US 20040103023A1
(19) United States
(12) Patent Application Publication (io) Pub. No.: US 2004/0103023 Al
Irwin et al. (43) Pub. Date: May 27,2004
(54) COUPON BARCODE INTERNET VERIFICATION SYSTEM
(76) Inventors: John R. Irwin, Meyersville, NJ (US);
Lawrence F. Fox, Branchburg, NJ
(US); Joan Wyndrum O'Hear, Avon,
NJ (US)
Correspondence Address:
WARD & OLIVO
382 SPRINGFIELD AVENUE
SUMMIT, NJ 07901 (US)
(21) Appl. No.: 10/302,504
(22) Filed: Nov. 25, 2002
Publication Classification
(51) Int. CI.7 G06F 17/60
(52) U.S. C I 705 14
(57) ABSTRACT
An interactive Internet-based Coupon Barcode Verification system comprises a central computer system connected to the Internet. The system is adapted to be accessed by one or more authorized personal computers. A browser and keyboard, and optionally a barcode reader, constitute the minimal hardware and software required to verify the validity of barcode data. The barcode data can be transmitted over the Internet to the coupon barcode verification system by means of the keyboard. Alternatively, the barcode reader and the web browser transmits the information. An algorithm logic means analyzes the barcode data provided by the authorized personal computers to determine the validity of the barcode data. The validity determination is based on UCC guidelines, recognized MIN, Family Code, Value Code and EAN128 Extended Codes. Advantageously, the system enables manufactures to issue coupons having valid barcodes. Coupon clearinghouses can view coupon graphics before issuance, and retailers can identify and document barcode errors. Fines based on coupon defects are virtually eliminated. The system facilitates coupon classification and facilitates validation by providing a validation or a failure report.
