Shopping cart and a shopping payment system

Abstract

A shopping cart (1) comprising: a chassis (2) having a plurality of rollers (3), wherein the chassis (2) comprises a vertically extending section (2a) and a flat horizontally extending section (2b); a vertical frame (4); a handle (5) for handling the shopping cart (1), wherein the handle (5) is arranged on the vertical frame (4); a shopping item receiving element (10) for receiving at least one shopping item; at least one first load cell (9a), which is mounted on the vertically extending section (2a) of the chassis (2); at least one second load cell (9b), which is mounted on the flat horizontally extending section (2b) of the chassis (2), wherein the shopping item receiving element (10) is mounted on the first load cell (9a) and on the second load cell (9b).

Description

[0001] SHOPPING CART AND A SHOPPING PAYMENT SYSTEM

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a shopping cart and a shopping payment system unit with a stationary payment station.

[0004] TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0005]

[0002] The general background of this disclosure is a shopping cart as commonly used in supermarkets.

[0003] Shopping carts, in particular manual shopping carts without any electronic components, are often used, all around and widespread in supermarkets respectively shops all over the world. Manual shopping carts are generally useful for transporting shopping items, e.g. food, from their storage places in the shop to the cash register. However, manual shopping carts do not provide information, e.g. product information, guidance information, payment or price information or advertisement for supporting the costumer during the shopping process.

[0006]

[0004] Hence, there is an object of the present disclosure to provide a shopping cart supporting and helping the costumer during the shopping process.

[0007]

[0005] This object is solved by the features of the independent claims. Preferred embodiments are given in the dependent claims.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009]

[0006] In one aspect of the invention a shopping cart is presented, comprising: a chassis having a plurality of rollers, wherein the chassis comprises a vertically extending section and a flat horizontally extending section; a vertical frame; a shopping item receiving element for receiving at least one shopping item; at least one first load cell, which is mounted on the vertically extending section of the chassis; at least one second load cell, which is mounted on the flat horizontally extending section of the chassis, wherein the shopping item receiving element is mounted on the first load cell and on the second load cell.

[0010]

[0007] The load cells might be also called weighing cells.

[0011]

[0008] In another aspect of the invention a shopping cart is presented, comprising: a chassis having a plurality of rollers, a vertical frame; a shopping item receiving element for receiving at least one shopping item; at least one first load cell, which is mounted on the chassis; at least one second load cell mounted on the chassis, wherein the shopping item receiving element is mounted on the first load cell and on the second load cell, wherein the first load cell is mounted on a higher level than the second load cell with respect to a ground plane or the floor on which the cart is to be moved.

[0012]

[0009] The chassis may comprise a vertically extending section and a flat and / or horizontally extending section.

[0013]

[0010] The shopping cart may represent any cart or trolley being configured for carrying or temporarily storing shopping items during a shopping process in a shop or a self-service shopping store.

[0014]

[0011] The shopping cart comprises a chassis, a plurality of rollers, a vertical frame, and a shopping item receiving element but is not limited thereto. The handle might be additionally couped to the vertical frame or the vertical frame can be used as handle.

[0015]

[0012] The shopping cart may be nestable, i.e. a plurality of shopping carts can be pushed into each other, in order to store the shopping carts in a space saving manner.

[0016]

[0013] The shopping cart may further include a handle for handling the shopping cart, wherein the handle is arranged on the vertical frame.

[0014] In another embodiment the vertical frame and the chassis could be formed as one piece or integrally, but they can be also firmly connected to each other. Thus, a stable operation of the cart is provided, whereas the pushing of the cart at the vertical frame or the handle does not influence the weighing process.

[0017]

[0015] In another embodiment the at least one first load cell may be mounted at the rear end or rear portion of the shopping cart, whereas the at least one second load cell may be mounted at the front portion or front end of the shopping cart.

[0018]

[0016] The shopping item receiving element might include an upper shopping item receiving sub-element and a lower a shopping item receiving sub-element, whereas the upper a shopping item receiving sub-element might be also called upper basket and the lower a shopping item receiving subelement might be called lower rack.

[0019]

[0017] The upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the lower a shopping item receiving subelement might be coupled to each other via connection elements, preferably extending vertically or vertically inclined between the upper an the lower shopping item receiving sub-elements.

[0020]

[0018] By having two load cells being coupled to each other via the connection elements between the upper basket and the lower rack many different load distributions can be precisely measured.

[0021]

[0019] Thus, a very precise weighing might be achieved, since the distribution of masses in the cart is not predictable and a strong unbalance might be created by putting a shopping item only in the front portion of the upper basket and / or beer carrier only at the rear portion of the lower rack.

[0022]

[0020] The chassis may represent any carrier or basis of the shopping cart on which or at which the plurality of rollers enabling a moveability of the shopping is arranged. All rollers of the plurality of rollers may be directly arranged respectively mounted to the chassis. Alternatively, all rollers of the plurality of rollers may be indirectly arranged respectively mounted to the chassis. In this context, all rollers of the plurality of rollers are arranged respectively mounted to roller holding elements, wherein these roller holding elements are directly arranged or formed respectively mounted to the chassis.

[0023]

[0021] Further alternatively, at least some, i.e. one or more, of the rollers of the plurality of rollers may be directly arranged respectively mounted to the chassis and the residual, i.e. one or more, rollers of the plurality of rollers may be indirectly arranged respectively mounted to the chassis. Additionally, on or at the chassis the vertical frame, the vertical frame holding element, the first load cell and / or the first load cell holding element may be arranged respectively mounted. In this context at least one of the vertical frame, the vertical frame holding element, the first load cell and / or the first load cell holding element may be directly or indirectly arranged respectively mounted to the chassis.

[0024]

[0022] The vertical frame or the vertical frame holding element may be arranged within the vertically extending section, e.g. within the S-form, of the chassis at the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis but is not limited thereto. Vertically highest point may be interpreted as the upper portion of the vertically extending section, so it is not necessarily the literally highest point.

[0025]

[0023] The vertical frame and / or the vertical frame holding element may be mounted at the upper portion of the vertically extending section.

[0026]

[0024] The first load cell or the first load cell holding element may be arranged at the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis outside, e.g. outside of the S-form, of the vertically extending section. The vertical frame, .i.e. the lower portion of the vertical frame or the vertical frame holding element and the first load cell or the first load cell holding element may be arranged on the same height. In case of an indirect arrangement respectively mounting, the vertical frame may be directly connected, arranged or mounted to a vertical frame holding element and / or the first load cell may be directly connected, arranged or mounted to a first load cell holding element, wherein the vertical frame holding element and / or the first load cell holding element may be directly arranged respectively mounted to the chassis. The vertical frame holding element may comprise one or more connection members, e.g. through holes or tapped holes, for firmly and releasably connecting respectively coupling the vertical frame to the vertical frame holding element. The first load cell holding element may comprise one or more connection members, e.g. through holes or tapped holes, for firmly but releasably connecting respectively coupling the first load cell holding frame to the first load holding element.

[0027]

[0025] The chassis may be provided respectively comprise or consist of a single continuous curved tube or frame, e.g. hollow frame or tube. The chassis may be an integrally formed piece but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the chassis may be provided by respectively comprises or consists of a plurality of straight and / or curved tubes being connected to each other by welding or glueing. The tube may have a cylindrical shape, triangle shape, rectangular shape or quadratic shape but is not limited thereto. The diameter of the tube of the chassis may be in the range of 1 to 6 cm but is not limited thereto. The tube may be a hollow tube, a rod or a tube filled with a material, wherein the material of the tube and the filler material are different, but is not limited thereto. The tube may have a constant diameter but is not limited thereto. The chassis may be provided out of respectively comprise or consist of metal like aluminum, iron or steel or alloy made therefrom but is not limited thereto. The chassis may comprise a vertically extending section and a flat horizontally extending section. The chassis may comprise two vertically extending sections and one flat horizontally extending section. At each end of the flat horizontally extending section, one the vertically extending sections may be arranged but is not limited thereto. The flat horizontally extending section comprises a U-form or V-form with respect to the roller contact surface or plane but is not limited thereto. The flat horizontally extending section may be provided in such a manner that in a side view both the horizontally extending sections, in particular the arms of the horizontally extending section, and the vertically extending section are identical respectively overlap, in particular fully overlap, each other. The chassis may further comprise a plurality of connections, in particular connection tubes, connecting end portions of the continuous tube and / or connecting the loops of the vertically extending section for providing additional stability to the chassis. Thus, a very stable chassis is provided which serves as basis for mounting the rollers thereon and for connecting the vertical frame thereto. However, the shopping item receiving element including the upper and the lower shopping item receiving element are be safely connected to the chassis by having the first and second load cell therebetween to guarantee a precise measurement of the load inside or on the shopping item receiving element.

[0028]

[0026] The vertically extending section may represent any section of the chassis extending in a vertical direction with respect to a roller contact surface or plane. The vertical direction is perpendicular to the roller contact surface or plane. The roller contact surface or plane may be the contact surface of the roller and the ground. The vertically extending section of the chassis may extend perpendicular to the roller contact surface or plane, i.e. parallel or substantially parallel to the vertical direction. Alternatively, the vertically extending section of the chassis may extend inclined to the roller contact surface or plane, i.e. both in vertical direction and in horizontal direction. The inclination angle may be in the range of 30° to 89° but is not limited thereto. The vertically extending section may be inclined towards the flat horizontally extending section or may be inclined away from the flat horizontally extending section. In case of an inclination of the vertically extending section towards the flat horizontally extending section, the vertically extending section can at least partially overlap the flat horizontally extending section. The vertically extending section may have a height of 100% to 250% of the vertical distance between the roller contact surface or plane and the flat horizontally extending section. The height of the vertically extending section is measured from the flat horizontally extending section. The vertically extending section may comprise a S-form, U-form, C-form or Z-form but is not limited thereto. The vertical extending section may comprise a curved form having no edges with acute angles.

[0029]

[0027] There might be a distance between the upper surface of the lower basket and the lower surface of the upper basket between 30-60 cm, preferably 40-50 cm, more preferably 40-45cm.

[0030]

[0028] So the first and second load cells may be provided on different vertical levels being spaced apart from each other roughly by the distance of the upper surface of the lower basket and the lower surface of the upper basket.

[0031]

[0029] In other words the first load cell is at least on a 30 cm higher level than the second load cell. This provides the main advantage that the main load of the upper basket acts on the first load cell. As the upper basket is inclined between 5-7° being higher at the front side than at the rear side, the shopping items slide usually to the rear side of the upper basket, to a position at which the first load cell is arranged. However, even if any items are placed in the front portion of the upper basket, the connection elements transfer the load also to second load cell in front of the chassis below the lower basket. Thus any load distribution can be precisely measured. The same holds for the lower basket. Any drink carrier placed on the lower basket acts on the second load cell. However, via the connection elements the load also acts on first load cell, as the connection elements are directly connected to upper basket, which rests on the first load cell.

[0032]

[0030] The flat / horizontally extending section may represent any section of the chassis extending in horizontal direction with respect to a roller contact surface or plane. The horizontal direction and the roller contact surface or plane are parallel to each other or are identical. The flat horizontally extending section may be fully or almost fully parallel to the horizontal direction. In case the flat horizontally extending section may be almost fully parallel to the horizontal direction, solely a, e.g. one, portion of the flat horizontally extending section having a length of 1% to 15% of the whole length of the flat horizontally extending section, being inclined towards or away from the roller contact surface or plane, having an inclination angle of 1° to 20°, and having a height of 1% to 50% of the vertical distance between the roller contact surface or plane and the flat horizontally extending section may exist. For instance, the portion, in particular first portion, may be opposed to the other portion, in particular second portion, of the flat horizontally extending section at which the vertically extending section and the flat horizontally extending section are coupled. The vertically extending section and the flat horizontally extending section may be directly coupled, arranged or mounted to each other. The length ratio between the vertically extending section and the flat horizontally extending section in horizontal direction may be 1 / 10 to 1 / 2, preferably 1 / 3, but is not limited thereto.

[0031] The flat horizontally extending section might be smaller in width at its front portion to allow nesting with another cart. Thus, the width at the rear portion of the flat horizontally extending section is wider than the width at the front portion.

[0033]

[0032] The vertical frame may represent any frame extending vertically. The vertical frame may be coupled respectively mounted to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis. The vertical frame may be directly or indirectly by or via a vertical frame holding element coupled respectively mounted to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis. The connection respectively coupling of the vertical frame to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis, in particular to the vertical frame holding element, may be fixed, non-rotatable but is not limited thereto. The vertical frame may be provided by respectively comprises or consist of a single continuous curved tube. The vertical frame may be an integrally formed piece but is not limited thereto. The vertical frame and the vertically extending section may be different to each other, i.e. are not made of the same curved tube but is not limited thereto. Alternatively, the vertical frame may be provided by respectively comprises or consists of a plurality of straight and / or curved tubes being connected to each other by welding or glueing. The tube may have a cylindrical shape, triangle shape, rectangular shape or quadratic shape but is not limited thereto. The tube may be a hollow tube, a rod or a tube filled with a material, wherein the material of the tube and the filler material are different, but is not limited thereto. The tube of the frame may have a diameter of 1 to 6 cm such that the tube of the vertical frame and the tube of the chassis may be different or identical. The tube may have a constant diameter but is not limited thereto. The vertical frame may be provided out of respectively comprises or consist of metal like aluminum, iron or steal but is not limited thereto. The vertical frame may extend perpendicular to the roller contact surface or plane, i.e. parallel to the vertical direction. Alternatively, the vertical frame may extend inclined to the roller contact surface or plane, i.e. both in vertical direction and in horizontal direction. The inclination angle may be in the range of 45° to 89° but is not limited thereto. The vertical frame may be inclined towards the flat horizontally extending section or may be inclined away from the flat horizontally extending section. The vertical frame may include a handle or on the vertical frame a handle is arranged. The vertical frame may be decoupled from the first load cell and the second load cell, i.e. the vertical frame and the load cells are not coupled to each other and / or do not touch each other. The vertical frame may be directly or indirectly coupled respectively mounted or connected to the chassis. The outer boundary of the vertical frame may form the lateral outer side of the rear area of the shopping cart, within which the rear area of the shopping item receiving element, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element, lies. In other words, the rear area of the shopping cart may be arranged within the vertical frame.

[0034]

[0033] The handle may represent any element or area at which the costumer or user can grip the shopping cart in order to handle the shopping cart. The handle may be a grip or a grip horn or a plurality thereof but is not limited thereto. The handle may comprise or may consist of a foam or a plastic but is not limited thereto. The handle may be fix or firmly and releasably attached to the vertical frame. The handle may be arranged next to the electronic computing unit, in particular the electronic computing unit may be sandwiched between the two grips of the handle. The handle may be a part of the vertical frame or may be a separate element being arranged or attached directly at the vertical frame by welding. In other words, the handle may be only arranged or attached directly to the vertical frame. Alternatively, the handle may be attached to the vertical frame firmly and releasably buy a bolt but is not limited thereto. The handle is not arranged or coupled directly or indirectly at the shopping item receiving element, i.e. the handle is decoupled from the shopping item receiving element. The handle may be decoupled from the first load cell and from the second load cell.

[0035]

[0034] The shopping item receiving element may represent any element being able for physically receiving, carrying or temporarily storing at least one shopping item. The shopping item receiving element may comprises at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements, preferably a first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element or upper basket and a second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element or lower rack. The at least two separately useable shopping item receiving sub-elements may be identical or different to each other. For instance, the at least two separately useable shopping item receiving sub-elements may be a mesh basket, a grid, a grill, a tray, a slatted frame, a duckboard, or a tub but is not limited thereto.

[0036]

[0035] The shopping item receiving element may be provided out of respectively comprise or consist of metal like aluminum, iron or steel but is not limited thereto. The diameter of the bars of the diameter of the bars of the two separately useable shopping item receiving sub-elements may be identical or different to each other. In case the diameter of the bars of the two separately useable shopping item receiving sub-elements and are different to each other, the diameter of the bars for the lower shop-ping item receiving sub-element may be higher than the diameter of the bars of the upper shopping item receiving sub-element.

[0037]

[0036] The at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements may be mechanically coupled to each other by one or more connection elements, like a connection tube or a connection rod, but is not limited thereto.

[0038]

[0037] The connection elements coupling the two shopping item receiving sub-elements to each might be overlapped or covered by the vertically extending sections on the left and right side of the cart. Thus, the connection between the upper basket und the lower rack is protected against shocks from bumping against other carts or shelfs inside the supermarkets. The shock might influence the weighing or weigh measurement process and might harm the operation of the load cells. There might be two connection rods on both sides. Preferably they have a similar inclination angle as a part of the chassis, e.g. the vertically extending section thereof.

[0039]

[0038] The at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements may be consist of the same material but is not limited thereto.

[0040]

[0039] The lower shopping item receiving sub-element may at least partially overlay or overlap the chassis, in particular the flat horizontal extending section of the chassis, more in particular the first portion of the flat horizontally extending section.

[0041]

[0040] The shopping item receiving element, in particular the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element, may comprise a front surface, a bottom surface, two opposing side surfaces and a back surface. The back surface of the first respectively upper shopping item receiving subelement may be pivotally mounted to the two side walls in order to provide the ability of shopping cart to be nestable with other shopping carts. Additionally, the back surface of the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element may comprise a fold-out child seat but is not limited thereto. Both, the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element may have a wedge form in order to provide the ability of shopping cart to be nestable with other shopping carts.

[0041] The shopping item receiving element, i.e. the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element, may be mounted only on the first load cell and the second load cell. Thus, any influence by the users hand or operation or movement of the cart can influence the measuring process and precise measurement of the shopping item can be guaranteed.

[0042]

[0042] The shopping item receiving element, i.e. the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element, may be firmly but releasably connected respectively coupled or mounted, in particular only, to the first load cell and the second load cell, in particular to the first load cell holding element and to the second load cell holding element.

[0043]

[0043] The first load cell, in particular the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be firmly but releasably connected respectively coupled or mounted to the rear of the bottom surface of the shopping item receiving element, in particular the upper shopping item receiving subelement.

[0044]

[0044] The first load cell and the second load cell are arranged at the center line from rear to front of the cart. By use of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate and the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate the load inside or on the shopping item receiving element is equally distributed and provided to the load side under the first or second holding plate.

[0045]

[0045] The second load cell, in particular the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be firmly but releasably connected respectively coupled or mounted to the front of the shopping item receiving element, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element. For instance, the shopping item receiving element may be coupled respectively connected to the first load cell and the second load cell via a screw but is not limited thereto.

[0046]

[0046] The first load cell may represent any load cell, weight cell or scale being configured for electrically or mechanically measuring, in particular only measuring, the weight of the shopping item receiving element and shopping items located, arranged or temporarily stored in the shopping item receiving element. The first load cell may be directly coupled to the chassis, in particular to the vertically extending section of the chassis. Alternatively, the first load cell may be indirectly coupled to the chassis, in particular to the vertically extending section of the chassis, via or by a first load cell holding element. The first load cell or the first load cell holding element may be arranged or coupled directly at the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis. The first load cell may have a measurement range from 50g to 250kg but is not limited thereto. The first load cell may be identical or different to the second load cell. The first load cell may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled to an electronic computing unit being arranged on the vertical frame. Additionally or alternatively, the first load cell may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled to a display unit. The first load cell may comprise one or more weight measuring units, e.g. sensors etc. Additionally, the first load cell may comprise a first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be configured to hold, i.e. being mounted respectively coupled or connected directly or indirectly, in particular only hold, the shopping item receiving element, in particular to the first respectively upper shopping Item receiving sub-element. Thereby the whole weight of the shopping item receiving element, in particular to the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element can be centralized on the first load cell. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be arranged on top of the one or more weight measuring units, wherein the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be directly coupled, in particular only fix coupled, to the one or more weight measuring units. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be made of metal, in particular steel, but is not limited thereto. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 may comprises a circular form, a triangle form, a quadratic form, a rectangle form or a polygonal form but is not limited thereto. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may comprise one or more through holes or tapped holes through which bolts extends for firmly but releasably connecting the first load cell to the shopping item receiving element. The through holes or tapped holes may extend fully or partially through the whole first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate from the upper surface from the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate to the lower surface from the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate. Additionally, the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may comprise a plurality of first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements also configured for coupling or connecting the shopping item receiving element, in particular the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element to the first load cell. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements may consist of or may comprise the same material of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate but is not limited thereto. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements on the neighboring sidewalls of the plate may be different to each other. Opposing sidewalls may comprise the same first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements but is not limited thereto. For instance, the first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements may be hooks or protrusions bur are not limited thereto. The hooks may be a part or no part of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate, i.e. the hooks are different parts which may be welded to the lower surface of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate. The protrusions may be a part of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate, i.e. are formed out of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate by bending a part of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate. The protrusions may be bended in such a manner that the protrusions extend in a plane below or equal to the lower surface of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements on each sidewall may be identical or different to each other in size and form.

[0047]

[0047] The first load cell may be arranged respectively embedded within a first load cell holding frame. By arranging the first load cell in this first load cell holding frame a horizontal movement of the first load cell can be reliable prevented. The first load cell holding frame may be directly connected to the first load cell holding element being directly arranged at the chassis.

[0048]

[0048] The second load cell may represent any load cell, weight cell or scale being configured for electrically or mechanically measuring, in particular only measuring, the weight of the shopping item receiving element and shopping items located, arranged or temporarily stored in the shopping item receiving element. The second load cell may be directly coupled to the chassis, in particular to the flat horizontally extending section of the chassis. Alternatively, the second load cell may be indirectly coupled to the chassis, in particular to the flat horizontally extending section of the chassis, via a second load cell holding element. The second load cell or the second load cell holding element may be arranged or coupled directly at a first portion of the flat horizontally extending section opposed to a second portion of the flat horizontally extending section at which the vertically extending section and the flat horizontally extending section are coupled or combined. The second load cell holding element may be directly or indirectly coupled to the roller holding element but is not limited thereto. For instance, the roller holding element and the second load cell holding element may be a single piece but is not limited thereto. The second load cell may have a measurement range from 50g to 250kg but is not limited thereto. The second load cell may be identical or different to the first load cell. The second load cell may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled to an electronic computing unit being arranged on the vertical frame. Additionally or alternatively, the second load cell may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled to a display unit. The second load cell may comprise at least one or more weight measuring units, e.g. sensors etc. Additionally, the second load cell may comprise a second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be arranged on top of the one or more weight measuring units, wherein the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be directly coupled, in particular only fix coupled, to the one or more weight measuring units. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be made of metal, in particular steel, but is not limited thereto. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may comprise a circular form, a triangle form, a quadratic form, a rectangle form or a polygonal form but is not limited thereto. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate may be configured for holding, in particular only holding, respectively fixing the shopping item receiving element, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element, at the second load cell. Thereby the whole weight of the shopping item receiving element, in particular to the second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element can be centralized on the second load cell. On or at the upper surface of the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate one or more second load cell coupling elements may be arranged. Each one of the one or more second load cell coupling elements may comprise at least one through hole or tapped hole through which or in which bolts can be arranged for firmly but releasably connecting the shopping item receiving element, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element, to the second load cell. The second load cell coupling elements may comprise a circular form, a triangle form, a quadratic form, a rectangle form or a polygonal form but is not limited thereto. The second load cell may be indirectly coupled to the chassis, in particular to the flat horizontally extending section of the chassis, via or by a second load cell holding element.

[0049]

[0049] By including a first load cell and a second load cell into the shopping cart, a shopping cart is provided supporting and helping the costumer during the process of shopping.

[0050]

[0050] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the vertically extending section comprises a S-form, U- form, or Z-form, in particular an inclined S-form, U-form, C-form or Z-form.

[0051]

[0051] By providing the vertically extending section with a S-form, U-form, C-form or Z-form, in particular an inclined S-form, U-form, C-form orZ-form, the stability of the chassis can be significantly increased.

[0052]

[0052] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the vertical frame is coupled to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis.

[0053]

[0053] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the at least one first load cell is coupled to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis and / or wherein the at least one second load cell is coupled to a first portion of the flat horizontally extending section opposed to a second portion of the flat horizontally extending section at which the vertically extending section and the flat horizontally extending section are coupled.

[0054]

[0054] By arranging the first load cell and a second load cell in such a manner, the accuracy of the measurement can be significantly increased.

[0055]

[0055] Specifically, by limiting the influence of e.g. tensions in or of the shopping item receiving element due to the loading with shopping items, the accuracy of the measurement of the first and second load cell can be increased.

[0056]

[0056] By arranging the first load cell at the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section of the chassis and by arranging the second load cell at the first portion of the flat horizontally extending section, the whole weight of the shopping item receiving element can be measured by using both tensile forces and load forces, when the upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the lower shopping item receiving sub-element are connected to each other by one or more connecting tubes or one or more connection rods.

[0057]

[0057] By having the substantially vertical extending or vertically inclined connecting tubes between the upper basket and the lower rack the weight of the upper shopping item receiving sub-element is measured by the first or rear load cell on which the upper shopping item receiving sub-element is resting wherein the weight is also transferred to the second load cell at the front side of the shopping cart via the connecting tubes.

[0058]

[0058] Any shopping items loaded on the lower shopping item receiving sub-element is measured by the second load cell on which the lower shopping item receiving sub-element rests, whereas the due to the connecting tubes between the upper and lower shopping item receiving sub-element the weight of the shopping items on the lower shopping item receiving sub-element is also measured by the first load cell.

[0059]

[0059] In an embodiment, the load of the shopping items in the first and / or second shopping item receiving sub-element may be transferred to the first and / or second load cell via connecting elements.

[0060]

[0060] In an embodiment, the load of the shopping items in the first and / or second shopping item receiving sub-element may be transferred to the first and / or second load cell by tensile forces and by the load resting on the shopping item receiving sub-element.

[0061]

[0061] In conventional cart having load cells, the load is only measured by loading the shopping items on the load cells but not by using tension or drag forces transferring the load also to an upper or higher located load cell.

[0062]

[0062] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the shopping item receiving element is mounted only on the first load cell and the second load cell.

[0063]

[0063] By arranging respectively mounting the shopping item receiving element only on the first and second load cell, the accuracy of the measurement of the weight of all shopping items in the shopping item receiving element can be significantly increased.

[0064]

[0064] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the shopping item receiving element is firmly but re- leasably connected to the first load cell and the second load cell.

[0065]

[0065] By connecting the shopping item receiving element firmly but releasably connected to the first load cell and the second load cell, a damaged shopping item receiving element and / or a damaged first or second load cell can be replaced such that the usability and lifetime of a shopping cart can be significantly increased.

[0066] In another embodiment, when the upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the lower shopping item receiving sub-element are not connected to each other by one or more connecting tubes or connection rod, the weight of the upper shopping item receiving sub-element and the lower shopping item receiving sub-element can be measured separately by the first load cell and the second load cell, respectively.

[0066]

[0067] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the chassis consists of a single continuous curved tube, in particular a metal tube.

[0067]

[0068] By providing the chassis out of a single continuous curved tube, the manufacturing of the shopping cart, in particular the chassis, can be simplified and the manufacturing costs can be reduced. Further, the stability of the chassis can be increased.

[0068]

[0069] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the vertical frame and / or the handling handle are decoupled from the first load cell and from the second load cell.

[0069]

[0070] By decoupling the handle and the vertical frame from the first and second load cell, the accuracy of the measurement of the weight of all shopping items in the shopping item receiving element can be significantly increased.

[0070]

[0071] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the first load cell and the second load cell are arranged in such a manner that the first load cell and the second load cell measures only the mass of the shopping item receiving device and the purchased shopping item measures.

[0071]

[0072] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the outer boundary of the vertical frame forms the lateral outer side of a rear area of the shopping cart, within which a rear area of the shopping item receiving element lies.

[0072]

[0073] By laying or arranging the rear area of the shopping item receiving element within the outer boundary of the vertical frame, the shopping item receiving element is secured respectively protected from effects affecting the weight measurement of the shopping item receiving element with the included shopping items. Therefore, the accuracy of the measurement of the weight can be significantly increased.

[0073]

[0074] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the shopping item receiving element has at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements, in particular an upper shopping item receiving sub-element and a lower shopping item receiving sub-element.

[0074]

[0075] By including at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements to the shopping cart, the storage space for shopping items can be increased.

[0075]

[0076] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the upper shopping item receiving sub-element is a mesh basket.

[0076]

[0077] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the lower shopping item receiving sub-element at least partially overlays the chassis, in particular the flat horizontal extending section of the chassis.

[0077]

[0078] In an embodiment, the first load cell and the second load cell may be located on different heights. In other words, the first load cell and the second load cell may be provided on different heights. In particular, they are spaced apart respectively separated / distanced from each other in vertical direction. Preferably, the distance between the first load cell and the second load cell may be in a range of 90% to 100%, preferably 95%, of the height of the vertically extending section. Specifically, the first load cell may be located in a height consisting of the sum of the vertical distance between (a) the roller contact surface or plane and the plane of the flat horizontally extending section L2 and (b) the height of the vertically extending section. The second load cell may be located in a height between the roller contact surface or plane and the plane of the flat horizontally extending section L2, preferably in a upper portion thereof.

[0078]

[0079] By having the two load cells on different levels a more precise measuring of the shopping items can be achieved. Furthermore, by having the first load cell mounted on the upper portion of the vertically extending section and by having the vertical frame also mounted at the upper portion of the vertically extending section any influence of the vertical frame due to pushing the cart or by the user weight on the measuring process is avoided.

[0079]

[0080] In an embodiment, the first load cell may be located at the rear portion of the cart and the second load cell may be located at the front portion of the cart.

[0080]

[0081] In an embodiment, the first load cell may be located at the rear portion on a higher level than the second load cell.

[0081]

[0082] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the shopping cart further comprises an electronic computing unit, which is arranged on the vertical frame and is communicatively coupled to the first load cell and the second load cell.

[0082] The computing unit may represent any unit being configured for receiving and processing the measurement data provided by the first load cell and / or the second load cell. The computing unit may comprise a receiving unit, a processing unit and a communication unit but is not limited thereto. The processing unit may be configured for e.g. summarizing the weight of all shopping items located respectively arranged or put in the shopping item receiving element. Further, the processing unit may be configured for further processing the received measurement data e.g. in order to calculate the actual price of the shopping items located within the shopping item receiving element. The computing unit may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled by wire or wireless to the first load cell and the second load cell but is not limited thereto. Additionally, the computing unit may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled by wire or wireless to a display unit being included in the computing unit or being arranged on the vertical frame of the shopping cart. The computing unit may further comprise a scanner configured for scanning shopping items, respectively bar codes of the shopping items but is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the computing unit may further comprise a child seat activation element. The child seat activation element may represent any element, e.g. button or sensor, by which the computing unit receives information respectively data if the child seat being included in the back surface of the shopping item receiving element is activated, i.e. fold-out, or deactivated. In case, the child seat activation element indicates an activation of the child seat, an error value of the measurement is raised, e.g. raised about 15 kg, but is not limited thereto. The communication unit of the computing unit may be configured to directly or indirectly communicate by wire or wireless with a communication unit of the stationary payment station. The computing unit may be arranged respectively attached or mounted fix or firmly and releasably to the vertical frame but is not limited thereto. Specifically, the computing unit may only be arranged respectively attached or mounted fix or firmly and releasably to the vertical frame, i.e. not to the chassis, in particular the vertical extending section of the chassis. Furthermore, the computing unit may comprise a validation unit being configured for comparing the measurement data provided by the first load cell and / or the second load cell in order to identify differences / anomalies in the measurement data. This allows broken or malfunctioning elements to be identified.

[0083] By including a computing unit in the shopping cart, further information can be processed, determined and / or provided for supporting the costumer or user of the shopping cart during the shopping process.

[0083]

[0084] In an embodiment of the shopping cart, the shopping cart further comprises a display unit, which is included in the electronic computing unit or which is arranged on the vertical frame and is communicatively coupled to the first load cell and the second load cell and the electronic computing unit.

[0084]

[0085] The display unit may represent any unit configured for displaying respectively showing information to the user of the shopping cart respectively costumer. For instance, the display unit may be touchscreen but is not limited thereto. The display unit may be included in the computing unit or may be arranged respectively attached to the vertical frame. The display unit may be arranged respectively attached or mounted fix or firmly and releasably to the vertical frame but is not limited thereto. The display unit may be directly or indirectly communicatively coupled by wire or wireless to the computing unit and / or the first and second load cell but is not limited thereto.

[0085]

[0086] By providing a display unit on the shopping cart, further information can be displayed to the costumer or user of the shopping cart such that the costumer can be supported during the shopping process.

[0086]

[0087] In further aspect, a shopping payment system unit with a stationary payment station is presented. The stationary payment station comprises a shopping cart as described above, wherein the shopping cart has an electronic computing unit, wherein the stationary payment station and the electronic computing unit are configured to communicate with each other during a payment process, wherein the total actual mass is determined by weighing the shopping items in or on the shopping item receiving element of the shopping cart being taken into account during the payment process and wherein the total actual mass is compared with a total target mass.

[0087]

[0088] The shopping payment system may be any system, e.g. self-service system, configured for allowing or enabling a user or costumer to pay the items in the shopping item receiving element of the shopping cart by his own, without the need of a cashier. The shopping payment system comprises a stationary payment station. The stationary payment station may comprise a communication unit configured for wireless or by wire communicating with the communication unit of the electronic computing unit of the shopping cart during a payment process. The stationary payment station may further comprise a computing unit configured for determining the total actual mass by weighing the shopping items in or on the shopping item receiving element of the shopping cart being taken into account during the payment process. Additionally, the computing unit may be configured for comparing the actual total mass with a total target mass. Additionally, the computing unit may be configured to calculate the total price of the shopping items in or on the shopping item receiving element of the shopping cart being taken into account during the payment process. The stationary payment station may further comprise a display, in particular touchscreen, configured for showing the total price to the costumer or user. Further, the stationary payment station may comprise a paying terminal for paying the bill by card or by cash.

[0088]

[0089] By providing a shopping payment system, the number of energy-sapping, time consuming, and / or cumbersome movements of the shopping items, during the process of shopping (i.e. movement from storage place to the shopping cart, from shopping cart on the shopping belt of the cash register, from the cash register - after scanning - back to the shopping cart, from the shopping cart into a bag) can be significantly reduced such that the process of shopping can be made less energysapping, less time consuming, and more enjoyable.

[0089]

[0090] A load cell or weighing cell may convert a force such as tension, compression, pressure, or torque into a signal (electrical, pneumatic or hydraulic pressure, or mechanical displacement indicator) that can be measured and standardized. It is a force transducer. As the force applied to the load cell increases, the signal changes proportionally. The most common types of load cells are pneumatic, hydraulic, and strain gauge types for industrial applications. In the present case the load cell may be a component capable of converting the mechanical load into an electrical signal, representing the force or weight being applied to it. The function principle is with strain gauges which will be stretched or compressed when load is applied. The ability to weigh with a load cell depends primarily on its ability to repeatedly deflect / bend when the load is applied or removed.

[0090]

[0091] In the following, the invention or further embodiments and advantages of the invention are explained in more detail based on drawings, wherein the drawings describe only embodiments of the invention. Identical components in the drawings are given the same reference signs. Elements drawn with dashed lines are considered as optional elements.

[0091]

[0092] The drawings are not to be regarded as true to scale, and individual elements of the drawings may be shown in exaggeratedly large or exaggeratedly simplified form.

[0092] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0093]

[0093] In the following, the disclosure is further described with reference to the enclosed figures: Fig. 1 illustrates a side view on a shopping cart according to the present invention.

[0094] Fig. 2 illustrates a three-dimensional view on an embodiment of the shopping cart of Fig. 1.

[0095] Fig. 3 illustrates a three-dimensional view on an exemplary embodiment of the shopping cart of Figs. 1 and 2 with a detached shopping item receiving element.

[0096] Fig. 4 illustrates a side view on an exemplary embodiment of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, and 3 with a detached shopping item receiving element.

[0097] Fig. 5 illustrates a three-dimensional view on an exemplary embodiment of the chassis and the vertical frame of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, 3, and 4.

[0098] Fig. 6 illustrates a three-dimensional view on an exemplary embodiment of the first load cell of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5.

[0099] Fig. 7 illustrates a three-dimensional view on an exemplary embodiment of the second load cell of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

[0100] Fig. 8 illustrates a shopping payment system unit with a stationary payment station.

[0101] Fig. 9 illustrates a sideview of a shopping basket of a second embodiment in the assembled state.

[0102] Fig. 10-illustrates a sideview of parts of the shopping basket of the second embodiment,

[0103] Fig. 11 illustrates a perspective view of the chassis of the second embodiment,

[0104] Fig. 12 illustrates an enlarged view of the front portion of the second load cell of the second embodiment,

[0105] Fig. 13 illustrates a lower basket of shopping basket of the second embodiment,

[0106] Fig. 14illustrates hte lower basket of shopping basket of the second embodiment from a rear side, Fig. 15 illustrates a first load cell of the second embodiment, DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENT

[0107]

[0094] Fig. 1 shows a side view on a shopping cart of the present invention. The shopping cart 1 comprises a chassis 2. The chassis 2 has or is coupled to a plurality of rollers 3 and comprises a vertically extending section 2a and a flat or horizontally extending section 2b. The shopping cart 1 further comprises a vertical frame 4 and a handle 5, wherein the handle 5 is arranged on or coupled to the vertical frame 4. The shopping cart 1 further comprises a shopping item receiving element 10, at least one first load cell 9a, which is mounted on the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2, at least one second load cell 9b, which is mounted on the flat horizontally extending section 2b of the chassis 2. The shopping item receiving element 10 is mounted on the first load cell 9a and on the second load cell 9b. The shopping item receiving element 10 is also called shopping basket. It may comprise an upper basket 11 and a lower basket 12.

[0108]

[0095] Optionally, the vertically extending section 2a comprises an S-form, U-form, or Z-form, in particular an inclined S-form, U-form, C-form or Z-form or any at least partly upright inclined frame 2a 1, 2a2.

[0109]

[0096] Optionally, the vertical frame 4 is coupled to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2 or to the substantially highest point of the vertical extending section 2a. Basically, it is coupled to chassis 2 at a point which is higher than level of the horizontal section 2b.

[0110]

[0097] Optionally, the at least one first load cell 9a is coupled to the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2, in particular to the vertically highest point. The at least one second load cell 9b is coupled to the horizontally extending section 2b, in particular to a front portion of the horizontally extending section 2b, further particular to a first portion 2b 1 of the flat horizontally extending section 2b opposed to a second portion 2b2 of the flat horizontally extending section 2b at which the vertically extending section 2a and the flat horizontally extending section 2b are coupled.

[0111]

[0098] Optionally, the shopping item receiving element 10 is mounted only on the first load cell 9a and the second load cell 9b. I.e. no other load receiving element, like the handle 5 is interfered. The shopping item receiving element 10 is directly connected to the first and second load cells 9a, 9b.

[0112]

[0099] Optionally, the shopping item receiving element 10 is firmly but releasably connected to the first load cell 9a and the second load cell 9b.

[0113]

[0100] Optionally, the chassis 2 consists of a single continuous curved tube, in particular a metal tube.

[0114]

[0101] Optionally, the vertical frame 4 and the handling handle 5 are decoupled from the first load cell 9a and from the second load cell 9b.

[0115]

[0102] Optionally, the first load cell 9a and the second load cell 9b are arranged in such a manner that the first load cell 9a and the second load cell 9b measures only the mass of the shopping item receiving device 10 and the purchased shopping item measures.

[0116]

[0103] Optionally, the outer boundary of the vertical frame 4 forms the lateral outer side of a rear area of the shopping cart 1, within which a rear area of the shopping item receiving element 10 lies.

[0117]

[0104] Optionally, the shopping item receiving element 10 has at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements, in particular an upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 (upper basket) and a lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12 (lower basket).

[0118]

[0105] Optionally, the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 is a mesh basket.

[0119]

[0106] Optionally, the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12 at least partially overlays the chassis 2, in particular the flat horizontal extending section 2b of the chassis 2.

[0120]

[0107] Optionally, the shopping cart 1, further comprises an electronic computing unit 6, which is arranged on the vertical frame 4 and is communicatively coupled to the first load cell 9a and the second load cell 9b.

[0108] Optionally, the shopping cart 1 further comprises a display unit 7, which is included in the electronic computing unit 6 or is arranged on the vertical frame 4..

[0121]

[0109] Fig. 2 shows a three-dimensional view (perspective) on an exemplary first embodiment of the shopping cart of Fig. 1. The shopping cart 1 comprises a chassis 2 with a plurality of rollers 3 being directly and / or indirectly coupled to the chassis 2. The chassis 2 comprises a vertically extending section 2a and a flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b. The shopping cart 1 further comprises a vertical frame 4 and a handle 5, wherein the handle 5 is arranged on the vertical frame 4. The handle 4 is a grip or is a plurality of grips being made of a foam or a plastic. The handle 5 is fixedly attached to the vertical frame 4. The shopping cart 1 further comprises a shopping item receiving element 10. The shopping item receiving element 10 comprises an upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11, also called upper basket 11, and a lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12, also called lower basket 12. The shopping cart 1 further comprises a first load cell 9a, which is mounted on the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2 and a second load cell 9b, which is mounted on the flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b of the chassis 2.

[0122]

[0110] The shopping item receiving element 10, i.e. both the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 and the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12, is mounted on the first load cell 9a and on the second load cell 9b.

[0123]

[0111] The shopping cart 1 further comprises an electronic computing unit 6. The electronic computing unit 6 is arranged on or at the vertical frame 4 and is communicatively coupled to the first load cell 9a and the second load cell 9b. The electronic computing unit 6 further comprises a display unit 7. The handle 5 is arranged next to the electronic computing unit 6, in particular the electronic computing unit 6 is sandwiched between the handles 4. The vertical frame 4 is provided so that an outer boundary of the vertical frame 4 forms a lateral outer side of the rear area of the shopping cart 1, within which a rear area of the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11, lies. The vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2 is provided so that the outer boundary of the vertically extending section 2a forms the lateral outer side of the rear area of the shopping cart 1, within which the rear area of the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12, lies. The lower shopping item receiving sub-element 11 at least partially overlays or overlaps the chassis 2, in particular the flat and / or horizontal extending section 2b of the chassis 2, more in particular the first or front portion 2b 1 of the flat horizontally extending section 2b. The first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 and the second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12 have a wedge form in order to provide the ability of shopping cart 1 to be nestable with other shopping carts.

[0124]

[0112] Fig. 3 shows a three-dimensional view on an exemplary first embodiment of the shopping cart of Figs. 1 or 2 with a detached shopping item receiving element 10. The shopping item receiving element 10 comprises two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements, preferably a first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 and a second respectively lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12. The form of the two separately useable shopping item receiving sub-elements 11 and 12 are different to each other. The upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 is a mesh basket. The lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12 is a grid or grill. The shopping item receiving element 11 comprises or consists of metal like aluminum, iron or steal or a combination thereof. The at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements 11, 12 are mechanically coupled respectively connected to each other by a connection element 13, like a connection tube or a connection rod. The connection element 13 may have a vertical extension corresponding to the height H2 of the vertically extending section 2a. By using the one or more connection elements 13, the upper and lower shopping item receiving sub-elements 11 and 12 are coupled to each other, so that the weight of the goods inside or on the one or both shopping item receiving sub-elements 11 and 12 is equally distributed to both load cells 9a, 9b, without being coupled to the chassis 2. That means the first and second load cells 9a, 9b are between the shopping item receiving sub-elements 11 and 12 and the chassis 2 to exactly measure the load of the goods inside or on the baskets 11, 12. The diameter of the bars of the two separately useable shopping item receiving sub-elements 11 and 12 may be different to each other. Specifically, the diameter of the bars for the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12 is higher than the diameter of the bars of the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11. So the lower basket 12 is more rigid than the upper basket 12. The two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements 11 and 12 may consist of the same material. The shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11, comprise a front surface 1 la, a bottom surface 1 lb, two opposing side surfaces 11c and a back surface l id. The back surface 1 Id of the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11 is pivotally mounted to the two side walls in order to provide the ability of shopping cart 1 to be nestable with other shopping carts. The back surface l id of the first respectively upper shopping item receiving sub-element may comprise a foldable child seat.

[0125]

[0113] Fig. 4 shows a side view on an exemplary first embodiment of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, and 3 with a detached shopping item receiving element 11. The chassis 2 comprises a vertically extending section 2a and a flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b. The vertically extending section extends in a vertical direction Z with respect to a roller contact surface or plane LI. The vertical direction Z is perpendicular to the roller contact surface or plane LI. The roller contact surface or plane LI is the contact surface of the rollers 3 and the ground. The vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2 extends inclined to the roller contact surface or plane LI. Therefore, the vertically extending section 2a extends both in vertical direction Z and in horizontal direction X. The inclination angle yl is between 30° and 60°, preferably 45°+-10°. The vertically extending section 2a is inclined towards the flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b. The vertically extending section 2a at least partially overlaps the flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b. The vertically extending section 2a has a height H2, i.e. plane of the highest point L3, of 200% the vertical distance Hl between the roller contact surface or plane LI and the plane of the flat horizontally extending section L2. The vertically extending section 2a may be formed as an inclined S- form. The flat horizontally extending section 2b extends in horizontal direction X with respect to a roller contact surface or plane LI. The horizontal direction X and the roller contact surface or plane LI are parallel to each other, in particular are equal. The flat horizontally extending section 2b is almost fully parallel to the horizontal direction X or the roller contact surface or plane LI.

[0126]

[0114] In this context, almost fully parallel represents that a, in particular one, portion of the flat horizontally extending section 2b is inclined away from the roller contact surface or plane LI. The portion has a length of 10% of the length of the flat horizontally extending section 2a. The portion has an inclination angle y2 of 10° +-5°. The inclined portion has a height H3 of 20% of the vertical distance Hl between the roller contact surface or plane LI and the plane of the flat horizontally extending section L2. The inclined portion, in particular first portion 2b 1, is opposed to the other portion, in particular second portion 2b2, of the flat horizontally extending section 2b at which the vertically extending section 2a and the flat horizontally extending section 2b are coupled. The length ration between the vertically extending section 2a and the flat horizontally extending section 2b in horizontal direction X is 1 / 3. The vertical frame 4 extends inclined to the roller contact surface or plane LI. In other words, the vertical frame 4 extends in both vertical direction Z and in horizontal direction X. The inclination angle y3 is 60° +-10°. The vertical frame 4 is inclined away from the flat horizontally extending section 2b of the chassis 2.

[0127]

[0115] Fig. 5 shows a three-dimensional view on an exemplary first embodiment of the chassis 2 and the vertical frame 4 of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, 3, and 4. The chassis 2 comprises or is coupled to a plurality of rollers 3, in particular four rollers, two at the front, two at the rear. Two of the plurality of the roller 3, in particular the rear rollers 3, are arranged directly at the chassis 2. The two roller 3 of the plurality of roller, in particular the front roller 3, are arranged indirectly at the chassis via or by a roller holding element 3a. The roller holding elements 3a are directly arranged respectively mounted or coupled to the chassis 2. At least two of the rollers 3 are rotatable around the Z- direction to provide a flexible steering capability of the cart.

[0128]

[0116] On or at the chassis 2 the vertical frame holding element 4a and a first load cell holding element 9al are directly arranged respectively mounted. The vertical frame holding element 4a is arranged within or at the vertically extending section 2a, e.g. within or at the S-form, of the chassis 2 at the substantially vertically highest point of the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2. The first load cell holding element 9al is arranged at the substantially vertically highest point of the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2 outside, i.e. outside of the S-form, of the vertically extending section 2a. The vertical frame holding element 4a and the first load cell holding element 9al are arranged on the same height. The vertical frame holding element 4a comprises one or more connection elements, i.e. through holes or tapped holes, for firmly and releasably connecting respectively coupling the vertical frame 4 to the vertical frame holding element 4a. The first load cell holding element 9al comprises one or more connection elements, i.e. through holes or tapped holes, for firmly but releasably connecting respectively coupling the first load cell holding frame 9a5 to the first load cell holding element 9al. Within the first load cell holding frame 9a5 the first load cell 9a is arranged.

[0129]

[0117] The chassis 2 is provided by respectively comprises or consist of a single continuous curved tube. The tube may have a cylindrical shape. The diameter of the tube is 3 cm. The tube is a hollow tube. The tube may have a constant diameter. The chassis 2 is provided out of respectively comprises or consist of metal like aluminum, iron or steal or a combination thereof or any alloy made therefrom.

[0130]

[0118] The chassis 2 may comprise a vertically extending section 2a and a flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b. In particular, the chassis 2 comprises two vertically extending sections 2a and one flat horizontally extending section 2b. At each end of the flat horizontally extending section 2b, one of the vertically extending sections 2a is arranged. That means at the left and right side of the shopping cart the cassis 2 extends at least partly vertically. The two load cells 9a, 9b are both connected, i.e. directly connected to the chassis, the first load cell 9a is connected to vertical extending section 2a and the second load cell 9b is connected to the flat or horizontal section 2b. So, the two load cells 9a, 9b are provided on different height levels or there is a substantial height different between the first and second load cells. This provides the main advantage that the upper basket 11 may directly rest on the first load cell 9a, i.e. at the higher load cell and at the rear side of the chassis 2, whereas the lower basket 9b directly rests the second load cell 9b provided at the front of the chassis. As both baskets 11 and 12 are connected via the connection element 13, a very precise and reliable weight measurement can be performed. As the lower basket 12 should be easily accessible for loading of carriers onto the lower basket, the connection element 13 is provided in the rear portion of the shopping item receiving element 10. Thus, the front portion is free of any obstacles allowing a unlimited loading of the lower basket 12. On the other hand, any weight on the lower basket 12 is first measured by the second load cell 9b, but is also measured by the first load cell 9a. This is due to the fact that any weight on the lower basket 12 is transferred via the connection elements 13 to the upper basket 11 and thus also to the first load cell 9a. The same applies to any load or weight in the upper basket. It is first measured by the first load cell 9a, but also via the connection elements 13 by the second load cell at the front of the cart. Thus, any weight distribution can be reliable measured.

[0131]

[0119] The flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b comprises a U-form or V-form with respect to the roller contact surface or plane LI. The flat and / or horizontally extending section 2b is provided in such a manner that in a side view both the horizontally extending section 2b, in particular the arms of the horizontally extending section 2b, and the vertically extending section 2a are identical respectively overlap each other. The chassis 2 may further comprise one or more or a plurality of connections 8, in particular connection tubes. The connections 8 extend horizontally and connect respectively couple the end portions of the vertically extending section 2a and / or connecting the loops of the S-form of the vertically extending section 2a.

[0132]

[0120] The vertical frame 4 is coupled respectively mounted to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2. The vertical frame 4 is indirectly by or via a vertical frame holding element 4a coupled respectively mounted to the vertically highest point of the vertically extending section 2a of the chassis 2. The connection respectively coupling of the vertical frame 4 to the vertical frame holding element 4a is fix, i.e. non-rotatable. The vertical frame 4 is provided by respectively comprises or consists of a single continuous curved tube. The vertical frame 4 is connected with both ends on a respective vertical frame holding element 4a. The tube of the vertical frame 4 has a cylindrical shape. The tube of the frame 4 is a hollow tube. The tube of the vertical frame 4 has a diameter of 3 cm such that the tube of the vertical frame 4 and the tube of the chassis 2 are identical. The tube of the vertical frame 4 has a constant diameter. The vertical frame 4 is provided out of respectively comprises or consist of metal like aluminum, iron or steal.

[0133]

[0121] Fig. 6 shows an exemplary embodiment of a three-dimensional view on the first load cell 9a of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. The first load cell 9a comprises one or more weight measuring units being arranged within the first load cell 9a. Additionally, the first load cell 9a comprises a first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 is arranged on top of the one or more weight measuring units, wherein the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 is directly coupled, in particular only fixedly coupled, to the one or more weight measuring units. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 is made of metal, in particular steel. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 comprises a polygonal form, in particular almost rectangular form. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 is configured for holding respectively fixing the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11, at or on the first load cell 9a. In other words, the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the upper shopping item receiving subelement 11, is mounted respectively coupled or connected directly or indirectly to the first load cell 9a via or by the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. The first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 comprises one or more through holes 9a4 or tapped holes through which or in which bolts can be arranged for firmly but releasably connecting the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11, to the first load cell 9a. The through holes 9a4 extends through the whole first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 from the upper surface from the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 to the lower surface from the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. Additionally, the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 comprises, at its sidewalls, one or more first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3 consists of the same material of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3 on the neighboring sidewalls are different to each other wherein opposing sidewalls comprises the same first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3. On two opposing side walls of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2, the first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3 are hooks. The hooks are no part of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2, i.e. the hooks are different parts being welded to the lower surface of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. On two other opposing side walls of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2, the first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3 are protrusions. The protrusions are a part of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2, i.e. are formed out of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 by bending part of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. The protrusions are bended in such a manner that the protrusions extend in a plane below or equal to the lower surface of the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3 on each sidewall are identical in size and form. The first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements 9a3 are also configured for coupling or connecting the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the upper shopping item receiving sub-element 11, to the first load cell 9a.

[0134]

[0122] Fig. 7 shows a three-dimensional view on the exemplary embodiment of the second load cell 9b of the shopping cart of Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. The second load cell 9b comprises one or more weight measuring units being arranged within or in the second load cell 9b. Additionally, the second load cell 9b comprises a second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2 is arranged on top of the one or more weight measuring units, wherein the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2 is directly coupled, in particular only fix coupled, to the one or more weight measuring units. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2 is made of metal, in particular steel. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2 comprises a rectangular form. The second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2 is configured for holding respectively fixing the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12, at the second load cell 9b. In other words, the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12, is mounted respectively coupled or connected directly or indirectly to the second load cell 9b via or by the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2. On or at the upper surface of the second load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9b2 one or more, in particular four, second load cell coupling elements 9b4 are arranged. Each one of the one or more second load cell coupling elements 9b4 comprises at least one through hole or tapped hole through which or in which bolts can be arranged for firmly but releasably connecting the shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the lower shopping item receiving sub-element 12, to the second load cell 9b. The second load cell coupling elements 9b4 comprises a circular form. The second load cell 9b is indirectly coupled to the chassis 2, in particular to the flat horizontally extending section 2b of the chassis 2, via or by a second load cell holding element 9b 1. The second load cell holding element 9b 1 is directly arranged or coupled at the first portion 2b 1 of the flat horizontally extending section 2b opposed to a second portion 2b2 of the flat horizontally extending section 2b at which the vertically extending section 2a and the flat horizontally extending section 2b are coupled or combined. The second load cell holding element 9b 1 is directly coupled to two, in particular sandwiched between two, roller holding elements 3a. In other words, the second load cell holding element 9b 1 and the roller holding elements 3a are formed as one piece respectively as a single piece.

[0135]

[0123] Fig. 8 shows respectively illustrates a shopping payment system unit with a stationary payment station. The shopping payment system 20 comprises a stationary payment station 21 and shopping cart 1 as described above. The shopping cart 1 comprises an electronic computing unit 6. The stationary payment station 21 comprises a communication unit 22 configured for wireless or by wire communicating with the communication unit of the electronic computing unit 6 of the shopping cart 1 during a payment process. The stationary payment station 21 further comprises a computing unit 23 for computing e.g. the bill of all shopping items located in the shopping item receiving element 10 of the shopping cart 1. The stationary payment station 21 may further comprise a display 24, in particular touchscreen. Additionally, the stationary payment station 21 comprise a paying terminal 25 for enabling the user or costumer to pay the bill. The communication unit 22, the computing unit 23, the display 24, and the paying terminal 25 are communicatively coupled to each other by wire or wireless.

[0136]

[0124] Fig. 9 illustrates a second embodiment of the present invention. As could be easily recognized in comparison to the first embodiment, shown in Fig. 1 the vertical extending section 2a is differently formed. The vertical extending section 2a of the second embodiment is formed by a tube extending from the flat and / or horizontal extending section 2b and is first extending upright, mainly vertical and then inclined to the front of the cart. So it includes an vertical upright part 2al and forwardly inclined part 2a2. The vertical extending section 2a is further supported by a side connection bar 31 running between the horizontal extending section 2b and the forwardly inclined part 2a2 of the vertical extending section 2a. The side connection bar 31 is backwardly inclined. The side connection bar 31 might by thinner as the tube of the vertical extending section 2a. The side connection bar 31 increases the stiffness of the cart in case of heavy load provided by the user on the handle 5.

[0125] As shown in Fig. 9, the vertical frame 4 is either integrally formed with the chassis 2, in particular with upper part of the vertical extending section 2a or the vertical frame 4 is inserted or connected to the upper portion of vertical extending section 2a.

[0137]

[0126] There is a kink between forwardly inclined part 2a2 of the vertical extending section 2a and the vertical frame 4. Both parts are linked at this kink. The kink is an angled connection between the forwardly inclined part 2a2 of the vertical extending section 2a and the vertical frame 4. At this portion of the kink the first load cell holding element 9al is attached. The first load cell holding element 9al is a resting element for the first load cell 9a. At both sides of the chassis 2, e.g. at the upper portions of the left and right vertical extending sections 2a there are protrusions 9al acting as first load cell holding element 9al. They protrude in front direction from the highest portion of the vertical extending section 2a.

[0138]

[0127] Fig. 10 illustrates a partly disassembled view of the cart lof the second embodiment. The shopping item receiving element 10 is disassembled from the chassis 2. The shopping item receiving element 10 comprises the upper basket 11 and the lower basket 12, similar to the first embodiment. Both baskets 11, 12 are connected via the connection elements 13 provided at the rear portion of shopping item receiving element 10.

[0139]

[0128] The kink or connection portion between the upper part of the forwardly inclined part 2a2 of the vertical extending section 2a and the vertical frame 4 is farther arranged to the rear of the cart 1 or on the same vertical line as the lower connection point between the side connection bar 31 and the horizontal extending portion 2b. This provides a very stable construction of the cart 1. At the two kinks or angled connections at left and right side of the cart 1, there are the first load cell holding elements 9al or protrusions on which the first load cell 9a is supported or rests.

[0140]

[0129] In particular the first load cell 9a includes the first load cell holding frame 9a5 which might be fixed via bolts to the protruding first load cell holding elements 9al. The shopping item receiving element 10 already includes the first load cell shopping item receiving element holding plate 9a2 for covering the first load cell 9a when the shopping item receiving element 10 is set on the first load cell 9a and the first load cell shopping item receiving element coupling elements (not shown) for coupling the shopping item receiving element 10 with the holding plate 9a2 to the first load cell 9a. Thus, it is guaranteed that the shopping item receiving element 10 including the upper and the lower basket 11, 12 firmly sits on the first load cell 9a. As the first load cell 9a is fixed at its sides with the first load cell holding frame 9a5 to the two protrusions 9al at left and right sides of the cart 1, the shopping item receiving element 10 only rests on the load cell and thus the weight of the items inside the shopping item receiving element 10 are precisely measured.

[0141]

[0130] The same applies for the second load cell at the front portion of the chassis. The second load cell 9b is fixed on the second load cell holding element 9b 1, similar to the first embodiment. The shopping item receiving element 10, in particular the lower basket 12, is thus placed with integrated fixing means on the second load cell 9b. Thus, also the other or second connection point of the shopping item receiving element 10 only rests on the second load cell 9b and thus the weight of item in the upper and lower basket 11, 12 can be reliably measured.

[0142]

[0131] Fig. 11 shows a perspective view of the chassis 2 with the vertical frame 4 and handle 5 mounted thereon. As illustrated, the vertical extending section 2a is supported by the side connection bar 31, which is fixed to the horizontal extending portion 2b. The first load cell 9a is mounted at both sides on the first load cell holding elements 9al or protrusions via the first load cell holding frame 9a5. The second load cell 9b is mounted at the front portion of the chassis 2, in particular between the two front wheel 3 on the second load cell holding element 9b 1. The front portion of the lower part of the shopping item receiving element 10, i.e. the front portion of the lower basket is mounted on the second load cell 9b.

[0143]

[0132] Fig, 12 illustrates an enlarged view of the front portion of the chassis 2 with the second load cell 9b mounted thereon.

[0144]

[0133] Fig. 13 and 14 illustrate different views of the lower part of the shopping item receiving element 10. The lower part of the shopping item receiving element 10 includes the lower basket and the fixing or coupling means for the second load cell 9b. Further it includes the holding plate 9a2 which covers and rests on the first load cell 9a. Finally, there is an upper basket coupling element 12a at both sides of the lower part of the shopping item receiving element 10 for coupling the upper basket to the lower part. This structure simplifies the assembly of the parts. In Fig, 11 and 12 the relative position of the first load cell 9a on the first load cell holding frame 9a5 is illustrated, whereas during assembling the first load cell 9a and the first load cell holding frame 9a5 are first mounted on the first load cell holding elements 9al or protrusions protruding from the vertical extending section 2a to the front of the cart.

[0145]

[0134] Fig. 15 illustrates the first load cell mounted on the first load cell holding frame 9a5.

[0146]

[0135] The second embodiment has the advantage that the assembly is further improved compared to the first embodiment. Additionally, the manufacturing is simplified, as the vertical extending section only comprises the vertical upright part 2al and the forwardly inclined part 2a2, which is supported by the side connection bar 31. This provides high stability and lower manufacturing effort.

[0147] Reference signs 9a3 first load cell shopping item receiving el¬

[0148] 1 shopping cart ement coupling element

[0149] 2 chassis 9a4 through holes

[0150] 2a vertically extending section 9a5 first load cell holding frame

[0151] 2b flat horizontally extending section 9b second load cell 2al vertical upright part 9b 1 second load cell holding element 2a2 forwardly inclined part 9b2 second load cell shopping item receiving 2b 1 first portion element holding plate

[0152] 2b2 second portion 9b4 second load cell coupling element

[0153] 3 roller 10 shopping item receiving element

[0154] 3a roller holding element 11 upper shopping item receiving sub-ele¬

[0155] 4 vertical frame ment, upper basket

[0156] 4a vertical frame holding element I la front surface

[0157] 5 handle 11b bottom surface

[0158] 6 computing unit 11c side surface

[0159] 7 display unit l id back surface

[0160] 8 connections 12 lower shopping item receiving sub-ele9a first load cell ment, lower basket

[0161] 9al first load cell holding element 12a upper basket coupling element 12a 9a2 first load cell shopping item receiving el13 connection element ement holding plate 20 shopping payment system 21 stationary payment station

[0162] 22 communication unit

[0163] 23 computing unit

[0164] 24 display

[0165] 25 paying terminal

[0166] 31 side connection bar

[0167] LI roller contact surface or plane

[0168] L2 plane

[0169] L3 plane

[0170] X horizontal direction

[0171] Z vertical direction

[0172] Hl height

[0173] H2 height

[0174] H3 height yl inclination angle y2 inclination angle y3 inclination angle

Claims

Claims1. A shopping cart (1) comprising: a chassis (2) coupled to a plurality of rollers (3), wherein the chassis (2) comprises a vertically extending section (2a) and a horizontally extending section (2b); a vertical frame (4); a shopping item receiving element (10) for receiving at least one shopping item; at least one first load cell (9a) mounted on the vertically extending section (2a) of the chassis (2); at least one second load cell (9b) mounted on the horizontally extending section (2b) of the chassis (2), wherein the shopping item receiving element (10) is mounted on the first load cell (9a) and on the second load cell (9b).

2. A shopping cart (1), comprising: a chassis (2) having a plurality of rollers (3), a vertical frame (4) coupled to the chassis (2); a shopping item receiving element (10) for receiving at least one shopping item; at least one first load cell (9a) mounted on the chassis (2); at least one second load cell (9b) mounted on the chassis (2), wherein the shopping item receiving element (10) is mounted on the first load cell (9a) and on the second load cell (9b), wherein the first load cell (9a) is mounted on a higher level than the second load cell (9b) with respect to a ground plane or the floor on which the cart (1) is to be moved.

3. The shopping cart (1) according of claim 2, wherein the chassis (2) comprises a vertically extending section (2a) and a horizontally extending section (2b).

4. The shopping cart (1) according to claim 1 or 3, wherein the vertically extending section (2a) comprises a S-form, U-form, or Z-form, in particular an inclined S-form, U-form, C-form or Z- form, preferably the vertically extending section (2a) is provided at the rear portion of the chassis (2) or the vertically extending section (2a) comprises a vertical upright part (2al) and a forwardly inclined part (2a2)5. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims 1, 3 or 4, wherein the vertical frame (4) is coupled to the vertically highest portion of the vertically extending section (2a) of the chassis (2) and / or a handle (5) is coupled to the vertical frame (4) for handling the shopping cart (1).

6. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one first load cell (9a) is coupled to the vertically highest portion of the vertically extending section (2a) of the chassis (2) and / or wherein the at least one second load cell (9b) is coupled to a first portionhorizontally extending section (2b) at which the vertically extending section (2a) and the flat horizontally extending section (2b) are coupled.

7. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shopping item receiving element (10) is mounted only on the first load cell (9a) and the second load cell (9b).

8. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shopping item receiving element (10) has at least two separately usable shopping item receiving sub-elements, in particular an upper shopping item receiving sub-element (11) and a lower shopping item receiving sub-element (12).

9. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first load cell (9a) and the second load cell (9b) are located on different heights and / or the first load cell (9a) is closer to a lower side of the upper shopping item receiving sub-element (11) than to an upper side of the lower shopping item receiving sub-element (12) and / or the second load cell (9b) is closer to the lower shopping item receiving sub-element (11) than to an upper shopping item receiving subelement (12) and / or the first load cell (9a) is closer to a rear side of the cart (1) than to the front portion of the cart (1) and / or the second load cell (9b) is closer to the front portion of the cart (1) than to the rear side of the cart (1).

10. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shopping item receiving element (10) is firmly but releasably connected to the first load cell (9a) and the second load cell (9b).

11. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the chassis (2) consists of a single continuous curved tube, in particular a metal tube.

12. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the vertical frame (4) and the handling handle (5) are decoupled from the first load cell (9a) and from the second load cell (9b).

13. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first load cell (9a) and the second load cell (9b) are arranged in such a manner that the first load cell (9a) and the second load cell (9b) measure only the mass of the shopping item receiving element (10) and the purchased shopping item therein.

14. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the outer boundary of the vertical frame (4) forms the lateral outer side of a rear area of the shopping cart (1), within which a rear area of the shopping item receiving element (10) lies.

15. The shopping cart (1) according to claim 14, wherein the upper and the lower shopping item receiving sub-elements (11, 12) are vertically distanced to each other and / or the upper shoppingitem receiving sub-element (11) is a mesh basket and / or the lower shopping item receiving subelement (12) at least partially overlays the chassis (2), in particular the horizontal extending section (2b) of the chassis (2); and / or the upper shopping item receiving sub-element (11) and the lower shopping item receiving sub-element (12) are coupled to each other by connection elements (13).

16. The shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising an electronic computing unit (6) arranged on the vertical frame (4) or on the handle (5) coupled thereto and communicatively coupled to the first load cell (9a) and the second load cell (9b) and / or further comprising a display unit (7) at the electronic computing unit (6).

17. A shopping payment system unit (20) comprising a stationary payment station (21) and at least one shopping cart (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the shopping cart (1) has an electronic computing unit (6), wherein the stationary payment station (21) and the electronic computing unit (6) are configured to communicate with each other during a payment process, wherein a total actual mass of shopping items in or on the shopping cart is determined by weighing the shopping items in or on the shopping item receiving element (10) of the shopping cart (1) being taken into account during the payment process and wherein the total actual mass is compared with a total target mass.