Importance

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Abstract

A method using a central computer and a work station for managing inventory. To dispense inventory to consumers, a system user is issued a card imprinted with a personal user bar code. This user bar code is read into the computer and subsequently verified through the entry of individual user access data to ensure the user is authorized. To issue an item to a consumer, the user must next identify through an input means the particular consumer to whom the item is to be issued. The item to be issued is imprinted with an item bar code. After identifying the consumer, the item bar code is read into the work station and converted to issued-item data. The issued-item data is communicated from the work station to the central computer, where the issued item is decremented from inventory data. The central computer then determines whether each issued item is chargeable to the particular consumer. If the issued-item data is determined to be chargeable to the particular consumer, then the issued-item data is recorded as a charge to that consumer. Finally, the central computer determines when and in what quantity to replenish each item from the inventory data. A replenishment order is processed by the central computer, and the replenishment order is transmitted to a vendor.

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First Claim