Importance

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Abstract

An apparatus for providing at least one item of value in cooperation with operation of a companion device delivering at least one first product to a user comprises: (a) a control means for controlling the providing; (b) a providing means for effecting the providing; the providing means being coupled with the control means; and (c) a link with the companion device for effecting the cooperation. The apparatus may further comprise (d) a communication means coupled with the control means for communicating operational information with the apparatus regarding operation of the apparatus; and (e) a memory means coupled with the communication means for storing the operational information. The method comprises the steps of: (a) providing a control means for controlling the providing; (b) providing a providing means coupled with the control means for effecting the providing; and (c) providing a link with the companion device for effecting the cooperation. The method may comprise the further steps of: (d) providing a communication means coupled with the apparatus for communicating operational information with the apparatus regarding operation of the apparatus; and (e) providing a memory means coupled with the communication means for storing the operational information. The method may still further comprise the step of: (f) communicating at least one directive with the apparatus from a locus remote from the apparatus for effecting a change regarding the at least one item of value.

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First Claim