Abstract:
Cleaning apparatus for an electronic game console and associated game cartridges, wherein the game console is of the type having a first edge connector adapted to engage a mating second edge connector provided in the game cartridge. The cleaning apparatus includes a cleaning cartridge having a housing portion at one end and a handle portion at the other end, the housing portion having first and second separable portions, and having a recessed forward end. A first cleaning element is mounted within the recessed forward end, the cleaning element being sized and shaped to correspond substantially to the first edge connector, so that the cleaning pad engages the second edge connector upon insertion into the game console port. A second cleaning element is carried within the housing portion of the cartridge, the second cleaning element including an elongated member having a washing pad on one end thereof and a drying pad on the other end thereof, for cleaning the edge connector of the game cartridge.
Abstract:
A central computer server keeps a record of a set of display parameters related to particular web pages visited by a web browser, and sends this information to the browser for displaying a particular web page according to the received information from the server.
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for efficient handling of product returns to reduce associated costs. A computer system at a regional product return center scans a returned product for identifying information, accesses a manufacturer return approval computer system through the internet or the like, and then submits the identifying information to the manufacturer for return approval. The manufacturer computer system utilizes the identifying information to access an electronic registration database to determine whether the returned product satisfies applicable return criteria. If so, the product is approved for return to the manufacturer.
Abstract:
A recommendation service is provided for recommending computer video game titles to players. The recommendation service offers suggestions for game titles to purchase or rent based on playing usage related parameters for each particular player. A profile is created based on several factors that represents the player's affinity to each factor. Communication and use of player usage data may be strictly conditioned on a player's knowledge and consent.
Abstract:
An electronic registration system which facilitates authorized product returns and reduces the incidence of improper returns. A retailer sales associate is prompted to enter individual product identification information such as an individual serial number. This individual product identification information is then stored in a data base along with the date on which the product was sold and an appropriate UPC code, SKU number or manufacturer code. A check digit algorithm may be used to verify the serial number prior to storage. A sales receipt may be imprinted with at least the date of the transaction and the serial number. When a product is returned, the retailer may cross-reference the serial number on the product with that on the receipt to verify the sales receipt. Otherwise, the database may be searched for pertinent sales information.
Abstract:
Certain exemplary embodiments relate to techniques for facilitating a joint supplier/retailer driven customer loyalty program that specifically advocates customer loyalty by reaching out to consumers with offers that are relevant to the individual shopper and a particular experience they have had. A link between a product and/or service, and a specific customer is provided, e.g., to help facilitate the offering of an incentive (e.g., in the form of a voucher) to a customer who has had a less than satisfactory experience with a particular brand, product, service, sales experience, etc. An opportunity to repair the relationship with a customer who might otherwise be dissatisfied with a product or experience is provided through the provision of customizable customer savings merit programs.