.

In conjunction with a printer, a donation kettle 100 may be used to generate a report commonly used for accounting, including but not limited to a summary of total donations generated, a monthly statement, a histogram, a donation average per contributor, sub-group of contributors, or group of contributors.

In conjunction with a printer, fund-raising terminal 100, fund-raiser's terminal 120, or combination thereof, can be used to generate a report commonly used for accounting purposes, including but not limited to a summary of total contributions and gifts generated, a monthly statement, a histogram, a contribution average per contributor, sub-group of contributors, or group of contributors.

The donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal network of the present invention, which includes a hand-held donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal 100, a fund-raiser's terminal 120, a card account processor 1031, or combination thereof, collects, analyzes, and visually displays statistical information associated with an individual contribution or a tally of individual contributions and gifts. The donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal 100 contains an optional statistical information collecting routine S500, a set of software routines which run on processing circuitry 903 (FIG. 1a). In a variant, the statistical information collecting routine S500 is located in the fund-raiser's terminal 120. The statistical information collecting routine S500 collects contribution data from the contribution reader 1340 and associated circuitry 1333 (FIG. 1a), and communicates it to storage 302 (FIG. 1a). A statistical information analyzing routine S520, a set of software routines which run on a donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal 100 located within the donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal 100 in one embodiment, or in the fund-raiser's terminal 120 in an alternate embodiment, then retrieves contribution data from data storage 302 and performs arithmetic and statistical calculations thereon.

In yet a further embodiment, a donation kettle 100 contains a statistical software routine which runs on processing circuitry 903 (FIG. 1a). In an alternate embodiment, the statistical software routines run on the terminal 120. The statistical software routine collects donation data from the card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303 (FIG. 1a), and communicates it to storage 302 in one embodiment. A statistical software routine retrieves donation data, contributor data, petition data, intention data, usage data, and/or data concerning the status of a donation kettle 100, from data storage 302 and performs arithmetic and statistical calculations thereon.

There are various types of statistical information that can be associated with a donation, a contributor, or usage of a donation kettle 100, and analyzed by a statistical software routine. By way of example, one measure of the frequency of use of donation kettle 100 is the amount and/or number of donations generated at the donation kettle 100 and/or the time, date, and number of contributor's utilizing the donation kettle 100. Donation kettle 100, in one embodiment, or terminal 120, in another embodiment, generates a report measuring the frequency of use of a particular donation kettle 100 or group of donation kettles 100, the donation habits of a contributor or a group of contributors, and the number of contributors as measured by the number of donations given, via the above described statistical software routine, and associated hardware. The routine might also include an interface with a commercially available computer program, a customized accounting computer program, and/or a statistics computer program.

FIG. 1a is a general schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a donation kettle 100 of the present invention which includes a card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303, power source 1437, and communication circuitry 990. Although display circuitry 842 and display 840 is shown in this general embodiment of the invention, display 840 and/or display circuitry 842 need not be included in specific embodiments of the invention.

In the present embodiment, processing circuitry 903 includes a microprocessor. However, multiple microprocessors, or a plurality of dedicated microprocessors may also be used. Processing circuitry 903 and associated circuitry are powered through power source 1437. Processing circuitry 903 interfaces with associated circuitry via an address bus 536, data bus 533, and control bus 530. Specifically, upon detection by the card reader 307 that a donation is being made, card reader circuitry 303 interrupts processing circuitry 903. Circuitry 903 responds to the interrupt by reading the buffered donation information. Circuitry 903 then stores the donation information in storage 302. In one embodiment, circuitry 903 also adds the new donation information to a running total of donation information stored in storage 302.

A variety of links and associated circuitry are used in the present invention. By way of example, link 140 is a serial link and associated circuitry in one embodiment, an RS-232 link and associated circuitry in another embodiment, modem circuitry in communication with circuitry 990 in yet another embodiment, or an RF or infra-red link and associated circuitry in another embodiment.

A variety of additions can be added to the embodiment of processing circuitry 903 illustrated in FIG. 1a. By way of example, a keyboard and associated circuitry, a touch sensitive screen and associated circuitry, an optical character recognition reader and associated circuitry, an electronic signature line and associated circuitry, a card reader and associated circuitry, a coin reader and associated circuitry, a bill dispenser and associated circuitry, a display and associated circuitry, a coin dispenser and associated circuitry, a sound board and associated circuitry, a speaker and associated circuitry, a docking station for a card reader and associated circuitry, a debit card processor, a currency validator, a currency discriminator, a currency acceptor, a coin discriminator, a coin validator, or a combination thereof, can be added.

Terminal 120 drives a printer in one embodiment to produce a hard copy of a report representing data sent to terminal 120 via communication circuitry 990. Processing circuitry 903 communicates contributor, usage, status, and/or donation information to communication circuitry 990 which drives a printer to print out data via a wired link, for example, an RS-232 cable. Similarly, donation kettle 100 can use a serial link to drive a printer directly via communication circuitry 990.

Display circuitry 842 includes a buffer and LED drive circuitry which processing circuitry 903 can write information into in one embodiment. Display circuitry 842 responds to data written into the buffer by displaying that information via control bus 530. A donation kettle 100 of the present invention may include a single or multiple displays, e.g. (FIG. 2).

Moreover, power source 1437 is a battery power source in one embodiment. Preferably, the battery is a rechargeable source, and is located on the donation kettle 100 so as to be easily accessible during replacement or recharging thereof. In another embodiment, power source 1437 includes a hardwired power supply. In yet another embodiment power source 1437 is located in stand 153 (FIG. 2). In yet a further embodiment power source 1437 is located in portable card processor 160/240, e.g. FIG. 3.

Moreover, power source 1437 is a battery power source in one embodiment, and can be a portable rechargeable power source in another embodiment. Preferably, the battery is a rechargeable power source, and is located on the donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100 so as to be easily accessible during replacement or recharging thereof. The power source 1437 can include a hardwired power supply. The present invention also contemplates use of a light responsive energy source such as a photo-cell. In such an embodiment, not shown, the battery life of terminal 100 can be enhanced in that energy is obtained from sources of light such as the sun or indoor lighting. The light responsive energy source can be used to supplement the power source 1437. In a variant, software routines on terminal 100 assist in conserving electrical energy from power source 1437 by deactivating the circuitry or portions thereof, e.g. the display, of terminal 100. Circuitry of terminal 100 is reactivated once there is card information detected by reader 307 and associated circuitry, or combination thereof. In yet a further variant, a back-up power source is provided to power source 1437. In yet a further variant, contribution transaction data is semi-permanently stored for future off-loading in data storage 302 in the event there is a loss of power from power source 1437.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a donation kettle 100 with a card donation processor 160/240, a keyboard 890, a display 840, a speaker 1993, a hinge 119, a surface 125, a slot 102, a handle 152, a stand 153, an attendant 101, terminal 120, a cash donation 143, a credit card donation 145, and a debit card donation 150. In one embodiment, a donation kettle 100 may have only one of the above additions. In an alternate embodiment, a donation kettle 100 has a combination of the above additions.

A contributor feeds a coin donation (not pictured) or cash donation 143 into slot 102 which forms part of surface 125 in one embodiment. Slot 102 is an opening formed in the side or top of donation kettle 100 which provides a channel to a center retaining area 200 (FIG. 5) of donation kettle 100.

One embodiment of donation kettle 100 contains a credit card donation processor 160 and a debit card donation processor 240, e.g. processor 160/240. The present invention contemplates that donation kettle 100 might only contain a credit card donation processor 160. Alternatively, the present invention also contemplates that donation kettle 100 might only contain a debit card donation processor 240. In yet a further embodiment, the present invention contemplates that both a credit card donation processor 160 and a debit card donation processor 240 might be located on donation kettle 100 at different physical locations.

Card processor 160/240 includes a card slot defining member which defines a card slot in one embodiment. A contributor swipes or inserts a credit card 145 into or through card slot of a credit card donation processor 160. Alternatively, a contributor swipes or inserts a debit card 150 through a card slot of a debit card donation processor 240. Moreover, as used herein, the term "card donation processor" when used without the descriptors "credit" or "debit" refers to either a credit card processor, debit card processor, or both a credit and debit card processor. The term "processor" also refers to a card terminal.

By way of further example, in an embodiment, donation kettle 100 contains a card processor 160/240 that reads smart cards, e.g. PCMCIA cards, JEIDA/PCMCIA compliant memory cards, IC cards, GEC Card Technology Ltd. IC cards, West Midlands, U.K., and/or Gemplus Card Services memory and microprocessor cards. The present invention also contemplates that use of contactless IC cards, e.g. such as those available from Mitsubishi Electric UK Ltd, Hatfield UK, and Oakwood Design, Letchworth UK, and the like.

In a preferred embodiment, donation kettle 100 has both a credit card donation processor 160 and a debit card donation processor 240 utilizing a single processor that discriminates between the type of donation made. An exemplary credit and debit card processor 160/240 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,012,077 which is incorporated herein by reference as if fully set forth.

In one embodiment, the card donation processor 160/240 communicates with key pad 890. By way of example, upon receiving the communication that a card donation is to be given, key pad 890 reveals a key associated with a cash denomination. By way of example, the key associated with a cash denomination might appear to disclose a one, five, ten or twenty dollar symbol as described below. The contributor presses the key associated with a cash denomination that is the preferred amount of his donation. By way of further example, key pad 890 is a programmable key pad in one embodiment. In another embodiment, key pad 890 is a touch sensitive screen. In yet a further embodiment, a symbol representative of a donation amount is affixed to a key pad 890, e.g. $1.

It will be appreciated that most credit card 145 donation amounts will not require an authorization by signature or numeric code. Consequently, in one embodiment, the present invention contemplates that a contributor will simply need to swipe or insert card 145/150 through card processor 160/240 and enter the amount of his donation by pressing a key associated with a cash denomination on key pad 890. In an alternate embodiment, key pad 890 is a standard key pad.

A contribution can be made on an off-line donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal 100. The donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal terminal 100 does not interpose a request, or requests, for an authorization or verification, an authorization step, pre-authorization step, verification step, or combination thereof, between the making or entering of a contribution transaction made by a first contributor, and subsequent contribution transactions made by a plurality of subsequent contributors. In another embodiment of the method disclosed herein, the donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal does not interpose a request for an authorization or verification, an authorization step, pre-authorization step, verification step, or combination thereof, between the making of a sub-group of contribution transactions within a group of contribution transactions (N) made by contributor.sub.1 through contributor.sub.N-1, e.g. at a single donation kettle electronic contributions management location or session at a remote location. By way of example, there may be several hundred cardholder contribution transactions, e.g. N=500. Sequential contribution transactions are made by contributor 1 to contributor 500 prior to interposing a request for an authorization or verification, an authorization step, pre-authorization step, verification step, or combination thereof at terminal/peripheral 100. In another variant, sequential contribution transactions are made by contributor 1 to contributor 500 prior to interposing a request for an authorization or verification, an authorization step, pre-authorization step, verification step, or combination thereof, between contribution transaction 10 and contribution transaction 11, contribution transaction.sub.n (where n is an integer greater than 10) and contribution transaction.sub.n+1, or combination thereof. Donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100, fund-raiser's terminal 120, a card account processor 1031 (including a clearing organization and/or an issuing organization), donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal network, or combination thereof, post contribution processes card information and contribution amount information. Post contribution processing may include a request for authorization or verification, an authorization step, pre-authorization step, verification step, or combination thereof. It will be understood that a plurality of sequential contributions and gifts made by a first contributor, a second contributor, and . . . nth contributor can be made at a terminal 100 off-line before the information representative of the contributions and gifts, e.g. card information and numerical contribution amount information, is off-loaded from an off-line terminal 100 to card account processor 1031, fund-raiser's terminal 120, or combination thereof, for processing and authorization. It is further understood that the speed with which a multiplicity of sequential contributions and gifts can be accepted from a large group of sequential contributors is greatly accelerated since a request for authorization or verification, an authorization, pre-authorization, verification step, or combination thereof, is not interposed between an entry of card information and entry of a numerical monetary contribution amount by each respective contributor. It is yet further understood that this method and apparatus allows down stream contributors to be closer in time and place to the stimulus, or impulse created by the stimulus, to make a contribution transaction.

By way of example, there may be several thousand cardholder contributors at a remote location, e.g. outside a shopping center or retailer during the holiday season. Donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminal 100.sub.1 through donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminal 100.sub.X (where X is an integer) are circulated among the prospective cardholding contributors; Contributions are made by each respective cardholding contributor desiring to do so. Each respective donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminal 100 can receive several hundred contribution transactions. Tens of hundreds of contribution transactions are received at one donation kettle electronic contributions management event by donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminals 100.sub.1-X. These tens of hundreds of transactions are then off-loaded at the end of such an event from the donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminals 100.sub.1 to donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminal 100.sub.X for further processing as described above. It will be seen that literally tens of hundreds of contributions can be received from cardholder contributors in a single donation kettle electronic contributions management event. The apparatus and method of the invention are highly efficient in receiving possibly tens of thousands of dollars of contributions and gifts within a single event, the event lasting a matter of hours. It is further understood that the impulse to make a contribution transaction for the group of card holding contributors at the single event is captured in time and space, and that a contributors' contribution preference can be made on terminal 100.

The request for authorization or verification, authorization step, verification step, or combination thereof, is decoupled from each respective contribution transaction at the time the entry of a respective contributor's respective card information and contribution amount information is entered into a terminal 100.

It will be further understood that a plurality of contributions and gifts can be accepted in a short amount of time utilizing this procedure and that contributions and gifts that are later found to be unauthorized can be discarded and only authorized contributions and gifts are then credited to a fund raiser's account 1033 and debited to a contributor's account 1035. It is also possible to store the group of unauthorized transactions so that the contributors making these contribution transactions can be contacted to resubmit their respective contributions and gifts.

The card processor 160/240 communicates with key pad 890 on the face of a hand-held terminal 100. Upon receiving the communication that a card contribution is to be given, the key pad 890 reveals a key associated with a cash denomination. By way of example, the key associated with a cash denomination can appear to disclose a one, five, ten or twenty dollar symbol as described below. The contributor presses the key associated with a cash denomination that is the preferred amount of his contribution, and presses entry key 920.

In a variant, a cardholder contributor passes his information bearing card 145/150 through card reader 307. Information regarding the type of card read is detected, e.g. a determination is made whether a premium card has been read such as a "GOLD CARD" versus some other type of card ("A CLASSIC CARD or VISA BUSINESS CARD"), or whether other indicia regarding a contributor's credit worthiness, credit limits, or affluence are present. It will be appreciated that cardholders with high credit limits or bearing a premium card such as a gold card can be more affluent individuals tending to contribute larger contribution amounts. If a premium card is detected or if other information indicative of the cardholder's credit worthiness or affluence is detected, recommended contribution amounts appear on key pad 890. These recommended contribution amounts can be larger recommended contribution amounts. By way of example, when contributor.sub.A passes his information bearing credit card that is a VISA.RTM. GOLD Card through card reader 307. The information indicative of the type of card that contributor.sub.A 's card is, is processed via software routines and a single or a plurality of recommended contribution amount keys appear on terminal 100's touch screen interface, e.g. $100, $150, $500. In a variant, when contributor.sub.B passes his information bearing credit card that is a VISA.RTM. CLASSIC Card through card reader 307. The information indicative of the type of card that contributor.sub.B 's card is processed via software routines and a single or a plurality of recommended contribution amount keys appear on terminal 100's touch screen interface, e.g. $10, $15, $20. It will be seen that the cumulative amount of a group of respective contribution transactions that are received from a group of cardholder contributors in a single donation kettle electronic contributions management event will be maximized utilizing this apparatus and method.

Most credit card 145 contribution amounts will not require an authorization by signature or numeric code. Consequently, the present invention contemplates that a contributor will simply need to swipe or insert an information bearing card 145/150 through, or into, the terminal 100, as required, and enter the amount of his contribution by pressing a key associated with a cash denomination in making his contribution on the key pad 890. The first contributor passes terminal 100 to a subsequent contributor who repeats the contribution step by depressing a key as to the amount given by him. The same steps are optionally performed by a plurality of contributors each choosing his or her monetary amount to be given. The card information and contribution information is then post processed. Post processing includes transmitting the card information and contribution information to a card account processor to request a verification or authorization, for crediting and debiting of the appropriate accounts, or combination thereof. The present invention contemplates that a contributor will have pre-authorized the donation kettle electronic contributions management organization to collect a contribution amount. Pre-authorization can include an agreement with the organization that a contributor authorizes the contribution of a given amount once a certain action takes place, i.e. the contributor swipes card 145/150 through donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100. The pre-authorized contribution amount and the contributor's card information are correlated, and forwarded to a card account processor for post-processing.

By way of further example, a contributor 1 (FIG. 13) enters into an arrangement with a donation or gift recipient organization. The arrangement is that donation kettle electronic contributions management organization will associate preferred contribution amount data with the contributor's card information data each time the contributor enters his respective card information data onto a respective terminal 100. It will be appreciated that this method allows for contributor 1 to simply enter his card information in the terminal to make a contribution. Less time is spent by the contributor 1 focusing on the financial aspects of the transaction.

In the case of a debit card 150 contribution via a donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100, the contributor can authorize the donation kettle electronic contributions management organization to use a secret identification number associated with his debit card account in order to allow the organization to automatically obtain the contribution without seeking subsequent authorization from the contributor. Alternatively, the contributor may enter his personal identification number (PIN) into terminal 100, terminal 120, or combination thereof, and terminal 100, 120, or combination thereof, stores the PIN in an encrypted form for later processing. In this scenario, the contributor need only perform the action of swiping or inserting, as required, card 150 through processor 160/240 on donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100 to make a contribution. The secret identification number is associated or correlated with the card information, contribution amount information, or combination thereof, and forwarded to a card account processor for post processing. In this scenario post processing includes obtaining appropriate authorizations, and crediting and debiting the contributor's account and the donation kettle electronic contributions management organizations account, or combination thereof, as required.

The present invention also makes provision that a contributor need not to disclose a contributor's card 145/150 account authorization code to the donation kettle electronic contributions management organization for security reasons but still may wish to make a card 145/150 contribution. In this case, the present invention contemplates that the donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120, donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100, or combination thereof, has an input 307 that allows for entry of the contributor's card 145/150 account authorization code so that it is encrypted and only decipherable and usable by the donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120, donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100, a card account processor, or combination thereof, for processing the card 145/150 contribution. An advantage of this feature is added security for the contributor. The present invention also contemplates using a touch sensitive screen, not shown, to input, a contributor's name, credit card and/or debit account information, the collection for which the contribution is made if there are multiple collections, and the like.

A single or a plurality of associated card 145,150 contributions and gifts is stored in data storage 302. A set of software routines associates or correlates a contributor's card account information with a contribution amount. The contributor has made a number of card contributions and gifts within a specified time period which are stored and tallied by a set of software routines. Optional small contribution service routine downloads a plurality of a contributor's card contributions and gifts once a card contribution amount threshold is reached.

The donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100 can adopt pen-based input or touch sensitive screen input. A pen and screen provide a contributor a substitute for key pad 890. By way of example, a contributor may use a pen to write in the amount of contribution or other alpha-numeric text on a screen, not shown. Alternatively, a symbolic key associated with a cash denomination might appear on a screen. The contributor then uses a finger to touch the symbolic key associated with a cash denomination and designates the contribution amount. If a contributor's signature is required, a pen can also be used with a screen as an electronic signature line. The contributor's signature entered on a screen can be collected, stored, and/or transmitted by card processor 160/240 along with contribution information to a third party card processor via a communication link 1030. Alternatively, this information might be sent to donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120 via a communication link 140 for further processing, storage, and/or transmittal via communication link 1030.

In an alternate embodiment, the present invention contemplates that a contributor will have pre-authorized the charitable organization to collect a donation amount. Pre-authorization might include an agreement with the organization that a contributor authorizes the donation of a given amount once a certain action takes place, i.e. the contributor swipes or inserts card 145/150 into or through card processor 160/240 at a donation kettle 100.

In the case of a debit card 150 donation via a donation kettle 100, the contributor might authorize the charitable organization to use a secret identification number associated with his debit card account in order to allow the organization to automatically obtain the donation without seeking subsequent authorization from the contributor. In this scenario, the contributor need only perform the action of swiping or inserting card 150 through processor 160/240 on donation kettle 100 to make a donation.

The present invention also contemplates that a contributor might wish not to disclose a contributor's card 145/150 account authorization code to the charitable organization for security reasons but still might wish to make a card 145/150 donation. In this case, the present invention contemplates that the donation kettle 100 has an input that allows for entry of the contributor's card 145/150 account authorization code. An advantage of this feature is added security for the contributor.

The present invention also contemplates the addition of sound board circuitry (not pictured), and speaker 1993 (See, e.g. the additions described in FIG. 1a). By way of example, a sound board, such as a Sound Blaster.RTM. board may be commercially obtained from Creative Labs located in California. After a contributor makes a donation a message is conveyed via sound board circuitry and speaker 1993. The sound of a bell, and also other messages, may also be conveyed via sound board circuitry and speaker 1993 to attract contributors. In an alternate embodiment, a donation kettle 100 and its related circuitry incorporates a CD Rom player as an addition.

FIG. 2a is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a donation kettle 100 with a card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303, communication circuitry 990, a keyboard 107 and associated circuitry 109. This embodiment has the features described generally in FIG. 1a above as well as other features that will be described below.

Generally in all embodiments where a keyboard is present, keyboard circuitry 109 scans keyboard 107 to determine if a key has been hit. Keyboard 107 refers to keypad 890 and/or an entry key (not pictured).

Key board 107 might include a cancel key, an enter key, and/or keys with other alpha-numeric text. In another embodiment, keyboard 107 might contain a key that represents a specific denomination amount, e.g. five dollars ($5) or ten dollars ($10). In another embodiment, keyboard 107 is a programmable keyboard where the denomination represented by a key can be altered for a particular donation session. Hence, an exemplary keyboard layout, i.e. $1, $5, and $10, might be programmed to be $5, $10, and $15. Processing circuitry 903 interfaces with keyboard 107 and associated circuitry 109 via an address bus 536, data bus 533, and control bus 530.

In an alternate embodiment, a key on keyboard 107 might be representative of text. By way of example, a key might represent a particular charity to which the donation is made, and/or a fund within a charity to which a donation is made.

Once a key has been hit on keyboard 107, that key information is moved into a buffer and interrupts processing circuitry 903 to communicate that the key is ready. Circuitry 903 responds to the interrupt by reading the buffered keyboard information. Circuitry 903 then stores the keyboard information in storage 302 if necessary. By way of further example, the keyboard information may consist of a donation amount, an account number of a contributor, an authorization code, and the like.

In one embodiment, keyboard circuitry 109 interrupts processing circuitry 903. Circuitry 903 responds to the interrupt by reading buffered keyboard information, which by way of example, includes donation information and/or card account information concerning the fund to which the donation is made. Circuitry 903 then associates the information via a software routine in one embodiment, and stores the associated information in storage 302. In another embodiment, circuitry 903 takes the associated information and transfers it from storage to a card account processor database.

FIG. 1b is a flow chart illustrating the functionality of an optional contribution communication servicing software and associated hardware of an exemplary donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal of the present invention. Optional contribution communication circuitry servicing routine S1200 is a set of software programs which run on a donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100. Routine S1200 is entered when a communication is received by communication circuitry 990 in one embodiment. Upon entering this routine (S1202), communication circuitry 990 enters a retrieve the communication routine S1203 to retrieve the communication. The communication consists of a request for contribution information in one embodiment. By way of example, the request includes a request for a cash contribution entry, an envelope contribution entry, a bar code data entry, a card entry, a contribution entry, or combinations thereof. The request can include a request for a fingerprint entry, a contribution entry, or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the communication is a request to download. The circuitry 990 then tests to determine if this is a request to download by executing routine S1207. If "yes," then a test to determine if the data storage is empty using routine S1209 is conducted. If "yes," an end of data message using routine S1212 is sent, and routine S1200 is concluded (S1213).

If there was a "no" in response to routine S1207, routine S1215 is executed. Routine S1215 transmits a please resend request to download message, and then ends (S1227) routine S1200. The request to download can include a security code or other security information. Furthermore, the circuitry 990 may test to see if the proper security code is present within the request to download before downloading any information.

If there was a "no" in response to routine S1209, routine S1217 is executed to obtain the contribution entry. The contribution entry can come from the cash contribution acceptor 320, the envelope contribution acceptor, card contribution processor 160,240, or coin contribution acceptor 1100, or storage 302. Routine S1219 to send the contribution entry is entered. Routine S1219 loops around to routine S1209 until there is no more data to be communicated. Routine S1200 is entered when there is communication between donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100 and donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120 in one embodiment. In an alternate embodiment, routine S1200 is entered when there is communication between donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100 and a printer. Provision can be made in another embodiment, routine S1200 is entered when there is communication with a card account processor, e.g. a third party card processor, a bank, VISA, and the like.

In one exemplary embodiment, a donation kettle 100 contains a card reader 307 and related circuitry 303 addition. Card reader 307 and related circuitry 303 reads information on a card 145, 150 (FIG. 2) and converts card information to a digital sequence of 1's and 0's which correspond to the card information thereon, and stores this information in a buffer. Card reader circuitry 303 interrupts processor 903 and communicates card information to processing circuitry 903. Processing circuitry 903 interfaces with card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303 via an address bus 536, data bus 533, and control bus 530. Specifically, upon detection by reader 307 that a card 145/150 donation is being made, card reader circuitry 303 interrupts processing circuitry 903. Circuitry 903 responds to the interrupt by reading the buffered card information. Buffered card information includes contributor and account information in one embodiment. The card reader might include a reader that reads a magnetically striped card, an IC card, a PCMCIA card, or the like.

FIG. 2b is a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a donation kettle 100 with a card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303, communication circuitry 990, a receipt generator (a printer 821 and associated circuitry 823). This embodiment has the features generally described herein, as well as those described below.

Preferably, a receipt generator (a printer 821 and associated circuitry 823) is located on or near a donation kettle 100. In an alternate embodiment, the receipt generator may be located at a remote location. The receipt generator produces a receipt for a single donation or a plurality of donations. In one embodiment, a donation kettle 100 communicates, via a communication link, preferably an RF (radio frequency) communication link or an infra-red communication link, with the receipt generator. In another embodiment, a donation kettle 100 communicates donation and contributor information, via a communication link to terminal 120. Terminal 120 then communicates the contributor and donation information to the receipt generator. The communication consists of information about the contributor, the donation, the date, the intention for which the donation was given, and the like. The receipt generator processes the information about the contributor and the donation to generate a receipt. The receipt may be generated automatically by the receipt generator to be picked up by the contributor at or soon after visiting the donation kettle 100, or may be generated for mailing or faxing to the contributor. A contributor of a charitable organization may desire the receipt for tax purposes.

Printer 821 is a thermal printer in one embodiment. In an alternate embodiment, printer 821 is a dot matrix printer, a laser printer, and the like.

The present invention also contemplates locating the receipt generator 820 on a donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100, and generating receipt 830 at donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 100.

In yet another embodiment of the method of the invention a record of the contribution is generated at a card account processor 1031, a bank, or combination thereof, and forwarded to a contributor. A receipt for a contribution appears on a contributor's monthly credit card statement, bank statement, or combination thereof. Optionally, an annual, or after some other appropriate time period, a statement is forwarded to a respective contributor itemizing all contributions and gifts given, e.g. to charitable organizations, for tax purposes, or otherwise. The format of the statement can be such that a tax processing entity, e.g the IRS, will accept the information for substantiating the contribution or group of contributions and gifts at issue, and/or grant a charitable contribution deduction. It will be understood that records of the contribution transactions made by tens of hundreds of cardholder contributors can easily be processed and forwarded to each respective contributor of the tens of hundreds of contributors for meeting contribution quotas and for substantiating charitable contribution deductions and the like given at a plurality of donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminals 100.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a donation kettle 100 with a card donation processor docking station 1999, a card donation processor 160/240, a keyboard 890, a display 840, terminal 120, a cash donation 143, a credit card donation 145, and a debit card donation 150. This donation kettle 100 has the features described above, with the addition of a donation kettle docking station 1999.

Donation kettle docking station 1999 allows for a card donation processor 160/240 to be docked. In one embodiment card donation processor 160/240 is communicatively attached to docking station 1999 to allow card account and/or contributor information to be transmitted via docking station 1999 to, by way of example, terminal 120 (via communication link 140), to a card account processor directly via communication link 140), to another donation kettle 100, and/or a combination thereof. In one embodiment a plurality of docking stations 1999 are networked.

Docking station 1999 can also be used to communicatively attach a card reader 307 and related circuitry 303 (FIG. 2b) to a donation kettle 100. Moreover, a donation kettle 100 docking station 1999 may also be located on the interior or exterior of a building and/or a permanently mounted donation kettle stand 153 (FIG. 2).

In one embodiment, docking station 1999 provides a means for the power source 1437 of card reader 307 and related circuitry 303 (FIG. 2a) to be energized or recharged. In another embodiment, docking station 1999 provides a communication link between card reader 307 and related circuitry 303 (FIG. 2b) and/or a card account processor.

In another embodiment docking station 1999 includes a slide in mounting unit (not pictured) in a donation kettle 100 onto which a card processor 160/240 is connected. In an embodiment, card processor 160/240 slides into docking station 1999, and plugs into the docking station 1999. In an alternate embodiment, docking station 1999, and/or a card processor 160/240 contain a base mount (not pictured). The base mount includes a plate on the bottom or side of card donation processor 160/240 (not pictured). In one embodiment, the plate is offset from the bottom of card processor 160/240. The plate allows card processor 160/240 to slide into docking station 1999.

In an alternate embodiment, card processor 160/240 is permanently mounted in docking station 1999. In an alternate embodiment docking station 1999 acts as a surface on which a portable card processor 160/240 rests without an electrical connection. Processor 160/240 is taken from the docking station 1999 surface after a donation session and linked to a card account processor database via a communication link. In one embodiment, docking station 1999 can be molded into the body of donation kettle 100.

In yet another embodiment, card processor 160/240, and/or docking station 1999 contains an electrical connector (not pictured) that provides sufficient connection to provide a communication link to move data. Numerous communication links discussed above can also be used to provide connections to move data.

In various embodiments, docking station 1999, terminal 120, card processor 160/240 or a combination thereof are on the same network. Downloading information from the devices on the network is directed to a terminal 120 in one embodiment, to a modem in another embodiment, or to a card account processor database in yet another embodiment.

In an embodiment, a hinge 119 is provided. Hinge 119 allows surface 125 to pivot along the hinge axis. When surface 125 is raised, access to the center retaining area 200 (FIG. 5) of donation kettle 100 is allowed.

A locking assembly consists of a hinge 130, a surface 131 on which slot 133 is disposed, a loop member 137, and padlock 192. Surface 131 pivots along the axis of hinge 130. In one position loop 137 penetrates slot 133. Loop member 149 on padlock 192 goes through loop member 137 allowing surface 125 to be secured. The present invention also contemplates the use of other forms of locking assemblies commonly known in the art.

FIG. 3a a schematic block diagram of one embodiment of a donation kettle 100 with card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303, communication circuitry 990, a display 840 and associated circuitry 842. This embodiment includes communication link 140. Communication link 140 allows information to be communicated to a card account processor database 1032. In one embodiment, card account processor 1032 database receives card account information and/or donation amount information from a single card reader 307 and associated circuitry 303. In an alternate embodiment, card account processor 1032 database receives card account information and/or donation amount information from a networked group of card readers 307 and associated circuitry.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary donation kettle 100 with a card donation processor docking station 1999, a card donation processor 160/240, a keyboard 890, a display 840, surface 125 containing slot 102, terminal 120, a cash donation 143, a credit card donation 145, and a debit card donation 150. This exemplary donation kettle 100 has the features described herein, with the addition of a donation plate docking station 1999 located on the side of donation kettle 100.

Docking station 1999 is constructed of plastic, metal, wood, or any other material appropriate to create a surface on which card donation processor 160/240 rests. Docking station 1999 is fastened to the side of donation kettle via fastening means 157. By way of example, fastening means 157 includes adhesive, rivets, snaps, velcro, or screws. It will be appreciated that this embodiment of the invention allows a donation kettle 100 to be retrofitted with card account processor 160/240 in order to allow card 145/150 donations to be obtained. In an alternate embodiment card processor 160/240 includes a clip (not pictured) or other appendage (not pictured) allowing for the card processor 160/240 to be mounted to donation kettle 100.

Similarly, docking station 1999 as described in these embodiment can also be used with a worship terminal described in U.S. application, Ser. No. 08/194,204 filed Feb. 8, 1994, (Attorney's docket No. 94 P 09), and an offering plate described in U.S. application, Ser. No. 08/127,770, (Attorney's docket No. 28270/31676), filed Sep. 28, 1993, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application, Ser. No. 08/117,909, (Attorney's docket No. 93 P 07), filed Sep. 7, 1993, by Witold A. Ziarno.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an embodiment of an exemplary donation kettle 100 with surface 117, a card processor 160/240, a velcro member 112, and a slot 102. Kettle 100 has the features described herein.

In this embodiment, donation plate 100 has added to it a surface 117. Surface 117 contains a slot 102 into which cash 143 or a coin donation (not pictured) can be donated. Surface 117 acts as a barrier to theft and can be mounted permanently on donation kettle 100 in one embodiment. Surface 117 can be constructed from metal, wood, or any other material appropriate to act as a theft deterring barrier.

In an alternate embodiment, surface 117 is removable. The side wall of surface 117 and the inner side wall of donation kettle 100 is threaded, allowing for surface 117 to screw into kettle 100. In yet another embodiment, surface 117 is fastened to kettle 100 by means of snaps, screws, or a combination thereof.

Velcro surface 112 comes into contact with a sister velcro surface (not pictured) on the underside of card processor 160/240. This contact allows for card processor 160/240 to be removably mounted to surface 117.

FIG. 10 illustrates a face of terminal 100 used for simplifying and inducing the giving of contributions and gifts by contributors to a plurality of donation kettle electronic contributions management organizations or causes, e.g. Save the Apes, Save the Kangaroos Fund, and Save the Lions Fund. Optionally, donation kettle electronic contributions management management terminal 100, with a face, is used to induce, solicit, facilitate, and receive contributions and gifts for a plurality of causes within a specific donation kettle electronic contributions management organization. The terminal face used with terminal 100 is used in method of simplifying and inducing the giving of contributions and gifts, receiving and immediately recording thereof upon receipt.

The method comprises the steps disclosed herein comprising providing the contributors making monetary contributions and gifts with a portable hand-held terminal 100, preferably held in a palm of the hand, for making of record information of the contribution transaction, e.g. card information and numerical contribution amount information. The terminal 100 has its own source of electric power 1437 (FIGS. 2-2b) and a plurality of entry keys manually operable or activated for entering the amount of the contribution to be given (or a touch sensitive screen input). The terminal also has a reader 307 on the terminal 100 for reading an information -bearing card having indicia thereon identifying the cardholder who is the contributor giving the monetary contribution and an optional visual display 840. Display 840 displays the amount entered by manual operation of entry keys for entering the designated monetary amount contributed. Terminal 100 has means therein for recording the amount of the contribution including means for storing the amount correlated to the indicia read on an information bearing card of the corresponding contributor. The correlated amount and indicia read by the reader are for eventual off-loading thereof. Terminal 100 has means for associating or correlating the amount correlated to the indicia read on the record of the corresponding contributor with information representative of a particular cause, donation kettle electronic contributions management organization, account within a fund raising organization, or combination thereof. There is also an association or correlation with a respective contributor's information bearing card information, respective contributor's numerical contribution information, and a particular cause, donation kettle electronic contributions management organization, account within a fund raising organization, or combination thereof.

By way of further example, terminal 100 has a key associated with indicia representative of a particular a particular cause, gift recipient, account within a fund raising organization, or combination thereof. The key 911 represents a key (or portion of a touch sensitive screen) that designates a contribution to a "Save the Apes" fund or account, key 912 represents a key the designates a contribution to a "Save the Kangaroos" fund or account, and key 913 represents a key the designates a contribution to a "Save the Lions" fund or account. A contributor designates which fund he wishes his contribution to go to, e.g. by pressing key 912 "Save the Kangaroos" fund or account; key 913 represents a key which designates a contribution to a "Save the Lions" fund or account; or, key 911 represents a key the designates a contribution to a "Save the Apes" fund or account. The contributor's card information and designated contribution monetary amount is associated with his cause designation.

Terminal 100 stores the associated and designated information for eventual off-loading thereof. Off-loading is to donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120, a card account processor 1031, a funds processing network, or combination thereof. The contributor's associated card information, contribution amount and designation is then routed to a particular account. An account can be a separate account within a donation kettle electronic contributions management organization group of accounts, an account of a particular donation kettle electronic contributions management organization within a group of donation kettle electronic contributions management organization accounts, or combination thereof. In a variant, all of the designated contribution monetary amounts are funnelled to a single account.

Provision can be made for a prompt on display 840 prompts a contributor to enter his card information. A contributor enters his card information which is read by a reader 307. Another prompt on display 840 prompts the contributor to select a particular cause to which he wishes make a contribution. For example, the contributor selects key 911 representing a "Save the Apes fund or account." The contributor is prompted to enter a numerical contribution amount. For example, the contributor selects $50. The contributor's selection of a numerical contribution amount, e.g. $50, and selection of, e.g. "The Save the Apes Fund," are associated or correlated with the contributor's card information from his respective information bearing card, and stored in the terminal 100 data storage. A plurality of contributors make their subsequent selections. The associated information, e.g. card information from each respective contributor, contribution information from each respective contributor, and designation of cause, fund, or account, are then stored in data storage for eventual off-loading from terminal 100. Off-loading can be to a donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120, a card account processor 1031, a fund-processing data base, a bank, or combination thereof, for further processing. It will be appreciated further post contribution processing can include preparation of a record substantiating the contribution that is then forwarded to the contributor for tax purposes and the like.

The keys 911, 912, and 913 can represent organizations such as the American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Society, or other donation kettle electronic contributions management organization. As will be appreciated contributions and gifts can be gathered at funeral homes, hospitals, charitable balls, concerts, and the like, for these various causes.

FIG. 12 illustrates a face of a terminal 100 used for simplifying and inducing the giving of contributions and gifts by contributors to causes within a religious organization, e.g. First collection, Second Collection, and Cardinal's Appeal. This face is used with a terminal 100 and used in the method of simplifying and inducing the giving of contributions and gifts, receiving and immediately recording thereof upon receipt. The method comprises the steps disclosed herein comprising providing the contributors making monetary contributions and gifts with a portable hand-held terminal 100 for making of record data of the contribution transaction, e.g. cardholder card information and numerical contribution amount information. The terminal 100 has its own source of electric power 1437 and a plurality of entry keys manually operable for entering the amount of the contribution to be given in one embodiment. The terminal 100 as illustrated in FIGS. 10-12 is a type of terminal accepting transactions by way of information bearing cards. Preferably, terminal 100 is a portable hand-held terminal, however, terminal 100 can also be a personal computer with a display, keyboard, memory, communication circuitry, a personal data assistant (PDA) device, such as a Motorola envoy device, an Apple Newton, a lap top computer, a notebook computer, a palm top computer, or a standard personal desk top computer. The terminal also has a reader 307 on the terminal 100 for reading an information bearing card having indicia thereon identifying the contributor making the monetary contribution and an optional display 840. Display 840 displays the amount entered by manual operation of entry keys. Terminal 100 has means for recording the amount of the contribution including means for storing the amount correlated to the indicia read on an information bearing card of the corresponding contributor. The correlated amount and indicia read by said reader are for eventual off-loading thereof. Terminal 100 has means for associating the amount correlated to the indicia read on the record of the corresponding contributor with information representative of a particular cause, account within a religious organization, or combination thereof. It is also possible to make an association or correlation with a respective contributor's information bearing card information, respective contributor's numerical contribution information, and a particular cause within a religious organization.

Provision can be made wherein a religious organization designates to which collection, or cause, a sub-group of contribution transactions within a group of contribution transactions made during a session. Terminal 100 provides for the designation or grouping of a sub-group of contribution transactions for a particular collection of cause. Terminal 100 has a key, or code that is entered by, associated with indicia representative of a particular collection. Where a code representative of a particular collection is used, the code is associated or correlated with a group of respective contribution transactions. The code is entered by an individual prior to a particular portion of a contribution session. In a variant the code is correlated to a chronological time period during a portion of the contribution session.

A key 911 represents designation of a contribution to the "First Collection" fund or account, a key 912 represents a key the designates a contribution to a "Second Collection" fund or account, and key 913 represents a key that designates a contribution to a "Cardinal's Appeal" fund or account. A contributor designates which fund he wishes his contribution to go to, e.g. by pressing the key 912, key 913 or, key 911. The contributor's card information and contribution amount is associated with his designation. Terminal 100 stores the associated and designated information in data storage for eventual off-loading thereof. Off-loading is to donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120, a card account processor 1031, a funds processing network, or combination thereof. The contributor's associated card information, contribution amount and designation is then routed to a particular account. Such an account can be a separate account within a religious organization, an account of a cause within a group of religious organization accounts, or combination thereof.

Furthermore, a prompt on a display 840 prompts a contributor to enter his card information. A contributor enters his card information which is read by reader 307. Another prompt on display 840 prompts the contributor to select a particular cause to which he wishes make a contribution for. Assume the contributor selects the key 911 representing the "First Collection." Collections include, by way of example, a capital improvement fund collection, a school fund collection, a Cardinal's appeal collection, a collection for the missions overseas, or combination thereof. The contributor is prompted to enter a numerical contribution amount. Assume the contributor selects $50. The contributor's selection of a numerical contribution amount, e.g. $50, and selection of a cause are associated with the contributor's card information from his respective information bearing card, and stored in terminal 100 data storage. A plurality of contributors make their subsequent selections. The associated information, e.g. card information from each respective contributor, contribution information from each respective contributor, and designation of cause, fund, or account, are then stored in data storage for eventual off-loading from terminal 100. Off-loading is to donation kettle electronic contributions management terminal 120, a card account processor 1031, a fund-processing data base, a bank, or combination thereof, for further processing. As will be appreciated further processing can include preparation of a record substantiating the contribution that is then forwarded to the contributor for tax purposes and the like.

The invention provides a method of obtaining contributions and gifts. The method simplifies the way a contribution is given and induces the giving of successive contributions with the immediate recordation thereof. A portable hand held terminal 100 is provided for receiving and immediately recording a contribution given in combination with the donation kettle. The contribution is made by use of card information from an information bearing card 145/150. As described above, information bearing card 145/150 is a credit card 145, debit card 150, or combination thereof.

A first contributor 1 approaches portable electronic terminal 100 for making of record data of a contribution. The contribution is made the contributor using an information bearing card such as a credit card 145, debit card 150, or combination thereof. Preferably terminal 100 has its own source of electric power 1437 and a plurality of optional keys (as described above) manually operable for entering the amount of the monetary contribution to be given, designate a cause, etc. In a preferred embodiment, terminal 100 has a case dimensioned for being held in the palm of contributor 1's hand 1R or dimensioned for removable retention on the kettle. The terminal 100 has a reader 307 disposed on terminal 100 for reading a card record medium, e.g. an information bearing card. The card record medium has indicia identifying a contributor 1 making a given monetary contribution. The terminal has means for making a visual display 840 of the amount entered by manual operation of entry keys. Terminal 100 also has means for recording the amount of the contribution, e.g. data storage 302, including means for storing the amount of the contribution correlated to the indicia read on the record medium, e.g. information bearing card, of the corresponding contributor 1. The correlated amount and indicia read by reader 307 are for eventual off-loading from the terminal 100.

By way of example, contributor 1 is provided terminal 100 by a card account processor, a bank, a donation kettle electronic contributions management organization, a manufacturer, third party account processor, or a combination thereof. Contributor 1 enters is card information by way of card reader 307 disposed on terminal 100. The contributor 1 takes his information bearing card, e.g. a credit card 145, debit card 150 or combination thereof, with his fingers on his hand, and passes it through card reader 307 disposed on terminal 100. The reader 307 reads information on contributor 1's information bearing card and immediately records and stores it in a data storage. Contributor 1 then enters a contribution amount, a designation for a particular cause the contribution is for, or combination thereof. The contributor 1 can press a single key disposed on terminal 100, e.g. a $5 key, to enter a contribution monetary amount. The contributor 1 can press a combination of keys on a keyboard disposed on the terminal 100 to designate a contribution amount, e.g. $35.71. Contributor 1's contribution amount and respective card information are electronically correlated, and immediately stored in a data storage on terminal 100. Contributor 1 can enter card information with a single information bearing card or with multiple information bearing cards.

The second contributor 2 approaches terminal 100. Contributor 2 enters his respective card information by way of card reader 307 disposed on the terminal 100.

The contributor 2 takes his information bearing card, e.g. a credit card 145, debit card 150 or combination thereof, and passes it through card reader 307 disposed on terminal 100. The card reader 307 reads information on contributor 2's respective information bearing card and immediately records and stores it in a data storage. Contributor 2 then enters a contribution amount, a designation for a particular cause the contribution is for, or combination thereof. The contributor 2 can press a single key disposed on terminal 100, e.g. a $10 key, to enter a contribution amount (FIGS. 10, 11). Optionally, contributor 2 can press a combination of keys on a keyboard disposed on terminal 100 to designate a contribution amount, e.g. $77.73. Contributor 2's contribution amount and respective card information are correlated, and stored in a data storage on terminal 100.

The process is repeated for each respective subsequent and successive contributor. For example, contributor N approaches terminal 100 after contributor 2. Contributor N enters his respective card information by way of card reader 307 disposed on terminal 100.

Contributor N takes his respective information bearing card, e.g. a credit card 145, debit card 150 or combination thereof, and passes it through card reader 307 disposed on terminal 100. The reader 307 reads information on contributor N's respective information bearing card and immediately records and stores it in a data storage. Contributor N then and enters a contribution amount, a designation for a particular cause the contribution is for, or combination thereof. The contributor N may press a single key disposed on terminal 100, e.g. a $50 key, to enter a contribution amount. Optionally, contributor N may press a combination of keys on a keyboard disposed on terminal 100 to designate a contribution amount, e.g. $99.73. Contributor N's contribution amount and respective card information are correlated, and stored in a data storage on terminal 100.

For example, several hundred contribution transactions ("L" contribution transactions) can be made sequentially in the manner on a first terminal 100.sub.1. A plurality of terminals 100, e.g. terminal 100.sub.1 . . . through terminal 100.sub.Z are circulated. Each respective terminal 100 can collect "L" contribution transactions. The result is that "L" contribution transactions times "Z," the number of fund raising management terminals, gives (Q) total contribution transactions received. L*Z=Q. In one variant of the invention, it will be understood that (Q), e.g. tens of hundreds of contribution transactions, have been received before interposing a request for verification or authorization, authorization step, verification step, or a combination thereof, between two respective contribution transactions within the group of contribution transactions (Q) during a contribution session.

In the scenario where contributor 1 has contributed contributor 1's respective contribution amount of $5.00, and his respective card information; where contributor 2 has contributed his respective contribution amount of $10.00 and his respective card information; and, where contributor 3 has contributed his respective contribution amount of $50.00 and his respective contribution amount, contributor N has contributed his respective contribution amount of $100.00 and his respective card information, data storage in terminal 100 stores the following:

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    Contributor 1's card information
                          $5.00
    Contributor 2's card information
                              $10.00
    Contiibutor 3's card informafion
                               $50.00
    Contributor N's card informafion
                             $100.00
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