Kiosk for evaluating and purchasing used electronic devices

Abstract

To provide a consumer operated kiosks for recycling electronic devices.SOLUTION: In some embodiments, the kiosk includes a rotatable inspection plate configured to receive an electronic device when the inspection plate is in a first position. The kiosk can include a camera having a field of view including at least a portion of the inspection plate. The kiosk can include a wired and / or wireless connectivity device configured to connect to the electronic device and one or more processors configured to: receive characteristic information about the electronic device via the wired and / or wireless connectivity device; cause the inspection plate to rotate to a second position; receive one or more images of the electronic device via the camera when the inspection plate is in the second position; and facilitate determination of an offer price for the electronic device based at least in part on the characteristic information and the one or more images.SELECTED DRAWING: None

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] (CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS) This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 807,153, filed February 18, 2019, entitled "KIOSK FOR EVALUATING AND PURCHASING USED ELECTRONIC DEVICES," and U.S. Provisional Application No. 62 / 804,714, filed February 12, 2019, entitled "CONNECTOR CARRIER FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE KIOSK," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety and made a part of this disclosure.

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD This disclosure relates generally to consumer-operated kiosks for purchasing mobile phones and other electronic devices from users. [Background technology]

[0003] There are currently more mobile devices in use than there are people on the planet. The rapid growth of mobile phones is due, in part, to the rapid pace at which these devices are evolving. Due to the rapid pace of development, a relatively high percentage of mobile phones are replaced each year as consumers continually upgrade and acquire the latest features or better operating plans. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the United States alone discards 370 million mobile phones, PDAs, tablets, and other electronic devices each year. Hundreds of other old or broken mobile phones are simply tossed in junk drawers or otherwise stored until a suitable disposal solution arises.

[0004] Although many mobile phone retailers and stores now offer trade-in or buy-back programs for mobile phones, many old phones still end up in landfills or are improperly broken down and disposed of in developing countries. Unfortunately, however, mobile phones and similar devices typically contain substances that can be harmful to the environment, such as arsenic, lithium, cadmium, copper, lead, mercury, and zinc. If not disposed of properly, these toxic materials can seep into groundwater from decomposing landfills and contaminate the soil with potentially harmful consequences for humans and the environment.

[0005] As an alternative to retailer trade-in or buy-back programs, consumers can recycle and / or sell their used mobile phones using self-service kiosks located in shopping malls, retail stores, or other publicly accessible areas. Such kiosks are operated by ecoATM, LLC, the assignee of the present application, and aspects of these kiosks are described, for example, in U.S. Patent Nos. 7,881,965, 8,195,511, 8,200,533, 8,239,262, 8,423,404, and 8,463,646; U.S. Provisional Patent Applications Nos. 62 / 169,072, 62 / 202,330, 62 / 332,736, 62 / 782,302, and 62 / 782,947; and U.S. Patent Application Nos. 14 / 498,763, 14 / 500,739, 14 / 506,449, and 14 / 506,449. Nos. 14 / 568,051, 14 / 598,469, 14 / 660,768, 14 / 663,331, 14 / 873,145, 14 / 873,158, 14 / 925,357, 14 / 925,375, 14 / 934,134, 14 / 964,963, 14 / 967,183, 14 / 966,346, 15 / 057,707, 15 / 130,851, 15 / 176,975, and 16 / 719,699 (each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 7,881,965 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The following disclosure describes various embodiments of consumer-operated kiosks for recycling mobile phones and other electronic devices. In some embodiments, the kiosks are sized and shaped to fit relatively small deployment footprints (e.g., urban retail stores, airports, transit stations, or other space-sensitive settings). The kiosks can include housings configured to accommodate one or more displays, user interfaces, test equipment, sorting bins, device evaluation systems (DESs), and / or other kiosk components. In some embodiments, DESs configured in accordance with the present technology can include movable and / or tiltable test equipment configured to transition between two or more positions. For example, a DES can include a test platform, a connector assembly, and one or more upper and / or lower camera and light assemblies, all or some of which can be configured to transition between a home position (e.g., a position where a user interacts with the kiosk), a pick position (e.g., a position where the kiosk / DES is configured to evaluate the condition of a phone or other electronic device to be purchased), and a sorting position (e.g., a position where the electronic device is transitioned into a sorting bin or other holding unit after completing a transaction with the user) by tilting one or more components of the DES about an axis of rotation. These features can enable a reduction in the volume of the kiosk required to evaluate electronic devices to be purchased and / or recycled. In some embodiments, the upper and / or lower domes of the test equipment are gray in color, as opposed to conventional domes that are white. The gray coloring of the domes can reduce glare on the electronic devices being tested and can enable improved device identification and / or damage detection. In some applications, the dome can include a black (or otherwise dark) portion on its interior surface to absorb excess light and further reduce glare. As a result of these and / or other features and improvements, kiosks constructed in accordance with the present technology can evaluate electronic devices while occupying a relatively small footprint in a retail or other setting. The present invention provides, for example, the following items. (Item 1) 1. A consumer-operated kiosk configured to evaluate an electronic device received from a user, the kiosk comprising: The housing and a test plate rotatable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position, the test plate configured to receive the electronic device when the test plate is in the first position; a camera having a field of view that includes at least a portion of the test plate; a wired and / or wireless connectivity device configured to connect to the electronic device; one or more processors operatively connected to the wired and / or wireless connectivity device, the camera, and the inspection plate, the one or more processors comprising: receiving characteristic information about the electronic device via the wired and / or wireless connectivity device; rotating the test plate with the electronic device thereon from the first position to the second position; receiving one or more images of the electronic device via the camera when the test plate is in the second position; facilitating a determination of a suggested price for the electronic device based at least in part on the characteristic information and the one or more images; one or more processors configured to perform A kiosk equipped with (Item 2) Item 10. The kiosk of item 1, wherein the test plate is configured to rotate from the second position to a third position and move the electronic device from the test plate to a storage receptacle. (Item 3) Item 10. The kiosk of claim 1, further comprising one or more mirrors positioned in proximity to the test plate when the test plate is in the second position, the one or more mirrors configured to provide the camera with one or more reflected images of the electronic device positioned on the test plate. (Item 4) Item 4. The kiosk of item 3, wherein the one or more mirrors are mounted to a mirror frame configured to rotate relative to the test plate. (Item 5) Item 10. The kiosk of item 1, wherein the camera is a first camera and the kiosk further comprises a second camera having a field of view that includes at least a portion of the test plate. (Item 6) Item 6. The kiosk of item 5, wherein the first camera is positioned above the inspection plate when the inspection plate is in the second position, and the second camera is positioned below the inspection plate when the inspection plate is in the second position. (Item 7) Item 1, wherein the wired and / or wireless connectivity device includes an electrical connector mounted on a rotatable hub. (Item 8) 8. The kiosk of claim 7, wherein the electrical connector is a first electrical connector, and the kiosk further comprises a second electrical connector spaced apart from the rotatable hub, the second electrical connector configured to translate between a retracted position and an extended position, and the second electrical connector configured to electrically connect to the electronic device when in the extended position. (Item 9) 9. The kiosk of claim 8, further comprising a third electrical connector spaced from the rotatable hub, the second electrical connector positioned on a first side of the rotatable hub, the third electrical connector positioned on a second side of the rotatable hub opposite the first side of the rotatable hub, the third electrical connector configured to translate between a retracted position and an extended position, and the third electrical connector configured to electrically connect to the electronic device when in the extended position. (Item 10) Item 1, wherein the electronic device is a mobile phone. (Item 11) Item 10. The kiosk of item 1, wherein the test plate is transparent. (Item 12) 1. A consumer-operated kiosk for evaluating electronic devices, said kiosk comprising: The housing and a test plate rotatable relative to the housing between a first position and a second position, the test plate configured to receive an electronic device at the first position and to support the electronic device at the first position and the second position; a camera with a field of view that includes at least a portion of the test plate and configured to capture an image of the electronic device when the test plate is in the second position; A kiosk equipped with (Item 13) Item 13. The kiosk of item 12, wherein at least a portion of the interior surface of the housing is gray and configured to absorb light emitted within the housing. (Item 14) Item 13. The kiosk of item 12, wherein the interior surface of the housing includes a black band configured to reduce glare within the housing. (Item 15) Item 13. The kiosk of item 12, wherein the one or more processors are configured to rotate the test plate from the second position to a third position if the user accepts a proposal from the kiosk to purchase the electronic device, the second position being between the first position and the third position. (Item 16) Item 16. The kiosk of item 15, wherein the test plate is horizontal when the evaluation subassembly is in the second position. (Item 17) Item 13. The kiosk of item 12, wherein the camera is mounted to an upper portion of the housing. (Item 18) 1. A method for evaluating an electronic device using a consumer-operated kiosk, the method comprising: positioning a test plate of the kiosk at a first location; receiving the electronic device onto the test plate at the first position; rotating the test plate away from a first position to a second position; visually assessing the electronic device using a camera while the test plate is in the second position; providing the user with a suggestion to purchase the electronic device, the suggestion based at least in part on a visual evaluation of the electronic device; A method comprising: (Item 19) 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising, in response to the user's acceptance of the suggestion, rotating the test plate away from the second position to a third position and depositing the electronic device in a storage receptacle. (Item 20) 20. The method of claim 18, further comprising presenting to the user an electrical connector to be connected to the electronic device when the test plate is in the first position. (Item 21) 21. The method of claim 20, further comprising electrically evaluating the electronic device via the electrical connector. (Item 22) 22. The method of claim 21, further comprising automatically disconnecting the electrical connector from the electronic device after electrically evaluating the electronic device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a front upper right isometric view of an electronic device recycling kiosk configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0009] [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a front upper left isometric view of the kiosk of FIG.

[0010] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a rear upper left isometric view of the kiosk of FIG.

[0011] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a bottom front right isometric view of the kiosk of FIG.

[0012] [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a front upper right isometric view of the kiosk of FIG. 1 with the front door and associated hardware omitted for purposes of illustrating the internal components and systems of the kiosk in more detail.

[0013] [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic front view of an electronic device recycling kiosk configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0014] [Figure 7A] FIG. 7A is a front upper right isometric view of an electronic device evaluation system (DES) of the electronic device recycling kiosk of FIGS. 1-5, configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0015] [Figure 7B] FIG. 7B is a front view of the DES of FIG. 7A.

[0016] [Figure 7C] FIG. 7C is a right side view of the DES of FIG. 7A.

[0017] [Figure 7D] FIG. 7D is a rear view of the DES of FIG. 7A.

[0018] [Figure 7E] FIG. 7E is a left side view of the DES of FIG. 7A.

[0019] [Figure 7F] FIG. 7F is a top plan view of the DES of FIG. 7A.

[0020] [Figure 7G] FIG. 7G is a bottom plan view of the DES of FIG. 7A.

[0021] [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a rear upper right isometric view of the DES of FIG. 7A with portions of the lower housing removed for illustrative purposes.

[0022] [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a front upper right isometric view of the DES of FIG. 7A with the upper and lower housings removed for illustrative purposes.

[0023] [Figure 10A] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional side view of the DES of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B with the tilt assembly in the home position and the access door open.

[0024] [Figure 10B] 10B is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the tilt assembly of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B with the tilt assembly in the home position and the access door open.

[0025] [Figure 11A]FIG. 11A is a cross-sectional side view of the DES of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B with the tilt assembly in the home position and the access door closed.

[0026] [Figure 11B] FIG. 11B is a cross-sectional side view of the DES of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B with the tilt assembly in the pick position and the access door closed.

[0027] [Figure 11C] FIG. 11C is a cross-sectional side view of the DES of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B with the tilt assembly in the sorting position and the access door closed.

[0028] [Figure 11D] FIG. 11D is a rear upper right isometric view of the DES of FIG. 7A with the upper and lower housings removed for illustrative purposes.

[0029] [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is an enlarged cross-sectional side view of the chute of the DES of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B.

[0030] [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a schematic side view of a storage sorting bin.

[0031] [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional side view of the DES of FIG. 7A taken along section plane AA of FIG. 7B, with the DES in a repair or maintenance configuration.

[0032] [Figure 14A] FIG. 14A is an isometric view of an electronic device recycling kiosk configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology.

[0033] [Figure 14B] FIG. 14B is a front view of the kiosk of FIG. 14A.

[0034] [Figure 15A] FIG. 15A is a front upper right isometric view of an electronic device evaluation system (DES) of the electronic device recycling kiosk of FIGS. 14A and 14B configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0035] [Figure 15B] FIG. 15B is a side elevation view of the DES of FIG. 15A.

[0036] [Figure 16A] FIG. 16A is a close-up front upper right isometric view of the examination area of the DES of FIG. 15A.

[0037] [Figure 16B] FIG. 16B is an enlarged front upper right isometric view of the inspection area of the DES of FIG. 15A, with the upper DES housing removed for illustrative purposes.

[0038] [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a view of the connector assembly of the DES of FIG. 15A along the axis of rotation of the primary connector assembly.

[0039] [Figure 18A] FIG. 18A is a front isometric view of the secondary connector assembly of the DES of FIG. 15A.

[0040] [Figure 18B] FIG. 18B is a rear isometric view of the secondary connector assembly of FIG. 18A.

[0041] [Figure 19A] FIG. 19A is a rear exploded view of the secondary connector assembly of FIG. 18A.

[0042] [Figure 19B] FIG. 19B is a front exploded view of the secondary connector assembly of FIG. 18A.

[0043] [Figure 20] 20 is a cross-sectional top view of the secondary connector assembly of FIG. 18A taken along section plane BB of FIG. 17. FIG.

[0044] [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram illustrating various components associated with the kiosk of FIGS. 1-6 and 14A-14B.

[0045] [Figure 22A] 22A and 22B illustrate flow routing for evaluating and purchasing an electronic device from a user in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. [Figure 22B] 22A and 22B illustrate flow routing for evaluating and purchasing an electronic device from a user in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology.

[0046] [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram of a suitable distributed computing environment for implementing various aspects of the present technology. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0047] Certain details are set forth in the following description and in Figures 1-23 to provide a thorough understanding of various embodiments of the present technology. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, operations, and / or systems often associated with mobile electronic devices, mobile device recycling kiosks, and the like, are not shown or described in detail in the following disclosure to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of various embodiments of the present technology. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that the present technology can be practiced without one or more of the details described herein, or with other structures, methods, components, and the like.

[0048] The terms used below are to be interpreted in their broadest reasonable manner, but are used in conjunction with the detailed description of certain examples of embodiments of the present technology. Indeed, certain terms may even be emphasized below; however, any terms intended to be interpreted in any restrictive manner will be expressly and specifically defined as such in the detailed description section.

[0049] The accompanying drawings depict embodiments of the present technology and are not intended to be limiting of its scope. The sizes of various depicted elements are not necessarily drawn to scale, and these various elements may be arbitrarily enlarged to improve readability. Details of components may be abstracted in the drawings to omit details such as the location of components and certain precise connections between such components when such details are unnecessary for a complete understanding of how to make and use the present invention. Many of the details, dimensions, angles, and other features shown in the drawings are merely illustrative of specific embodiments of the present disclosure. Thus, other embodiments may have other details, dimensions, angles, and features without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention. Additionally, those skilled in the art will understand that further embodiments of the present invention may be practiced without any of the details described below. In the drawings, the same reference numbers identify the same, or at least generally similar, elements.

[0050] 1 and 2 are front isometric views of a kiosk 10 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology for purchasing electronic devices (e.g., mobile phones, tablets, etc.) from a user. FIG. 3 is a rear isometric view of the kiosk 10, and FIG. 4 is a bottom isometric view of the kiosk 10. Collectively referring to FIGS. 1-4 , the kiosk 10 may include a housing 12 and one or more user interface devices 14a-d configured to facilitate use of the kiosk 10. The user interface devices 14a-d may include a keypad 14a, an ID card reader 14b, a payment dispenser 14c, a receipt dispenser 14d, and / or other user interface devices (e.g., a thumbprint scanner) for facilitating the electronic device purchasing process. As shown, the kiosk 10 may also include one or more displays 16a-b. The one or more displays 16a-b may include touchscreen capabilities for receiving user input in response to displayed prompts, etc. The kiosk 10 may also include an access door 18 that may allow a user to submit their electronic device (not shown) for evaluation. The access door 18 may cover an opening in a front door 20 of the kiosk 10. One or more of the user inputs 14a-d may be located on or within the front door 20 of the kiosk 10. In some embodiments, one or more of the user interfaces 14a-d may be located on or within a side wall 22 of the kiosk housing 12.

[0051] Referring to FIG. 1 , housing 12 can have a height H, a width W, and a depth D. In some embodiments, height H is between 24 and 90 inches, between 30 and 90 inches, between 36 and 72 inches, and / or between 48 and 84 inches. In some embodiments, width W is between 10 and 54 inches, between 12 and 48 inches, between 24 and 36 inches, and / or between 20 and 30 inches. In some embodiments, depth D is between 15 and 30 inches and / or between 18 and 24 inches.

[0052] 4, kiosk 10 may include one or more legs 24 and / or one or more casters 26. Legs 24 may be configured to adjust in height to allow leveling of kiosk 10 in an uneven installation location. In some embodiments, legs 24 may be retracted upward above casters 26 to allow kiosk 10 to be easily moved on the casters. In some embodiments, casters 26 are adjustable and capable of moving downward to contact the floor or other surface on which kiosk 10 is installed.

[0053] FIG. 5 is an isometric view of kiosk 10 with front door 20 ( FIG. 1 ) removed to illustrate the internal components of kiosk 10. Front door 20 can be configured to pivot (e.g., about one or more hinges) between an open position and a closed position while one or both of displays 16 a-b remain stationary. Maintaining one or more of displays 16 a-b in the position illustrated in FIGS. 1-2 can allow a technician or other operator to perform maintenance and / or repairs on the internal components of kiosk 10 while observing instructions on one or more of displays 16. In some embodiments, one of displays 16 (e.g., upper display 16 b) is connected to and moves with front door 20, while the other display (e.g., lower display 16 a) remains in a fixed position.

[0054] The kiosk 10 can include one or more compartments 30a-b configured to accommodate the displays 16a-b. These display compartments 30a-b can be positioned at or near the top of the kiosk 10. One or more dispensers 32a-b (e.g., receipt printer / dispenser, label printer / dispenser, cash / voucher or other reward dispenser, etc.) can be positioned in appropriate locations and compartments within the kiosk 10 as needed to dispense associated receipts, labels, cash, etc. to users and to implement the methods described herein. A CPU and other computer hardware 35 can be positioned within a lower portion of the kiosk 10 and can be operably connected via cables (e.g., extendable cables) and / or wireless connectors to other components within and / or outside the kiosk 10. In some embodiments, the kiosk 10 includes one or more power cables configured to plug into a wall outlet or other facility power source. In some embodiments, one or more energy storage units (e.g., batteries) can be positioned within kiosk 10 to power the components described above. DES 34 can be positioned at or near a lower portion of kiosk 10 above sorting bin slot 36, which is configured to accommodate sorting bins or other storage receptacles for receiving purchased and / or recycled electronic devices.

[0055] In some embodiments, the DES 34 can be positioned at or near the center of the kiosk 10. In other embodiments, the DES 34 can be positioned within another portion of the kiosk 10, for example. FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic front view of the kiosk 10′ in which the DES 34′ can be positioned at or near one of the side walls of the housing 12′ of the kiosk 10′. The remaining hardware 35′ and user interface 32′ can be positioned within the space above, below, and / or to the sides of the DES 34′. In some configurations, positioning the DES 34′ toward one side of the kiosk 10′ can further reduce the overall dimensions of the kiosk 10′ because the user interface 32′ and other hardware components 35′ can be positioned in a compact, localized arrangement. In some embodiments, the kiosk 10′ includes a single display 16′. The single display can include touchscreen capabilities and / or display advertisements / instructions. In some embodiments, kiosk 10' includes two displays 16a', 16b', each similar in function and / or structure to displays 16a, 16b described above.

[0056] FIG. 7A is an enlarged front isometric view of the DES 34, removed from the kiosk 10 to more closely illustrate the components of the DES 34. As shown, the DES 34 can include an upper housing 40 and a lower housing 42. In some embodiments, the upper and lower housings 40, 42 are integrally formed with one another. In other embodiments, the upper and lower housings 40, 42 are separate pieces. In some embodiments, the kiosk includes an access door assembly 44. The access door assembly 44 can be connected to the upper DES housing 40. In some embodiments, the access door assembly 44 includes a lower frame 46 that is mounted to the upper DES housing 40. The access door frame 46 can include an opening 48 configured to provide access to the inspection area 50 of the kiosk 10. As described in more detail below, the access door assembly 44 can include an access door 18 configured to move (e.g., slide) between a closed position and an open position along a direction of movement 53 (as shown in FIG. 7A ). In the closed position, the access door 18 blocks access of the DES 34 to the electronic device inspection area 50. In the open position, the access door 18 is moved away from the inspection area 50, as shown in FIG. 7A, to allow insertion and / or removal of an electronic device 54 into and / or from the inspection area 50.

[0057] FIG. 7B is a front view of the DES 34, and FIG. 7C is a right side view thereof. As illustrated in FIG. 7B, the inspection area 50 can have a width W2 (e.g., as measured parallel to the floor on which the kiosk 10 is disposed) sufficient to receive a mobile phone or other electronic device 54. For example, the width W2 of the inspection area can be at least 4 inches, at least 6 inches, at least 8 inches, and / or at least 12 inches. In some embodiments, the width W2 of the inspection area 50 is 4 to 10 inches, 6 to 12 inches, 8 to 20 inches, and / or 10 to 14 inches. Preferably, the width W2 of the inspection area 50 is approximately 18 inches. As shown in FIG. 7C, the upper housing 40 can have a dome shape, a partial dome shape, or otherwise a spherical shape. The shape of the upper housing 40 can facilitate use of the upper housing 40 as an upper dome for visual inspection of the electronic device 54, as described in more detail below. The upper DES housing 40 can include one or more inwardly directed light assemblies mounted therein or thereon. For example, an upper light assembly 56 can be mounted through a side wall of the upper housing 40, and an upper rear light assembly 58 can be mounted through a rear wall of the upper housing 40 and directed into the upper DES housing 40. In the illustrated embodiment, the light assemblies 56, 58 each include the same number of lights (e.g., three lights). In some embodiments, the side light assembly 56 can include a different number of lights than the rear light assembly 58. For example, due to the shape of most electronic devices being longer than they are wide, the side light assembly 56 may include more lights than the rear light assembly 58 to better illuminate the entire length of the electronic device. In some embodiments, an upper camera 60 ( FIG. 7C ) is mounted on or within an upper portion of the upper DES housing 40 (e.g., at or near the top end of the upper DES housing 40).

[0058] 7D is a rear elevation view of the DES 34. As shown, the lower DES housing 42 may include a chute 62 or other structure through which the electronic device may be configured to descend after inspection of the device and acceptance of the purchase offer by the user, as described in more detail below. In some embodiments, a drive assembly 64 configured to facilitate tilting of the inspection area 50 and other components is mounted on a side of the lower DES housing 42, as described in more detail below. The access door assembly 44 may include a locking mechanism 137 configured to selectively engage with one or more locking interfaces 139 on the access door 18 (e.g., on the backside of the access door 18). For example, the locking interface 139 may be a recess on the backside of the access door configured to receive a movable protrusion or other portion of the locking mechanism 137. Engaging the locking interface 139 with the locking mechanism 137 may inhibit or prevent the access door from moving between the open and closed configurations without selectively disengaging the movable protrusion of the locking mechanism 137 from the locking interface 139.

[0059] 7E, 7F, and 7G are left side, top, and bottom views, respectively, of DES 34. As illustrated in FIG. 7F, access door 18 may include one or more guides 64 configured to engage (e.g., slidably engage) rails 66 on tracks 68. In some embodiments, tracks 68 and / or rails 66 (e.g., round rails) are mounted or otherwise attached to access door frame 46. The engagement between guides 64 and rails 66 can facilitate movement of access door 18 along movement path 53 in two parallel and opposite directions (e.g., parallel to the length of rails 68), while limiting movement of access door 18 in other directions.

[0060] FIG. 8 is a rear isometric view of the DES 34, with the right and rear side walls of the upper DES housing 40 and the lower housing 42 removed for illustrative purposes. The DES 34 can include an access door motor 74 (e.g., a stepper motor) configured to move the access door 18 between an open position ( FIG. 7A ) and a closed position ( FIG. 11A ). For example, the access door motor 74 can be configured to rotate a sprocket 76 having teeth sized and shaped to interface with a toothed track 78 on the underside of the access door 18. Rotation of the sprocket moves the access door 18 between the open and closed positions 76. In some embodiments, the access door motor 74, guide 66, and / or track 70 include a damping mechanism to inhibit or prevent damaging impact between the access door 18 and other components of the kiosk when power is disconnected from the kiosk and the access door 18 moves toward the closed position.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 8 , the DES 34 can include a movable evaluation subassembly (“MES”) 80. The MES 80 can include a drive assembly 64 configured to tilt / rotate one or more components of the DES 34 about a horizontal axis of rotation between two or more positions. The MES 80 can include a base plate 84 operably coupled to the drive assembly 64. The base plate 84 can be hingedly (e.g., rotatably) connected to the lower DES housing 42, the upper DES housing 40, or some other portion of the kiosk 10. Additional components can be mounted to the base plate 84, as described in more detail below. For example, a connector carrier 85 (e.g., a primary connector carrier and / or a rotatable connector carrier) can be rotatably mounted to the base plate 84 and configured to move with the base plate 84. As described in more detail below, the connector carrier 85 can include a plurality of individual electrical connectors circumferentially distributed on a rotatable hub (e.g., a carousel). In some embodiments, a lower dome assembly 87 is mounted to and / or otherwise configured to move with the base plate 84 .

[0062] 9 is an isometric view of MES 80, with upper DES housing 40 and lower housing 42 removed for purposes of illustration. MES 80 may further include a mirror assembly 86 mounted to a base plate 84. For example, mirror assembly 86 may include one or more hinges 88 pivotally coupled to base plate 84 to enable rotation and / or deflection of mirror assembly 86 relative to base plate 84.

[0063] 8 and 9 , the drive assembly 64 may include a tilt motor 90 (e.g., a stepper motor) operably coupled to a first pulley 92. The drive assembly 64 may include a drive belt 94 (e.g., a toothed belt) connected to the first pulley 92 and to a second pulley 96. The first pulley 92 and the second pulley 96 may be mounted to the lower housing 42 of the DES 34 or to some other fixed structure. The tilt motor 90 may be configured to rotate the first pulley 92 and, via the drive belt 94, rotate the second pulley 96. In some embodiments, the tilt assembly may include a meshing gear arrangement between the tilt motor 90 and the base plate 84 to facilitate rotation of the base plate 84. The MES 80 may include a bracket 97 rotationally engaged to the second tilt pulley 96 and configured to rotate about a tilt axis 99. The bracket 97 may be mounted to the base plate 84 such that rotation of the second pulley 96 causes the base plate 84 to rotate.

[0064] Referring to FIG. 9 , the MES 80 can include a test plate 100. The test plate 100 can be, for example, a transparent plate used during testing of a phone or other electronic device 54. The test plate 100 can be constructed from glass, a polymer, or some other suitable material (e.g., a transparent or translucent material). For example, the test plate 100 can be constructed from or coated with an oleophobic material. The use of an oleophobic or other stain-resistant material can improve the performance of the kiosk 10 and reduce the need for frequent inspections to clean the test plate 100. In some embodiments, the test plate 100 and the base plate 84 are formed together as a single transparent material. In some embodiments, the test plate 100 is mounted to the base plate 84. For example, the base plate 84 can have an opening sized and shaped to receive the test plate 100. Preferably, the upper camera 60 has a field of view that includes all or most of the test plate 100.

[0065] 9 , the mirror assembly 86 may generally include a mirror plate 102 that surrounds the inspection area 50 on at least two sides. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 86 includes one or more mirrors mounted to a mirror frame 104 that extends around the inspection area 50 on at least two sides. The mirror frame 104 may be formed as part of or otherwise connected to the mirror plate 102. The mirror plate 102 and / or the mirror frame 104 may be hingedly (e.g., rotatably) connected to the base plate 84 or some other structure of the kiosk 10. In the illustrated embodiment, the mirror assembly 86 includes a first side mirror 106 a positioned on a first side of the inspection area 50 and a second side mirror 106 b on a second side of the inspection area 50 opposite the first side mirror 106 a. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 86 further includes an upper mirror 106c extending at least partially between the first and second side mirrors 106a, 106b. One or more of the mirrors 106a, 106b, 106c can be arranged at an angle relative to the mirror plate 102. The angle of the mirrors 106a-c relative to the mirror plate 102 can be, for example, between 10° and 85°, between 20° and 80°, between 25° and 55°, between 30° and 60°, between 45° and 65°, and / or between 40° and 50°. Angling the mirrors relative to the mirror plate 102 can enable a camera in the inspection area 50 to capture a reflected image of the side of the phone or other electronic device 54 during inspection from a direction perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the inspection plate 102.

[0066] In some embodiments, the underside of the mirror frame 104 may include a shelf member 110 having one or more ridges 112, ribs, or protrusions. These ridges 112 may be configured to provide a gap G between the bottom edge of the electronic device 54 and the shelf member 110. Spacing the bottom edge of the phone or other electronic device 54 away from the shelf member 110 may allow light to be visible through the gap G so that the bottom edge of the electronic device 54 may be observed by a camera or other imaging equipment of the kiosk 10. Visibility of the bottom edge of the electronic device 54 may facilitate easier and / or more accurate assessment of the overall size of the electronic device 54 and easier detection of damage to the bottom edge of the electronic device 54. In some embodiments, the ridges 112 or some other portion of the shelf member 110 include one or more lip or protrusions configured to reduce the likelihood of the electronic device 54 tipping over and away from the test plate 100 as the test plate 100 moves between its various positions (see the discussion of Figures 11A-11C below). The shelf member 110 may also include a connector slot or connector opening through which a connector 114 from a connector carrier 85 may be inserted to connect to a phone. Further details describing the structure and operation of the connector carrier 85 are set forth in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 804,714, entitled "CONNECTOR CARRIER FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE KIOSK," filed February 12, 2019, and Attorney Docket No. 111220-8053.US01, entitled "CONNECTOR CARRIER FOR ELECTRONIC DEVICE KIOSK," filed February 11, 2020, the entire disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0067] FIG. 10A is a cross-sectional side view of the DES 34, showing the DES 34 in an initial or "home" position, in which the MES 80 is arranged at an angle relative to the horizontal. For example, the angle A1 between the base plate 84 and the horizontal can be greater than 0° and less than 90°. In some embodiments, the angle between the base plate 84 and the horizontal is between 40° and 80°, between 55° and 75°, between 10° and 85°, between 45° and 70°, and / or between 30° and 65° when the DES 34 is in the home position. In some embodiments, the angle between the base plate 84 and the horizontal is approximately 60°. Orienting the base plate 84 at an angle less than 90° relative to the horizontal when in the home position can reduce the risk of the phone 54 being inadvertently dropped outside the inspection area 50. Orienting the base plate 84 at an angle greater than 0° relative to the horizontal when in the home position may reduce the required depth of the kiosk 10 to accommodate the access door assembly 44 and / or other components of the kiosk 10, thereby reducing the overall size and / or footprint of the kiosk 10. In some embodiments, as illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 11D , the MES 80 may include one or more locking mechanisms 141 configured to selectively engage a portion of the kiosk 10 (e.g., a portion of the lower housing 42 of the DES 34) and inhibit or prevent inadvertent transition of the MES 80 between tilted positions.

[0068] As illustrated in FIG. 10A , the lower dome assembly 87 can include a lower dome 120 having a curved dome / spherical shape. The lower dome 120 can be mounted to the base plate 84 such that the lower dome assembly 87 moves with the base plate 84 as the MES 80 drives the base plate 84 between various positions. In some embodiments, the lower dome assembly 87 includes one or more cameras and / or lighting assemblies used to inspect phones or other electronic devices. For example, the lower dome assembly 87 can include a lower camera 122 mounted to the lower dome 120. The lower camera 122 can have a field of view that includes all or a majority of the inspection plate 100. In some embodiments, the lower dome assembly 87 includes first and second lighting assemblies 126, 124. Returning to FIG. 9 , the mirror frame 104 can include one or more calibration structures configured to facilitate calibration of the cameras 60, 122 (e.g., after installation, repair, replacement, and / or modification of one of the cameras). For example, the mirror frame 104 may include one or more visual indicators 91 (e.g., dots, protrusions, indentations, etc.) located at known positions on the mirror frame 104 and observable by one or both of the cameras 60, 122. The visual indicators 91 may be used to calibrate the evaluation of images captured by the cameras 60, 122 and / or to scale the images. One or more of the lighting assemblies (e.g., lower rear lighting assembly 124) may be mounted on the underside of the lower dome 120. In some embodiments, another lighting assembly (e.g., lower lighting assembly 126) is positioned on a side of the lower dome 120.

[0069] 10B illustrates an enlarged side view of the MES 80 and other components of the kiosk 10. The upper DES housing 40 may include one or more perimeter edges or lips 128 at the boundary of the inspection area 50. When the MES 80 is in the home position as shown, the perimeter edges 128 of the upper DES housing 40 may overlap the mirror frame 104 such that access to the interiors of the upper and lower DES housings 40, 42 is closed to the outside of the access. Access to the connector carrier 85 is also blocked by the interface between the upper DES housing 40 and the mirror frame 104.

[0070] 11A-11C are left-side cross-sectional views illustrating the DES 34 in the home position, the inspection position, and the sorting position, respectively. More specifically, FIG. 11A illustrates the access door 18 and the MES 80 in their respective default positions (e.g., the positions in which they are located in the absence of user or maintenance staff interaction). In the default position, the access door 18 is closed, thereby blocking access to the inspection area 50 of the DES 34. A user may instruct the kiosk 10 (e.g., via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b and / or via one of the user interface devices 14a-d) to open the access door 18 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10B ) and allow placement of a phone or other electronic device 54 into the inspection area 50. For example, the user may tap or press one or more buttons or icons on the displays 16a-b or on the keypad 14a that are associated with a request to initiate a transaction. A user may specify the make and / or model of their electronic device 54 via one or more of the user interface devices 14a-d ( FIG. 1 ) and / or via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b. The connector carrier 85 may rotate and / or move toward the inspection area 50 to present an associated connector 114 ( FIG. 9 ) to the inspection area 50. After the user deposits the electronic device 54 into the inspection area 50 and connects the connector 114 ( FIG. 9 ) thereto, the user may instruct the kiosk 10 (e.g., via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b and / or via one or more of the user interface devices 14a-d) to value the electronic device 54 for trade-in and / or purchase value. In some embodiments, before closing the access door 18 and / or prior to placing the electronic device 54 in the inspection area 50, the kiosk 10 may use the underside camera 122 to take a photograph of the user through the inspection plate 100 (e.g., for compliance with secondhand goods laws and / or for other security purposes).As illustrated in FIGS. 10B and 11A, the kiosk 10 may include one or more door stops 136 configured to limit the downward movement of the access door 18 and / or define a closed position of the access door 18.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 11B , the MES 80 can rotate from a home position to an evaluation (e.g., sorting, inspection, etc.) position. In some embodiments, the base plate 84 and / or inspection plate 100 are positioned substantially horizontally when in the evaluation position. The kiosk 10 can be configured to evaluate the electronic device 54 when the MES 80 is in the evaluation position. The evaluation of the electronic device 54 can include a visual evaluation (e.g., via the camera 60, 122) and / or an electrical evaluation (e.g., via the connector 114 and / or via a software application or wireless connection) to determine various information about the device that may affect the device's monetary value. Such information can include, for example, the device's make, model, sub-model, device characteristics (e.g., memory size, mobile phone service provider, etc.), device operability, device charging and / or recharging capability, and physical condition (e.g., presence or absence of cracks, display functionality and condition, etc.).

[0072] Electrical evaluation, visual evaluation, screening, detection, and / or other evaluation and analysis of cracks and / or screen covers of electronic devices 54 are disclosed in U.S. Patent Nos. 10,496,963, 10,475,002, 10,445,708, 10,438,174, 10,417,615, 10,401,411, 10,269,110, 10,157,427, 10,127,647, 10,055,798, 10,032,140, 9,911,102, 9,904,911, 9,885,672, 9,881, ,284, 9,818,160, 8,463,646, 8,423,404, 8,239,262, 8,200,533, 8,195,511, and 7,881,965, U.S. Patent Application Serial Nos. 12 / 573,089, 12 / 727,624, 13 / 113,497, 12 / 785,465, 13 / 017,560, 13 / 438,924, 13 / 753,539, 13 / 658,825, 13 / 733,984, 13 / 705,252, 13 / 487,299, 13 / 492 ,835, No. 13 / 562,292, No. 13 / 658,828, No. 13 / 693,032, No. 13 / 792,030, No. 13 / No. 794,814, No. 13 / 794,816, No. 13 / 862,395, No. 13 / 913,408, No. 14 / 498,763, No. No. 14 / 500,739, No. 14 / 873,158, No. 14 / 506,449, No. 14 / 925,357, No. 14 / 925,375 No. 14 / 934,134, No. 14 / 964,963, No. 14 / 568,051, No. 14 / 966,346, No. 14 / 598,4 No. 69, No. 14 / 660,768, No. 14 / 663,331, No. 15 / 057,707, No. 15 / 091,487, No. 15 / 21 No. 4,791, No. 15 / 630,460, No. 15 / 641,145, No. 15 / 672,157, No. 15 / 855,320, No. 15 / 901,526, No. 15 / 977,729, No. 16 / 195,785, No. 16 / 357,041, No. 16 / 534,741, No. 16 / 556,018, No. 16 / 556,104, No. 16 / 575,003, No. 16 / 575,090, and No. 16 / 601,No. 492, and No. 16 / 719,699, entitled "METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR VISUALLY EVALUATING ELECTRONIC DEVICES," filed by the applicant on June 1, 2015; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 169,072, entitled "METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR INSPECTING MOBILE DEVICES AND OTHER CONSUMER ELECTRONIC DEVICES WITH ROBOTIC ACTUATION," filed by the applicant on August 7, 2015; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 202,330, entitled "METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR DETECTING DAMAGE IN EDGE REGIONS OF MOBILE ELECTRONIC DEVICES," filed by the applicant on May 6, 2016; and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 332,736, entitled "CONNECTOR CARRIER FOR U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 804,714, entitled "KIOSK FOR EVALUATING AND PURCHASING USED ELECTRONIC DEVICES," filed by the applicant on February 12, 2019; U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 807,153, entitled "NEURAL NETWORK BASED PHYSICAL CONDITION EVALUATION OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED, NETWORK- ... No. 62 / 807,165, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VENDING AND / OR PURCHASING MOBILE PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES," filed by the applicant on February 18, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 950,075, entitled "SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR VENDING AND / OR PURCHASING MOBILE PHONES AND OTHER ELECTRONIC DEVICES," filed by the applicant on December 18, 2019. All patents and patent applications listed in the preceding sentence, and any other patents or patent applications identified herein, are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

[0073] In some embodiments, evaluation (e.g., electrical and / or visual inspection) of the electronic device 54 includes obtaining characteristic information about the electronic device 54, which may include device identification, make, model, and / or configuration. In other embodiments, the characteristic information may further include device functionality, including hardware / software configuration, charging capabilities, memory capacity, etc. Information necessary to identify and / or evaluate a mobile device may include, for example, a unique identifier (e.g., an IMEI number or MEID or equivalent for a mobile phone, a hardware Media Access Control address (MAC address) for a network-connectable device, or a model number and serial number for an electronic device), information describing the device manufacturer (e.g., manufacturer name or ID code), model, characteristics, and capabilities (e.g., CPU type and speed, memory capacity (SRAM, DRAM, disk, etc.), radio carrier, radio band (frequency range and coding, CDMA, GSM, LTE, etc.), and / or color, condition, etc.). In some embodiments, the electrical analysis may include evaluating the condition and / or functionality of the charging circuit of the electronic device. In particular, the test electronics may measure the amount of current the charging circuit draws on the electrical wires, and the test electronics may use the corresponding current measurement signal to determine whether the charging circuit is functional or damaged. In some embodiments, the kiosk portion 10 may perform the electrical analysis using one or more of the methods and / or systems described in detail in the commonly owned patents and patent applications identified herein and incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0074] In some embodiments, the inner surface (or at least a majority thereof) of one or both of the upper dome 40 and the lower dome 120 is gray in color. Using gray upper and / or lower domes 40, 120 can improve the clarity of the shadow of the electronic device 54 cast on the upper and lower domes 40, 120. For example, the gray color of the domes 40, 120 can absorb some of the light cast by the light assembly, thereby reducing glare and increasing the clarity / sharpness of the shadow. In some embodiments, one or both of the upper and lower domes 40, 120 can include dark (e.g., black, dark gray, or some other dark color) portions or bands. For example, one or both of the domes can include black bands on their respective inner surfaces. The black or dark portions or bands 132 can absorb light and reduce glare within the domes 40, 120. Additionally or alternatively, in some embodiments, the upper and / or lower domes 40, 120 include one or more apertures therethrough to allow light to escape, thereby reducing glare within the inspection area 50 and on the interior surfaces of the domes 40, 120. The darkened areas and / or apertures can reduce unwanted reflections of light from the phone or electronic device 54 (e.g., reflections from curved / beveled angles and / or edges), allowing for increased accuracy and reliability of the evaluation / sorting process.

[0075] After the kiosk 10 evaluates the electronic device 54 as described above, the user is presented with a purchase offer, for example, via one of the displays 16a-b. The purchase price can be offered / paid in the form of, for example, cash, a voucher redeemable for cash, goods, services, etc., electronic value (e.g., Bitcoin, electronic certificates, credit to an electronic payment account, etc.), credit (e.g., prepaid credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, etc.), coupons, points, loyalty points, and / or other forms of value. If the user rejects the offer (e.g., via the touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b and / or via one of the user interface devices 14a-d), the MES 80 returns to its home position ( FIG. 11A ), the access door 18 opens, and the connector 114, if still connected to the electronic device 54, disconnects from the electronic device 54. In some transactions, the electronic device 54 may be displaced on the inspection plate 100 from its original home position. For example, the electronic device 54 may tilt in a direction parallel to the plane of the test plate 100. In some such situations, the electronic device 54 may become pinched, for example, between the access door frame 46 and the test plate 100. The kiosk 10 can be configured to detect such a pinch and retract the MES 80 a short distance toward the evaluation position. The MES 80 may be locked in this intermediate position while the access door 18 opens, allowing a user to retrieve the electronic device 54. Use of this intermediate position (e.g., a locked intermediate position) between the evaluation position and the home position can reduce the possibility of damage to the electronic device 54 and / or the kiosk 10 during operation.

[0076] If the user accepts the offer from the kiosk 10 and inputs that decision into the kiosk 10 (e.g., via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b and / or via one of the user interface devices 14a-d), the MES 80 rotates further downward about the pivot axis 99, as illustrated in FIG. 11C . In some embodiments, the offer price (e.g., cash, a voucher, or some other type of reward) is dispensed to the user after acceptance (e.g., via the payment dispenser 14c and / or electronically into the user's account). In some embodiments, the DES 34 includes a mirror stop 136 configured to engage the mirror frame 104 and prevent it from tilting downward beyond a predetermined position (e.g., beyond the sorting position). For example, the mirror stop 136 can contact a portion of the mirror frame 104 and / or the mirror plate 102 to prevent movement of the mirror assembly 86 downward beyond the mirror stop 136. 11D, base plate 84 may include one or more notches 140 configured to allow base plate 84 to move past one or more mirror stops 136 as MES 80 rotates between the picking and sorting positions. As shown in FIG. 11C, mirror frame 104 may tilt upward relative to hinge 88 (e.g., due to interference by mirror stops 136) while the remainder of MES 80 tilts downward. Decoupling mirror frame 104 from test plate 100 in this manner allows electronic devices 54 to slide off test plate 100 in a direction 142 toward chute 62 without hitting or otherwise contacting mirror frame 104.

[0077] FIG. 12A is an enlarged elevation view of the chute 62 and associated components. The chute 62 can include a movable flap or panel 144. The panel 144 can be configured to rotate about a hinge 146. When a phone or other electronic device 54 contacts the panel 144, the panel 144 can rotate about the hinge 146, damping the momentum of the electronic device 54 and reducing the risk of damage to the electronic device 54 during the sorting process. A counterweight 150 can be connected to the panel 144 on the side of the hinge 146 opposite the panel 144. The counterweight 150 can be heavy enough to bias the panel 144 to the closed position illustrated in FIG. 12A, but light enough to allow the phone or electronic device 54 to deflect the panel 144 as the electronic device 54 passes through the chute 62. After sliding along the panel 144, the device 54 contacts a lower plate 148 configured to direct the electronic device 54 into a waiting sorting bin 170. In some embodiments, the chute 62 includes a sensor 152 (e.g., a Hall Effect sensor or other sensor) configured to detect when the panel 144 is in the deflected position. If the sensor 152 detects that the panel 144 remains in the deflected position for longer than a predetermined period of time (e.g., less than 2 seconds, less than 5 seconds, less than 10 seconds, and / or less than 30 seconds), the kiosk 10 can be configured to stop operation and / or alert service personnel that the chute 62 is malfunctioning. Such malfunctions can include full or overly full sorting bins, electronic devices stuck in the chute 62, and / or other malfunctions.

[0078] 12B , sort bin 170 includes protrusions 172 (e.g., conical, pyramidal, cylindrical, and / or some other shape) extending from the bottom surface of the sort bin. The protrusions 172 can be sized and shaped so that electronic devices contact the protrusions 172 before settling into the bottom of the sort bin 170. The protrusions 172 can act as diverters, randomizing the distribution of electronic devices within the sort bin 170 and reducing the likelihood of overfilling only a portion of the sort bin 170 while other portions of the sort bin are unfilled. In some embodiments, the protrusions 172 provide a softer landing for the devices 54 than the bottom of the sort bin 170 (e.g., the protrusions 172 break the drop of the electronic devices 54 between the tilt plate and the bottom of the sort bin 170). In some embodiments, one or more of the kiosk's cameras can be configured to monitor the transition of the electronic devices 54 through the chute 62 and verify their exit from the DES 34. In some embodiments, the sorting bins 170 can be pre-labeled, addressed, and / or otherwise ready for shipment once the sorting bins 170 are sealed. In some embodiments, the kiosk 10 is configured to determine the amount of filler and / or air pouches recommended for inclusion within the sorting bins 170 to reduce the likelihood of damage to the electronic devices during transport. Such a determination can be made based on, for example, an automated volume estimation based on the number and type of electronic devices purchased by the kiosk 10 and introduced into the sorting bins 170. The sorting bins 170 can have a size and shape to encourage and / or ensure that the electronic devices are oriented in an orderly (e.g., co-aligned and / or stacked) configuration within the sorting bins 170 to reduce wasted space within the sorting bins 170. In some embodiments, maintenance of the kiosks and / or collection of sorting bins 170 is crowdsourced.In some embodiments, independent vendors are notified of the type and quantity of electronic devices to be collected in the sorting bins 170 and are given the opportunity to bid on or purchase the sorting bins 170 and collect the sorting bins 170 directly from the kiosk 10.

[0079] As one skilled in the art will appreciate, the foregoing routines are merely some examples of ways in which kiosk 10 may be used to recycle or otherwise process consumer electronic devices, such as mobile phones. While the foregoing examples are described in the context of mobile phones, it should be understood that kiosk 10 and its various embodiments may also be used in a similar manner to recycle virtually any consumer electronic device, such as MP3 players, tablet computers, PDAs, and other portable devices, as well as other relatively non-portable electronic devices, such as desktop computers, printers, devices for playing games, entertainment, or other digital media on CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, etc. Furthermore, while the foregoing examples are described in the context of use by consumers, kiosk 10 in its various embodiments may likewise be used by others, such as store clerks, to assist consumers in recycling, selling, exchanging, etc., their electronic devices.

[0080] 13 illustrates the DES 34 in a repair or maintenance position. In the repair position, the access door 18 is in an open position and the MES 80 is in a sorting (e.g., horizontal) position. In such a configuration, repair personnel have access to the mirror assembly 86, the lower dome assembly 87, the connector carrier 85, and / or other components inside the DES 34 through the access opening 150 in the upper dome 40.

[0081] 14A is a front isometric view of a kiosk 1010 configured in accordance with another embodiment of the present technology for purchasing electronic devices (e.g., cell phones, tablets, etc.) from a user. Certain features of the kiosk 1010 (of the DES 1034 described below) are similar in structure and / or function to features of the kiosk 10 described above. Such features of the kiosk 1010 are identified by the same reference numbers used with respect to the kiosk 10, but with the addition of 1000. For example, the kiosk 1010 includes first and second displays 1016a-b that are similar to or identical to the first and second displays 16a-b described above with respect to the kiosk 10. The kiosk 1010 may include a housing 1012 with a height H2, depth D2, and width W3 that are similar to or identical to the height H, depth D, and width W of the kiosk 10, respectively.

[0082] FIG. 14B is a front view of kiosk 1010 illustrating an arrangement of user interface devices 1014a-d that differs from the arrangement of user interface devices 14a-d of kiosk 10. For example, ID card reader 1014b and payment dispenser 1014c are positioned to one side of electronic device inspection area 1050. Keypad 1014a and / or receipt dispenser 1014d can also be positioned to the side and / or below inspection area 1050. In some embodiments, one or more of user interface devices 1014a-d are positioned above inspection area 1050. Inspection area 1050 is positioned closer to the side of kiosk 1010 (i.e., farther from the center of kiosk 1010) than area 50 of kiosk 10. Inspection area 1050 can have a width W4 that is greater than width W2 of inspection area 50 described above. As discussed below, the width W4 of the inspection area 1050 may be due at least in part to the presence of one or more connectors in addition to the connector carrier 85.

[0083] 15A and 15B are enlarged front isometric and front views, respectively, of the DES 1034, removed from the kiosk 1010 to more closely illustrate the components of the DES 1034. The DES 1034 includes an access door 1018 configured to slide along a track 1068 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the door 18 and track 68 of the DES 34. Movement of the access door 1018 along the track 1068 can prohibit and allow access to the inspection area 1050. The track 1068 can be mounted to the upper DES housing 1040. In some embodiments, the track 1068 is mounted to the access door frame 1046.

[0084] In use, a cell phone or other electronic device 1054 can be placed in or removed from the testing area 1050 when the access door 1018 is in the raised position (i.e., the position illustrated in FIGS. 15A-15B ). The DES 1034 can include a test plate 1100 that is similar to or identical to the test plate 100 described above. The test plate 100 can be connected to other mechanisms on the DES 1034 that are configured to tilt or otherwise move the test plate 1100 in a manner similar to or identical to the movement and tilting of the test plate 100 described above. For the sake of brevity, features of the DES 34 that are functionally and / or structurally equivalent to features of the DES 34 described above will not be described again.

[0085] 16A is an isometric view of the inspection area 1050 of the DES 1034. The kiosk 1010 may include one or more secondary connectors 1115a-b in addition to the connector 114 (i.e., collectively, the connectors 114 of the primary connector carrier 85). For example, the kiosk 1010 may include a first secondary connector 1115a positioned on one side of the connector 114 and a second secondary connector 1115b positioned on the opposite side of the connector 114. The first and second secondary connectors 1115a-b (and connector 114) may be selected such that all, or at least a majority, of commercially available mobile phones and other mobile electronic devices can be connected to the primary connector carrier 85 and / or to the first and second secondary connectors 1115a-b. For example, in some embodiments, the connectors 114, 1115a-b may include a mini-USB, a micro-USB, a USB-C, and / or a Lightning connector. Positioning the first and second secondary connectors 1115a-b on opposite sides of the primary connector carrier 85 can allow the primary connector carrier 85 and its several different connectors 114 to be used for non-foldable phones and other electronic devices, while the secondary connectors 1115a-b are used to connect flip phones and other electronic devices with offset connection ports. In some embodiments, the first secondary connector 1115a and the second secondary connector 1115b are both the same type of connector (e.g., mini-USB, micro-USB, USB-C, Lightning, etc.), and in other embodiments, the first and second secondary connectors 1115a-b are different from each other.

[0086] As described above, the secondary connectors 1115a-b can be positioned to accommodate flip phones or other electronic devices having data and / or electrical connectors in non-center locations. In some embodiments, the secondary connectors 1115a-b are configured to accommodate electronic devices having non-standard connector types. The secondary connectors 1115a-b can be configured to remain retracted with the kiosk 1010 until a user specifies that they want the kiosk 1010 to evaluate a flip phone. The kiosk 1010 can be configured to extend one or both of the secondary connectors 1115a-b when a user indicates (e.g., via the touchscreen of the displays 1016a-b) that the electronic device to be evaluated is a device with an offset electrical connector (e.g., a flip phone).

[0087] 16B is an isometric view of the testing area 1050 of the DES 1034, with the shelf 1110 and upper DES housing 1040 removed for clarity. The secondary connectors 1115a-b are connected to secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b. The secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b may be separate from the primary connector carrier 85. In some embodiments, the secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b are electrically connected to the primary connector carrier 85 (e.g., via connection to one or more sockets in the primary connector carrier 85). The secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b can be mounted to the base plate 1084, or to some other structure of the kiosk 1010, as discussed in detail with respect to FIG. 20.

[0088] FIG. 17 is a front view of the primary connector carrier 85 and secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b as viewed parallel to the axis of rotation of the connector carrier 85. The first secondary connector assembly 1089a is illustrated in a lowered or retracted position, while the second secondary connector assembly 1089b is illustrated in a raised or extended position. The retraction and extension of the secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b can be controlled in response to user input (e.g., via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 1016a-b and / or via one of the user interface devices 1014a-d) identifying the foldable phone to be evaluated. The secondary connectors 1115a-b may be necessary for foldable phones because the data / charging ports on many foldable phones are located at or near the center of one segment of the phone (e.g., over one-half or one-third of the foldable phone). Such port positioning places the port off-center of the foldable phone when the foldable phone is unfolded. In some embodiments, the retraction and extension of the secondary connector assemblies 1089a-b is controlled in response to visual inspection and identification of a flip phone in the kiosk (e.g., via one or more of the cameras in the kiosk). For example, visual inspection of the electronic device may reveal a connection port in an offset position, a folding feature, and / or other indicators that the electronic device is a flip phone.

[0089] 18A-18B are isometric views of secondary connector assembly 1089a, while FIGS. 19A-19b are exploded views thereof. As shown, secondary connector assembly 1089a includes connector 1115a, connector holder 1360, electrical cable 1362, and base connector 1366 (e.g., a universal cable connector such as a USB connector). A first end portion of electrical cable 1362 is electrically connected to connector 1115a, and a second portion is electrically connected to base connector 1366. To hold (e.g., securely hold) phone connector 1115a in its proper position relative to shelf member 1110, connector 1115a is received within corresponding connector holder 1360, which is in turn held within corresponding retaining bracket 1364. The connector holder 1360 may include asymmetrical protrusions on either side and / or other dimensional features to ensure that the holder 1360 is positioned in the correct orientation (e.g., with the tip of the connector 1115a facing upward) within the corresponding retention bracket 1364. The base connector 1366 is operably received within a corresponding connector socket in the kiosk 1010.

[0090] The secondary connector assembly 1089a can have a drive assembly including a motor 1400 (e.g., an electric motor), a motor frame 1402, a cam drive 1404, and a driven bracket 1408. The motor 1400 can be mounted within the kiosk 1010 via the motor frame 1402. For example, the motor frame 1402 can be fastened or otherwise connected to the base plate 1084 or some other component of the kiosk 1010. The motor 1400 can be configured to drive the rotation of the cam drive 1404. The cam drive 1404 can, in turn, be configured to drive the movement of the driven bracket 1408 up and down. For example, the cam drive 1404 can include a cam coupling 1410 ( FIG. 19A ) configured to receive a drive shaft 1412 of the motor 1400. The cam drive 1404 can be configured to translate rotation of the drive shaft 1412 (FIG. 19B) into linear motion of the driven bracket 1408. More specifically, the cam drive 1404 can include a cam tab 1416 (FIG. 19B) configured to engage with a cam receiver 1418 (FIG. 19A) on the driven bracket 1408. The cam receiver 1418 can be, for example, a slot configured to receive the cam tab 1416.

[0091] The driven bracket 1408 can be coupled either directly or indirectly to the retaining bracket 1364. Preferably, the retaining bracket 1364 and the driven bracket 1408 are rotationally and translationally affixed to one another when assembled. For example, one or more fasteners, adhesives, or other coupling methods and structures can be used to couple the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1364. One or both of the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1364 can include alignment features configured to maintain a desired alignment between the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1364. Maintaining alignment between the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1364 can reduce the likelihood of movement of the driven bracket 1408 in a direction other than the desired extension and retraction directions. The alignment features can include one or more protrusions or indentations on one or both of the retaining bracket 1364 and the driven bracket 1408. For example, the retaining bracket 1364 can include one, two, or more protrusions 1420 (FIG. 19A) configured to engage one, two, or more recesses 1422 (FIG. 19B) in the driven bracket 1408.

[0092] 18A , the connector holder 1360 can be coupled to the retaining bracket 1364 via one or more retaining features 1424. The retaining feature 1424 can be, for example, a clip or other structure configured to releasably engage with one or both of the connector holder 1360 and the retaining bracket 1564. The retaining feature 1424 can include a retaining tab 1430 configured to engage with a retaining slot 1432 in the connector holder 1360. The retaining feature 1424 can include a release mechanism 1434 configured to allow a user to quickly and easily release the retaining feature 1424 from the connector holder 1360. For example, the release mechanism 1434 can be a flange or other protrusion configured to be pulled or otherwise manipulated to release the retaining tab 1430 from the retaining slot 1432.

[0093] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the secondary connector assembly 1089a taken along section plane 20-20 of FIG. 17. As discussed above, the secondary connector assembly 1089a can be mounted to the base plate 1084. More specifically, the retaining bracket 1364 and the driven bracket 1408 can crimp onto or otherwise capture a portion of the base plate 1084. The connection between the retaining bracket 1364 and the driven bracket 1408 can be loose enough to allow translational movement of the connector assembly 1089a relative to the base plate 1084, yet tight enough to reduce the risk of vibration between the connector assembly 1089a and the base plate 1084. For example, one or both of the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1064 can include a spacing portion 1430 (e.g., a protrusion or other structure extending between the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1064) that spaces the driven bracket 1408 from the retaining bracket 1064. The spacing can form one or more channels 1433 or tracks in which the retained portion 1435 of the base plate 1084 can be captured. The spacing portion 1430 can inhibit or prevent over-tightening of the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1064 onto the retained portion 1435 of the base plate 1084. In some embodiments, one or more fasteners 1436 extend at least partially through the spacing portion 1430 and connect the driven bracket 1408 and the retaining bracket 1064. The channel 1433 and the retained portion 1435 can be configured to allow linear movement of the secondary connector assembly 1089a in the retract and extend directions while preventing translation or rotation of the secondary connector assembly 1089a in other directions. While Figures 18A-20 illustrate and describe the components and features of the first secondary connector assembly 1089a, it should be noted that the second secondary connector assembly 1089b may be the same or substantially the same in both structure and function as the first secondary connector assembly 1089a.

[0094] FIG. 21 provides a schematic representation of the architecture of a kiosk 10, 1010 configured in accordance with an embodiment of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, the kiosk 10, 1010 includes a suitable processor or central processing unit (CPU) 2100 that controls operation of the kiosk 10, 1010 in accordance with computer-readable instructions stored on a system memory 2106. The CPU 2100 may be any logical processing unit, such as one or more CPUs, digital signal processors (DSPs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), etc. The CPU 2100 may be a single processing unit or multiple processing units within a device, or may be distributed across multiple devices. The CPU 2100 is connected to the memory 2106 and may be coupled to other hardware devices, for example, through the use of a bus (e.g., PCI Express or Serial ATA bus). The CPU 2100 may, by way of example, be a standard personal computer (PC) (e.g., a DELL OPTIPLEX 7010 The CPU 2100 may include a standard embedded computer (e.g., a personal computer) or other type of embedded computer running any suitable operating system, such as Windows, Linux, Android, iOS, or an embedded real-time operating system. In some embodiments, the CPU 2100 may be a small form factor PC with an integrated hard disk drive (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD) and a universal serial bus (USB) or other port for communicating with other components of the kiosk 10, 1010. In other embodiments, the CPU 2100 may include a microprocessor with a stand-alone motherboard that interfaces with a separate HDD. The memory 2106 may include read-only memory (ROM) and random access memory (RAM), or other storage devices, such as disk drives or SSDs, that store executable applications, test software, databases, and other software required, for example, to control the kiosk components, process electronic device information and data (e.g., to evaluate device make, model, condition, price, etc.), communicate and exchange data and information with remote computers and other devices, and the like.

[0095] The CPU 2100 can provide information and instructions to the kiosk user via the display screen 16, 1016 and / or the audio system (e.g., speaker) 2104. The CPU 2100 can also receive user input, for example, via a touchscreen 2108 associated with the display screen 16, 1016, a keypad with physical keys, and / or a microphone 2110. Additionally, the CPU 2100 can receive personal identification and / or biometric information associated with the user via the ID reader 14b, 1014b, one or more external cameras 2116, and / or a fingerprint reader 2114. In some embodiments, the CPU 2100 can also receive information (such as user identification and / or account information) via a card reader 2112 (e.g., a debit, credit, or loyalty card reader having a suitable magnetic stripe reader, optical reader, etc.). The CPU 2100 may also control the operation of the label dispenser 110 and systems for providing rewards to users, such as the payment dispenser 14c, 1014c, and / or the receipt or voucher printer 32a-b and associated dispenser 14d, 1014d.

[0096] As noted above, the kiosk 10, 1010 additionally includes several electronic, optical, and electromechanical devices for electrically, visually, and / or physically analyzing electronic devices installed therein for recycling. Such systems may include, for example, one or more internal cameras 60, 122 for visually inspecting the electronic device to determine its external dimensions and condition, and one or more electrical connectors 114, 1115 (e.g., USB connectors) for, for example, powering the electronic device and performing the electronic analysis. As noted above, the cameras 60, 122 may be operably coupled to the upper and lower chambers 40, 1040, and 120, and one or more of the connectors 114, 1115 may be movably and interchangeably carried by the connector assemblies 85, 1089. The kiosk 10, 1010 further includes several mechanical components that are electronically operated to perform various functions of the kiosk 10, 1010 during operation. The mechanical components 2118 may include, for example, the inspection area access door 18, 1018 and one or more of the movable components operatively associated with the inspection area 50, 1050 (e.g., the inspection plate 100, 1100, the upper and lower chambers 40, 1040, and 120, etc.). The kiosk 10, 1010 further includes power 2102, which may include battery power and / or facility power for operation of various electrical components associated with kiosk operation.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the kiosk 10, 1010 further includes a network connection 2122 (e.g., a wired connection such as an Ethernet port, a cable modem, a FireWire cable, a Lightning connector, a USB port, etc.) suitable for communication with any type of remote processing device via a communication link 2150, and a wireless transceiver 2124 (e.g., including a Wi-Fi access point, a Bluetooth transceiver, a near field communication (NFC) device, and / or a wireless modem or cellular radio utilizing GSM, CDMA, 3G, 4G, and / or 5G technology, each of which may include one or more associated antennas) for data communication suitable for communication with any type of remote processing device via the communication link 2150 and / or directly via, e.g., a wireless peer-to-peer connection. For example, the wireless transceiver 2124 can facilitate wireless communication with handheld devices such as mobile devices 54, 1054, 2130 (e.g., smartphones) that are either proximate to or remote from the kiosk 10, 1010. By way of example only, in the illustrated embodiment, the mobile device 54, 1054, 2130 may include one or more features, applications, and / or other elements commonly found in smartphones and other known mobile devices. For example, the mobile device 54, 1054, 2130 may include a CPU and / or a graphics processing unit (GPU) 2134 for executing computer-readable instructions stored on a memory 2136. In addition, the mobile device 54, 1054 may include an internal power source or battery 2132, a dock connector 2146, a USB port or other connection port 2148, a camera 2140, and / or known input devices including, for example, a touchscreen 2142, a keypad, etc. In many embodiments, the mobile device 54, 1054 may also include a speaker 2144 for two-way communication and audio playback.In addition to the features described above, the mobile device 54, 1054 may include a mobile operating system (OS) 2131 and / or a device wireless transceiver, which may include one or more antennas 2138 for communicating wirelessly with, for example, other mobile devices, websites, and kiosks 10, 1010. Such communication may be performed, for example, via a communications link 2150 (which may include the Internet, a public or private intranet, a local or extended Wi-Fi network, a cellular base station, a plain old telephone system (POTS), etc.), direct wireless communication, etc.

[0098] Unless otherwise described, the structure and operation of the various components shown in FIG. 21 are of conventional design. As a result, such components need not be described in further detail herein, as they will be readily understood by those skilled in the art. In other embodiments, the kiosk 10, 1010 and / or the mobile device 54, 1054 may include other features that may differ from those described above. In still further embodiments, the kiosk 10, 1010 and / or the mobile device 54, 1054 may include more or fewer features similar to those described above.

[0099] 22A and 22B are flow diagrams of a routine 2200 for operating a kiosk 10, 1010 in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. In some embodiments, all or a portion of the routine 2200 can be implemented by the processor 2100 described above with reference to FIG. 21 in accordance with computer-readable instructions stored on the memory 2106. Referring initially to FIG. 22A, the routine begins when a user approaches the kiosk 10, 1010. The routine 2200 then proceeds to block 2202, where the user initiates a transaction with the kiosk 10, 1010. For example, a user may approach the kiosk 10, 1010 and indicate (e.g., via interaction with the display 16, 1016) that the user wishes to sell an electronic device (e.g., a mobile phone) that the user currently owns.

[0100] After the transaction is initiated, the routine 2200 proceeds to block 2204, where the user may identify the type of electronic device they wish to have evaluated (e.g., via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b, 1016a-b and / or via one of the user interface devices 14a-d, 1014a-d). At decision block 2206, the routine 2200 determines whether the electronic device is wirelessly connected to the kiosk 10, 1010. For example, verifying the wireless connection may include receiving user input to the kiosk via the electronic device, wirelessly transmitting a verification code from the kiosk to the electronic device for user input on one of the displays 16a-b, 1016a-b or user input 14a-b, 1014a-b, and / or some other verification method known in the art. If applicable, the routine proceeds to block 2210, where an access door of the kiosk is opened to provide access to the inspection area of the kiosk. If a wireless connection does not exist between the electronic device and the kiosk 10, 1010, the routine proceeds to block 2208, where an appropriate electrical connector (e.g., a connector configured to connect to a docking port, a data port, a charging port, and / or some other port on the electronic device) is presented. Determining the appropriate electrical connector can be accomplished by receiving user input (e.g., via a touchscreen portion of one of the displays 16a-b, 1016a-d and / or via one of the user interface devices 14a-d, 1014a-d) identifying the make / model of the electronic device. In some embodiments, the user may be prompted (e.g., via one of the displays 16a-b, 1016a-d) to select an appropriate type of electrical connector for the electronic device. In some embodiments, the electrical connector is presented after the access door is opened. In some embodiments, even in the presence of a wireless connection between the electronic device and the kiosk 10, 1010, the kiosk presents a wired electrical connector to the user.The presentation of the connectors may include, for example, rotation of the primary connector carrier 85 and / or extension of one of the secondary connectors 1115.

[0101] In some embodiments, after the access door is opened, the user will be instructed (e.g., via one of the displays 16a-b, 1016a-b) to connect the electronic device to the kiosk if such a connection has not already been established. Once the electronic device is connected to the kiosk, the routine 2200 can proceed to block 2214, where the access door is closed. The access door is also locked to prevent the user or other individuals from accessing the electronic device during the inspection and from accessing the interior of the kiosk 10, 1010.

[0102] As shown in FIG. 22B, the routine 2200 may proceed to block 2216, where the kiosk's evaluation assembly is rotated from the home position (FIG. 11A) to the evaluation position (FIG. 11B). In some embodiments, the electrical connector is disconnected from the electronic device before or when the evaluation assembly is in the evaluation position. The routine 2000 may proceed to block 2221, where the evaluation assembly is in the evaluation position. In block 2220, the electronic device is evaluated. Evaluation of the device may include evaluating the device's physical condition (e.g., detecting damage or other wear), verifying the device type (e.g., make and model), and / or evaluating the device's functional status (e.g., battery charge, wireless capabilities, screen functionality, etc.). These evaluations may be accomplished via visual and / or electrical inspection of the device within the kiosk 10, 1010. In some embodiments, the visual inspection is performed by remote personnel who view the electronic device via one or more cameras on the kiosk. In some embodiments, the visual inspection is performed, at least in part, via a neural network applying machine learning, as described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 807,165, entitled "NEURAL NETWORK BASED PHYSICAL CONDITION EVALUATION OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED SYSTEMS AND METHODS," filed February 18, 2019 (Attorney Docket No. 111220-8054.US00), the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference and made a part of this disclosure. The device evaluation can also include determining a purchase offer for the electronic device. In some cases, the purchase offer is a cash offer or equivalent. In other cases, the purchase offer may relate to a trade-in credit, a retail credit, or some other non-cash compensation. Depending on the condition of the device, the offer may relate solely to recycling without monetary compensation.

[0103] After evaluating and assessing the electronic device, the routine 2200 may proceed to block 2222, where a suggestion is presented to the user. The routine then proceeds to decision block 2224, where the user either accepts the suggestion or rejects the suggestion. If the user rejects the suggestion, the routine 2200 proceeds to block 2226, where the evaluation assembly is returned to the home position. At block 2228, the access door is opened. Finally, at block 2230, the electronic device is returned to the user through the access door.

[0104] However, if the user accepts the suggestion, the routine proceeds to block 2234 and disconnects the electrical connector from the electronic device (if such disconnection has not already occurred). The routine 2200 then proceeds to block 2236, where the evaluation assembly is further rotated to the sorting position (FIG. 11C). At the sorting position, the test plate and / or other components of the evaluation assembly are oriented to move the electronic device from the evaluation assembly to a sorting bin (block 2238) or other receptacle. The sorting bin can be positioned within or adjacent to the kiosk 10, 1010. Preferably, the sorting bin is secured via one or more locks or other mechanisms configured to block or prevent access to the electronic device within the sorting bin by unauthorized individuals. The access door of the kiosk 10, 1010 can remain closed and locked during one or more of blocks 2234-2240.

[0105] In some embodiments, the routine includes block 2240, in which the reward determined in block 2222 is provided to the user. The reward can be dispensed by a kiosk payment dispenser 14c, 1014c, directly deposited into the user's account, or otherwise provided to the user. In some embodiments, the reward is delayed until receipt and inspection of the electronic device at a remote evaluation facility.

[0106] 23 is a schematic diagram of a suitable network environment for implementing various aspects of an electronic device recycling system 2300 configured in accordance with embodiments of the present technology. In the illustrated embodiment, multiple kiosks 10, 1010 (individually identified as kiosks 100a, 1010a-10n, 1010n) can exchange information with one or more remote computers (e.g., one or more server computers 2304) via communication links 2150. The communication links 2150 can include a publicly available network (e.g., the Internet with a web interface), although private communication links such as an intranet or other network can also be used. Additionally, in various embodiments, individual kiosks 10, 1010 can be connected to a host computer (not shown) that facilitates the exchange of information between the kiosks 10, 1010 and remote computers, other kiosks, mobile devices, etc.

[0107] The server computer 2304 can perform many or all of the functions for receiving, routing, and storing electronic messages, such as web pages, audio signals, and electronic images, necessary to implement the various electronic transactions described herein. For example, the server computer 2304 can retrieve and exchange web pages and other content with one or more associated databases 2306. In some embodiments, the databases 2306 can include information related to mobile phones and / or other consumer electronic devices. Such information can include, for example, make, model, serial number, International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number, mobile carrier plan information, pricing information, owner information, etc. In various embodiments, the server computer 2304 can also include a server engine 2308, a web page management component 2310, a content management component 2312, and a database management component 2314. The server engine 2308 can perform basic processing and operating system-level tasks associated with the various technologies described herein. The web page management component 2310 can handle the creation and / or display and / or routing of web or other display pages. The content management component 2312 can handle many of the functions associated with the routines described herein. The database management component 2314 can perform various storage, retrieval, and query tasks associated with the database 2306, which can store various information and data such as animations, graphics, visual and audio signals, etc.

[0108] In the illustrated embodiment, the kiosk 10, 1010 may also be operably connected to a plurality of other remote devices and systems via the communications link 2150. For example, the kiosk 10, 1010 may be operably connected to a plurality of user devices 2318 (e.g., personal computers, laptops, handheld devices, etc.) having associated browsers 2320. Similarly, as described above, the kiosks 10, 1010 may each include wireless communication facilities for exchanging digital information with wireless-enabled electronic devices, such as the electronic device 730. The kiosk 10, 1010 and / or the server computer 2304 may also be operably connected to a series of remote computers for obtaining data and / or exchanging information with necessary service providers, financial institutions, device manufacturers, government agencies, etc. For example, the kiosk 10, 1010 and server computer 2304 may be operatively connected to one or more mobile phone carriers 2322, one or more device manufacturers 2324 (e.g., mobile phone manufacturers), one or more electronic payment or financial institutions 2328, one or more databases (e.g., the GSMA IMEI database, etc.), and one or more computers and / or other remotely located or shared resources associated with cloud computing 2326. The financial institutions 2328 may include any type of entity associated with conducting financial transactions, including banks, credit / debit card facilities, online commerce facilities, online payment systems, virtual cash systems, money transfer systems, etc.

[0109] In addition to the foregoing, the kiosks 10, 1010 and server computer 2304 can also be operatively connected to a resale marketplace 2330 and a kiosk operator 2332. The resale marketplace 2330 represents a system of remote computers and / or service providers associated with the resale of consumer electronic devices through both electronic and brick-and-mortar channels. Such entities and facilities can be associated, for example, with online auctions for reselling used electronic devices and establishing market prices for such devices. The kiosk operator 2332 can be a central computer or system of computers for controlling any type of operation of the network of kiosks 10, 1010. Such operations can include, for example, remote monitoring and facilitating kiosk maintenance (e.g., remote testing of kiosk functionality, downloading operating software and updates, etc.), inspections (e.g., periodic replenishment of cash and other consumables), performance, etc. Additionally, the kiosk operator 2332 may further include one or more display screens operatively connected to cameras (e.g., one or more of the cameras 60, 122 described above) located on each of the kiosks 10, 1010. This remote viewing capability allows operator personnel to verify user identification and / or make other visual observations in real time during a transaction.

[0110] The foregoing description of electronic device recycling system 2300 illustrates only one possible network system suitable for implementing the various techniques described herein. Thus, those skilled in the art will understand that other systems consistent with the present technology may omit one or more of the equipment described with reference to FIG. 23 or may include one or more additional equipment not described in detail in FIG. 23.

[0111] Kiosks 10, 1010, mobile devices 2330, 54, and 1054, server computers 2304, user computers or devices 2318, etc. may include one or more central processing units or other logic processing circuitry, memory, input devices (e.g., keyboards and pointing devices), output devices (e.g., display devices and printers), and storage devices (e.g., magnetic, solid-state, fixed and floppy disk drives, optical disk drives, etc.). Such computers may include other program modules such as an operating system, one or more application programs (e.g., word processing or spreadsheet applications), and the like. Computers may include wireless computers such as mobile phones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), palmtop computers, tablet computers, notebook and laptop computers, desktop computers, e-readers, music players, GPS devices, smartwatches, and Google® Glass that communicate with the Internet via wireless links. TM and the like. The computers may be general-purpose devices that can be programmed to run various types of applications, or they may be specialized devices that are optimized or limited to a particular function or class of functions. Aspects of the invention may be practiced in a variety of other computing environments.

[0112] Although the Internet is shown, private networks such as intranets can be used herein as well. The network can have a client-server architecture, in which a computer is dedicated to providing services to other client computers, or other architectures, such as peer-to-peer, in which one or more computers simultaneously act as both server and client. Coupled to the server computer(s), one or more databases store most of the web pages and content exchanged between user computers. The server computer, including the database(s), can employ security measures to thwart malicious attacks on the system and to preserve the integrity of the messages and data stored therein (e.g., firewall systems, message encryption and / or authentication (e.g., using Transport Layer Security (TLS) or Secure Sockets Layer (SSL)), password protection schemes, encryption of stored data (e.g., using trusted computing hardware), and the like).

[0113] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the concepts of the present invention can be used in a variety of environments other than location-based or Internet-based. In general, the display description can be in HTML, XML, or WAP format, email format, or any other format suitable for displaying information, including character / code-based formats, algorithm-based formats (e.g., vector-generated), and bitmap formats. Also, various communication channels, such as a local area network, a wide area network, or a point-to-point dial-up connection, can be used instead of the Internet. The system can operate within a single computer environment rather than a client / server environment. Also, user computers can be equipped with any combination of hardware or software that interacts with a server computer, such as television-based systems and various other consumer products through which commercial or non-commercial transactions may be conducted. Various aspects of the present invention described herein can be implemented in or for any email environment.

[0114] Although not required, aspects of the invention are described in the general context of computer-executable instructions, such as routines, executed by a data processing device, e.g., a server computer, a wireless device, or a personal computer. Those skilled in the art will understand that aspects of the invention may be practiced with other communications, data processing, or computer system configurations, including Internet appliances, handheld devices (including personal digital assistants (PDAs)), wearable computers, cellular or mobile telephones of all kinds (including voice-over-IP (VoIP) phones), dumb terminals, media players, gaming devices, multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics devices, set-top boxes, network PCs, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Indeed, the terms “computer,” “server,” “host,” “host system,” and the like are generally used interchangeably herein to refer to any of the above devices and systems, and any data processors.

[0115] Aspects of the invention can be embodied in a special purpose computer or data processor that is specifically programmed, configured, or constructed to perform one or more of the computer-executable instructions described in detail herein. While aspects of the invention, such as certain functions, are described exclusively as being implemented on a single device, the invention can also be practiced in a distributed environment where functions or modules are shared among heterogeneous processing devices linked through a communications network, such as a local area network (LAN), a wide area network (WAN), or the Internet. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote memory storage devices.

[0116] Those skilled in the art will understand that the routines and other functions and methods described herein may be implemented as application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), by digital signal processing (DSP) integrated circuits, through conventional programmed logic arrays and / or circuit elements. While many of the embodiments are shown and described as being implemented in hardware (e.g., one or more integrated circuits specifically designed for the task), such embodiments may equally be implemented in software and performed by one or more processors. Such software can be stored on any suitable computer-readable medium, such as microcode stored within a semiconductor chip, stored on a computer-readable disk, or downloaded from a server and stored locally at a client.

[0117] Aspects of the invention may be stored or distributed on tangible computer-readable media, including magnetic or optically readable computer disks, hardwired or preprogrammed chips (e.g., EEPROM semiconductor chips), nanotechnology memories, biological memories, or other data storage media. Alternatively, computer-implemented instructions, data structures, screen displays, and other data under aspects of the invention may be distributed over a period of time on signals propagated on a propagation medium (e.g., electromagnetic waves, acoustic waves, etc.), via the Internet, or via other networks (including wireless networks), or they may be provided over any analog or digital network (packet-switched, circuit-switched, or other). While specific circuits are described above, those skilled in the art will recognize that microprocessor-based systems, in which any logical decisions are configured in software, may also be used.

[0118] References to features, advantages, or similar terms throughout the foregoing description do not imply that all of the features and advantages that can be realized using the present technology should or are present in any single embodiment of the present invention. Rather, terms referring to features and advantages are understood to mean that the specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present technology. Thus, discussions of features and advantages and similar terms throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same embodiment.

[0119] Furthermore, the described features, advantages, and characteristics of the present technology may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. Those skilled in the art will recognize that the present technology may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular embodiment. In other cases, additional features and advantages may be recognized in an embodiment that may not be present in all embodiments of the present technology.

[0120] Any patents and applications and other references mentioned above, including any that may be listed in accompanying applications, are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, except for any subject matter disclaimer or disclaimer, and except to the extent the incorporated material is inconsistent with the explicit disclosure herein, in which case the terminology within this disclosure will control. Aspects of the present invention can be modified, if necessary, to employ the systems, functions, and concepts of the various references described above to provide yet further implementations of the present invention.

[0121] Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, throughout the description and claims, the terms "comprise," "comprising," and the like, are intended to be interpreted in an inclusive sense, i.e., "including, but not limited to," as opposed to an exclusive or inclusive sense. As used herein, the terms "connected," "coupled," or any variant thereof, mean any connection or coupling, either direct or indirect, between two or more elements, and the coupling or connection between the elements may be physical, logical, or a combination thereof. In addition, the terms "herein," "above," "below," and words of similar import, when used in this application, refer to this application as a whole and not to any particular portion of this application. Where the context permits, terms in the above Detailed Description using the singular or plural may also include the plural or singular, respectively. The term "or" in reference to a list of two or more items encompasses all of the following interpretations of the term: any of the items in the list, all of the items in the list, and any combination of the items in the list.

[0122] While the above description describes various embodiments of the present invention and its contemplated best mode, regardless of the degree of detail in the above text, the present invention can be practiced in many ways. While the details of the system may vary significantly in its specific implementation, it is still encompassed by the present technology. As noted above, specific terms used when describing certain features or aspects of the present invention should not be taken to imply that the terms have been redefined herein to be limited to any specific characteristic, feature, or aspect of the invention with which the terms are associated. In general, the terms used in the following claims should not be construed to limit the invention to the specific examples disclosed herein unless the Detailed Description section above explicitly defines such terms. Therefore, the actual scope of the present invention encompasses not only the disclosed examples, but also all equivalent ways of practicing or implementing the invention under the claims.

[0123] From the foregoing, it should be understood that, although specific embodiments of the present invention have been described herein for purposes of illustration, various modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of various embodiments of the present invention. Furthermore, while various advantages associated with certain embodiments of the present invention have been described above in connection with those embodiments, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, the present invention is not limited, except as by the appended claims.

[0124] Although certain aspects of the invention are presented below in certain claim forms, Applicant contemplates various aspects of the invention in any number of claim forms, and accordingly, Applicant reserves the right to pursue additional claims after filing this application and to pursue such additional claim forms in either this application or any continuing application.

Claims

[Claim 1] The invention described in this specification.

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