Self-propelled intelligent shopping cart capable of communicating

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of communications and robots suitable for retail institutions. A user-activated robotic shopping device for collection and checkout of user-selected products includes subsystems in communication with each other: a subsystem for adaptive steering and control; a subsystem for providing mobility; and a subsystem for temporarily storing and registering products. Equipment, suitable for shopping activities, of the subsystem is divided into compatible, independent and integrated equipment, and is physically divided into three unique mechanical parts of the equipment according to functional purposes of the components. The parts together constitute a robotic unit for accompanying a user and assisting a shopping process in selecting products, temporarily storing products, and transporting products to an appropriate unloading area within a retail mechanism. The invention provides ergonomic improvements and faster services.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The proposed invention relates to innovative developments in the fields of communications and robotics used in retail and chain markets as autonomous, self-managing vehicles capable of identifying products, performing shopping operations and accompanying customers to unloading points. Background Art

[0002] A shopping cart is known in the prior art (see RU104138, IPC B62B 3 / 00, published on May 10, 2011 - hereinafter referred to as [1]).

[0003] The prior art solution known from [1] relates to transport, ie to manual vehicles used to purchase goods in a supermarket during all shopping phases, from the moment of picking the goods in the sales area to paying for the selected goods at the checkout.

[0004] Such a shopping cart as is known from [1] allows full control over the items placed in it, while technically eliminating the possibility of placing items in the shopping basket without reading their barcodes using a scanner.

[0005] The shopping cart [1] comprises a chassis, a shopping basket mounted on the chassis and a handle fixed to the shopping basket, wherein the shopping basket is equipped with a scanner for reading loaded commodity units and a purchase control device with a wireless communication function to enable data transmission.

[0006] The key feature of the shopping cart known from [1] is that the scanner is placed in the lid closing the shopping cart, or more precisely in the loading window of the lid, thus creating the conditions for placing product units into the shopping cart in a single pass.

[0007] A distinctive feature of the solution known from [1] should be considered the presence of an information display on the shopping cart, which is connected to the purchase control device and displays information about the goods.

[0008] It should also be noted that a solution is known from [1] that allows sending information in real time to a portable device in order to read information about the items placed in the shopping cart.

[0009] The following should be considered as disadvantages of shopping carts known from [1].

[0010] The shopping cart's lid completely covers the entire opening of the basket, while its product loading window is located in the center, making it technically suitable only for the passage of small items. Furthermore, because the lid completely covers the basket opening, access to the purchased items is restricted, as is the ability to view and confirm their purchase. Therefore, the use of a shopping cart in the sales area significantly reduces the device's functionality, restricting and diminishing the consumer's opportunities as a shopper and effectively depriving them of the opportunity to purchase the entire range of products presented on the store's shelves.

[0011] The design of this shopping cart, equipped with a so-called loading window, inherently presupposes a distrust of honest shoppers, limiting their transactions and business opportunities, and inclining user behavior to follow a purchasing algorithm designed to prevent unauthorized items from being placed in the shopping basket. Furthermore, the fact that the items transported in the shopping basket are only accessible after payment is completed creates inconvenience for shoppers who wish to inspect or return unpaid items, and may also trigger negative reviews from consumer groups whose rights may be violated.

[0012] A smart shopping cart for shopping in a supermarket is known in the prior art (see CN207449949, IPC B62B 3 / 00 published on June 5, 2018 - hereinafter referred to as [2]).

[0013] The technical solution known from [2] can be used in automatic mode and can be operated in an intelligent and unmanned manner in the sales area.

[0014] The purpose of creating a smart shopping cart according to [2] is to facilitate and improve the shopping process of users in large supermarkets where large crowds are currently observed.

[0015] The known smart shopping cart is positioned as intelligent and can be operated in self-propelled mode. It is mainly used in supermarkets and is made in the form of a grocery basket equipped with a support structure with wheels, a handle, an electric motor, a battery with a power module, a control unit and a reading device configured to exchange data with an external communication server.

[0016] In order to reduce physical exertion during operation and to maneuver comfortably within the supermarket sales area, the smart shopping cart known from [2] also includes an electric motor drive connected to the leading rear wheel set, a motion controller for obstacle avoidance connected to the electric drive and power supply module, a wireless local area network module, and a data transceiver module for positioning the shopping cart, which interacts with an external positioning system by processing signals from an image capture video camera and an optical photoelectric switch mounted on the grocery basket.

[0017] The grocery shopping cart known from [2] has many technical advantages, such as the ability of the shopping cart to drive automatically in a busy sales area, and the shopping cart can also successfully maneuver independently and avoid obstacles in the sales area, which greatly facilitates shopping conditions, stimulates consumers' interest, and significantly saves labor costs for shoppers and shopping mall staff.

[0018] However, it should be noted that, from an engineering point of view, the design of the shopping cart known from [2] is based on a standard, uniform manual shopping cart. In this respect, it is noteworthy how the equipment used in the shopping cart, including communication equipment, optical / photographic equipment, power supply components, control and other equipment, is located in an open, unprotected area. In fact, the electronic, communication and control units, as well as the power supply equipment, are located in a position where there is open contact and the possibility of external influences, which is particularly evident by product category, and which, in case of improper use, may lead to wear, abrasion and possible damage to the components, as a result of which local and complex failures in the operation of the software and / or hardware may be observed.

[0019] The hardware capabilities of the grocery shopping cart known from [2] are local in nature, while its software capabilities are oriented towards operation in a retail chain, and its communication equipment has been pre-configured, passed a security check, and adapted to operate under conditions of wireless data transmission according to a set of logical level interface protocols recommended by the manufacturer of the communication equipment installed directly on the grocery shopping cart. Therefore, another disadvantage of this known solution can be considered the narrow technical variability implemented, which does not allow the use of the shopping cart outside the coverage area of ​​the enterprise to which it belongs or to which it is transferred without reprogramming.

[0020] Also known in the prior art is a smart shopping cart that can automatically follow shoppers (see US10919555, IPC B62B3 / 14 published on February 16, 2021 - hereinafter referred to as [3]).

[0021] The technical solution known from [3] is part of a popular and important device for retail sales in small and large retail chains operating on the self-service principle.

[0022] The grocery shopping cart known from [3] can count items and conduct payment transactions. In addition, the shopping cart known from [3] is technologically advanced and versatile because it can automatically follow shoppers along the aisles of a store, has solar cells for recharging while outdoors, has multimedia entertainment capabilities, and is also equipped with a protective device that prevents the shopping cart from moving beyond the permitted usage area within the vicinity of the retail facility.

[0023] Structurally, the smart shopping cart known from [3] comprises a grocery basket mounted on a power frame with compartments for storage and transport, and a control unit with a control electronics unit equipped with a display. In the lower part, the power frame contains a wheeled mobile unit and a base equipped with a platform below the grocery basket, in which are located a power supply unit, an electric motor, a transmission, steering components and a control central processor connected to electronic devices for communication with external systems and navigation equipment (including motion sensors, optical sensors and other devices).

[0024] The smart shopping cart known from [3] is based on a standard shopping cart with mechanical controls. However, the cart has a reinforced powered frame design, where the control handles are part of the frame and a frame base with a platform that occupies the working space directly below the grocery basket, essentially acting as a coordination center for controlling the device and providing communication with external systems.

[0025] The ability of the shopping cart to follow the customer is ensured by a connection between the customer's smartphone and a control processor, the software components of which interact with components of the smartphone to determine its location and process location information, including the changing coordinates of the customer as he moves within the retail facility and adjacent premises.

[0026] The retail product described in [3] is essentially the flagship embodiment of the modern shopping cart, combining the direct use of a grocery basket with the functionality of auxiliary uses that facilitate and increase shopping interest.

[0027] However, the solution known from [3] has a number of obvious drawbacks, which can be explained as follows.

[0028] The shopping cart known from [3] is virtually indistinguishable from a conventional, standard manual shopping cart in appearance; however, it still appears bulkier and weighs significantly more, so that controlling and maneuvering the shopping cart in a possible "manual mode" is somewhat more difficult, and particularly difficult for elderly customers who may not have modern smartphones. Due to the external similarity of the devices (the shopping cart known from [3] and a standard shopping cart), it is possible to mistake the smart shopping cart from [3] for an ordinary shopping cart (classic type) and to be subjected to a greater physical strain and the associated difficulties when turning and otherwise maneuvering in dense shopping traffic.

[0029] The design used as the basis for the creation of a robotic shopping cart according to [3] has a classic, relatively simple structure and content, is not functionally adapted, and is not actually intended to accommodate the installation of complex and expensive components of the latest type, including, in particular, an electronic control unit, a central processing unit, a dedicated electric drive, a multi-rod independent steering system, dedicated communication devices and communication equipment, and electronic navigation equipment. In addition, the installation and configuration of the listed components must be carried out under appropriate factory conditions certified for operation with information technology and communication equipment, which in turn leads to an increase in the costs of such retail equipment and a reorientation of the developer. Therefore, when establishing the serial mass production of shopping carts according to [3], the additional disadvantages of high and unjustifiable production risks and increased costs should also be taken into account. Summary of the Invention

[0030] The technical problem of the proposed invention is to create a multifunctional autonomous freight vehicle for commercial and trade purposes, which can operate autonomously, accompanying shoppers on their routes within the premises of a trade facility, significantly enhancing and activating their activities by significantly improving the conditions for retail shopping.

[0031] The technical result of the proposed invention, which solves the problems of the prior art, is the achievement of the purpose of creating a robotic system with high service speed and improved ergonomic parameters, designed to support the full cycle of the purchase process, realizing the possibility of temporary storage of selected goods, movement of selected goods and delivery of selected goods to the shopper.

[0032] The aforementioned technical results and solutions to the aforementioned existing problems are achieved through a user-activated robotic shopping device for collecting and checking out user-selected products. The device comprises the following intercommunication subsystems: an adaptive steering and control subsystem, a movement execution subsystem, and a subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products. The subsystem's equipment, suitable for both commercial and shopping activities, is divided into compatible, independent, and integrated components, and is physically distributed across three distinct mechanized machine compartments according to their functional purpose. Together, these compartments form a robotic unit that accompanies the user and assists in the shopping process, including the selection of retail merchandise, temporary storage, and delivery of products to the required loading area within the retail establishment. The first distinct machine compartment, the lower support compartment within the unit, primarily houses the movement execution subsystem and the adaptive steering and control subsystem. The equipment comprises typically wheeled movers, each connected to its own electric motor, powered by a battery module, and controlled and synchronized by a central control unit. The central control unit is located in the second distinct machine compartment, which occupies a central position. The first and second machine compartments are located within a protective shell with contoured bumpers on the outside that conditionally separate the two compartments. A third, unique, mechanized machine compartment is located above the second, central machine compartment and includes a fenced cargo box housing the primary equipment for the temporary storage and billing subsystems, as well as a combination of the adaptive steering and control subsystems. This combination includes the following components, connected to a central control unit: a scale for checking purchases by weight, a payment terminal, a portable computing device with a display, digital video surveillance, and communication devices in the form of a WiFi module, a Bluetooth module, and a GPS / GLONASS modem. The purchase check scale is located at the bottom of the cargo box, while the payment terminal and portable computing device are located at the upper front of the box. The digital video surveillance system includes a control digital video surveillance device located on the side walls of the cargo box to identify the goods, and a route digital video surveillance device located on the contoured outer limiter of the third machine compartment to identify the route. The aforementioned communication devices are located on a separate facade mounted on one wall of the cargo box.

[0033] According to a particular embodiment of the invention, the design of the cargo box provides for the presence of a charger for a smartphone.

[0034] When implementing the present invention, it is recommended that the design of the cargo box be equipped with an additional scale in order to control the weighing of the product by the user.

[0035] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the contour stop bumper and the contour outer stopper that conditionally separates the machine compartment are made of elastic wear-resistant material.

[0036] The design of the present invention allows for an open compartment for items on the outside front of the cargo box.

[0037] Part of the useful volume of the cargo frame can be occupied by a separate, closed compartment with a hinged roof.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a digital video camera is connected to the central control unit and is configured to monitor the emotional state of the user during product selection.

[0039] In a most preferred embodiment of the present invention, auxiliary equipment in the form of a closed shelf for storing items is installed at the junction of the first machine compartment and the second machine compartment.

[0040] A new high-tech design for a mobile shopping device for retail purchases, primarily within retail establishments, is presented. The proposed design is a mobile robotic device that can be controlled both manually and in "autopilot" mode, simultaneously transporting selected groups of goods, as well as purchasing selected groups and delivering them to a location for immediate pickup for subsequent disposal. The technology is embodied in the form of a mobile robotic unit capable of independently moving within the sales area and structurally combining the transport of goods with the process of making a single purchase, thus accompanying shoppers along their route within the retail establishment. As a result, purchasing activity can be significantly increased, and improved user interest and ergonomics of the purchasing process will undoubtedly contribute to the development and improvement of retail trade and market relations.

[0041] The fundamental characteristic of the proposed invention is the structural presence of the steering and control subsystem, the subsystem for executing movement, and the subsystem for temporary product storage and accounting, all of which are physically combined in a mobile robotic structure, separated and dispersed by components within said structure within its three distinct machine compartments. The result is an operational production cell whose compatible, independent, and integrated equipment is positioned in a technically proven and well-thought-out manner, creating conditions for high operational manufacturability and virtually eliminating incorrect or erroneous system operation due to malfunctions. This is because all operating components, including hardware, are located in protected machine compartments that are initially configured for the corresponding equipment operating mode and have undergone appropriate testing and certification.

[0042] From the point of view of the inventive concept of the proposed invention and the technical results achieved, it is essential that one of the unique machine compartments, referred to as the first machine compartment, is implemented in the mobile unit as a supporting component and is mainly equipped with equipment for executing the mobile subsystem and equipment for the adaptive steering and control subsystem. At the same time, the main components of the equipment should be considered as movers, each of which has its own electric motor controlled by a central control unit. In the conditions of retail premises, including retail premises with a large flow of people, this ensures high maneuverability of the shopping robot device, and when necessary, blocking of some of the movers or synchronization of, for example, synchronous rotation or operation can be achieved, which is particularly effective when avoiding static and moving obstacles. In addition, not all motors may be involved in the work, in particular, only the drive of the rear mover or the front mover is involved in the work, which will have a positive impact on power consumption and significantly save the service life of the motor and drive components.

[0043] The key design feature of the proposed invention should be considered the combination of a first machine compartment and a second machine compartment in the middle, where the central control unit is actually located. Auxiliary equipment in the form of shelves for storing items is installed at the junction of the first and second machine compartments. This combination of compartments consists in arranging the key equipment within a protective shell, the various parts of which are actually functionally separated from each other, thus creating conditions for the technical placement of components, each of which is protected from external influences and has a modern "machine" structure. This structure ensures the balanced and reliable operation of the various systems in the resulting single functional block, which is actually separated from the user's third unique machine compartment. This creates the opportunity for efficient and reliable operation of the equipment of the combined compartments, whose components are installed in the protective shell in the designed place and interact according to established circuit principles for controlling and monitoring the operation of the drive, transmission, and propulsion components, especially of shopping robot equipment.

[0044] Furthermore, a key feature of the proposed invention should be considered the design of the third machine compartment, which is physically separate from the intermediate second machine compartment and is constructed in the form of a cargo box. The cargo box is essentially composed of the equipment of the temporary storage and accounting subsystem combined with part of the equipment of the adaptive steering and control subsystem, thereby creating an ergonomic and multifunctional unit with a conveniently balanced space for storing selected product groups, such as personal items, while the control equipment used is located in a position directly accessible to the user. At the same time, the control components and communication equipment of the equipment are physically separated primarily from the temporary storage area of ​​the goods, which creates the conditions for the unimpeded selection and rapid transportation of the selected goods, their one-time purchase (without having to place them on the checkout belt), and their subsequent delivery to a convenient location within the retail store for unloading from the robotic shopping device, thereby meeting the shopper's needs and further transporting the goods out of the retail facility.

[0045] Thus, given its characteristics and technical features, the proposed user-activated robotic device for the collection and checkout of selected products forms a set of features sufficient to achieve the aforementioned technical result, which is to achieve the purpose of creating a robotic system with high service speed and improved ergonomic parameters, designed to support the entire cycle of the purchase process, while providing the possibility of temporarily storing selected goods, moving them, and paying for them to the shopper. Furthermore, this set of features is sufficient to solve the aforementioned technical problem, namely, to directly obtain a multifunctional autonomous freight vehicle for commercial and shopping purposes, which can operate autonomously, accompanying shoppers along their routes within the premises of a retail establishment, including to their parking lot, significantly enhancing and activating the purchase activity and ensuring a significant improvement in retail purchase conditions. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0046] Figure 1 shows a side view of the proposed robotic shopping device;

[0047] Figure 2 Shown is a top view of the proposed robotic shopping device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The proposed user-activated robotic shopping device for collection and checkout of selected products will be explained by means of specific implementation examples and embodiments, which, however, are not the only possible implementation examples and embodiments, but rather clearly demonstrate that a specified set of basic features leads to the achievement of the above-mentioned technical results and the solution of the above-mentioned technical problems.

[0049] exist Figure 1-Figure 2 , the following components and elements of the proposed user-activated robotic shopping device for collection and checkout of selected products are labeled:

[0050] 1- Wheeled mover with motor;

[0051] 2-Battery (battery module);

[0052] 3- Central control unit;

[0053] 4-First machine compartment;

[0054] 5- Second machine compartment;

[0055] 6- Third machine compartment;

[0056] 7- compartment for items;

[0057] 8-Protective case;

[0058] 9-limiting bumper;

[0059] 10-Cargo box;

[0060] 11-Purchased items inspection scale;

[0061] 12-Payment terminal;

[0062] 13- Portable computing device with display;

[0063] 14-Control digital video surveillance device;

[0064] 15-Route digital video surveillance device;

[0065] 16-External limiter;

[0066] 17-Independent facade;

[0067] 18-WiFi module;

[0068] 19-Serial number of the robot device;

[0069] 20-GPS / GLONASS module;

[0070] 21-Bluetooth module;

[0071] 22-LiDAR;

[0072] 23- A digital video camera for monitoring the user's emotional state;

[0073] 24-handle;

[0074] 25-extra scales;

[0075] 26-Smart phone charger;

[0076] 27-open item compartments;

[0077] 28-Separate closed storage room;

[0078] 29-lid of the closed storage chamber;

[0079] 30-Lid for closed storage compartment.

[0080] 31-UWB module;

[0081] 32-Portable NFC tag module.

[0082] Therefore, the proposed user-activated robotic shopping device for collection and checkout of selected products comprises the following subsystems communicating with each other: an adaptive steering and control subsystem, an execution movement subsystem, and a subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products.

[0083] The equipment suitable for business and shopping purposes of the subsystems listed above are divided into compatible, independent and integrated equipment and are physically distributed in 3 unique mechanized machine compartments according to the function of the components.

[0084] In this context, a compatible device is understood to mean a device that can be reconfigured at a programmable level to interact with the hardware components of the various subsystems used for various functions. In particular, such devices, in accordance with the concept of the proposed invention, should include payment terminals 12, portable computing devices 13, purchase check scales 11, and other devices.

[0085] The portable computing device 13 is made in the form of a touch screen for transmitting information to the shopper.

[0086] Independent devices are understood to mean independent parts and components that are not essentially connected to the rest of the device in terms of the tasks they perform and are able to perform their tasks autonomously. Such parts and components should include protective shells 8, limit bumpers 9, item compartments 7, independent facades 17, etc.

[0087] The independent facade 17 is made in the form of a bracket.

[0088] An integrated device is understood to mean components and elements that are combined to form a single integral block or unit that solves the assigned task, and therefore this type of device should include most of the equipment of the third machine compartment 6, which is located on the third machine compartment 6 and essentially forms a single cargo box 10, which has a plurality of control elements and components located thereon, in particular control digital video monitoring devices 14, route digital video monitoring devices 15, digital emotional state video cameras 23, and communication components including WiFi modules 18, GPS / GLONASS modules 20, Bluetooth modules 21, UWB modules 31, portable NFC tag modules 32, etc.

[0089] The combination of machine compartments forms a robotic unit that accompanies the user and supports the purchase process in the mode of retail selection, temporary storage and delivery of products to the desired unloading area within the retail establishment.

[0090] It should be noted that the adaptive steering and control subsystem includes a central control unit 3, a battery 2 (battery module), a digital video monitoring device divided into a control device 14 and a route device 15, and a communication device in the form of a WiFi module 18, a GPS / GLONASS module 20, a Bluetooth module 21, a UWB module 31, a portable NFC tag module 32 and other devices.

[0091] In addition, the control video monitoring device 14 is used to identify the goods, and the route video monitoring device 15 is used to identify the route.

[0092] The execution and movement subsystem includes a wheeled mover 1 with an electric motor, an electric drive, a chassis assembly and other execution components.

[0093] The subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products can in particular include components and assemblies such as a cargo frame 10, a purchase check scale 11, a payment terminal 12, a portable computing device 13 in the form of a touch screen, compartments for storing purchased items and personal items (such as the useful space of the cargo frame 10), closed compartments for bags (item compartments 7), open item compartments 27 and separate storage rooms 28.

[0094] The first machine compartment 4 is the lower support compartment in the robotic device and is mainly provided with equipment that performs the movement subsystem and the adaptive steering and control subsystem, and the equipment generally includes wheeled movers 1, each mover 1 is connected to its own electric motor.

[0095] To power each electric motor, an accumulator 2 (battery module) is provided, and a central control unit 3 located in a second distinct machine compartment 5 is used to control the operation of the electric motors, in this case four electric motors, and for their joint interaction.

[0096] A second distinct machine compartment 5 occupies an intermediate position, while at the junction of the first machine compartment 4 and the second machine compartment 5 auxiliary equipment is mounted in the form of a fenced compartment 7 for storing items, which may be a closed compartment for bags.

[0097] The first mechanized machine compartment 4 and the second mechanized machine compartment 5 are located inside a protective shell 8 which has, on the outside, a contoured limit bumper 9 which conditionally separates these machine compartments.

[0098] The third mechanized machine compartment 6 is located above the second central machine compartment 5 and is actually composed of a fenced cargo frame 10 that combines the main equipment of the subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products with part of the equipment of the adaptive steering and control subsystem.

[0099] The combination comprises a scale 11 for checking purchases by weight, connected to a central control unit 3 , a payment terminal 12 , a portable computing device 13 with a display in the form of a touch screen, digital video surveillance equipment and communication means.

[0100] A purchase inspection scale 11 is located at the bottom of the cargo box 10 , and a payment terminal 12 and a portable computing device 13 made in the form of a touch screen are located at the front upper portion of the cargo box 10 .

[0101] Furthermore, the digital video monitoring device is divided into a control device 14 and a routing device 15 . The control device 14 is located on the side wall of the cargo frame 10 and controls the cargo, and the routing device 15 is located on the outer limiter 16 of the third machine compartment 6 .

[0102] The communication devices are located on a separate facade 17 , i.e., on a bracket mounted on one wall of the cargo frame 10 , and include a WiFi module 18 , a GPS / GLONASS modem 20 , a Bluetooth module 21 , a UWB module 31 , a portable NFC tag module 32 , and a LiDAR 22 .

[0103] In a particular embodiment, the design of the cargo frame 10 provides for the presence of a smartphone charger 26 and also an additional scale 25 for controlling the weighing of products by the user.

[0104] At the outside front of the cargo box 10 there is an open goods compartment 27 , while part of the useful volume of the cargo box 10 is occupied by a separate closed chamber 28 with a hinged top cover.

[0105] A digital video camera 23 for monitoring the user's emotional state during product selection may be connected to the central control unit 3 .

[0106] The proposed user-activated robotic shopping device for collection and checkout of selected products is implemented as follows.

[0107] It should be noted that the description of the proposed invention given is not intended to limit it to the specific implementations and embodiments, but on the contrary to cover various additions within the scope of the appended claims.

[0108] Shoppers can start the shopping device in manual mode or in automatic mode using autopilot.

[0109] In manual mode, a shopper must hold the robotic device by the handle 24 and independently move the robotic device around the sales area in order to purchase merchandise and subsequently pay for it.

[0110] During use, the selected products should be placed in the cargo frame 10. For temporary storage of personal items, open compartments 27 or separate storage rooms 28 can be used.

[0111] It is also possible to use the item compartment 7 in the form of a fenced shelf and place, for example, a coat or other personal items in the item compartment 7 for more comfortable shopping.

[0112] In front of the shopper, on the front of the goods frame 10, is placed a portable computing device 13, which can be a screen for transmitting information about the selected goods to the shopper, and the screen is preferably a touch screen with a "multi-touch" component.

[0113] As information entered on the screen of the computing device 13, the following is suggested:

[0114] - the route of movement;

[0115] - Shopping list;

[0116] - properties of the purchased item (weight, price);

[0117] - Other information about the purchase;

[0118] -advertise.

[0119] The software allows the user to select a specific operating mode of the robotic device via a logic interface displayed on the screen of the computing device 13 .

[0120] Thus, three operating options are possible, the first option implies that the robotic device is used only for “manual” transport of goods with subsequent payment at the checkout, the second option implies that “manual” transport is used and payment is made using the device of the robotic device, and the third option implies the use of all the functions of the robotic device, including autonomous driving, following the shopper along the aisle, transport and a one-time payment for the selected goods directly using the device of the robotic device.

[0121] As described above, the interface of the computing device 13, which is made in the form of a screen for transmitting information to the shopper, allows the shopper to select an operating mode, while activating the first (simple) operating mode does not require selecting anything, and for the second (intermediate) mode or the third (full) mode, it is necessary to select the appropriate section in the menu and start the application.

[0122] To use the robotic device in a first, simple mode, i.e., for manual transport of only necessary goods, it is necessary to hold the device by the handle 24 and move it freely within the premises of the retail establishment, subsequently placing the goods on the conveyor belt at the checkout counter for subsequent purchase using a payment device (barcode scanner, electronic scale, payment terminal, etc.) equipped by the cashier. Afterwards, the purchased goods can be picked up.

[0123] The second (intermediate) operating option, which implies "manual" shipping and automatic payment of the selected items, can be used at will or in crowded sales areas when automatic control would be inefficient and slow down the shopping process.

[0124] To start the purchase process, at a first stage it is necessary to provide identification data about the account to be used to pay for the services provided by the retail establishment via the payment terminal 12. The account is then activated and the list and prices of the selected goods are displayed on the screen of the portable computing device 13.

[0125] In this case, payment will be made after the user agrees, with prior notification of the ongoing transaction via the screen of the portable computing device 13 and in the form of a bank information notification sent to the user's smartphone that the debit is ready.

[0126] In this case, the selected articles are placed in the space of the goods rack 10 and, at the moment of entry, are recorded by the control digital video surveillance device 14 and ultimately sent to the purchase inspection scale 11. The data from the video surveillance device 14 and from the scale 11 are sent to the central control unit 3. In this control unit 3, the information is processed.

[0127] The processed information is sent to an external information processing server via a communication channel, which is particularly accomplished by the WiFi module 18 .

[0128] After completing the selection of all the products of interest, the interface of the screen of the portable computing device 13 allows the user to complete the purchase process, as a result of which the final bill (amount) that must be paid is generated, and then to pay for the selected products using the payment means (bank card, smartphone) brought to the payment terminal 12.

[0129] When the process is complete, the shopper can walk with the robotic device to the desired drop-off location within the retail establishment's sales floor and pick up his / her product.

[0130] In this case, there is no need to place the products on the conveyor belt at the checkout counter, as they are automatically identified and marked, allowing the final price of the purchase to be determined. This significantly speeds up the shopping process.

[0131] It should also be noted that the presented design of the robotic device in the form of a single mobile shopping unit formed by three interconnected machine compartments 4, 5 and 6 allows achieving high ergonomic indicators, in particular due to the convenience of the layout and the ability to use technical and software functions.

[0132] The second operating option of the robotic shopping device is characterized as follows.

[0133] As described above, the selected products are placed in the space of the goods rack 10 and, at the moment of entry, are recorded by the controlled digital video surveillance device 14. At the moment of recording the entry of a new product into the goods rack 10, a video / photo signal from the digital video surveillance device 14 is transmitted to the central control unit 3. Thanks to dedicated software installed in the central control unit 3, the identification and accounting of the products placed in the space of the goods rack 10 are provided. This identification and accounting occurs due to the fact that the controlled digital video surveillance device 14 is arranged along the entire perimeter of the goods rack 10, which allows the barcode of the placed products to be determined, as well as the identification and accounting of the products themselves. Furthermore, due to the operation of the software, the controlled digital video surveillance device 14 creates a 3D image of the products placed in the goods rack 10, which is compared with the 3D images of all products of that product group for a particular retail establishment, which have been previously entered into the database of the central control unit 3 software. Furthermore, after a new item is placed in the goods rack 10, data on the change in the item's weight from the purchase check scale 11 is transmitted to the central control unit 3. Software in the central control unit 3, according to a specific operating algorithm, compares the weight of the identified and recorded item with the weight of the currently processed item, which is input into the software's data storage device. If the item is not identified, the central control unit 3 outputs this information to the portable computing device 13 and also relays this information via an audio message instructing the shopper to bring the new item to the control digital video monitoring device 14 to identify the new item via its barcode. After the item is identified, information about the item's name, quantity, weight, and price is displayed on the portable computing device 13 for the shopper's convenience. Furthermore, information about the total price of all selected items in the goods rack 10 is displayed on the portable computing device 13.

[0134] If the shopper subsequently wishes to remove a previously added item from the goods rack 10, all operations proceed in a similar order: the digital video surveillance device 14 uses software to create a 3D image of the item removed from the goods rack 10, which is then compared to the 3D images of all items in a particular product group at the retail facility, which are stored in the database of the software in the central control unit 3. Furthermore, after a new item is removed from the goods rack 10, data regarding the change in the item's weight from the purchase check scale 11 is sent to the central control unit 3, where the software compares the weight of the identified item with the weight of the item stored in the same database. After the product is identified, it is removed from the list of items placed in the goods rack 10, and the total price of the items placed in the goods rack 10, reflected on the portable computing device 13 for the shopper's convenience, is also reduced.

[0135] Shoppers can pay for their selected products in two ways - using payment bank cards (debit cards, credit cards, etc.), and not using payment bank cards but by pre-registering these cards in the software of the shopping mall's central server.

[0136] In the first case, after selecting the products, the shopper pays by bringing the payment bank card (debit card, credit card, etc.) into contact with the payment terminal 12. After paying the amount indicated on the portable computing device 13, information about this is sent from the central control unit 3 via the WiFi module 18 to the central server of the retail establishment, allowing the shopper to freely leave the premises of the retail establishment with the selected and paid products without having to interact with sales staff, wait in line at the checkout area of ​​the retail establishment, place the selected products on the checkout belt, collect them, etc.

[0137] In the second case, payment can be made without a payment card (debit card, credit card, etc.) provided the shopper is present in the retail establishment at the time.

[0138] To do this, the bank account or bank card details on the retail establishment's website need to be "linked" to the user account. When interacting with the robotic device, the shopper is identified in several ways, and accordingly, his / her user account and bank account data or bank card data for subsequent payment - via the shopper's smartphone, which interacts with the robotic device via the Bluetooth module 21 and, after connection, enters a password to log into the system and identify the shopper, or by entering the shopper's login name and password on the portable computing device 13. In addition, the shopper can be additionally authenticated by sending a text message with a secret verification code to the shopper's smartphone, which is then entered on the portable computing device 13.

[0139] After completing the selection of items, the shopper pays by agreeing to the purchase amount on the screen of the portable computing device 13, rather than using a payment card (debit card, credit card, etc.). To increase the security and reliability of the payment transaction, a text message with a secret verification code can be sent to the shopper's smartphone, so that the secret verification code can be entered on the portable computing device 13 later.

[0140] When the process is complete, the shopper can walk with the robotic device to the desired drop-off location within the retail establishment's sales floor and pick up his / her product.

[0141] In this case, there is no need to place the items on the conveyor belt at the checkout counter, as they are automatically identified and marked, allowing the final price of the purchase to be determined. This significantly speeds up the shopping process.

[0142] It should also be noted that the presented design of the robotic device in the form of a single mobile shopping unit formed by three interconnected machine compartments 4, 5 and 6 allows achieving high ergonomic indicators, in particular due to the convenience of the layout and the ability to use the software available technologies and software functions.

[0143] The third option, which involves the use of autonomous driving and following the shopper, as well as automatic payment for selected items, can be used (completely) at will when the sales floor is relatively empty. In this case, the use of automation will be most effective.

[0144] To start the process, as in the second operating option, it is necessary to provide identification data about the account to be used to pay for the services provided by the retail establishment using the payment terminal 12. The account is then activated and the list and prices of the selected items are displayed on the screen of the portable computing device 13.

[0145] In this case, payment is made upon user consent, with prior notification of the ongoing transaction via the display of the portable computing device 13 and in the form of a bank information notification to be sent to the user's smartphone that the debit is ready.

[0146] Next, the user menu displayed on the display of the portable computing device 13 allows the user to select and activate the "full" operating mode of the robotic device. To do this, the user's smartphone needs to be switched to location determination mode, and then the smartphone and the robotic device are "united" using data transmission protocols such as Bluetooth UWB, WiFi, etc., so that they can move jointly within and outside the sales area as specified by the trading enterprise (facility).

[0147] An alternative option for fully operational mode using the robotic shopping device is as follows. The user removes the portable NFC tag module 32, which is attached to the shelf using a double-sided magnet. This activates the NFC tag module 32, and a signal from it is transmitted to the central control unit 3 via the UWB module 31 or the Bluetooth module 21. Thereafter, the central control unit 3 continuously tracks the distance to and location of the portable NFC tag module 32 by continuously communicating with it via the UWB module 31 or the Bluetooth module 21. Simultaneously, the current location of the robotic shopping device within the retail chain / institution is determined via the communication modules GPS / GLONASS module 20, UWB module 31, or Bluetooth module 21. Thus, the central control unit 3 continuously maintains online information regarding both the current location of the portable NFC tag module 32 and the current location of the robotic shopping device within the retail chain / institution. If the distance between two given points (i.e., the portable NFC tag module 32 and the robotic device) is exceeded, as defined by the software, the central control unit 3 sends commands to the motorized wheeled movers 1 via the wires and activates them. As a result, the robotic shopping device begins to move toward the portable NFC tag module 32, thereby reducing the distance between these points (i.e., the portable NFC tag module 32 and the robotic device) to the software-defined distance. In this case, the central control unit 3 uses information from the lidar 22 and a pre-loaded map of the transaction facility layout, specifically to avoid collisions between the robotic shopping device and other users or transaction equipment at the transaction facility during its movement. If the central control unit 3 receives a signal from the lidar 22 indicating an obstacle in the robotic shopping device's path, it sends commands to the motorized wheeled movers 1 and activates them, resulting in the robotic shopping device avoiding the obstacle.

[0148] This mode of operation ensures collaborative operation in the form of continuous follow-up by shoppers.

[0149] The use of wheeled movers 1 each equipped with its own electric motor ensures good controllability and mobility; in addition, energy can be saved since not all but only some of the electric motors can be connected.

[0150] Under the conditions of the third operating mode, and in the second (middle) option, the selected articles are placed in the space of the goods rack 10, and at the moment of entry they are recorded by the controlled digital video surveillance device 14 and then transmitted to the purchase inspection scale 11. The data from the video surveillance device 14 and from the scale 11 are immediately transmitted to the central control unit 3. In this control unit 3, the information is processed.

[0151] The processed information is then sent via the WiFi module 18 via a communication channel to a central server at the retail facility, which is configured in some manner to have the capability to transmit data.

[0152] After completing the selection of all the items of interest, the display interface of the portable computing device 13 allows the shopper to complete the purchase process, resulting in a final bill (amount) that must be paid later, and then using the payment means (bank card, smartphone) brought to the payment terminal 12 to pay for the selected items.

[0153] After completing the process, the shopper can walk with the robotic device to the desired drop-off location within the retail establishment's sales floor and pick up his / her merchandise.

[0154] In the third (full) operating mode, the following factors should be considered.

[0155] As previously mentioned, to activate the third option, before using the robotic device, the shopper pairs their smartphone with the selected robotic device via the transaction facility's software installed on their smartphone, using the WiFi module 18, UWB module 31, and Bluetooth 21. The shopper then selects the robotic device's operating options and accordingly chooses the third mode (Full). This mode is selected in the software on the shopper's smartphone or on the display of the portable computing device 13. When the third operating mode is selected, the robotic device switches to a "follow" state and moves independently behind the shopper, at a distance selected by the shopper in the software on their smartphone or on the display of the portable computing device 13. The robotic device is guided by signals received from the shopper's smartphone via the portable NFC tag module 32, WiFi module 18, UWB module 31, and Bluetooth 21, determining the shopper's coordinates within the transaction facility's territory. In this case, the central control unit 3 is preloaded with a complete map of the retail facility layout, including all obstacles, such as transaction racks, shelves, boxes, cash registers, and the aisles between them. This allows the robotic shopping device to move within the retail facility's floor plan without coming into contact with fixed (stationary) objects. This is achieved by the fact that during movement, the central control unit 3 continuously receives information about the robotic shopping device's current position on the retail facility's floor plan from the WiFi module 18, Bluetooth module 21, UWB module 31, and GPS / GLONASS module 20. While moving, the robotic shopping device uses a lidar 22 and a digital video surveillance device 15 along the route, which transmit information about fixed (stationary) and mobile objects to the software installed in the central control unit 3 that controls the robotic device's movements. The lidar 22 is located on a separate facade 17 (on a stand), enabling it to detect all obstacles around the robotic shopping device in 360 degrees. At the same time, route digital video monitoring devices 15 are located exclusively at a lower level (on the contour outer limiter 16 of the third machine compartment 6), which enables them to determine online all obstacles within the height from the floor of the retail establishment to the upper level of the robotic equipment.

[0156] The software controlling the movement of the robotic device and installed in the central control unit 3 determines, based on the information received, the route and speed of the robotic shopping device necessary to follow the shopper's smartphone paired with it. The central control unit 3 then sends commands to the wheeled movers 1, equipped with electric motors, to determine their rotation speed, so that the robotic device avoids all obstacles identified by the laser radar 22 and the digital video monitoring device 15 of the route.

[0157] Furthermore, the use of wheeled movers 1 ensures good controllability and mobility, each wheeled mover 1 having its own motor and being able to rotate at different speeds independently of the other wheeled movers 1; in addition, power is saved since not all motors can be connected, but only some.

[0158] As in the second operating mode (second mode), the shopper places the selected products in the space of the goods rack 10, and at the moment of entry, they are recorded by the controlling digital video surveillance device 14. At the moment of recording the entry of a new product into the goods rack 10, a video / photo signal from the digital video surveillance device 14 is sent to the central control unit 3. Thanks to the software installed in the central control unit 3, the products placed in the space of the goods rack 10 are identified and accounted for. This identification and accounting occurs due to the fact that the digital video surveillance devices 14 are arranged along the entire perimeter of the goods rack 10, which allows for reliable determination of the barcodes of the placed products, as well as the identification of the products themselves. Furthermore, the digital video surveillance devices 14, through their software, create a 3D image of the products placed in the goods rack 10, which is compared with the 3D images of all products in the product group of the retail establishment, which are input into the database of the central control unit 3 software. In addition, after a new item is placed in the cargo frame 10, data from the purchase check scale 11 on the weight change of the item is sent to the central control unit 3, where the software compares the weight of the identified item with the weight of the item entered into the database of the same software.

[0159] If an item has not yet been identified, the central control unit 3 displays information about this on the screen of the portable computing device 13 and also relays this information via an audio message, informing the shopper that they need to bring the new item near the video surveillance device 14 to identify it by its barcode. After the item has been identified, information about the item's name, quantity, weight, and price is displayed on the screen of the portable computing device 13 for the shopper's convenience. Furthermore, information about the total price of all selected items in the merchandise rack 10 is displayed on the screen of the portable computing device 13. If the shopper subsequently wishes to remove a previously added item from the merchandise rack 10, all operations proceed in a similar manner: the digital video surveillance device 14 creates a 3D image of the item removed from the merchandise rack 10, which is then compared to the 3D images of all items of a certain product group in the retail facility, which are entered into the database of the software installed in the central control unit 3.

[0160] Furthermore, after a new product is removed from the goods rack 10, data on the change in weight of the goods from the scale 11 used to control the goods are sent to the central control unit 3, where the software compares the weight of the identified product with the weight of this product entered into a database of the same software. After the product has been identified, it is deleted from the list of products placed in the goods rack 10, and the total price of the products placed in the goods rack 10, displayed on the screen of the portable computing device 13 for the convenience of the shopper, is also reduced.

[0161] As in the second operation option, shoppers can pay for the selected products in two ways - using a payment bank card (debit card, credit card, etc.), and not using a bank card, but by pre-registering these cards in the shopping mall's software.

[0162] In the first case, after selecting the products, the shopper pays by bringing the payment bank card (debit card, credit card, etc.) into contact with the payment terminal 12. After paying the amount indicated on the screen of the portable computing device 13, information about this is sent from the central control unit 3 via the WiFi module 18 to the central server of the retail establishment, which allows the shopper to freely leave the premises of the retail establishment with the selected and paid products without having to interact with sales staff, wait in line at the checkout area of ​​the retail establishment, place the selected products on the checkout belt, collect them, etc.

[0163] In the second case, payment can be made without a payment card (debit card, credit card, etc.) provided the shopper is present in the retail establishment at the time.

[0164] To do this, the bank account or bank card details on the retail establishment's website need to be "linked" to the user's account. When interacting with the robotic device, the shopper is identified in several ways, and accordingly, his / her account and bank account data or bank card data for subsequent payment - via the shopper's smartphone, which interacts with the robotic device via the Bluetooth module 21 and, after connection, enters a password to log into the system and identify the shopper, or by entering the shopper's login name and password on the portable computing device 13. In addition, the shopper can be additionally authenticated by sending a text message with a secret verification code to the shopper's smartphone, which is then entered on the portable computing device 13.

[0165] After completing the selection of the items, the shopper pays by agreeing to the purchase amount on the screen of the portable computing device 13, rather than using a payment card (debit card, credit card, etc.). To increase the security and reliability of the payment transaction, a text message with a secret verification code can be sent to the shopper's mobile phone, so that the secret verification code can be entered on the portable computing device 13 later.

[0166] Once the process is complete, the shopper can proceed with the robotic device to the desired drop-off location within the retail establishment's sales area and retrieve their merchandise. Upon completion of the merchandise removal process, the purchase check scale determines the weight of the merchandise in the cargo bin 10, which is confirmed by data from the digital video surveillance device 14. Central control unit 3 then inquires the shopper about the completion of their purchase, whether they require further service, and the presence of the robotic device. This request is transmitted to the screen of portable computing device 13 and simultaneously reproduced as an audio question via the speaker located on portable computing device 13.

[0167] The central control unit 3 also transmits this request via the WiFi module 18 to the retail facility's central server, which in turn transmits the request via the Internet to software installed on the shopper's smartphone. If the shopper responds on the portable computing device 13 screen or in the app that the robotic device's presence is still desired, the robotic device remains in the immediate vicinity of the shopper's smartphone. If the shopper responds on the portable computing device 13 screen or in the app that the robotic device's presence is no longer desired, the robotic device returns to the retail facility's shopping aisles. To this end, upon receiving this signal, the central control unit 3 receives data regarding the robotic device's current location in the retail facility's parking lot via the WiFi module 18, Bluetooth module 21, and GPS / GLONASS module 20. After receiving these coordinates, the central control unit 3 compares them with predefined coordinates of the retail facility's entrance and determines the optimal route. After determining this route, the central control unit 3 transmits commands to the electric motor-equipped wheeled movers 1, determining their rotational speeds. This causes the robotic device to move toward the retail facility's entrance, avoiding any obstacles identified by the laser radar 22 and the route's digital video monitoring device 15.

[0168] The third (full) operating option proposed allows the complete use of robotic equipment, the main feature of which is the ability to follow the shopper in "autopilot" mode, which significantly increases the speed and convenience of the service, saves the shopper's energy and time, and organizes the purchase process in a high-tech and high-quality way, which can significantly increase people's interest in the shopping process and thus enhance the willingness to buy.

[0169] Furthermore, in this case, there is no need to place the items on the conveyor belt at the checkout counter, as they are automatically recognized and identified, which allows the final price of the purchase to be determined. Due to this, the shopping process is significantly accelerated.

[0170] It should also be noted that the presented design of the robotic device in the form of a single mobile shopping unit formed by three interconnected machine compartments 4, 5 and 6 allows achieving high ergonomic indicators, in particular due to the convenience of the layout and the ability to use existing software technologies and software functions.

[0171] The presence of the steering and control subsystem, the movement execution subsystem, and the subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products, combined in a mobile robotic structure and separated and distributed among its three distinct machine compartments by the components of said structure, creates an operational production cell whose compatible, independent, and integrated equipment, positioned in a technically proven and well-thought-out manner, creates conditions for high operational manufacturability, virtually eliminating incorrect or erroneous operation of the system due to malfunctions. This is because all working components, including the hardware, are located in protected machine compartments that are initially prepared for the corresponding equipment operating mode.

[0172] One of the unique machine compartments, designated as the first machine compartment 4, is constructed as a supporting element in the mobile unit and is primarily equipped with the equipment for the mobile subsystem and the equipment for the adaptive steering and control subsystem, with the main components of this equipment being considered movers, each with its own electric motor controlled by the central control unit 3. Under retail conditions, this ensures high maneuverability of the robotic shopping device, enabling, if necessary, the blocking of some movers or, for example, synchronization of their rotation or operation, which is particularly effective when avoiding static and moving obstacles.

[0173] According to the inventive concept, the combination of the first machine compartment 4 with the intermediate second machine compartment 5, and the formation of the joint portion of the installed main and auxiliary equipment, actually inside the protective shell 8, creates conditions for the technical placement of components, each of which is protected from external influences and has a modern "machine" structure, thus ensuring the balanced and reliable operation of the various systems in the single functional block thus obtained, which is actually separated from the user's third unique machine compartment 6. This creates the possibility of efficient and reliable operation of the equipment of the combined compartments, the components of which are installed in the protective shell 8 at the designed location and interact according to established circuit principles for controlling and monitoring the operation of the drive, transmission and propulsion components, especially of robotic equipment.

[0174] The design of the third machine compartment 6, which is actually separated from the second, central machine compartment 5 and is made in the form of a cargo frame 10, creates an ergonomic and multifunctional unit with a convenient and balanced space for storing selected product groups, such as personal items. At the same time, the control equipment is located in a position directly accessible to the user, and the control components and communication equipment of said equipment are physically separated mainly from the temporary storage area of ​​the goods, which creates the conditions for the following operations: unimpeded selection and rapid transportation of selected products, a one-time purchase of these products (without having to place them on the checkout belt), and subsequent delivery to a convenient location within the retail store for unloading from the robotic shopping device, thus meeting the shopper's needs and further transportation of the goods out of the retail facility.

[0175] The proposed invention can find widespread application in the industry in the field of robotics and can be most successfully used on the premises of large retail facilities as a robotic shopping device that accompanies shoppers within the premises of a retail facility, thereby significantly enhancing and activating the activities of the shoppers while ensuring a significant improvement in the conditions for making retail purchases.

Claims

1. A user-activated robotic shopping device for collection and checkout of selected products, said device comprising the following subsystems in communication with each other: adaptive steering and control subsystem; Execute the mobile subsystem; and Subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products; wherein the subsystem's equipment suitable for commercial and shopping activities is divided into compatible, independent, and integrated equipment, and is physically distributed in three unique mechanized machine compartments according to the functional purpose of the components; wherein the compartments together form a robotic unit that accompanies the user and assists in the shopping process in terms of retail merchandise selection, temporary storage, and delivery of the products to a desired unloading area within the retail establishment; wherein the first distinct machine compartment is the lower support compartment in the unit and is primarily provided with equipment for performing the movement subsystem and the adaptive steering and control subsystem, said equipment comprising movers, typically wheeled, each connected to a different electric motor powered by a battery module, said movers being controlled by a central control unit to ensure their synchronized operation; wherein said central control unit is arranged in a second unique machine compartment occupying a central position; wherein the first machine compartment and the second machine compartment are arranged in a protective shell, the protective shell having a contour-limiting bumper on the outer side that conditionally separates the machine compartments; wherein a third unique mechanized machine compartment is arranged above the second central machine compartment and includes an enclosure for a cargo frame housing a combination of the primary equipment of a subsystem for temporary storage and accounting of products and partial equipment of an adaptive steering and control subsystem; wherein the combination comprises the following components connected to the central control unit: a scale for checking purchases by weight, a payment terminal, a portable computing device including a display, a digital video surveillance device, and a communication device configured as a WiFi module, a Bluetooth module, and a GPS / GLONASS modem; wherein a scale for checking purchases by weight is arranged at the bottom of the cargo box, and the payment terminal and the portable computing device are arranged at the upper front portion of the cargo box; The digital video surveillance equipment is divided into: a control digital video surveillance device disposed on a side wall of the cargo frame and configured to identify products; and a route digital video monitoring device disposed on a contoured outer stop of the third machine compartment and configured to identify a route; The communication device is arranged on an independent facade installed on one wall of the cargo frame.

2. The user activated robotic shopping device of claim 1, wherein the cargo box is designed to include a charger for a smart phone.

3. The user activated robotic shopping device according to claim 1, wherein the cargo frame is equipped with an additional scale for controlling the weighing of products by the user.

4. The user activated robotic shopping device of claim 1 wherein the contoured stop bumpers and contoured external stop that conditionally separate the machine compartment are made of a resilient wear resistant material.

5. The user activated robotic shopping device of claim 1, wherein an open compartment for items is provided on an outside front portion of the cargo frame.

6. The user activated robotic shopping device of claim 1 wherein a portion of the useful volume of the cargo frame is occupied by a separate enclosed compartment with a hinged top cover.

7. The user activated robotic shopping device of claim 1, wherein a digital video camera is connected to the central control unit and configured to monitor the user's emotional state during product selection.

8. The user-activated robotic shopping device according to claim 1, wherein an auxiliary equipment as a closed shelf for storing items is installed at a junction of the first machine compartment and the second machine compartment.

Images