Intelligent settlement method and system for shopping cart

Abstract

The invention provides an intelligent settlement method and system for a shopping cart, and the method comprises the steps: reading a first identity label on the shopping cart through an intelligent terminal, so as to associate the shopping cart; scanning the commodity bar code through the intelligent terminal to obtain commodity information; carrying out loss prevention verification on the commodity through the intelligent terminal, and updating a settlement list based on the commodity information and a loss prevention verification result; initiating payment operation based on the settlement list; the intelligent terminal is returned to the intelligent settlement table, and the intelligent terminal reads the second identity label on the intelligent settlement table so as to send intelligent terminal state information to the management server; a shopping process is completed based on the intelligent terminal state information and the payment state; wherein the payment operation is completed through the intelligent terminal before returning or is completed through the intelligent settlement table after returning.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of smart shopping technology, and more specifically, to a smart checkout method and system for shopping carts. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, in the retail industry, especially in supermarket shopping scenarios, traditional checkout methods mainly rely on manual checkout counters. After selecting their items, customers must queue at a designated checkout area, where cashiers scan each item's barcode, calculate the total price, and complete the payment. This method suffers from problems such as long queue times, high labor costs, and a poor user experience.

[0003] To improve shopping efficiency, several improvement solutions have been proposed in existing technologies. For example, smart shopping carts can replace traditional carts, integrating scanning and payment functions to enable simultaneous shopping and checkout. However, these solutions require completely abandoning existing ordinary shopping carts and replacing them with expensive smart carts, resulting in resource waste and increased costs. Furthermore, smart shopping carts typically use centralized charging, requiring dedicated charging areas that occupy a large area and are inconvenient to manage. After users push the carts to parking lots or other areas outside the mall, there are also problems such as difficulty in retrieval, and the carts are prone to loss or damage, further increasing operating costs and maintenance complexity.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop an intelligent checkout method and system for shopping carts that overcomes the above-mentioned shortcomings. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This invention provides an intelligent checkout method and system for shopping carts, which at least solves the problems of resource waste, high cost and management difficulties existing in the current intelligent shopping cart checkout methods.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, in a first aspect, the present invention provides a smart checkout method for a shopping cart, characterized in that it includes: The shopping cart is associated with a first identity identifier read from a smart terminal. The product information is obtained by scanning the product barcode using the smart terminal. The smart terminal performs damage prevention verification on the goods and updates the settlement list based on the goods information and damage prevention verification results; Initiate a payment operation based on the settlement list; The smart terminal is returned to the smart checkout counter. The smart terminal reads the second identity identifier on the smart checkout counter to obtain the smart terminal location information and sends the smart terminal status information to the management server. The shopping process is completed based on the status information of the smart terminal and the payment status. The payment operation is completed either through the smart terminal before return or through the smart settlement counter after return.

[0007] Furthermore, the step of performing damage prevention verification on the goods through the smart terminal includes: In response to a signal from the distance sensor that an item has been placed in the shopping cart, the camera is triggered to capture an image of the item. The loss prevention processor runs an image recognition algorithm to compare the recognition features of the collected images with the product information obtained by scanning the product barcode, so as to generate a loss prevention verification result. If the verification result is abnormal, an alert will be triggered and loss prevention verification will be performed again; if the verification result is normal, the corresponding product will be updated to the settlement list.

[0008] Furthermore, the payment operation is completed via the smart terminal before return, specifically as follows: In response to detecting that the smart terminal has entered the settlement area, the smart terminal generates a payment QR code; Payment is completed by scanning the payment QR code using the user's mobile device.

[0009] Furthermore, the payment operation is completed through the smart checkout counter, specifically as follows: Return the smart terminal to the charging dock of the smart checkout counter; The smart terminal reads the second identification mark on the charging dock to obtain the smart terminal location information and uploads the smart terminal status information to the management server. The smart terminal status information includes the smart terminal number, location information, power information and lock status. The management server obtains the corresponding settlement list based on the smart terminal number and controls the information display screen of the smart settlement terminal to display the settlement list; Payment is completed through the payment module integrated into the smart checkout counter.

[0010] Furthermore, prior to the step of identifying the first identification mark on the shopping cart via a smart terminal, the method further includes: The user's mobile terminal sends a request to the management server to borrow a smart terminal. The management server identifies and unlocks target smart terminals for user use based on the smart terminal status information.

[0011] Furthermore, the process of completing the shopping process based on the smart terminal's status information and payment status includes: The system uses a reading module installed on the exit gate to read the third-party identification mark set on the shopping cart, obtains the shopping cart number, and sends it to the smart checkout counter. The smart checkout counter receives and verifies the shopping cart number. When it confirms that the shopping process of the shopping cart has been completed and the associated smart terminal is in the return status, it sends an opening command to the exit gate.

[0012] In a second aspect, the present invention provides an intelligent checkout system for a shopping cart, for implementing the intelligent checkout method as described in the first aspect, comprising: A smart terminal, detachably mounted on a shopping cart via a fixed bracket, includes: The first identity recognition unit is used to read the first identity identifier set on the shopping cart to obtain the shopping cart identity information; The barcode scanning unit is used to scan product barcodes to obtain product information; The loss prevention unit is used to perform loss prevention verification on the goods when they are placed in the shopping cart and generate loss prevention verification results; The second identity recognition unit is used to read the second identity identifier set on the smart checkout table when the device is returned, so as to obtain the smart terminal location information and send the smart terminal status information to the management server. Smart checkout counters include: Multiple charging docks are provided for storing the smart terminal, and each charging dock is provided with the second identity identifier; The host information processing module is used to manage the smart terminal and process the user's interactive operations during the settlement process, and generate corresponding operation instructions; The information display screen is connected to the host information processing module and is used to display the settlement list and receive user touch interaction operations; A management server, communicatively connected to the smart terminal and the smart checkout counter, is configured as follows: Receive the shopping cart identity information from the smart terminal and bind the shopping cart to the user account; Receive product barcode information and loss prevention verification results from the smart terminal to generate a settlement list corresponding to the user account; Receive payment status and smart terminal status information from the smart terminal; Based on the status information of the smart terminal and the payment status, the shopping process is confirmed to be complete.

[0013] Furthermore, the intelligent settlement system also includes: The exit gate is connected to the intelligent checkout counter via communication. The exit gate is equipped with a reading module, which reads the third-party identification card set on the shopping cart to obtain the shopping cart number, and sends the shopping cart number to the smart checkout counter; The smart checkout counter is further configured to receive and verify the shopping cart number. When it is confirmed that the shopping process of the shopping cart has been completed and the associated smart terminal is in the return status, it sends an opening command to the exit gate.

[0014] Furthermore, the loss prevention unit includes: A distance sensor is used to detect whether any items have been placed in the shopping cart; A camera is used to capture images of the items placed in the shopping cart; The loss prevention processor is used to compare the recognition features of the acquired image with the product information based on the image recognition algorithm to generate a loss prevention verification result; If the loss prevention verification result is abnormal, an alert is triggered and the loss prevention verification is performed again; if the loss prevention verification result is normal, the corresponding product is updated in the settlement list.

[0015] Furthermore, the smart terminal also includes: An electromagnetic lock is used to lock the smart terminal onto the fixed bracket or the charging dock.

[0016] Compared with the prior art, the advantages and positive effects of the present invention are as follows: This invention transforms existing ordinary shopping carts into intelligent ones through detachable smart terminals, greatly reducing the one-time investment cost of equipment and thus avoiding huge waste of resources and procurement expenditures.

[0017] This invention incorporates a loss prevention unit in smart terminal devices. By integrating AI recognition and loss prevention verification technologies, the system can perform real-time comparison and monitoring when users scan goods and add them to their shopping carts. This effectively avoids the loss of goods due to users missing or scanning the wrong items. At the same time, the self-service shopping design throughout the entire process greatly improves checkout efficiency and user experience.

[0018] This invention enables automated and centralized management of smart terminals, covering the entire lifecycle from user borrowing and usage status monitoring to final return. This not only significantly reduces the management and maintenance costs of the equipment but also ensures the smooth operation of the entire shopping process and the effective recycling of equipment resources.

[0019] The present invention centrally places the smart terminals on the smart checkout counter for unified charging and management, which solves the problems of scattered charging, difficult management, and easy loss and damage of smart shopping carts, and effectively reduces the later operation and maintenance costs. Attached Figure Description

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the shopping cart and smart terminal structure in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent checkout counter structure in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the layout of the intelligent checkout counter in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 4 This is a first schematic diagram of the layout of the shopping entrance area and checkout area in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 5 This is a second schematic diagram showing the layout of the shopping entrance area and checkout area in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 6 This is a structural diagram of an intelligent checkout system for a shopping cart in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 This is a flowchart of the intelligent checkout method for shopping carts in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 8 This is a flowchart illustrating how a user retrieves a smart terminal before shopping, as described in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the user shopping process in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 10 This is a flowchart illustrating how a user completes shopping checkout and returns the smart terminal in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0021] In the above image: 1. Shopping cart; 2. Smart terminal; 3. Mounting bracket; 4. Smart checkout counter; 41. Charging dock; 42. Main unit information processing module; 43. Information display screen; 44. Card reader; 45. Cash module; 46. Numbered indicator sign; 5. Management server; 6. Entrance gate; 7. Exit gate; 71. Reading module; 8. Cargo sorting station. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0023] In the description of this application, it should be understood that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "level," "top," "bottom," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicating orientation or positional relationships based on the orientation or positional relationships shown in the accompanying drawings, are used only for the convenience of describing this application and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this application. The terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of indicated technical features. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include one or more of that feature. In the description of this application, unless otherwise stated, "a plurality of" means two or more.

[0024] In the description of this application, it should be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection between two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this application based on the specific circumstances.

[0025] The following is in conjunction with the appendix Figures 1-10 The technical solution of this embodiment is described in detail. Unless otherwise specified, the following implementation methods and embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0026] Currently, in the retail industry, especially in supermarket shopping scenarios, traditional checkout methods mainly rely on manual checkout counters. After selecting their items, customers must queue at a designated checkout area, where cashiers scan each item's barcode, calculate the total price, and complete the payment. This method suffers from problems such as long queue times, high labor costs, and a poor user experience.

[0027] To improve shopping efficiency, several improvement solutions have been proposed in existing technologies. For example, smart shopping carts can replace traditional carts, integrating scanning and payment functions to enable simultaneous shopping and checkout. However, these solutions require completely abandoning existing ordinary shopping carts and replacing them with expensive smart carts, resulting in resource waste and increased costs. Furthermore, smart shopping carts typically use centralized charging, requiring dedicated charging areas that occupy a large area and are inconvenient to manage. After users push the carts to parking lots or other areas outside the mall, there are also problems such as difficulty in retrieval, and the carts are prone to loss or damage, further increasing operating costs and maintenance complexity.

[0028] like Figures 1-6As shown, the present invention provides an intelligent checkout system for shopping carts, applied to a regular shopping cart 1, including an intelligent terminal 2, an intelligent checkout counter 4, and a management server 5.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the shopping cart 1 and smart terminal 2 in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 1 As shown, the smart terminal 2 is detachably mounted on the shopping cart 1 via a fixed bracket 3.

[0030] In some embodiments, the shopping cart 1 is a regular shopping cart without any integrated electronic devices. A mounting bracket 3 is fixedly installed on the handle of the shopping cart 1. The side of the mounting bracket 3 facing the smart terminal 2 has a shaped guide rail or positioning slot, and the smart terminal 2 has a corresponding guide slot or snap-fit ​​structure. The user can achieve initial positioning and mechanical engagement of the two by pushing the smart terminal 2 into the mounting bracket 3 in a specific direction.

[0031] Preferably, the fixed bracket 3 integrates a locking tongue mechanism, which works in conjunction with the electromagnetic lock in the smart terminal 2. When the smart terminal 2 is installed in place, the electromagnetic lock receives a locking command, and its locking tongue extends and engages with the lock hole of the fixed bracket 3, thereby firmly locking the smart terminal 2 onto the shopping cart 1 to prevent it from accidentally falling off or being taken away during shopping.

[0032] The smart terminal 2 includes a first identity recognition unit, a barcode scanning unit, a loss prevention unit, and a second identity recognition unit.

[0033] The first identity recognition unit is used to identify the first identity identifier set on the shopping cart 1 in order to obtain the identity information of the shopping cart 1.

[0034] In some embodiments, a first identification identifier is disposed inside the fixing bracket 3. The first identification identifier may be a passive UHF RFID electronic tag or an NFC tag, which stores the unique number information of the shopping cart 1. The first identification unit is a card reader of the corresponding frequency band integrated in the smart terminal 2, such as an RFID card reader or an NFC card reader module.

[0035] When the user places the smart terminal 2 on the fixed bracket 3 and it reaches the preset installation position, the card reader reads the shopping cart 1 number and other information stored in the electronic tag via radio frequency signals. After successful reading, the smart terminal 2 logically binds itself to the shopping cart 1 ID locally, forming an associated data pair, and uploads this binding relationship to the management server 5 in real time via its Wi-Fi module.

[0036] The barcode scanning unit is used to scan product barcodes to obtain product information.

[0037] In some embodiments, the barcode scanning unit may be an embedded scanning module integrated within the smart terminal 2, which may be a laser scanner or an image scanner. The housing of the smart terminal 2 is provided with a scanning window corresponding to the scanning unit.

[0038] When a user makes a purchase, the barcode scanning unit can be activated in one of two ways: by manually triggering the virtual scan button on the screen in the shopping application interface of the smart terminal 2, or by directly triggering it through the physical scan button located on the side of the smart terminal 2.

[0039] Once activated, the scanning unit emits scanning light or initiates image acquisition to identify the product barcode. After successful decoding, smart terminal 2 generates a data packet containing the product code, scan timestamp, and smart terminal 2's serial number, and sends it to management server 5 via Wi-Fi. Management server 5 queries the product database for the detailed product information corresponding to the code and sends this information back to smart terminal 2. Upon receiving this information, smart terminal 2 immediately updates the product entry in the checkout list area of ​​its display screen and calculates and displays the total number of items and the cumulative amount in the current shopping cart 1 in real time.

[0040] The loss prevention unit is used to perform loss prevention verification on the goods when they are placed in the shopping cart 1, and generate loss prevention verification results.

[0041] In some embodiments, the damage prevention unit includes a distance sensor, a camera, and a damage prevention processor.

[0042] A distance sensor is used to detect whether any goods have been placed in the shopping cart 1; a camera is used to capture images of the goods placed in the shopping cart 1; and a loss prevention processor is used to compare the recognition features of the captured images with the product information based on an image recognition algorithm to generate a loss prevention verification result.

[0043] If the loss prevention verification result is abnormal, an alert will be triggered and the loss prevention verification will be performed again; if the loss prevention verification result is normal, the corresponding product will be updated to the checkout list.

[0044] Preferably, when a user successfully scans the product barcode using the barcode scanning unit of the smart terminal 2, the loss prevention unit immediately enters a ready-to-trigger state. At this time, if the user places the product into the shopping cart 1, the distance sensor installed at the bottom of the smart terminal 2 or facing the basket of the shopping cart 1 detects that an object has entered the preset monitoring area and immediately sends a trigger signal to the loss prevention processor.

[0045] Upon receiving the signal, the loss prevention processor activates the camera. The camera continuously captures multiple images at a certain frame rate during the process of placing items into the shopping cart 1. The loss prevention processor runs a pre-set image recognition algorithm to analyze the captured images in real time. The algorithm identifies the items being placed in the images, extracts their visual features, and compares these extracted visual features with the similarity features of standard product images obtained by scanning barcodes. These standard product image features are sourced from the product database on the management server 5.

[0046] If the similarity of the comparison results is higher than a preset threshold, the loss prevention processor determines that the verification has passed and generates a normal verification result. The product is then officially added to the checkout list, and the addition is displayed successfully on the smart terminal 2 screen.

[0047] If the similarity is below a preset threshold, the loss prevention processor determines the verification is abnormal and generates an abnormal verification result. At this time, the smart terminal 2 immediately emits a warning sound through its speaker, while the screen flashes red and a prompt box pops up, reminding the user that the product may be inconsistent and to recheck. The system will record this abnormality and can guide the user to rescan or seek assistance.

[0048] The second identification unit is used to read the second identification mark set on the smart checkout counter 4 when the device is returned, so as to obtain the location information of the smart terminal 2 and send the status information of the smart terminal 2 to the management server 5.

[0049] In some embodiments, the second identification unit is an RFID reader module or an NFC communication module integrated into the smart terminal 2. Accordingly, the second identification is a passive RFID electronic tag or NFC tag embedded in the charging base 41 of each smart checkout counter 4, which stores the unique location code of the charging base 41, the checkout counter number to which it belongs, and the area information.

[0050] When a user places the smart terminal 2 on the charging base 41 of the smart checkout counter 4 in preparation for return, the smart terminal 2 detects physical contact with the charging base 41 via a contact sensor on its bottom and automatically activates the second identification unit. This unit reads the location code information of the electronic tag inside the charging base 41 to complete the terminal's own positioning.

[0051] The main control processor of smart terminal 2 synchronously collects the terminal's device number, remaining battery power, electromagnetic lock status, last order number, and network connection status. Combined with the newly acquired location code, it encapsulates them into a structured smart terminal 2 status information data packet and sends it to management server 5.

[0052] Preferably, the smart terminal 2 also includes a touch screen, which may be a 10.1-inch touch screen as the main human-computer interaction interface.

[0053] Preferably, the smart terminal 2 also includes a high-capacity rechargeable battery and a wireless charging module. The rechargeable battery can be a lithium polymer battery to provide operating power for the smart terminal 2. The wireless charging module includes a receiving coil and a control circuit, which matches the transmitting coil in the charging base 41 of the smart checkout counter 4. When the user returns the smart terminal 2 to the charging base 41, the terminal detects its position through a contact sensor on its bottom and automatically activates the wireless charging module, starting to automatically replenish the built-in battery through electromagnetic induction, ensuring that the terminal is always in a fully charged and usable state.

[0054] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the intelligent checkout counter 4 in an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 3 A schematic diagram of the layout of the intelligent checkout counter 4 in this embodiment of the invention is shown below. Figures 2-3 The specific structure of the intelligent checkout counter 4 is described in detail.

[0055] like Figure 2 As shown, the smart checkout counter 4 includes multiple charging docks 41, a host information processing module 42, and an information display screen 43.

[0056] Multiple charging docks 41 are used to store smart terminals 2, and each charging dock 41 is equipped with a second identity identifier.

[0057] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the smart checkout counter 4 includes multiple charging stations 41, which can be configured as a multi-layer structure. Each layer has multiple charging stations 41 arranged in a matrix to achieve high-density storage and centralized management of the smart terminal 2.

[0058] Preferably, each charging dock 41 integrates a wireless charging coil, which can automatically charge the battery of the smart terminal 2 when it is placed in place.

[0059] Preferably, each charging dock 41 is provided with an electronic tag as a second identification. The electronic tag can be a passive RFID tag, which is sealed inside the charging dock 41 and stores the unique location number of the charging dock 41.

[0060] Furthermore, the charging base 41 is also equipped with an electromagnetic lock cooperating mechanism that matches the electromagnetic lock on the smart terminal 2. When the smart terminal 2 is returned, the locking mechanism in the charging base 41 can receive the instruction from the host information processing module 42 and work with the terminal electromagnetic lock to complete the locking action to ensure that the terminal is fixed.

[0061] In addition, a status indicator light is provided in front of the charging dock 41. It can use a three-color LED light, such as red, green and blue, to indicate the status of the dock. For example, red indicates a malfunction, green indicates that the terminal is locked and charging, and blue indicates that the terminal is available for use.

[0062] The host information processing module 42 is used to manage the smart terminal 2 and process the user's interactive operations during the settlement process, and generate corresponding operation instructions.

[0063] In some embodiments, the host information processing module 42 serves as the control center of the smart checkout counter 4, and includes a multi-core main control CPU, memory storage, communication interface circuit, audio processing circuit, and display driver circuit. The main control CPU is responsible for running proprietary checkout management software, which has multi-threaded task processing capabilities, enabling it to simultaneously manage the status monitoring of multiple charging stations 41, process user touch interaction commands, and maintain real-time data synchronization with the management server 5.

[0064] The information display screen 43 is connected to the host information processing module 42 and is used to display the settlement list and receive user touch interaction operations.

[0065] In some embodiments, the information display screen 43 establishes a communication connection with the host information processing module 42 through the display port. It adopts a high-brightness liquid crystal display screen and is equipped with a multi-touch capacitive layer, which can clearly display settlement information and accurately respond to the user's touch operation.

[0066] Preferably, the smart checkout counter 4 also includes a card reader and a cash module 45, which together constitute a diversified payment solution to meet the payment preferences of different users. The card reader 44 supports magnetic stripe cards, IC cards and contactless payments, and is connected to the host information processing module 42 through a dedicated interface; the cash module 45 includes a banknote reader and a coin processing mechanism, which can accept cash of different denominations and automatically calculate change.

[0067] In practical applications, when a user chooses to complete payment at the smart checkout counter 4, the information display screen 43 will clearly show the settlement list and prompt the user to select a payment method. If the customer chooses to pay by card, the transaction can be completed through the card reader 44 integrated on the side of the checkout counter; if they choose to pay in cash, they can use the cash module 45 to deposit banknotes or insert coins. All payment operations are monitored in real time by the host information processing module 42, and the payment data is transmitted to the management server 5 in encrypted form for verification, ensuring the security and reliability of the transaction.

[0068] Preferably, each smart checkout counter 4 is equipped with a numbered indicator sign 46 at the very top. In practical applications, when a user needs to find a specific smart checkout counter 4, they can quickly locate it using the numbered indicator sign 46 at the top.

[0069] like Figure 3 As shown, multiple smart settlement terminals can be flexibly arranged according to the specific site conditions. A linear arrangement can be adopted, with multiple smart settlement terminals 4 arranged in a straight line along the wall or fixed passage to form a clear settlement channel.

[0070] Figures 4-5 These are the first and second schematic diagrams showing the layout of the shopping entrance area and checkout area in an embodiment of the present invention; the following is in conjunction with... Figures 4-5 This document describes in detail an exemplary layout of the intelligent checkout system for shopping cart 1 in a specific application scenario.

[0071] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 The diagram illustrates a preferred overall layout scheme of the present invention. The shopping area is divided into two main functional areas: an entrance area and a checkout area, forming a clear and efficient user checkout flow path.

[0072] like Figure 4 As shown, this invention provides an efficient multi-entry-multi-checkout area alternating layout scheme. This layout adopts a modular, repeating unit form, sequentially setting up an alternating pattern of "entry area-checkout area-entry area-checkout area" along the user checkout flow direction, forming a continuous shopping checkout channel.

[0073] At the entrance area, multiple smart checkout counters 4 form a smart terminal 2 collection point. Users can use their mobile devices to scan the QR code on the screen to borrow the smart terminal 2 placed at the checkout counter. Adjacent to this is a regular shopping cart storage area. After taking the smart terminal 2, users attach it to the fixed bracket 3 on the shopping cart 1 to complete the binding process. An entrance gate 6, employing a one-way manual swing gate design, is located between the entrance area and the shopping area, allowing users to easily push their carts into the shopping area to begin shopping.

[0074] The checkout area is the central area where users pay after completing their purchase. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the area is equipped with multiple sets of intelligent checkout counters 4, arranged in a linear fashion to form an efficient checkout channel.

[0075] In some embodiments, an exit gate 7 is provided at the exit of the settlement area.

[0076] The exit gate 7 is connected to the smart checkout counter 4. The exit gate 7 is equipped with a reading module 71, which is used to read the third identity identifier set on the shopping cart 1 to obtain the shopping cart 1 number, and send the shopping cart 1 number to the smart checkout counter 4.

[0077] The smart checkout counter 4 is further configured to receive and verify the shopping cart number 1. When it is confirmed that the shopping process of the shopping cart 1 has been completed and the associated smart terminal 2 is in the return status, it sends an opening command to the exit gate 7.

[0078] Specifically, the exit gate 7 and the reading module 71 communicate with the nearest smart checkout station 4 via a data cable, and transmit the obtained shopping cart number 1 to the smart checkout station 4. The smart checkout station 4 obtains data from the management server 5 for further judgment. After confirming that there are no abnormalities in the order information and that the smart terminal 2 has been returned to its proper place, it issues an opening command, and the exit gate 7 opens, allowing the user to push the cart away.

[0079] Preferably, a sorting station 8 can be set up outside the settlement area for users to calculate and sort their goods after completing the settlement.

[0080] Preferably, the present invention also includes a public information guidance screen and a checkout status monitoring screen. The public information guidance screen faces the external passage and mainly serves a guidance function, dynamically displaying the operation process of the entire self-service shopping solution, mall promotional advertisements, member registration entrances, and other information, aiming to attract users' attention and provide pre-checkout guidance. The checkout status monitoring screen faces the checkout area and displays in real time the customer number, product list summary, and checkout status of customers currently checking out. Mall management personnel can visually verify the products in the user's shopping cart 1 based on this information, achieving manual loss prevention supervision.

[0081] Furthermore, public information guidance screens and settlement status monitoring screens can use screens of different sizes, such as 55-inch LCD screens.

[0082] It's worth noting that the alternating layout of the entrance and checkout areas offers significant advantages. Firstly, it allows for natural customer flow, avoiding the congestion associated with traditional single-entrance systems. Secondly, it provides shopping malls with flexible expansion capabilities, allowing for adjustments to the number of modules based on site shape and customer traffic demands, creating a layout best suited to the specific location. For example, in large stores, multiple such modules can be arranged in parallel to construct a grid-like checkout network; while in long, narrow spaces, they can be arranged alternately along a straight line to ensure efficient space utilization.

[0083] Figure 6 This is a structural diagram of the intelligent checkout system for shopping cart 1 in an embodiment of the present invention. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 6 This document details the core role and functional configuration of Management Server 5 within the system.

[0084] Management server 5 is connected to smart terminal 2 and smart checkout counter 4. Management server 5 is configured as follows: Receive the identity information of shopping cart 1 from smart terminal 2 and bind shopping cart 1 to user account; Receive product barcode information and loss prevention verification results from smart terminal 2 to generate a settlement list corresponding to the user account; Receive payment status and status information from smart terminal 2; Based on the status information of the smart terminal 2 and the payment status, the shopping process is confirmed to be complete.

[0085] Preferably, the management server 5 is a set of management software that runs on a server installed inside the shopping mall. The management server 5 acquires data information from the smart terminal 2 and the smart checkout counter 4 to achieve unified management of the above devices.

[0086] Preferably, the management server 5 can receive device status information uploaded by all smart terminals 2, including terminal number, battery level, network connection status, current location and electromagnetic lock status, and maintain a real-time status database of all smart terminals 2 and shopping cart 1. Based on this, when a user applies to borrow a terminal, it can intelligently allocate terminals with sufficient power and normal status. At the same time, the management server 5 can monitor the operation status of each unit of the smart checkout counter 4 and handle device abnormal alarms.

[0087] Furthermore, the management server 5 can provide member registration and management functions. When a user initiates a terminal borrowing request by scanning a QR code, the server will associate this session with the user's account. The management server 5 receives the identity information of the shopping cart 1 uploaded by the smart terminal 2, and completes the binding of the user, the smart terminal 2, and the shopping cart 1, laying the foundation for subsequent product settlement.

[0088] Furthermore, management server 5 receives product barcode information from smart terminal 2, queries the corresponding detailed information in the product database, and generates and updates the settlement list corresponding to the user account in real time. In addition, management server 5 receives loss prevention verification results from smart terminal 2 and associates them with product scanning records. Records with verification anomalies are marked for subsequent data analysis and risk control.

[0089] Furthermore, the management server 5 receives payment status from the smart terminal 2 or the smart checkout table 4; as the arbitrator of the payment process, it verifies the legality of the payment and updates the order status after the payment is successful.

[0090] In addition, the management server 5 receives the shopping cart 1 number sent by the exit gate 7 and read by the reading module 71; based on the number, it verifies the payment status of the associated order and whether the bound smart terminal 2 has been returned normally. After confirming that everything is normal, send an opening command to exit gate 7 to complete the final verification of the shopping process.

[0091] In summary, through the collaborative work of the aforementioned modules, management server 5 achieves centralized control, data management, and intelligent decision-making over the entire self-service shopping process, ensuring the system's efficient, stable, and secure operation.

[0092] Figure 7This is a flowchart of the intelligent checkout method for shopping cart 1 in an embodiment of the present invention. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 7 The specific process of the intelligent checkout method for shopping cart 1 according to the present invention is described in detail.

[0093] This invention provides a smart checkout method for a shopping cart 1, comprising: S1: Read the first identity identifier on shopping cart 1 through smart terminal 2 to associate shopping cart 1.

[0094] S2: Scan the product barcode using smart terminal 2 to obtain product information.

[0095] S3: Perform damage prevention verification on the goods through smart terminal 2, and update the settlement list based on the goods information and damage prevention verification results.

[0096] S4: Initiate a payment operation based on the settlement list.

[0097] S5: Return the smart terminal 2 to the smart checkout counter 4. The smart terminal 2 reads the second identity identifier on the smart checkout counter 4 to send the status information of the smart terminal 2 to the management server 5.

[0098] S6: Complete the shopping process based on the status information of the smart terminal 2 and the payment status.

[0099] The payment process can be completed either through the smart terminal 2 before return or through the smart settlement table 4 after return.

[0100] Figure 8 This is a flowchart of a user taking the smart terminal 2 before shopping, as described in an embodiment of the present invention. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 8 This document details the specific process by which users retrieve their smart terminal 2 before making a purchase.

[0101] In some embodiments, prior to the step of identifying the first identifier on the shopping cart 1 via the smart terminal 2, the method further includes: The user sends a request to the management server 5 to borrow the smart terminal 2 via the user's mobile terminal; the management server 5 determines and unlocks the target smart terminal 2 for the user to use based on the operating status information of each smart terminal 2.

[0102] Preferably, before the step of identifying the first identity identifier on the shopping cart 1 through the smart terminal 2, a process of borrowing and binding the smart terminal 2 is also included. The user first takes a regular shopping cart 1, and then uses a smartphone to scan the dedicated QR code located on the entrance side of the smart checkout counter 4. This operation simultaneously completes the binding of the user's membership information and sends a request to the management server 5 to borrow the smart terminal 2.

[0103] Preferably, after receiving a borrowing request, the management server 5 immediately selects the smart terminal 2 with the best condition from all available smart terminals 2, taking into account factors such as sufficient power, normal communication, and no fault records, and sends an unlocking command to the host processing module of the smart checkout station 4 where the terminal is located. After receiving the command, the host processing module controls the electromagnetic lock of the target smart terminal 2 to unlock, and simultaneously prompts the user to retrieve the designated terminal through voice broadcast and indicator light flashing.

[0104] After the user takes the smart terminal 2, they place it on the mounting bracket 3 of the shopping cart 1. At this time, the smart terminal 2 automatically detects whether it is installed correctly using a status sensor on its bottom. If it is installed correctly, the terminal immediately reads the electronic tag inside the mounting bracket 3 through its built-in RFID reader to obtain the shopping cart 1 ID information, then controls the electromagnetic lock to lock it and uploads the binding information to the management server 5. If improper installation is detected, the user will be prompted to reinstall it on the interface.

[0105] After receiving the binding information, management server 5 performs a final verification to confirm that smart terminal 2 has successfully read shopping cart 1 ID and that the electromagnetic lock is in a normal locked state. After successful verification, the server sends a confirmation command to smart terminal 2, and the smart terminal interface immediately displays a "Equipment Complete" message and automatically enters the shopping interface, at which point the user can begin the actual shopping process.

[0106] Figure 9 This is a flowchart of the user shopping process in an embodiment of the present invention. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 9 Detailed explanation of the user's shopping process.

[0107] In some embodiments, the product is subjected to damage prevention verification via the smart terminal 2, including: In response to the distance sensor detecting that an item has been placed in shopping cart 1, the camera is triggered to capture an image of the item; The loss prevention processor runs an image recognition algorithm to compare the recognition features of the collected images with the product information obtained by scanning the product barcode, so as to generate loss prevention verification results. If the verification result is abnormal, an alert will be triggered and loss prevention verification will be performed again; if the verification result is normal, the corresponding product will be updated to the checkout list.

[0108] Preferably, after selecting a product, the user first scans the product barcode using the scanner of the smart terminal 2. Upon successful scanning, the screen of the smart terminal 2 immediately displays detailed information about the product, including its name, specifications, price, and the total amount in the current shopping cart 1. Subsequently, when the user places a product into the shopping cart 1, the smart terminal 2 detects an object entering the monitoring area of ​​the shopping cart 1 using a distance sensor, and then triggers the camera to capture an image sequence of the product placement process.

[0109] Preferably, the loss prevention processor then runs an image recognition algorithm to analyze the collected product images in real time, extract their visual features, and compare them with the standard features of the products obtained by scanning the barcode using AI to generate loss prevention verification results.

[0110] If the comparison matches (i.e., the similarity is higher than a preset threshold), the system determines that the verification is successful, automatically adds the product to the checkout list, and prompts the user to continue to the next shopping step. If the comparison does not match, the system determines that the verification is abnormal and immediately activates the audible and visual alarm mechanism. This involves a warning sound from the speaker, a flashing red warning on the screen, and a simultaneous alarm on the indicator light, prompting the user that "the product may not match; please check again." The system then guides the user to rescan or seek assistance from staff until the verification is successful before the user can continue shopping.

[0111] Figure 10 This is a flowchart of the user completing the shopping checkout and returning the smart terminal 2 in an embodiment of the present invention. The following is in conjunction with... Figure 10 This document details the specific process for users to complete shopping checkout and return the smart terminal 2.

[0112] In some embodiments, the payment operation is completed via smart terminal 2 before return, specifically as follows: In response to the detection that smart terminal 2 has entered the settlement area, smart terminal 2 generates a payment QR code; Payment is completed by scanning a payment QR code using the user's mobile device.

[0113] In some embodiments, the payment operation is completed through the smart checkout counter 4, specifically as follows: Return the smart terminal 2 to the charging dock 41 of the smart checkout counter 4; The smart terminal 2 reads the second identification mark on the charging dock 41 and uploads the status information of the smart terminal 2 to the management server 5; The management server 5 obtains the corresponding settlement list based on the status information of the smart terminal 2, and controls the information display screen 43 of the smart settlement station 4 to display the settlement list; Payment is completed through the payment module integrated into the smart checkout counter 4.

[0114] In some embodiments, the shopping process, based on the status information of the smart terminal 2 and the payment status, includes: The reading module 71 installed on the exit gate 7 reads the third identity identifier set on the shopping cart 1 to obtain the shopping cart 1 number and send it to the smart checkout counter 4. The smart checkout counter 4 receives and verifies the shopping cart number 1. When it confirms that the shopping process of shopping cart 1 has been completed and the associated smart terminal 2 is in the return status, it sends an opening command to the exit gate 7.

[0115] Preferably, the payment operation can be flexibly selected according to the user's needs. The user can choose to pay through a mobile terminal, or choose to pay with cash or by card to complete the settlement.

[0116] Furthermore, if the user chooses to pay via mobile terminal, after completing their purchase, they select "Mobile Payment" on the smart terminal 2 interface before entering the checkout area. The smart terminal 2 then uploads the information to the management server 5. The management server 5 recommends the optimal smart checkout station 4 number based on the status of each smart checkout station 4 and displays this recommendation on the smart terminal 2 interface. Once the smart terminal 2 detects that the user has entered the checkout area via Bluetooth beacon, the interface automatically displays a payment QR code, which the user scans with their mobile phone to complete the payment. After successful payment, the smart terminal 2 automatically unlocks the electromagnetic lock and prompts the user to return the terminal to the designated smart checkout station 4.

[0117] Furthermore, if the user chooses to pay by cash or card, the smart terminal 2 prompts the user to proceed to the checkout area. Upon arrival, the smart terminal 2 automatically unlocks, and the user returns it to the charging dock 41. The smart terminal 2 reads the identification of the charging dock 41 and uploads its status information to the management server 5. The management server 5 retrieves the corresponding order and displays it on the information display screen 43 of the smart checkout counter 4. After verifying that everything is correct, the user completes the payment using the card reader 44 or cash module 45 integrated into the smart checkout counter 4.

[0118] Preferably, both payment paths ultimately undergo unified final state verification and exit control. After the user returns the terminal, the management server 5 comprehensively judges whether both the order payment status and the device return status are normal. If either status is abnormal, a status warning light will illuminate red and a verification prompt will appear on the interface; if both are normal, the management server 5 will mark the shopping cart 1 as open. When the reading module 71 of the exit gate 7 reads the number and uploads it for verification, the management server 5, after confirming that it is correct, sends an opening command to the gate, completing the entire shopping process. This ensures closed-loop management of payment and device return, effectively preventing the situation of leaving without settlement.

[0119] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of the present invention and is not intended to limit the present invention in any other way. Any person skilled in the art may make changes or modifications to the above-disclosed technical content to create equivalent embodiments for application in other fields. However, any simple modifications, equivalent changes, and modifications made to the above embodiments based on the technical essence of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention shall still fall within the protection scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A smart checkout method for shopping carts, characterized in that, include: The shopping cart is associated with a first identity identifier read from a smart terminal. The product information is obtained by scanning the product barcode using the smart terminal. The smart terminal performs damage prevention verification on the goods and updates the settlement list based on the goods information and damage prevention verification results; Initiate a payment operation based on the settlement list; The smart terminal is returned to the smart checkout counter. The smart terminal reads the second identity identifier on the smart checkout counter to obtain the smart terminal location information and sends the smart terminal status information to the management server. The shopping process is completed based on the status information of the smart terminal and the payment status. The payment operation is completed either through the smart terminal before return or through the smart settlement counter after return.

2. The intelligent checkout method for shopping carts according to claim 1, characterized in that, The step of performing damage prevention verification on goods through the smart terminal includes: In response to a signal from the distance sensor that an item has been placed in the shopping cart, the camera is triggered to capture an image of the item. The loss prevention processor runs an image recognition algorithm to compare the recognition features of the collected images with the product information obtained by scanning the product barcode, so as to generate a loss prevention verification result. If the verification result is abnormal, an alert will be triggered and loss prevention verification will be performed again; if the verification result is normal, the corresponding product will be updated to the settlement list.

3. The intelligent checkout method for shopping carts according to claim 1, characterized in that, The payment operation is completed via the smart terminal before return, specifically as follows: In response to detecting that the smart terminal has entered the settlement area, the smart terminal generates a payment QR code; Payment is completed by scanning the payment QR code using the user's mobile device.

4. The intelligent checkout method for shopping carts according to claim 1, characterized in that, The payment operation is completed through the smart checkout counter, specifically as follows: Return the smart terminal to the charging dock of the smart checkout counter; The smart terminal reads the second identification mark on the charging dock to obtain the smart terminal location information and uploads the smart terminal status information to the management server. The smart terminal status information includes the smart terminal number, location information, power information and lock status. The management server obtains the corresponding settlement list based on the smart terminal number and controls the information display screen of the smart settlement terminal to display the settlement list; Payment is completed through the payment module integrated into the smart checkout counter.

5. The intelligent checkout method for a shopping cart according to claim 1, characterized in that, Prior to the step of identifying the first identifier on the shopping cart via a smart terminal, the method further includes: The user's mobile terminal sends a request to the management server to borrow a smart terminal. The management server identifies and unlocks target smart terminals for user use based on the smart terminal status information.

6. The intelligent checkout method for a shopping cart according to claim 1, characterized in that, The shopping process, based on the smart terminal's status information and payment status, includes: The system uses a reading module installed on the exit gate to read the third-party identification mark set on the shopping cart, obtains the shopping cart number, and sends it to the smart checkout counter. The smart checkout counter receives and verifies the shopping cart number. When it confirms that the shopping process of the shopping cart has been completed and the associated smart terminal is in the return status, it sends an opening command to the exit gate.

7. A smart checkout system for a shopping cart, used to implement the smart checkout method as described in any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, include: A smart terminal, detachably mounted on a shopping cart via a fixed bracket, includes: The first identity recognition unit is used to read the first identity identifier set on the shopping cart to obtain the shopping cart identity information; The barcode scanning unit is used to scan product barcodes to obtain product information; The loss prevention unit is used to perform loss prevention verification on the goods when they are placed in the shopping cart and generate loss prevention verification results; The second identity recognition unit is used to read the second identity identifier set on the smart checkout table when the device is returned, so as to obtain the smart terminal location information and send the smart terminal status information to the management server. Smart checkout counters include: Multiple charging docks are provided for storing the smart terminal, and each charging dock is provided with the second identity identifier; The host information processing module is used to manage the smart terminal and process the user's interactive operations during the settlement process, and generate corresponding operation instructions; The information display screen is connected to the host information processing module and is used to display the settlement list and receive user touch interaction operations; A management server, communicatively connected to the smart terminal and the smart checkout counter, is configured as follows: Receive the shopping cart identity information from the smart terminal and bind the shopping cart to the user account; Receive product barcode information and loss prevention verification results from the smart terminal to generate a settlement list corresponding to the user account; Receive payment status and smart terminal status information from the smart terminal; Based on the status information of the smart terminal and the payment status, the shopping process is confirmed to be complete.

8. The intelligent checkout system for shopping carts according to claim 7, characterized in that, The intelligent settlement system also includes: The exit gate is connected to the intelligent checkout counter via communication. The exit gate is equipped with a reading module, which reads the third-party identification card set on the shopping cart to obtain the shopping cart number, and sends the shopping cart number to the smart checkout counter; The smart checkout counter is further configured to receive and verify the shopping cart number. When it is confirmed that the shopping process of the shopping cart has been completed and the associated smart terminal is in the return status, it sends an opening command to the exit gate.

9. The intelligent checkout system for shopping carts according to claim 7, characterized in that, The loss prevention unit includes: A distance sensor is used to detect whether any items have been placed in the shopping cart; A camera is used to capture images of the items placed in the shopping cart; The loss prevention processor is used to compare the recognition features of the acquired image with the product information based on the image recognition algorithm to generate a loss prevention verification result; If the loss prevention verification result is abnormal, an alert is triggered and the loss prevention verification is performed again; if the loss prevention verification result is normal, the corresponding product is updated in the settlement list.

10. The intelligent checkout system for a shopping cart according to claim 7, characterized in that, The smart terminal also includes: An electromagnetic lock is used to lock the smart terminal onto the fixed bracket or the charging dock.

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