AVT Reports Approval Of Latest Patent Claims Unveils New Vending Machine

CORONA, CA -- AVT Inc. said it has received approval of its latest patent claims, which are incorporated in its new vending machine systems. The company also announced the introduction of the Multi-Shopper Plus, which is now shipping.

The patent claims cover the use of a multimedia system to control vending machines, a touchscreen for item selection and payment information and an advertisement screen for promotional announcement display. According to the manufacturer, these added claims augment AVT's patent, which it plans to license to vending machine manufacturers and operators.

The Multi-Shopper Plus is described as an automated retailing machine that can sell a wide variety of products. AVT said its new vending machine allows items as diverse as refrigerated foods and beverages and "hard" products such as cosmetics, electronics or clothing to be dispensed from one unit. The first units have reportedly been installed in 15 locations run by one of the nation's leading health club chains.

AVT founder and chairman Shannon Illingworth said that the patent claims and the new Multi-Shopper Plus represent significant steps in the company's growth of AVT.