Customizable systems of modular kiosks and methods of deploying said systems

Abstract

Customizable systems of modular kiosks and methods of deploying such systems are provided. The customizable systems can include a plurality of modular kiosks having one or more interchangeable components (e.g., modular sub-components, etc.), which may be easily removed, replaced, and / or exchanged between multiple kiosks. As a result, the systems and methods of provide customizable systems of modular kiosks that can be easily moved, serviced, upgraded, and / or otherwise modified while maintaining continuity across different types of devices that users are likely to encounter.

Description

CUSTOMIZABLE SYSTEMS OF MODULAR KIOSKS AND METHODS OF DEPLOYING SAID SYSTEMSField of the Disclosure

[0001] The present disclosure is directed generally to customizable systems of modular kiosks and methods of deploying such systems.Background

[0002] Many interactive kiosks operate in environments that do not allow them to be easily moved, serviced, upgraded, and / or otherwise modified. Oftentimes, these actions require replacing the entire unit with an entirely new one, which can lead to waste and unnecessary expense. Further, replacing or modifying such interactive kiosks often results in changes to the device’s appearance and how users interact with the device (i.e., the user interface). Frequent changes to a device’s user interface can result in confusion and frustration. This is especially true when the interactive kiosk is used to facilitate financial transactions, such as scanning products and / or making purchases. Accordingly, there is a need for systems and methods of providing customizable systems of modular kiosks that can be easily moved, serviced, upgraded, and / or otherwise modified while maintaining continuity across different types of devices that users are likely to encounter.Summary of the Disclosure

[0003] The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for providing customizable systems of modular kiosks. These systems and methods use a plurality of modular kiosks having one or more modular sub-components. When deployed within an environment, these modular sub-components may be interchangeable between one or more modular kiosks within the environment.

[0004] More specifically, the customizable systems of modular kiosks provided herein can include one or more modular kiosks, where each modular kiosk comprises: a kiosk enclosure having a secured access panel, a display screen slot configured to receive a display screen (or multiple display screens), one or more modular slots configured to receive one or more modular sub-components, and fastening hardware configured to secure the display screen and the one or more modular sub-components within the kiosk enclosure; a display screen configured to display at least user-relevant information; one or more modular sub-components, each modular sub-component being secured within one of the one or more modular slots of the kioskenclosure by the fastening hardware; and a kiosk controller operatively connected to the display screen and the one or more modular sub-components, the kiosk controller being configured to operate the display screen and the one or more modular sub-components.

[0005] Generally, in an aspect, one or more modular sub-components of each modular kiosk can be interchangeable between the one or more modular kiosks.

[0006] According to an example, each of the one or more modular slots of each modular kiosk can have a form factor of 1 : 1, 2:2, 1 :2, or 2: 1.

[0007] According to an example, each modular kiosk can comprise uniform branding for the environment in which the system of modular kiosks is deployed.

[0008] According to an example, the display screen of each modular kiosk may be a touch- enabled display screen.

[0009] According to an example, each modular kiosk may further comprise one or more peripheral devices operatively connected to the corresponding kiosk controller, each kiosk controller being further configured to operate the one or more peripheral devices.

[0010] According to an example, the one or more peripheral devices may include at least one of a speaker system, a lighting system, a camera system, and a wireless communications system.

[0011] According to an example, the one or more modular sub-components may comprise at least one of a payment terminal, a printer, a barcode scanner, and a biometric reader.

[0012] According to an example, each modular kiosk may further comprise one or more removable facades covering any unused slots of the one or more modular slots.

[0013] According to an example, the kiosk enclosure of each modular kiosk may further include mounting hardware configured to mount the corresponding modular kiosk to one or more different types of kiosk support structures.

[0014] According to an example, at least one of the modular kiosks may comprise: at least one modular sub-component having a form factor of 1 : 1; and at least one modular subcomponent having a form factor of 2:2, 1 : 2, or 2: 1.

[0015] According to an example, the at least one modular sub-component having a form factor of 2:2, 1 :2, or 2: 1 is a payment terminal.

[0016] According to an example, each of the one or more modular sub-components of each modular kiosk may comprise an arrangement of electrical contacts, and each of the one or more modular slots of each modular kiosk may comprise a complementary arrangement of electricalcontacts configured to mate and / or align with the arrangement electrical contacts of a corresponding modular sub-component when the corresponding modular sub-component is inserted into a corresponding modular slot.

[0017] According to an example, the kiosk enclosure for each modular kiosk may further comprise a built-in cable pathway and cables disposed within the built-in cable pathway operatively connecting the corresponding kiosk controller with the one or more modular subcomponents via the complementary arrangements of electrical contacts for the one or more modular slots.

[0018] Also provided herein are methods of deploying a customizable system of modular kiosks comprising a first modular kiosk and at least a second modular kiosk. According to one example, the method may comprise: installing the first modular kiosk of the customizable system at a first location within an environment; and installing the second modular kiosk of the customizable system at a second location within the environment. Generally, each modular kiosk comprises: a kiosk enclosure having a secured access panel, a display screen slot configured to receive a display screen (or multiple screens), or multiple display screen slots, one or more modular slots configured to receive one or more modular sub-components, and fastening hardware configured to secure the display screen and the one or more modular subcomponents within the kiosk enclosure; a display screen configured to display at least userrelevant information; one or more modular sub-components, each modular sub-component being secured within one of the one or more modular slots of the kiosk enclosure by the fastening hardware; and a kiosk controller operatively connected to the display screen and the one or more modular sub-components, the kiosk controller being configured to operate the display screen and the one or more modular sub-components. Also according to this example, one or more modular sub-components are interchangeable between the two or more modular kiosks.

[0019] According to an example, the method can further include: changing a configuration of the first modular kiosk by inserting a new modular sub-component into an unused modular slot of the first modular kiosk, wherein the new modular sub-component and the unused modular slot have equivalent form factors.

[0020] According to an example, the new modular sub-component comprises an arrangement of electrical contacts, each of the one or more modular slots of the first modular kiosk comprises a complementary arrangement of electrical contacts configured to mate and / oralign with the arrangement electrical contacts of a corresponding modular sub-component when the corresponding modular sub-component is inserted into a corresponding modular slot, and inserting the new modular sub-component into the unused modular slot of the first modular kiosk forms an electrical connection between the new modular sub-component and a corresponding kiosk controller via the complementary arrangement of electrical contacts of the unused modular slot.

[0021] According to an example, changing the configuration of the first modular kiosk further includes: uninstalling, from the first modular kiosk, a removable facade covering the unused modular slot prior to inserting the new modular sub-component into the unused modular slot of the first modular kiosk.

[0022] According to an example, the method further comprises changing the configuration of the first modular kiosk by: removing an existing modular sub-component from a corresponding modular slot of the first modular kiosk, the existing modular sub-component having a form factor of 1 :1, 2:2, 1 :2, or 2: 1; and inserting a new modular sub-component into the corresponding modular slot of the first modular kiosk, wherein the new modular subcomponent has a form factor equivalent to the form factor of the existing modular subcomponent that was removed.

[0023] According to an example, the method may further comprise changing the configuration of at least the first and second modular kiosks of the customizable system of modular kiosks by: removing a first modular sub-component from a first modular slot of the first modular kiosk, the first modular sub-component having a form factor of 1 :1, 2:2, 1 :2, or 2: 1; removing a second modular sub-component from a second modular slot of the second modular kiosk, the second modular sub-component having a form factor equivalent to the first modular sub-component; and inserting the first modular sub-component removed from the first modular kiosk into the second modular slot of the second modular kiosk.

[0024] According to an example, changing the configuration of at least the first and second modular kiosks of the customizable system of modular kiosks further includes inserting the second modular sub-component removed from the second modular kiosk into the first modular slot of the first modular kiosk.

[0025] In various implementations, a processor or controller may be associated with one or more storage media (generically referred to herein as “memory,” e.g., volatile and non-volatile computer memory such as RAM, PROM, EPROM, EEPROM, floppy disks, compact disks,optical disks, magnetic tape, etc.). In some implementations, the storage media may be encoded with one or more programs that, when executed on one or more processors and / or controllers, perform at least some of the functions discussed herein. Various storage media may be fixed within a processor or controller or may be transportable, such that the one or more programs stored thereon can be loaded into a processor or controller so as to implement various aspects as discussed herein. The terms “program” or “computer program” are used herein in a generic sense to refer to any type of computer code (e.g., software or microcode) that can be employed to program one or more processors or controllers.

[0026] It should be appreciated that all combinations of the foregoing concepts and additional concepts discussed in greater detail below (provided such concepts are not mutually inconsistent) are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. In particular, all combinations of claimed subject matter appearing at the end of this disclosure are contemplated as being part of the inventive subject matter disclosed herein. It should also be appreciated that terminology explicitly employed herein that also may appear in any disclosure incorporated by reference should be accorded a meaning most consistent with the particular concepts disclosed herein.

[0027] These and other aspects of the various embodiments will be apparent from and elucidated with reference to the embodiment(s) described hereinafter.Brief Description of the Drawings

[0028] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a deployment of a customizable system of modular kiosks within an environment according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0029] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example modular kiosk having modular subcomponents according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 3 is a front plan view illustration of a modular kiosk having modular slots according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0031] FIG. 4 is an exploded view illustration of a kiosk frame of a modular kiosk according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0032] FIG. 5 A is a diagram of a modular kiosk having a separate enclosure of modular subcomponents according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0033] FIG. 5B is a diagram of a modular kiosk having a separate enclosure of modular subcomponents according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0034] FIG. 5C is a diagram of a modular kiosk without a separate enclosure of modular sub-components according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0035] FIG. 6A is an illustration of a modular kiosk having a separate enclosure modular of sub-components according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0036] FIG. 6B is an illustration of a partially disassembled modular kiosk having a separate enclosure of modular sub-components according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0037] FIG. 6C is an illustration of a partially disassembled modular kiosk having another separate enclosure of modular sub-components according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0038] FIG. 6D is an illustration of a modular kiosk having another separate enclosure of modular sub-components according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0039] FIG. 7A is an illustration showing the form factor of certain modular subcomponents and modular slots according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. 7B is an illustration showing the form factor of certain modular subcomponents and modular slots according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 7C is an illustration showing the form factor of certain modular subcomponents and modular slots according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 7D is an illustration showing the form factor of certain modular subcomponents and modular slots according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 8A is a model illustrating a modular kiosk when viewed from the front according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 8B is a model illustrating a modular kiosk when viewed from the back according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 8C is a model illustrating a modular kiosk having an open access panel and when viewed from the back according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 8D is a model illustrating a partially exploded view of a modular kiosk when viewed from the front according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 8E is a model illustrating a partially exploded view of a modular kiosk when viewed from the back according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 9A is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 9B is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 9C is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 9D is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 9E is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 9F is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 9G is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 9H is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 91 is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 9J is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk having a modular configuration according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 10A is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk mounted onto a kiosk support structure according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0059] FIG. 10B is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk mounted onto a kiosk support structure according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 10C is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk mounted onto a kiosk support structure according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 10D is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk mounted onto a kiosk support structure according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 10E is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk mounted onto a kiosk support structure according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 10F is an illustration of an exemplary modular kiosk mounted onto a kiosk support structure according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0064] FIG. 11 schematically illustrates an example of a kiosk controller according to aspects of the present disclosure.

[0065] FIG. 12 is a flowchart of a method for deploying a customizable system of modular kiosks according to aspects of the present disclosure.Detailed Description

[0066] The present disclosure is directed to systems and methods for providing customizable systems of modular kiosks. These systems and methods use a plurality of modular kiosks having one or more modular sub-components. When deployed within an environment, these modular sub-components may be interchangeable between one or more modular kiosks within the environment.

[0067] FIG. 1 illustrates a customizable system 100 of modular kiosks including a plurality of modular kiosks 110. As shown, the customizable system 100 is deployed within an environment 120 where users and potential users (e.g., individuals 130) may utilize the modular kiosks 102. The environment 120 may be any place where commercial transactions are likely to occur, such as a cafeteria, a shopping center, a grocery store, a clothing store, inside and / or outside similar locations, and the like. In the example of FIG. 1, the environment 120 is large and supports a plurality of modular kiosks 110. However, in some examples, the customizable system 100 may include fewer modular kiosks 110, including two or more modular kiosks 110.

[0068] In various examples, each of the modular kiosks 110 may be a passive kiosk or an interactive kiosk that is configured to assist the individuals 106 in completing a transaction. The possible services provided by each of the modular kiosks 110 may include but is not limited to, scanning a product, looking up information, providing a physical output such as a coupon or receipt, displaying information to the consumer, receiving ordering information or other information, receiving product requests, providing notifications, and / or facilitating a purchase, among many other options.

[0069] FIG. 2 schematically illustrates an example of an individual modular kiosk 110. According to some examples, each modular kiosk 110 of the customizable system 100 may include a kiosk enclosure 200, one or more display screens 202, one or more modular subcomponents 204, and a kiosk controller 206. In further examples, each modular kiosk 110 of the customizable system 100 may further include one or more peripheral devices 208.

[0070] Generally, the kiosk enclosure 200 includes a number of structures and hardware to support a specific function (e.g., payment, scanning, etc.) of a particular kiosk. However, according to the example of FIG. 2, the kiosk enclosure 200 can include structures and hardware that support interchangeable sub-components 204, thereby enabling flexible configuration of the modular kiosks 102. For example, the kiosk enclosure 200 may includeside rails 210, comer joints 212, an access panel 214, a user-facing panel 216, a display screen slot 218, one or more modular slots 220, fastening hardware 222, and / or mounting hardware 224.

[0071] FIG. 3 illustrates an example of an individual modular kiosk 110 including a kiosk enclosure 200 having four side rails 210 connected together via four corner joints 212, an access panel 214 (not visible), auser-facing panel 216, a display screen slot 218, a plurality ofmodular slots 220, fastening hardware 222 (not visible), and / or mounting hardware 224 (not visible). In some examples, the kiosk enclosure 200 and / or the user-facing panel 216 can include one or more filler panels 504, 506 above the display screen slot 218 and / or below the modular slots 220, which can serve a flexible spaces for logos or other advertising, hidden security features, and the like. The example modular kiosk 110 of FIG. 3 further includes a display screen 202 configured to display user-relevant information 300.

[0072] When a kiosk enclosure 200 is assembled, the kiosk enclosure 200 may form a secured housing for the display screen 202, one or more modular sub-components 204, a kiosk controller 206, and one or more peripheral devices 208. Put another way, the display screen 202, one or more modular sub-components 204, a kiosk controller 206, and one or more peripheral devices 208 may be securely housed within a space defined by a kiosk enclosure 200 having at least four side rails 210, four corner joints 212, an access panel 214, and a userfacing panel 216 according to certain examples of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 4 illustrates an exploded view of some components of a kiosk enclosure 200. In particular, the example of FIG. 4 shows the four comer joints 212 that connect side rails 210. In some examples, each side rail 210 is manufactured (e.g., extruded, etc.) in a uniform process and then cut to the desired lengths LI, L2. Although the example of FIG. 4 shows a kiosk enclosure 200 having a portrait orientation (i.e., L2 > LI), it is also possible for the kiosk enclosure 200 to have a landscape orientation (i.e., LI > L2). Because the side rails 210 are manufactured in the same process and then cut to the desired length(s) LI, L2, a variety of modular kiosks 110 can be assembled and / or customized in a variety of configurations.

[0074] FIGS. 5A-5C illustrate examples of a modular kiosk 110 according to further aspects of the present disclosure. In the example of FIG. 5A, the modular kiosk 110 includes a userfacing panel 216 having a display screen slot 218 and a separate enclosure 502 having one or more modular slots 220. The display screen slot 218 may be configured to receive a display screen 202, while each of the one or more modular slots 220 may be configured to receive amodular sub-component 204. The modular kiosk 110 further includes one or more filler panels 504, 506. In the example of FIG. 5B, the modular kiosk includes a separate enclosure 508 having one or more different modular slots 220. That is, the separate enclosures 502, 508 may be interchangeable, in addition to each modular slot 220 being interchangeable. In the example of FIG. 5C, the modular kiosk 110 does not include a separate enclosure 502, 508 having one or more modular slots 200. Instead, as shown in FIG. 5C, the modular kiosk 110 may comprise a user-facing panel 216 and one or more filler panels 504, 506 as described herein.

[0075] FIGS. 6A-6D illustrate the configuration of a modular kiosk 110 according to certain aspects of the present disclosure. In the examples of FIG. 6A and FIG. 6B, the modular kiosk 110 includes a kiosk enclosure 200, a display screen 202, filler panels 504, 506, and a separate enclosure 602 having one or more modular sub-components (e.g., sub-components 204). In the example of FIG. 6C and FIG. 6D, the separate modular enclosure 602 is swapped with a second separate modular enclosure 604 having a different arrangement of modular sub-components (e.g., sub-components 204), and then reassembled as shown in FIG. 6D.

[0076] In some examples, the display screen slot 218 may vary in size depending on the desired size of the display screen 202. For example, the display screen 202 may be a 16-inch, 22-inch, or 32-inch display screen, among many other possible sizes, and the display screen slot 218 may have a corresponding size based therein. The display screen 202 may be a touch- enabled display screen, such as a PCAP touch display, among many other display screens. In other examples, the display screen 202 can be a touchless interactive screen. Notably, as mentioned above, the modular kiosk 110 may have a portrait orientation or a landscape orientation. Accordingly, the display screen slot 218 may also have a portrait orientation or a landscape orientation.

[0077] In some examples, the one or more modular slots 220 may also vary in number, size, and / or form factor based on a predetermined set of possible configurations. For instance, the example modular kiosk 110 of FIG. 5B has a total of four modular slots 220, including two modular slots 220 of a first size and form factor and two modular slots 220 of a second size and form factor.

[0078] FIGS. 7A-7D illustrate several modular slots 220 having different sizes and form factors to accommodate scaling for larger and / or smaller applications. In particular, each example modular slot 220 of FIGS. 7A-7D has a height Hl and a width Wl. As used herein, the term “form factor” is used to refer to the ratio of the height Hl to the width Wl (i.e.,H1 :W1). In FIG. 7 A, the example modular slot 220 has a form factor of 1 :2. In FIG. 7B, the example modular slot 220 has a form factor of 2: 1. In FIG. 7C, the example modular slot 220 has a form factor of 1 : 1. In FIG. 7D, the example modular slot 220 has a form factor of 2:2. Accordingly, the example modular slots 220 FIG. 5B include two modular slots 220 with a form factor of 1 : 1 and two modular slots 220 with a form factor of 2: 1.

[0079] In certain examples, the number of modular slots 220 of a modular kiosk 110 may range depending on a variety of factors. For example, depending on the size of the display screen 202, the modular kiosk 110 may have anywhere between two and 100 modular slots 220, where each modular slot 220 is configured to receive a modular sub-component 204.

[0080] Further, the size and form factor of the modular slots 220 may be predetermined based on the size and form factor of potential modular sub-components 204. Put another way, each modular slot 220 may be configured to receive a modular sub-component 204 with a corresponding size and / or form factor. Accordingly, in some examples, each modular subcomponent 204 may also have a form factor of 1 :2, 2: 1, 1 : 1, or 2:2. Additional form factors are also contemplated, including but not limited to 1:3, 2:3, 1 :4, 2:4, 3:4, 1 :6, 3: 1, 3:2, 4: 1, 4:2, 4:3, :61, 3:3, and 4:4.

[0081] By incorporating a display screen slot 218 and one or more the modular slots 220 of predetermined sizes, the functionality of a modular kiosk 110 can be adapted and / or customized based on the operator’s desire. That is, when used in a customizable system 100 of modular kiosks 110 as described here, one or more modular sub-components 204 may be easily interchanged between two or more modular kiosks 110.

[0082] Accordingly, for example, a first modular kiosk 110 having a unique arrangement of sub-components 204 that enables a particular functionality (e.g., scanning of a product) can be easily modified to enable a different combination of functionality (e.g., scanning and purchasing a product) by swapping and / or inserting a new modular sub-component 204 into an available modular slot 220.

[0083] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B illustrate front and back perspective views of a modular kiosk 110, respectively. In the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the modular kiosk 100 includes a kiosk enclosure 200, a display screen 202, and multiple modular sub-components 204. As shown, the modular kiosk 110 includes multiple modular slots 220, including two slots 220 occupied by a modular sub-component 204 having a form factor of 2: 1 and a modular sub-component 204 having a form factor of 1 : 1, as well as three unused and available modular slots 220 each havinga form factor of 1 : 1. In some examples, the modular kiosk 110 may include one or more removable facades that cover any unused and available slots 220 of the one or more modular slots 220. In certain examples, the removable facade(s) may be removed from an unused modular slot 220 and a new modular sub-component 204 may then be inserted into the empty modular slot 220.

[0084] In the example of FIGS. 8A and 8B, the kiosk enclosure 200 includes side rails 210, comer joints 212, an access panel 214, a user-facing panel 216, and multiple modular slots 220. In some examples, the access panel 214 may be a secured access panel 214 having one or more security features (e.g., locks, alarms, alerts, and the like) to prevent unauthorized intrusion into the modular kiosk 110. In further examples, the kiosk enclosure 200 may include mounting hardware 224 (e.g., screws, bolts, brackets, etc.) configured to secure the modular kiosk 110 to a plurality of different types of mounting supports (e.g., walls, poles, stands, etc.).

[0085] FIG. 8C illustrates a perspective view of the modular kiosk 110 with the secured access panel 214 opened. Inside, the kiosk enclosure 200 may include fastening hardware 222 configured to secure the display screen 202 and the one or more modular sub-components 204 within the kiosk enclosure 200. In some examples, the fastening hardware 220 further secured the one or more removable facades covering the unused and available modular slots 220.

[0086] FIG. 8D and FIG. 8E illustrate further examples of the fastening hardware 222. In particular, the fastening hardware 222 may include, but is not limited to, brackets 222A, 222B, 222C and cover 222D that secure the modular sub-component 204 within the modular slot 220. In some examples, the fastening hardware 222 (e.g., hardware 222 A-222D) joins together so as to allow removal and / or replacement of a single modular sub-component 204 without having to remove other modular sub-components 204 and / or without otherwise affecting the other modular slots 220. Accordingly, this shared uniform assembly method enables further configurability of the modular kiosks 110 and customizable systems 100 of such kiosks 110.

[0087] FIGS. 9A-9J illustrate various configurations of modular kiosks 110 comprising an arrangement 900A-900J of one or more modular sub-components 204 in accordance with the present disclosure.

[0088] In the example of FIG. 9 A, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and an arrangement 900A of modular sub-components 204 that may be positioned anywhere along the perimeter of the display screen 202. The arrangement 900A includes four modular slots 220, three of which are occupied by a modular sub-component 204. The last modular slot 220is an unused and available slot 220 covered by a removable facade 910. Each of the modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 of the arrangement 900A have a form factor of 1 : 1 and may be interchangeable within the arrangement 900A (i.e., swapping slots 220 within the same arrangement 900A) or may be interchangeable between different kiosks 110.

[0089] In the example of FIG. 9B, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900B of modular sub -components 204. The arrangement 900B includes four modular slots 220, two of which are occupied by a modular sub-component 204. The other two modular slots 220 are unused and available slots 220, each being covered by a removable facade 910. Each of the modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 of the arrangement 900B have a form factor of 1 : 1 and may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0090] In the example of FIG. 9C, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900C of modular sub -components 204. The arrangement 900C includes three modular slots 220, one of which is occupied by a modular sub-component 204. The other two modular slots 220 are unused and available slots 220, each being covered by a removable facade 910. The unused modular slots 220 and the removable facades 910 have a form factor of 1 :1 and 1 :2, while the occupied slot 220 and the sub-component 204 have a form factor of 1 : 1. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0091] In the example of FIG. 9D, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900D of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 900D includes four modular slots 220, three of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining modular slot 220 is an unused and available slot that is covered by a removable facade 910. The three modular sub-components 204 and their corresponding modular slots 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1, 1 : 1, and 2: 1 respectively, while the unused slot 220 and removable facade 910 have a form factor of 2: 1. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0092] In the example of FIG. 9E, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900E of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 900E includes four modular slots 220, two of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining modular slots 220 are unused and available slots that are covered by removable facades 910. The two modular sub-components 204 and their corresponding modular slots 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1, while the unused slots 220 and corresponding facades 910 have aform factor of 1:2. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0093] In the example of FIG. 9F, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900F of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 900F includes five modular slots 220, three of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining two modular slots 220 are unused and available slots that are covered by removable facades 910. Each of the modular sub-components 204 and their corresponding modular slots 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1, while the unused slots and corresponding facades 910 have form factors of 1 :2 and 1 : 1. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0094] In the example of FIG. 9G, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900G of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 900G includes six modular slots 220, four of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining two modular slots 220 are unused and available slots that are covered by removable facades 910. One of the modular sub-components 204 and its corresponding modular slot 220 has a form factor of 2: 1, while the other three modular sub-components 204 and their corresponding modular slots 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1. One of the unused and available modular slots 220 and its corresponding removable facade 910 has a form factor of 2:2, while the remaining unused and available modular slot 220 and its corresponding removable facade 910 has a form factor of 1 : 1. The modular slots 220 and the modular subcomponents 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0095] In the example of FIG. 9H, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900H of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 900H includes five modular slots 220, two of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining three modular slots 220 are unused and available slots that are covered by removable facades 910. One of the modular sub-components 204 and its corresponding modular slot 220 have a form factor of 2: 1, while the other modular sub-component 204 and its corresponding slot 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1. The unused modular slots 220 have a form factor of 2:2, 1 :2, and 1 : 1 respectively, with each corresponding removable facade 910 having an equivalent form factor. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0096] In the example of FIG. 91, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 9001 of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 9001 includes five modular slots 220, three of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining two modular slots 220 are unused and available slots that are covered by removable facades 910. One of the modular sub-components 204 and its corresponding modular slot 220 have a form factor of 2: 1, while the other modular sub-components 204 and their corresponding slots 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1. The unused modular slots 220 have a form factor of 2: 1 and 2:2, respectively, with each corresponding removable facade 910 having an equivalent form factor. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0097] In the example of FIG. 9 J, the modular kiosk 110 includes a display screen 202 and another arrangement 900J of modular sub-components 204. The arrangement 900J includes seven modular slots 220, four of which are occupied by different modular sub-components 204. The remaining three modular slots 220 are unused and available slots that are covered by removable facades 910. Three of the modular sub-components 204 and their corresponding modular slots 220 have a form factor of 1 : 1, while the remaining modular sub-component 204 and its corresponding modular slot 220 has a form factor of 2: 1. The unused and available modular slots 910 and their corresponding removable facades 910 have a form factor of 1 :2. The modular slots 220 and the modular sub-components 204 may be interchangeable as discussed herein.

[0098] Although various example modular kiosks 110 have been described and illustrated with different arrangements 900A-900J, it is contemplated that other arrangements or configurations 900A-900J of modular components may be formed. In particular, as discussed herein, the display screen 202 of a modular kiosk 110 may have different sizes (e.g., 16", 22", 32", 42, 55", etc.) and may be rotated into a different orientations (e.g., landscape, portrait, etc.), which would allow / facilitate a different arrangement of components. Further, the fastening hardware 222 and user-facing panel 216 can be easily interchanged to allow for further modifications to the arrangement 900A-900J.

[0099] In some examples, the one or more modular sub-components 204 may be a device that facilitates a financial transaction and / or otherwise assists a user 130. In particular, the one or more modular sub-components 204 may include a payment terminal, a printer, a barcode scanner, a biometric reader, an ADA navigation pad and audio jack, speakers, microphone,cameras, proximity sensors, WiFi / Bluetooth antenna, RFID scanner, call assist lighting, magstripe reader, NFC reader, charging ports, ID / passport scanner, check scanner, document scanner, coupon collector, and the like. In specific examples, the payment terminal subcomponent 204 may be any customer-facing device capable of facilitating transactions, for example, transactions involving payment cards (such as credit or debit cards).

[0100] In some examples, each modular kiosk 110 may further include one or more peripheral devices 208 operatively connected to the kiosk controller 206. In particular, the one or more peripheral devices 208 may include a speaker system, a lighting system, a camera system, and / or a wireless communications system. One or more of the peripheral devices 208 can be configured to assist users 130 in the course of a transaction by, for example, outputting audible tones, noises, and / or voices (via a speaker system) or outputting visual light cues (via a lighting system). In certain examples, the peripheral devices 208 (e.g., the camera system, etc.) may be used as an additional security feature. In further examples, the wireless communications system may be used to connect the modular kiosk 110 to a communications network (i.e., to communicate with financial institutions, process payments, and / or look-up user-relevant information).

[0101] FIGS. 10A-10F illustrate examples of a modular kiosk 110 deployed using different kiosk support structures or subsystems 1002A-1002F. The example of FIG. 10A illustrates a modular kiosk 110 mounted to a table stand 1002 A (via the mounting hardware 224), which may be placed on any flat surface such as a table, desk, counter, or the like. A support structure or subsystem structure can comprise modules as well, including but not limited to power modules and data transfer modules, which can be shared by multiple other modules of the kiosk. The example of FIG. 10B illustrates a modular kiosk 110 mounted to a wall 1002B (via the mounting hardware 224). The example of FIG. 10C illustrates a modular kiosk 110 mounted (via the mounting hardware 224) to a floor-standing pedestal 1002C. The example of FIG. 10D illustrates a modular kiosk 110 mounted (via the mounting hardware 224) to a pole-type stand 1002D. The example of FIG. 10E illustrates two modular kiosks 110 mounted (via the mounting hardware 224) to a pole-type stand 1002E. The example of FIG. 10F illustrates a modular kiosk 110 mounted (via the mounting hardware 224) to a directory-type stand (i.e., counter-level height).

[0102] FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of a kiosk controller 206 that may form a part of a modular kiosk 110 as discussed above and with reference to FIG. 2. In particular, eachmodular kiosk 110 may include a kiosk controller 206 that is operatively connected to one or more components of the modular kiosk, including but not limited to, the display screen 202, the one or more modular sub-components 204, and / or the one or more peripheral devices 208. The kiosk controller 206 may be configured to operate the display screen 202, the one or more modular sub-components 204, the one or more peripheral devices 208, kiosk subsystems (such as kiosk stands and their components), and / or other similar components connected to the modular kiosk 110.

[0103] In the example of FIG. 11, the kiosk controller 206 can include one or more processors 1102, machine-readable memory 1104, and an interface bus 1106, all of which may be interconnected and / or communicate through a system bus 1108 containing conductive circuit pathways through which instructions (e.g., machine-readable signals) may travel to effectuate communication, tasks, storage, and the like. The kiosk controller 206 may be connected to a power source 1110, which can include an internal power supply and / or an external power supply.

[0104] The one or more processors 1102 may include a high-speed data processor adequate to execute the program components described herein and / or various specialized processing units as may be known in the art. In some examples, the one or more processors 1102 may be a single processor, multiple processors, or multiple processor cores on a single die.

[0105] In some examples, the interface bus 1106 may include a network interface 1112 configured to connect the kiosk controller 206 to a communications network 1114, an input / output (“I / O”) interface 1016 configured to connect and communicate with one or more peripheral devices 208, and / or a memory interface 1118 configured to accept, communication, and / or connect to a number of machine-readable memory devices (e.g., memory 1104).

[0106] The I / O interface 1116 may operatively connect the kiosk controller 206 with one or more peripheral devices 208. In some examples, the peripheral devices 208 may include, but are not limited to, a speaker system (e.g., one or more speakers, etc.), a lighting system (e.g., one or more lights), a camera system (e.g., one or more cameras), and a wireless communications system (e.g., a Bluetooth or other NFC-type transceiver). In further examples, the peripheral devices 208 may also include, but are not limited to, devices such as a printer, keyboard, computer mouse, and / or the like.

[0107] The network interface 1112 may operatively connect the kiosk controller 206 to a communications network 1114, which can include a direct interconnection, the Internet, a localarea network (“LAN”), a metropolitan area network (“MAN”), a wide area network (“WAN”), a wired or Ethernet connection, a wireless connection, and similar types of communications networks, including combinations thereof. In some examples, kiosk controller 206 may communicate with one or more servers 1120 and / or one or more institutions 1122 (e.g., financial institutions, etc.) via the communications network 1014 and the network interface 1112.

[0108] The memory 1104 can be variously embodied in one or more forms of machine- accessible and machine- readable memory. In some examples, the memory 1104 includes a storage device 1124 comprises one or more types of memory. For example, the storage device 1124 can include, but is not limited to, a non-transitory storage medium, a magnetic disk storage, an optical disk storage, an array of storage devices, a solid-state memory device, and the like, including combinations thereof. According to another embodiment, memory 1104 can be stored remotely, such as cloud computing / storage, among other configurations.

[0109] Generally, the memory 1104 is configured to store data / information 1126 and instructions 1128 that, when executed by the one or more processors 1102, causes the kiosk controller 206 to perform one or more tasks.

[0110] In particular examples, the memory 1104 includes a kiosk controller package 1130 that comprises a collection of program components, database components, and / or data. Depending on the particular implementation, the kiosk controller package 1130 may include software components, hardware components, and / or some combination of both hardware and software components. Notably, one or more of the controller 206 and the memory 1104 can be remote components, such as cloud-based components.[OHl] The kiosk controller package 1130 may include, but is not limited to, instructions 1128 having one or more software packages configured to detect and / or operate the display screen 202, the one or more modular sub-components 204, and / or the one or more peripheral devices 208. These software packages may be incorporated into, loaded from, loaded onto, or otherwise operatively available to and from the kiosk controller 206. Put another way, the kiosk controller package 1130 and / or one or more software packages may be incorporated into, loaded from, loaded onto, or otherwise operatively available to a modular kiosk 110.

[0112] In some examples, the kiosk controller package 1130 and / or one or more individual software packages may be stored in a local storage device 1124. In other examples, the kiosk controller package 1130 and / or one or more individual software packages may be loaded ontoand / or updated from a remote server 1120 via the communications network 1114 (e.g., when a new modular sub-component 204 is installed, the kiosk controller 206 may require an update to properly operate the new sub-component 204).

[0113] The kiosk controller 206 may also include an operating system component 1132, which may be stored in the memory 1104. The operating system component 1132 may be an executable program facilitating the operation of the kiosk controller 110. Typically, the operating system component 1132 can facilitate access of the I / O interface, network interface, and memory interface, and can communicate with other components of the modular kiosk 110.

[0114] According to examples of the present disclosure, a customizable systems 100 of modular kiosk 110 include one or more modular sub-components 204 that are interchangeable between two or more modular kiosks 110. Put another way, each modular kiosk 110 within a deployed customizable system 100 may include one or more sub-components 204 that can be moved, shuffled, swapped, and / or otherwise exchanged between different modular kiosks 110. This enables a quick, easy, and cost-effective method of modifying, updating, and / or upgrading one or more modular kiosks 110 without having to replace the entire kiosk 110 (e.g., the kiosk enclosure 200 and associated parts).

[0115] Notably, a modular kiosk 110 can be composed of a variety of different materials. Examples of materials including glass, plastics, and metals, among other materials. A modular kiosk may be composed of a combination of different materials. For example, a modular kiosk enclosure or frame (which could include, referring to FIG. 2 as one example, side rails 210 and comer joints 212 as well as other parts of the frame or enclosure) may be composed of a plastic, or of a metal such as aluminum. The frame may be produced by profile extrusion, for example. A benefit of the modular kiosk system is that components such as the frame can be uniformly made in a uniform process to fit a variety of different kiosks, or can be cut or shaped to a desired length or shape. Other components of the modular kiosk can be glass, plastic, metal, and / or other possible materials.

[0116] As such, also described herein are methods 1200 of deploying customizable systems 100 of modular kiosks 110 comprising at least a first modular kiosk 110 and at least a second modular kiosk 110. FIG. 12 illustrates a flowchart of one such method 1200. In the example of FIG. 12, the method 1200 may include a step 1210 of installing the first modular kiosk 110 of the customizable system 100 at a first location within an environment 120 and a step 1220 ofinstalling the second modular kiosk 110 of the customizable system 100 at a second location within the environment 120.

[0117] In some examples, each modular kiosk 110 may include a kiosk enclosure 200 having a secured access panel 214, a display screen slot 218 configured to receive a display screen 202, one or more modular slots 220 configured to receive one or more modular subcomponents 204, and fastening hardware 222 configured to secure the display screen 202 and the one or more modular sub-components 204 within the kiosk enclosure 200; a display screen 202 configured to display at least user-relevant information 300; one or more modular subcomponents 204, each modular sub-component 204 being secured within one of the one or more modular slots 220 of the kiosk enclosure 200 by the fastening hardware 222; and a kiosk controller 206 operatively connected to the display screen 202 and the one or more modular sub-components 204, the kiosk controller 206 being configured to operate the display screen 202 and the one or more modular sub-components 204. In particular examples, one or more of the modular sub-components 204 within the customizable system 100 are interchangeable between the two or more of the modular kiosks 110 installed within the environment 120.

[0118] The method 1200 may further include an optional step 1230 of installing up to an NTH modular kiosk 110 within the environment 120, where N is an integer greater than 2. For example, within a particular environment 120, the method 1200 may include installing at least 5 modular kiosks 110, or at least 10 modular kiosks 110, or at least 20 modular kiosks 110, or at least 50 modular kiosks 110, or at least 100 modular kiosks 110. Notably, one or more modular kiosks 110 of the customizable system 100 may be installed at different times (i.e., an environment 120 can start with one or more modular kiosks 110 and then build out / add onto as necessary).

[0119] The method 1200 may further include a step 1240 of changing the configuration of at least one of the installed modular kiosks 110. Put another way, the method 1200 can include a step 1240 of changing the arrangement (e.g., arrangements 900A-900J) of the modular subcomponents 204 of one or more modular kiosks 110 installed within an environment 120.

[0120] In some examples, the step 1240 is performed by inserting a new modular subcomponent 204 into an unused modular slot 220 of at least one modular kiosk 110. The new modular sub-component 204 and the unused modular 220 may have equivalent form factors (e.g., 1 : 1, 2: 1, 1 :2, 2:2, etc.). In further examples, the step 1240 is performed by exchanging afirst separate enclosure 502, 508, 602, 604 having one or more sub-components 204 with a second separate enclosure 502, 508, 602, 604 having one or more different sub-components.

[0121] In some examples, the step 1240 further includes uninstalling and / or removing a removable facade 910 from at least one of the modular kiosks 110 prior to inserting the new modular sub-component 204 into the unused modular slot 220 of that modular kiosk 110.

[0122] In other examples, the step 1240 is performed by first removing an existing modular sub-component 204 from a corresponding modular slot 220 of at least one modular kiosk 110 and then inserting a new modular sub-component 204 into the corresponding modular slot 220. In such examples, the modular sub-component 204 that was removed and the modular subcomponent 204 that was inserted may have equivalent form factors.

[0123] In further examples, the step 1240 is performed by modifying the configuration (i.e., arrangement of sub -components) of at least a first and second modular kiosk 110 of the customizable system 100. In such examples, the step 1240 can include removing a first modular sub-component 204 from a first modular slot 220 of a first modular kiosk 110, removing a second modular sub-component 204 from a second modular slot 220 of a second modular kiosk 110, and inserting the first modular sub-component 204 removed from the first modular kiosk 110 into the second modular slot 220 of the second modular kiosk 110. In such examples, the first and second modular sub-components 204 and the corresponding modular slots 220 may have equivalent form factors.

[0124] In yet further examples, the step 1240 may further include inserting the second modular sub-component 204 removed from the second modular kiosk 110 into the first modular slot 220 of the first modular kiosk 110.

[0125] According to an example, methods 1200 of deploying customizable systems 100 of modular kiosks 110 comprising at least a first modular kiosk 110 and at least a second modular kiosk 110 can comprise branding each of the modular kiosks in the system with uniform branding for the environment in which the system of modular kiosks is deployed. The environment can be any environment in which kiosks can be utilized, such as a retail institution, financial institution, and consumer institutions where branding can often be important. For example, when deployed in a shopping center, a retail store, or a grocery store, as just a few examples, the branding may comprise the name of the store and a tagline or other information, as well as customizable kiosk lighting and / or kiosk displays. This may be integrated into the modular kiosk, or may be applied to a surface of the kiosk.

[0126] According to an embodiment, one factor for uniform branding for the environment in which the system of modular kiosks is deployed can be the outward appearance of the kiosks, and more specifically, the design of the kiosks themselves. For example, the kiosks may all comprise similar coloring and design, including the shape and / or size of the kiosk, such that it is clear to the observer that all of the kiosks in the system are part of a uniform modular kiosk system.

[0127] All definitions, as defined and used herein, should be understood to control over dictionary definitions, definitions in documents incorporated by reference, and / or ordinary meanings of the defined terms.

[0128] The indefinite articles “a” and “an,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, should be understood to mean “at least one.”

[0129] The phrase “and / or,” as used herein in the specification and in the claims, should be understood to mean “either or both” of the elements so conjoined, i.e., elements that are conjunctively present in some cases and disjunctively present in other cases. Multiple elements listed with “and / or” should be construed in the same fashion, i.e., “one or more” of the elements so conjoined. Other elements can optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified by the “and / or” clause, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0130] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, “or” should be understood to have the same meaning as “and / or” as defined above. For example, when separating items in a list, “or” or “and / or” shall be interpreted as being inclusive, i.e., the inclusion of at least one, but also including more than one, of a number or list of elements, and, optionally, additional unlisted items. Only terms clearly indicated to the contrary, such as “only one of’ or “exactly one of,” or, when used in the claims, “consisting of,” will refer to the inclusion of exactly one element of a number or list of elements. In general, the term “or” as used herein shall only be interpreted as indicating exclusive alternatives (i.e. “one or the other but not both”) when preceded by terms of exclusivity, such as “either,” “one of,” “only one of,” or “exactly one of.”

[0131] As used herein in the specification and in the claims, the phrase “at least one,” in reference to a list of one or more elements, should be understood to mean at least one element selected from any one or more of the elements in the list of elements, but not necessarily including at least one of each and every element specifically listed within the list of elements and not excluding any combinations of elements in the list of elements. This definition alsoallows that elements can optionally be present other than the elements specifically identified within the list of elements to which the phrase “at least one” refers, whether related or unrelated to those elements specifically identified.

[0132] It should also be understood that, unless clearly indicated to the contrary, in any methods claimed herein that include more than one step or act, the order of the steps or acts of the method is not necessarily limited to the order in which the steps or acts of the method are recited.

[0133] In the claims, as well as in the specification above, all transitional phrases such as “comprising,” “including,” “carrying,” “having,” “containing,” “involving,” “holding,” “composed of,” and the like are to be understood to be open-ended, i.e., to mean including but not limited to. Only the transitional phrases “consisting of’ and “consisting essentially of’ shall be closed or semi-closed transitional phrases, respectively.

[0134] The above-described examples of the described subject matter can be implemented in any of numerous ways. For example, some aspects can be implemented using hardware, software or a combination thereof. When any aspect is implemented at least in part in software, the software code can be executed on any suitable processor or collection of processors, whether provided in a single device or computer or distributed among multiple devi ces / computers .

[0135] The present disclosure can be implemented as a system, a method, and / or a computer program product at any possible technical detail level of integration. The computer program product can include a computer readable storage medium (or media) having computer readable program instructions thereon for causing a processor to carry out aspects of the present disclosure.

[0136] The computer readable storage medium can be a tangible device that can retain and store instructions for use by an instruction execution device. The computer readable storage medium can be, for example, but is not limited to, an electronic storage device, a magnetic storage device, an optical storage device, an electromagnetic storage device, a semiconductor storage device, or any suitable combination of the foregoing. A non-exhaustive list of more specific examples of the computer readable storage medium includes the following: a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or Flash memory), a static random access memory (SRAM), a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), a digitalversatile disk (DVD), a memory stick, a floppy disk, a mechanically encoded device such as punch-cards or raised structures in a groove having instructions recorded thereon, and any suitable combination of the foregoing. A computer readable storage medium, as used herein, is not to be construed as being transitory signals per se, such as radio waves or other freely propagating electromagnetic waves, electromagnetic waves propagating through a waveguide or other transmission media (e.g., light pulses passing through a fiber-optic cable), or electrical signals transmitted through a wire.

[0137] Computer readable program instructions described herein can be downloaded to respective computing / processing devices from a computer readable storage medium or to an external computer or external storage device via a network, for example, the Internet, a local area network, a wide area network and / or a wireless network. The network can comprise copper transmission cables, optical transmission fibers, wireless transmission, routers, firewalls, switches, gateway computers and / or edge servers. A network adapter card or network interface in each computing / processing device receives computer readable program instructions from the network and forwards the computer readable program instructions for storage in a computer readable storage medium within the respective computing / processing device.

[0138] Computer readable program instructions for carrying out operations of the present disclosure can be assembler instructions, instruction-set-architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, statesetting data, configuration data for integrated circuitry, or either source code or object code written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including an object oriented programming language such as Smalltalk, C++, or the like, and procedural programming languages, such as the “C” programming language or similar programming languages. The computer readable program instructions can execute entirely on the user’s computer, partly on the user's computer, as a stand-alone software package, partly on the user’s computer and partly on a remote computer or entirely on the remote computer or server. In the latter scenario, the remote computer can be connected to the user's computer through any type of network, including a local area network (LAN) or a wide area network (WAN), or the connection can be made to an external computer (for example, through the Internet using an Internet Service Provider). In some examples, electronic circuitry including, for example, programmable logic circuitry, field-programmable gate arrays (FPGA), or programmable logic arrays (PLA) can execute the computer readable program instructions by utilizing stateinformation of the computer readable program instructions to personalize the electronic circuitry, in order to perform aspects of the present disclosure.

[0139] Aspects of the present disclosure are described herein with reference to flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams of methods, apparatus (systems), and computer program products according to examples of the disclosure. It will be understood that each block of the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, and combinations of blocks in the flowchart illustrations and / or block diagrams, can be implemented by computer readable program instructions.

[0140] The computer readable program instructions can be provided to a processor of a, special purpose computer, or other programmable data processing apparatus to produce a machine, such that the instructions, which execute via the processor of the computer or other programmable data processing apparatus, create means for implementing the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks. These computer readable program instructions can also be stored in a computer readable storage medium that can direct a computer, a programmable data processing apparatus, and / or other devices to function in a particular manner, such that the computer readable storage medium having instructions stored therein comprises an article of manufacture including instructions which implement aspects of the function / act specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram or blocks.

[0141] The computer readable program instructions can also be loaded onto a computer, other programmable data processing apparatus, or other device to cause a series of operational steps to be performed on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device to produce a computer implemented process, such that the instructions which execute on the computer, other programmable apparatus, or other device implement the functions / acts specified in the flowchart and / or block diagram block or blocks.

[0142] The flowchart and block diagrams in the Figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, methods, and computer program products according to various examples of the present disclosure. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams can represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks can occur out of the order noted in the Figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession can, in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks can sometimes beexecuted in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0143] Other implementations are within the scope of the following claims and other claims to which the applicant can be entitled.

[0144] While various examples have been described and illustrated herein, those of ordinary skill in the art will readily envision a variety of other means and / or structures for performing the function and / or obtaining the results and / or one or more of the advantages described herein, and each of such variations and / or modifications is deemed to be within the scope of the examples described herein. More generally, those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that all parameters, dimensions, materials, and configurations described herein are meant to be exemplary and that the actual parameters, dimensions, materials, and / or configurations will depend upon the specific application or applications for which the teachings is / are used. Those skilled in the art will recognize or be able to ascertain using no more than routine experimentation, many equivalents to the specific examples described herein. It is, therefore, to be understood that the foregoing examples are presented by way of example only and that, within the scope of the appended claims and equivalents thereto, examples can be practiced otherwise than as specifically described and claimed. Examples of the present disclosure are directed to each individual feature, system, article, material, kit, and / or method described herein. In addition, any combination of two or more such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods, if such features, systems, articles, materials, kits, and / or methods are not mutually inconsistent, is included within the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on28 March 2024 (28.03.2024)What is claimed is:

1. A customizable system of modular kiosks, the system comprising: a plurality of modular kiosks, each modular kiosk comprising: a kiosk enclosure having a secured access panel, and a display screen slot configured to receive a display screen, one or more modular slots configured to receive two or more different types of modular sub-components, and fastening hardware configured to secure the display screen and the two or more different types of modular sub-components within the kiosk enclosure; a display screen configured to display at least user-relevant information; two or more different types of modular sub-components, each modular subcomponent being secured within one of the one or more modular slots of the kiosk enclosure by the fastening hardware; and a kiosk controller operatively connected to the display screen and the two or more different types of modular sub-components, the kiosk controller being configured to operate the display screen and the two or more different types of modular subcomponents, wherein the kiosk controller is configured to operate each of the different types of modular sub-components when the modular sub-component is secured within the one or more modular slots; wherein the two or more modular sub-components are interchangeable, within the one or more modular slots, between the plurality of modular kiosks.

2. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more modular slots of each modular kiosk have a form factor of 1 : 1, 2:2, 1:2, or 2: 1.

3. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the two or more modular subcomponents of each modular kiosk have a form factor of 1 : 1, 2:2, 1:2, or 2: 1.

4. The system of claim 1, wherein the display screen of each modular kiosk is a touch-enabled display screen.32AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)5. The system of claim 1, wherein each modular kiosk further comprises one or more peripheral devices operatively connected to the corresponding kiosk controller, each kiosk controller being further configured to operate the one or more peripheral devices.

6. The system of claim 5, wherein the one or more peripheral devices includes at least one of a speaker system, a lighting system, a camera system, and a wireless communications system.

7. The system of claim 1, wherein the two or more modular sub-components comprises at least one of a payment terminal, a printer, a barcode scanner, and a biometric reader.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein each modular kiosk further comprises one or more removable facades covering any unused slots of the one or more modular slots.

9. The system of claim 1, wherein the kiosk enclosure of each modular kiosk further includes mounting hardware configured to mount the corresponding modular kiosk to one or more different types of kiosk support structures.

10. The system of claim 4, wherein at least one of the modular kiosks comprises: at least one modular sub-component having a form factor of 1 : 1 ; and at least one modular sub-component having a form factor of 2:2, 1 :2, or 2: 1.

11. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more modular kiosks comprises uniform branding for the environment in which the system of modular kiosks is deployed.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein each of the two or more modular subcomponents of each modular kiosk comprises an arrangement of electrical contacts, and each of the one or more modular slots of each modular kiosk comprises a complementary arrangement of electrical contacts configured to mate and / or align with the arrangement electrical contacts of a corresponding modular sub-component when the corresponding modular sub-component is inserted into a corresponding modular slot.33AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)- 11 -13. The system of claim 12, wherein the kiosk enclosure for each modular kiosk further comprises a built-in cable pathway and cables disposed within the built-in cable pathway operatively connecting the corresponding kiosk controller with the two or more modular sub-components via the complementary arrangements of electrical contacts for the one or more modular slots.

14. A method of deploying a customizable system of modular kiosks comprising a first modular kiosk and at least a second modular kiosk, the method comprising: installing the first modular kiosk of the customizable system at a first location within an environment; and installing the at least the second modular kiosk of the customizable system at a second location within the environment; wherein each modular kiosk comprises: a kiosk enclosure having a secured access panel, a display screen slot configured to receive a display screen, one or more modular slots configured to receive two or more different types of modular sub-components, and fastening hardware configured to secure the display screen and the two or more different modular sub-components within the kiosk enclosure; a display screen configured to display at least user-relevant information; two or more different types of modular sub-components, each modular sub-component being secured within one of the one or more modular slots of the kiosk enclosure by the fastening hardware; and a kiosk controller operatively connected to the display screen and the two or more different types of modular sub-components, the kiosk controller being configured to operate the display screen and the two or more different types of modular sub-components, wherein the kiosk controller is configured to operate each of the different types of modular sub-components when the modular sub-component is secured within the one or more modular slots; and wherein two or more different types of modular sub-components are interchangeable between the two or more modular kiosks.34AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)15. The method of claim 14, further comprising changing a configuration of the first modular kiosk by inserting a new modular sub-component into an unused modular slot of the first modular kiosk, wherein the new modular sub-component and the unused modular slot have equivalent form factors.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the new modular sub-component comprises an arrangement of electrical contacts; wherein each of the one or more modular slots of the first modular kiosk comprises a complementary arrangement of electrical contacts configured to mate and / or align with the arrangement electrical contacts of a corresponding modular sub-component when the corresponding modular sub-component is inserted into a corresponding modular slot; and wherein inserting the new modular sub-component into the unused modular slot of the first modular kiosk forms an electrical connection between the new modular subcomponent and a corresponding kiosk controller via the complementary arrangement of electrical contacts of the unused modular slot.

17. The method of claim 15 , wherein changing the configuration of the first modular kiosk further includes uninstalling, from the first modular kiosk, a removable facade covering the unused modular slot prior to inserting the new modular sub-component into the unused modular slot of the first modular kiosk.

18. The method of claim 14, further comprising changing the configuration of the first modular kiosk by: removing an existing modular sub-component from a corresponding modular slot of the first modular kiosk, the existing modular sub-component having a form factor of 1: 1, 2:2, 1:2, or 2: 1; and inserting a new modular sub-component into the corresponding modular slot of the first modular kiosk, wherein the new modular sub-component has a form factor equivalent to the form factor of the existing modular sub-component that was removed.

19. The method of claim 14, further comprising changing the configuration of at least the first and second modular kiosks of the customizable system of modular kiosks by:35AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)removing a first modular sub-component from a first modular slot of the first modular kiosk, the first modular sub-component having a form factor of 1 : 1, 2:2, 1:2, or 2: 1; removing a second modular sub-component from a second modular slot of the second modular kiosk, the second modular sub-component having a form factor equivalent to the first modular sub-component; and inserting the first modular sub-component removed from the first modular kiosk into the second modular slot of the second modular kiosk.

20. The method of claim 14, wherein changing the configuration of at least the first and second modular kiosks of the customizable system of modular kiosks further includes inserting the second modular sub-component removed from the second modular kiosk into the first modular slot of the first modular kiosk.36AMENDED SHEET (ARTICLE 19)

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