Configurable scale system

Abstract

A scale system is disclosed. It includes a platform device with a housing, and at least a first side and a second side, and a load cell associated with the housing. The platform device comprises a first coupling structure at the first side and a second coupling structure at the second side. The scale system also includes an external device, and a connecting device configured to mechanically couple the external device to one of the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure.

Description

CONFIGURABLE SCALE SYSTEMCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] None.BACKGROUND

[0002] Scales can be used to weigh items. However, a scale with a particular shape and size may not be suitable for many situations. For example, a countertop at a service provider can support a scale can specific dimensions. However, the orientation of the scale may not be suitable for that countertop. This is because the user of the scale may want scale to be oriented in a particular direction (e.g., so that a display of the scale faces a particular direction).

[0003] Further, scales are being used for more complex tasks. For example, supermarket checkout stands now use self-service stations that include scales to determine that the weight of the items that a person is purchasing matches the weight of the items that the person is placing on the scale in a bagging area. Such scales are very large and are not adaptable for different spatial configurations that might be present at different service providers. Further, such scales are not configurable. A display on a scale is fixed relative to the scale and additional devices cannot be easily added to the scale. Thus, existing scale systems have limited functionality.

[0004] Embodiments of the invention address these and other problems.SUMMARY

[0005] One embodiment includes a scale system comprising: a platform device comprising a housing, and at least a first side and a second side, and a load cell associated with the housing, the platform device comprising a first coupling structure at one of the first side and a second coupling structure at the second side;an external device; and a connecting device configured to mechanically couple the external device to one of the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure.

[0006] Another embodiment includes a method of using a scale system comprising (i) a platform device comprising a housing, and at least a first side and a second side, and a load cell associated with the housing, the platform device comprising a first coupling structure at the first side and a second coupling structure at the second side, (b) an external device, and (c) a connecting device configured to mechanically couple the external device to one of the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure, the method comprising: obtaining the external device, and coupling the external device to the platform device using the connecting device via the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure.

[0007] A better understanding of the nature and advantages of embodiments of the invention may be gained with reference to the following detailed description and accompanying drawings.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0008] FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a scale system in a first configuration according to an embodiment.

[0009] FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a scale system in a second configuration according to an embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 3 shows a bottom perspective view of the scale system according to an embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 4A shows a view of a portion of another scale system embodiment with a camera device, and the housing of the scale system opened so that some internal components of the scale system are visible.

[0012] FIG. 4B shows a bottom view of the portion of the scale system shown in FIG. 4A.

[0013] FIG. 4C shows a bottom view of the portion of the scale system shown in Fig. 4B, but with some internal components visible.

[0014] FIG. 5 shows a side view of a portion of a scale system according to another embodiment of the invention.

[0015] FIG. 6 shows a block diagram of a scale system according to an embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of an item delivery system that incorporates the scale system according to embodiments.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Prior to discussing embodiments of the disclosure, some terms can be described in further detail.

[0018] A “user” may include an individual or a computational device. In some embodiments, a user may be associated with one or more personal accounts and / or mobile devices. In some embodiments, the user may be a cardholder, account holder, or consumer.

[0019] A “user device” may be any suitable electronic device that can process and communicate information to other electronic devices. The user device may include a processor and a computer-readable medium coupled to the processor, the computer-readable medium comprising code, executable by the processor. The user device may also each include an external communication interface for communicating with each other and other entities. Examples of user devices may include a mobile device (e.g., a mobile phone), a laptop or desktop computer, a wearable device (e.g., smartwatch), etc.

[0020] A “fulfillment request” or “fulfillment request message” can be a request to provide a resource in response to a request. For example, a fulfillment request can include an initial communication from an end user device to a central server computer for a first service provider computer to fulfill a purchase request for a resource such as food. A fulfillment request can be in an initial state, a partially completed state, or a final state. After the fulfillment request is in a final state, it can be accepted by the central server computer, and the central server computer can send a fulfillment request confirmation to the end user device. An exemplary fulfillment request can include a list of items to be purchased in an order, the quantityof each item to be purchased, an end user identifier for the user that initiates the fulfillment request, a total amount of the fulfillment request, and a timestamp associated with the fulfillment request.

[0021] A “transporter” can be an entity that transports something. A transporter can be a person that transports a resource using a transportation device (e.g., a car). In other embodiments, a transporter can be a transportation device that may or may not be operated by a human. Examples of transportation devices include cars, boats, scooters, bicycles, drones, airplanes, etc. A transporter may also use a user device (e.g., a driver using a mobile phone) or a user device be in coupled to the transporter (e.g., a telecommunications unit in an autonomous vehicle).

[0022] An “item” can include an individual article or unit. An item can be a thing that is provided by a service provider. Items can be a goods. For example, an item can be a bowl of soup, a soda can, a toy, clothing, etc. An item can be a thing that is delivered from a service provider location to an end user location by a transporter.

[0023] “Weight data” can include digital information regarding a unit or system of units used for expressing how much an object or quantity of matter weighs.Weight data can include data relating to a weight or a mass of an object. Weight data can include either actual weight data or estimated weight data.

[0024] “Actual weight data” can include information of a measured amount of weight. A scale can determine actual weight data for loads placed on the scale. For example, a load that includes a closed container that includes four food items can be placed on a scale. The scale can determine actual weight data for the load (e.g., 500 grams).

[0025] “Estimated weight data” can include information of a calculated amount of weight. Estimated weight data can be generated by a computer based on previous weight data. Estimated weight data can be a prediction of what the actual weight data will be when one or more items are weighed on a scale. The estimated weight data can be compared to the actual weight data to determine if the correct items were weighted. For example, a computer can determine estimated weight data for a load that includes a closed container that includes four food items with known typicalweights. The computer can determine the estimated weight based on the typical weights.

[0026] A “server computer” is typically a powerful computer or cluster of computers. For example, the server computer can be a large mainframe, a minicomputer cluster, or a group of servers functioning as a unit. In one example, the server computer may be a database server coupled to a Web server. A server computer can also include a cloud computer.

[0027] A “processor” may include any suitable data computation device or devices. A processor may comprise one or more microprocessors working together to accomplish a desired function. The processor may include CPU comprises at least one high-speed data processor adequate to execute program components for executing user and / or system -generated requests. The CPU may be a microprocessor such as AMD's Athlon, Duron and / or Opteron; IBM and / or Motorola's PowerPC; IBM's and Sony's Cell processor; Intel's Celeron, Itanium, Pentium, Xeon, and / or XScale; and / or the like processor(s).

[0028] A “memory” may be any suitable device or devices that can store electronic data. A suitable memory may comprise a non-transitory computer readable medium that stores instructions that can be executed by a processor to implement a desired method. Examples of memories may comprise one or more memory chips, disk drives, etc. Such memories may operate using any suitable electrical, optical, and / or magnetic mode of operation.

[0029] FIG. 1 shows a scale system 100 according to an embodiment of the invention. The scale system 100 includes a platform device 106. The platform device 106 can have a rectangular shape, or any other suitable shape.

[0030] The platform device 106 includes a first side 106A and a second side 106B perpendicular to the first side 106A. The platform device 106 can also include a third side opposite the first side 106A, and a fourth side opposite the second side 106B. A housing 112 can at least partially define the first side 106A, the second side 106B, the third side, and the fourth side of the platform device 106. The first side 106A, the second side 106B, the third side, and the fourth side of the platform device 106 can define an upper portion 106A-1 and a lower portion 106B-1 of the platformdevice 106. A circumferential recess can delineate the upper portion 106A-1 and the lower portion 106B-1 .

[0031] The platform device 106 can also include a load cell. The load cell can be at least partially enclosed by the housing 112. The load cell is described in further detail below, and can produce electrical signals in response to the application of pressure, such as when one or more items are placed on the upper portion 106A-1 of the platform device 106.

[0032] The platform device 106 can also include a first coupling structure 108A formed in the housing 112 at the first side 106A of the platform device 106. The platform device 106 can also have a second coupling structure (not shown in FIG. 1 ) at the second side 106B of the platform device 106. The second coupling structure can be coupled to a connecting device 104, which is connected to a display device 102, which has a major surface 102A for viewing. The platform device 106 can also include a third coupling structure at a third side of the platform device 106, and a fourth coupling structure at a fourth side of the platform device 106. It is understood that the platform device 106 can include two or more coupling structures.

[0033] The coupling structures including the first coupling structure 108A can take any suitable form. For example, the first coupling structure 108A can be in the form of a structure that defines a laterally elongated opening or slot. The opening or slot can be cooperatively structured to receive at least a portion of the coupling structure such as the connecting device 104. For example, the connecting device 104 can have a first portion comprising a planar body with apertures and can be inserted into the opening or slot of the coupling structure in the platform device 106. The connecting device 104 can have a second portion that can attach to an external device such as the display device 102.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first coupling structure 108A and the second coupling structure can each have one or more retractable pins that can engage one or more small apertures of a connecting device to secure any device attached to the connecting device. Retractable pins of the coupling structure can retract when the planar body of the connecting device applies downward pressure to them as the planar body is inserted into the opening or slot. Once the apertures are over the retractable pins, they can extend into the apertures thereby securing the connectingdevice to the coupling structure. Note that other coupling structure configurations and connecting device configurations are possible in other embodiments of the invention.

[0035] The scale system 100 can also include a display device 102, where a major surface 102A of the display device 102 faces away from an upper surface of an upper portion 106A-1 of the platform device 106. The upper portion 106A-1 can be above a lower portion 106B-1 of the platform device 106, and can have a load receiver plate. The display device 102 can comprise a processor and a computer readable medium (e.g., one or more memory chips), an output device (e.g., a display and / or speaker), and one or more input devices (e.g., a microphone, keypad, touchscreen, etc.).

[0036] As shown in FIG. 1 , the connecting device 104 and the display device 102 can be connected to the second side 106B of the platform device 106. Alternatively, the connecting device 104 and the display device 102 can be connected to the first side 106A of the platform device 106.

[0037] FIG. 2 shows the scale system 100 with the display device 102 coupled to the first coupling structure 108 using the connecting device 104. FIG. 2 illustrates the ability to easily configure the scale system 100 so the display device 102 is in a different position relative to the platform device 106, compared to the display device shown in FIG. 1.

[0038] The ability to reconfigure the display device 102 with respect to the different sides of the platform device 106 has a number of advantages. As shown in FIG. 1 , the platform device 106 can be rectangular. As such some users may wish to have the scale oriented in a portrait orientation in some cases, while others may wish to have scale oriented in a landscape position. The display device 102 can face the same direction regardless of the orientation of the display device 102. This can be useful if different users have different counterspace configurations for counters which will support the scale system 100.

[0039] In addition, the use of multiple coupling structures in the platform device 106 also has a number of other advantages. For example, using embodiments of the invention, a display device 102 can be coupled to the platform device 106 via one coupling structure via the connecting device 104, while a differentdevice such as a camera can be coupled to another coupling structure via another connecting device. The camera can be used to perform object recognition when objects to be weighed are placed on the platform device 106. As such, multiple auxiliary devices can be connected to the platform device 106 in the scale system 100.

[0040] FIG. 3 shows a bottom, perspective view of the scale system 100. This view shows a number of channels 116A, 116B, 1160, 116D formed in the housing 112. The channels 116A, 116B, 116C, 116D can receive wires that can provide communication and power paths from one or more electrical connectors 114 in an internal recess 120 to an external device such as the display device 102 or a camera. The channels 116A, 116B, 116C, 116D advantageously allow the platform device 106 to sit flush against a surface such as a countertop, while providing the ability to supply power to external devices attached to the platform device 106. Further, in the scale system according to embodiments of the invention, each external device does not need to have its own wire connected directly to an electrical outlet. The platform device 106 can have a single power cord (not shown) that supplies power to the platform device 106 and the platform device can provide power to any external devices connected to it. Thus, the platform device 106 according to embodiments of the invention have a built in cable management system. In other embodiments, external devices such as the display device 102 can communicate with the platform device 106 via wireless signals (e.g., Bluetooth™).

[0041] FIG. 3 also shows a better view of the coupling structures 108. Each coupling structure can define a “T” shape, wherein portions coupling structure that are closer to the side extend inward such that they engage the connecting device 104 so that can be held in place when it is connected to the platform device 106.

[0042] FIG. 4A shows an exploded view of a scale system according to another embodiment. The scale system 400 comprises a platform device a housing comprising an upper portion 406A-1 and a lower portion 406B-1 . The upper portion 406A-1 and the lower portion 106B-1 of the housing may contain a load cell 436. The load cell 436 can include an electrical connector 422 that can allow the load cell 436 to be in electrical communication with the electronics board 430. The load cell 436 can also be connected to an electronics board 430. Power can be supplied to thescale system 400 via an electrical connector 420. A constraint structure 403 can be attached to the upper portion 406A to control its movement relative to the lower portion 406B-1 .

[0043] FIG. 4A also shows a camera 440 that can be coupled to the lower portion 406B of the platform device using a connecting device 404. The connecting device 404 comprises apertures 436A, which can engage pins in the platform device.

[0044] FIG. 4B shows a bottom view of the platform device in FIG. 4A. As shown, the bottom has a channel 416 which can receive a cable that can connect to an external device such as a display device.

[0045] FIG. 4C shows a partial internal view of the platform device. FIG. 4C shows the connecting device 404 attached to the platform device using retractable pins that pass through apertures 404A in the connecting device 404.

[0046] FIG. 5 shows a side view of a scale system 500 according to an embodiment. The scale system 500 comprises a platform device 506 with a coupling structure 508B. The coupling structures comprises an inner wall 408B-2 and inwardly facing retaining structures 506B-1 which can engage and support a coupling device such as the connecting device 504. The connecting device 504 is attached to a different coupling structure at a different side of the platform device 506 than the coupling structure 508B. The connecting device 504 can have a planar attachment member 504A which can attach to the coupling structure in the platform device. The connecting device can also include an adjustment member 504B which can attach to the display device 502. The adjustment member 504B can be a hinge mechanism or other mechanism that allows a viewing angle of the display device 502 to be adjusted relative to the platform device 508.

[0047] FIG. 6 shows a block diagram showing components of a scale system 620 according to embodiments. The exemplary scale system 620 may comprise a scale 622 (which can correspond to the previously described platform device) and an external device 624 such as a display device, and a camera 626.

[0048] The scale 622 can include a housing 602, one or more load cells 604, one or more analog-to-digital converters 606, a microprocessor 608, and a load receiver plate. The external device 624 can include a housing 652, a processor 656,and a display 662. The processor 656 may be coupled to a memory 654, a network interface 658, and a computer readable medium 660. The computer readable medium 660 can comprise one or more modules that perform functionality. In some embodiments, the external device 624 can be powered from an external source (e.g., an outlet) and the external device 624 can power the scale 622.

[0049] The housing 602 of the scale 622 and the housing 652 of the external device 624 can be formed from any material that can provide protection for the other components that are held within the housing. For example, the housing 602 and the housing 652 can be made of plastic, metal, wood, etc. or a combination thereof. Likewise, the previously described connecting device can be formed of any suitable material.

[0050] The load receiver plate 610 can be situated on the one or more load cells 604 such that when a load (e.g., one or more items, a container, etc.) is placed on the load receiver plate 610, the added weight to the load receiver plate 610 causes the load receiver plate 610 to put more force on the one or more load cells 604. In some embodiments, the housing 602 of the scale 622 can be integrated into the load receiver plate 610.

[0051] The one or more load cells 604 can be force gauges. The one or more load cells 604 can also include a transducer that is used to create an electrical signal whose magnitude is in direct proportion with the force being measured. When a load with a weight is placed on to the load receiver plate 610, the one or more load cells 604 can bend slightly, which causes an electrical signal that runs through the load cell to change. This signal change is due to the amount of electrical resistance that the bending causes to the strain gauge inside the load cell.

[0052] The one or more load cells 604 can include any suitable type of load cell. For example, the one or more load cells 604 can include pneumatic load cells, hydraulic load cells, strain gauge load cells, and capacitance load cells.

[0053] Pneumatic load cells utilize air pressure and consist of an elastic diaphragm, which can be attached to the load receiver plate 610. A pneumatic load cell can also include an air regulator that limits the flow of air pressure and a pressure gauge. Such load cells can work by using pressurized air to balance out the weight of the load, and the amount of air required is therefore used to determine howheavy the load is. The pressure gauge can then convert the reading into an electrical signal.

[0054] Hydraulic load cells utilize a fluid such as water or oil. Scales with hydraulic load cells can operate similarly to pneumatic load cells except they use a piston and pressurized liquid rather than air. When a load is placed on the load receiver plate 610, the piston applies increased pressure to the contained liquid which is proportional to the applied weight. After calibrating the pressure, an accurate measure of the weight can be made. The pressure reading can be used as an analogue gauge or be converted to an electric signal.

[0055] A strain gauge utilizes electrical resistance. The electrical resistance when under strain is proportional to the strain placed on the cell when weighing a load, which makes it straightforward to calibrate into an accurate measurement. The accuracy can be improved with four strain gauges inside the strain gauge load cell being in a ‘Wheatstone Bridge’ configuration. This is an electrical circuit that measures unknown electrical resistance and provides very accurate measurements when bent under the weight of a load.

[0056] Capacitive load cells work on the ability of the system to store charge. Capacitive load cells consist of two parallel flat plates that have a current applied to them. When the charge is stable, it is then stored between the plates. The amount stored or the capacitance depends on the size of the gap between the plates. So, when a load is placed on the load receiver plate 610, the gap will decrease and create a change in the capacitance, which can then be calculated into weight.

[0057] The output electrical signal from the one or more load cells 604 can be input into the one or more analog-to-digital converters 606. The analog-to-digital converters 606 can convert output voltage from the one or more load cells 604 to digital signals for processing by the microprocessor 608. Any suitable analog-to- digital converter can be utilized.

[0058] The microprocessor 608 can convert the received digital signals to weight data as known to one of skill in the art. The microprocessor 608 can then output any recorded weight data to the external device 624.

[0059] The external device 624 can be a display device, a camera, or any other suitable auxiliary device.

[0060] In some embodiments, the external device 624 can process the weight data received from the scale 622 and output the weight data to the display 662. The display 662 can be a screen (e.g., LCD display, LED display, etc.) that is capable of presenting information to a user of the scale system 620.

[0061] If the external device 624 comprises a camera the camera can include a device capable of obtaining digital representation of images. The camera can record images of the scale 622 and any loads placed on the load receiver plate 610. Images obtained by the camera can be evaluated to determine what is in the image using one or more machine learning models that are trained to identify objects, writing, etc. in images. The camera can output recorded images to the external device 624 for processing.

[0062] Loads placed on the load receiver plate 610 can include order identifying information. The camera can capture images of the order identifying information on the load when place on the scale 622. The order identifying information can include a fulfillment request identifier (e.g., order #12645678), a barcode, a QR code, a written description of what the load includes, etc. The order identifying information can be evaluated by the external device 124.

[0063] The external device 624 can also have one or more input elements 664, which may include a touchscreen, keyboard, microphone, input buttons, etc.

[0064] The above-described scale system can be used to weigh items that are provided by a service provider. For example, an end user using an end user device can provide a fulfillment request for one or more items (e.g., food) to a service provider (e.g., a restaurant) that operates a service provider computer via a central server computer. The central server computer can be operated by a third party (e.g., a delivery company) that coordinates the processing of the fulfillment request. The central server computer can create an order based on the data relating to the fulfillment request and can send the order to the service provider computer. The service provider, upon receiving the order, can prepare the one or more items. When the one or more items are ready, the service provider computer can inform the central server computer that they are ready. The central server computer can thenfacilitate the delivery of the one or more items from the service provider to the user by using a transporter (e.g., a delivery driver or autonomous vehicle).

[0065] There are several problems associated with the processing of the fulfillment request. One problem is that the service provider may not provide the correct items in the order. For example, wrong items may be provided in the order, items may be inadvertently omitted, items may be prepared in the incorrect manner, etc. Another problem is that, in some cases, the service provider does not notify the transporter when the order is ready. The transporter may arrive too early or too late after the items in the order have been prepared. The transporter can only rely on estimated preparation time of the order. For example, a central server computer can give an estimate of 20 minutes for a restaurant to prepare a food order. However, the restaurant may actually take 30 minutes to prepare the food order. This causes the transporter to wait for 10 minutes. This can either waste the transporter’s time or the quality of the items in the order may degrade the transporter does not pick up the order and promptly deliver it to the end user once the items in the order have been prepared by the service provider.

[0066] There is no easy way to determine if claims for incorrect orders by end users or claims of correct orders by service providers are valid. This is because the actual evidence pertaining to the preparation and completion of the items in an order does not exist once the order has been delivered to the end user.

[0067] Furthermore, items can be packaged in a closed container for delivery for privacy, food safety, etc. Transporters cannot check inside the closed container to validate the correctness of the order.

[0068] Embodiments can address these problems by introducing a scale system that can detect a weight of items in an order. The scale system can be configurable as shown above.

[0069] The scale system can be at a service provider and can be in communication with a service provider computer. In embodiments, a central server computer may receive a fulfillment request for an order comprising one or more items from a user device. The central server computer can create an order based on the data relating to the fulfillment request (e.g., item information, estimated weights of the item, etc.), assigns a fulfillment request identifier to the order, and send theorder and the fulfillment request identifier to the service provider computer. The service provider, upon receiving the order, can then prepare the one or more items. When the order is ready, the service provider can place the order comprising the one or more items on the scale in the scale system.

[0070] The scale system can measure the weight of the one or more items in the order, and the actual weight data and the fulfillment request identifier (e.g., an order number) may be transmitted to the service provider computer, and then to the central server computer (or directly to the central server computer). The central server computer can have estimated weight data of the matching order in its database, and the central server computer can compare the estimated weight data of the order to the actual weight data. If the difference between the actual weight data and the estimated weight data exceeds a threshold, then then the central server computer transmits a message that there is a discrepancy in the order back to the service provider computer. The service provider can then check the items in the order and can make any necessary corrections. In some embodiments, the central server computer can provide the estimated weight data to the scale system, where the scale system performs the comparison locally.

[0071] In the case where the actual weight of the order is substantially the same as the estimated weight, then the central server computer can use this as a signal that the order is ready to be picked up and can notify the transporters in the vicinity of the service provider that the order is ready.

[0072] The actual weight data of the order may be stored by the central server computer for later use. For example, if an end user makes a fraudulent claim with the central server computer regarding the order (e.g., the order did not have a particular ordered item), then the actual weight data can be used by the central server computer to prove that the order was complete when it was obtained by the transporter from the service provider, and delivered to the end user.

[0073] The scale system can be a smart scale that measures weights of one or more items to process the matching order. In some embodiments, the scale system can be in the form of a smart shelf that uses a scale to measure weights of orders. Also, in some embodiments, a camera can be used to capture image data of orders or items on the shelf or scale. The smart shelf can use both the weight dataand the image data to process orders of items. For example, a smart shelf may have three orders with items on it, and the camera may recognize the three orders and can recognize the orders via barcodes, QR codes, fulfillment request identifier, or the like. The central server computer can use the image data to determine the three orders, and can use the weight data from the scale system to determine if the total weight of the three orders is substantially equal to the estimated weight of the three orders.

[0074] FIG. 7 shows a system 700 according to embodiments of the disclosure. The system 700 comprises one or more end user devices 702, a central server computer 704, a fulfillment request database 706, a logistics platform 708, one or more service provider computers 710, one or more transporter user devices 714, one or more transporter vehicles 715, a navigation network 716, and a scale system 720 comprising a scale 722 and one or more external devices 724.

[0075] The central server computer 704 can be in operative communication with the one or more end user devices 702, the fulfillment request database 706, the logistics platform 708, the one or more service provider computers 710, the transporter user device 714, the transporter vehicles 715, the scale system 720, and in some embodiments, the navigation network 716. Further, the one or more transporter user devices 714 can be in operative communication with the navigation network 716. In some embodiments, the transporter vehicles 715 can be in operative communication with the navigation network 716.

[0076] For simplicity of illustration, a certain number of components are shown in FIG. 7. It is understood, however, that embodiments of the invention may include more than one of each component. In addition, some embodiments of the invention may include fewer than or greater than all of the components shown in FIG. 7. For example, one or more scale systems 720 can be present in the system 700. In some embodiments, there may be a different scale system located at each service provider computer location.

[0077] Messages between at least the devices in FIG. 7 can be transmitted using a secure communications protocols such as, but not limited to, File Transfer Protocol (FTP); HyperText Transfer Protocol (HTTP); Secure Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTPS), SSL, ISO (e.g., ISO 8583) and / or the like. The communicationsnetwork may include any one and / or the combination of the following: a direct interconnection; the Internet; a Local Area Network (LAN); a Metropolitan Area Network (MAN); an Operating Missions as Nodes on the Internet (OMNI); a secured custom connection; a Wide Area Network (WAN); a wireless network (e.g., employing protocols such as, but not limited to a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), l-mode, and / or the like); and / or the like. The communications network can use any suitable communications protocol to generate one or more secure communication channels. A communications channel may, in some instances, comprise a secure communication channel, which may be established in any known manner, such as through the use of mutual authentication and a session key, and establishment of a Secure Socket Layer (SSL) session.

[0078] The one or more end user devices 702 includes devices operated by end users. The one or more end user devices 702 can generate and provide fulfillment request messages to the central server computer 704. The fulfillment request message can indicate that the request (e.g., a request for a service) can be fulfilled by one or more service provider computers 710. For example, the fulfillment request message can be generated based on a cart selected at checkout during a transaction using a central server computer application installed on the end user device 702. The fulfillment request message can include one or more items from the selected cart.

[0079] For example, the fulfillment request message can be a request for a food item (e.g., a hamburger) to be prepared by a specific service provider computer 710 and delivered to an end user location by a transporter that operates a transporter user device and, in some embodiments, a transporter vehicle.

[0080] The central server computer 704 includes a server computer that can facilitate in the fulfillment of fulfillment requests received from the one or more end user devices 702. For example, the central server computer 704 can identify one or more transporters operating one or more transporter user devices 714 that are capable of satisfying the fulfillment request. The central server computer 704 can identify the transporter user device 714 that can satisfy the fulfillment request based on any suitable criteria (e.g., transporter location, service provider location, end user destination, end user location, transporter mode of transportation, etc.). The logisticsplatform 708 may provide real time data regarding locations of the various service providers, transporters, and end users to the central server computer 704.

[0081] The fulfillment request database 706 can store data related to previous (e.g., historical) fulfillment requests. For example, after a fulfillment request is fulfilled, the central server computer 704 can store fulfillment request data into the fulfillment request database 706. For example, the central server computer 704 can store any spatial-temporal fulfillment data (e.g., transporter user device location over time, transporter user device motion data over time, length of time taken to fulfil the fulfillment request, a fulfillment time, a fulfillment location, etc.), fulfillment service data (e.g., fulfilled services, an amount, a service provider computer identifier, an end user device identifier, a transporter user device identifier, etc.), and any other data relating to the fulfillment request and / or the fulfillment of the fulfillment request.

[0082] The one or more service provider computers 710 include computers operated by service providers. For example, a service provider computer can be a food provider computer that is operated by a food provider. The one or more service provider computers 710 can offer to provide services to the end users of the one or more end user devices 702. The service provider computer 710 can receive requests to prepare one or more items for delivery from the central server computer 704. The service provider computer 710 can initiate the preparation of the one or more items that are to be delivered to the end user of the end user device 702 by a transporter of a transporter user device 714.

[0083] The one or more transporter user devices 714 can be devices operated by transporters. The one or more transporter user devices 714 can be smartphones, wearable devices, personal assistant devices, etc. A transporter using a transporter user device 714 can provide a request to fulfill an end user’s fulfillment request. For example, the transporter user device 714 can generate and transmit a request to fulfill a particular end user’s fulfillment request to the central server computer 704. The central server computer 704 can notify the transporter user device 714 of the fulfillment request. The transporter user device 714 can respond to the central server computer 704 with a request to perform the delivery to the end user as indicated by the fulfillment request. In some embodiments, the one or more transporter user devices 714 are communication devices in autonomous vehicles.

[0084] In some embodiments, a transporter can operate a transporter user device 714 and a transporter vehicle 715. For example, a transporter can be a delivery person, the transporter user device 714 can be the delivery person’s mobile phone, and the transporter vehicle 715 can be a car that is operated by the delivery person. The transporter vehicles 715 can include cars, bikes, mopeds, skateboards, public transit vehicles, etc. In some embodiments, a transporter may not utilize a transporter vehicle 715 (e.g., the transporter can deliver the items of the fulfillment request by foot).

[0085] In some embodiments, the central server computer 704 can identify the transporter vehicle 715 that can satisfy the fulfillment request based on any suitable criteria (e.g., transporter vehicle location, transporter vehicle type, transporter vehicle battery charge level, transporter vehicle weight limit, service provider location, end user destination, end user location, etc.). The transporter vehicles 715 can include autonomous vehicles that can operate without receiving input from a transporter.

[0086] The navigation network 716 can provide navigational directions to the one or more transporter user devices 714. For example, the transporter user device 714 can obtain a location from the central server computer 704. The location can be a service provider parking location, a service provider location, an end user parking location, an end user location, etc. The navigation network 716 can provide navigational data to the location. For example, the navigation network 716 can be a global positioning system that provides location data to the transporter user device 714. In some embodiments, the transporter vehicle 715, which can be an autonomous vehicle, can communicate with the navigation network 716 to direct the transporter vehicle 715 to the destination.

[0087] The scale system 720 can include a scale 722 and one or more external devices. The scale system 720 can include physical and electrical components that determine weights of items. The scale system 720 can determine actual weights of items placed on the scale at a service provider location. In particular, the scale 722 can determine the actual weight of the items. In some embodiments, the scale system 720 can be a smart shelf, which includes a shelf with scales on and / or in the shelf.

[0088] In some embodiments, a display device 724 can transmit and receive messages to and from the central server computer 704. For example, the central server computer 704 can provide fulfillment request messages, or derivatives thereof, to the scale system 720. In some embodiments, the display device 724 can determine estimated weights for the items that are indicated in the fulfillment request message. In other embodiments, the central server computer 704 can determine the estimated weights for the items in the fulfillment request message, and provide the estimated weight to the scale system 720.

[0089] The scale system 720 can verify that the actual weight data corresponds to the estimated weight data. The scale system 720 can then perform additional processing based on verifying. For example, the scale system 720 can generate and provide a notification to the central server computer 704 that the one or more items are completed and are ready to deliver to the end user. As another example, the scale system 720 can include a camera and can receive image data of the one or more items in the fulfillment request. The scale system 720 can utilize the image data for the additional processing. As another example, the additional processing can include determining if the fulfillment request of the one or more items provided by the service provider is erroneous or fraudulent based on the estimated weight and / or the actual weight.

[0090] In some embodiments, a camera 726 (which is an example of an external device) can be coupled to the scale 722 and / or the display device 724 via an electro-mechanical connection. The camera 726 can be a device for recording visual images. The camera 726 can face the scale (e.g., the aperture of the camera 726 points towards the scale 722) to record images or video of item(s) on the scale 722. For example, the camera 726 can record images of a closed container that includes two items being placed on the scale 722. The images of the camera 726 can be evaluated by software configured to recognize objects in the image (e.g., performed by the display device 724). The images can capture barcodes, QR codes, fulfillment request identifiers printed or written on the containers, etc. The camera 726 can output images to the display device 724, which can evaluate the images to determine to which order the container in the image corresponds.

[0091] In the description above, it is understood that the use of terms such as “first,” “second,” third,” and “fourth,” etc. are not intended to be limiting, but are labels that can differentiate components.

[0092] Embodiments provide for a number of advantages. As explained above, external devices may be coupled and uncoupled from a platform device in scale system in embodiments of the invention. The resulting scale system is configurable to the desire of a user and to any spatial constraints that might exist in the area where the sale system will be located. Further the scale system is configurable with various external device such as display devices, cameras, microphones, etc. The ability to add such external devices allows users to customize the scale system and add functionality to the scale system.

[0093] Any of the software components or functions described in this application may be implemented as software code to be executed by a processor using any suitable computer language such as, for example, Java, C, C++, C#, Objective-C, Swift, or scripting language such as Perl or Python using, for example, conventional or object-oriented techniques. The software code may be stored as a series of instructions or commands on a computer readable medium for storage and / or transmission, suitable media include random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a magnetic medium such as a hard-drive or a floppy disk, or an optical medium such as a compact disk (CD) or DVD (digital versatile disk), flash memory, and the like. The computer readable medium may be any combination of such storage or transmission devices.

[0094] Such programs may also be encoded and transmitted using carrier signals adapted for transmission via wired, optical, and / or wireless networks conforming to a variety of protocols, including the Internet. As such, a computer readable medium according to an embodiment of the present invention may be created using a data signal encoded with such programs. Computer readable media encoded with the program code may be packaged with a compatible device or provided separately from other devices (e.g., via Internet download). Any such computer readable medium may reside on or within a single computer product (e.g., a hard drive, a CD, or an entire computer system), and may be present on or within different computer products within a system or network. A computer system mayinclude a monitor, printer, or other suitable display for providing any of the results mentioned herein to a user.

[0095] The above description is illustrative and is not restrictive. Many variations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of the disclosure. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead should be determined with reference to the pending claims along with their full scope or equivalents.

[0096] One or more features from any embodiment may be combined with one or more features of any other embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention.

[0097] As used herein, the use of "a," "an," or "the" is intended to mean "at least one," unless specifically indicated to the contrary.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:1 . A scale system comprising: a platform device comprising a housing, and at least a first side and a second side, a load cell associated with the housing, a first coupling structure at the first side and a second coupling structure at the second side; an external device; and a connecting device configured to mechanically couple the external device to one of the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure.

2. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the platform device further comprising a third side comprising a third coupling structure and a fourth side comprising a fourth coupling structure.

3. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the first and second coupling structures are first and second openings that are cooperatively configured to receive a portion of the connecting device.

4. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the connecting device has an adjustment member that allows the external device to pivot with respect to the connecting device.

5. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein a bottom surface of the housing comprises grooves which are cooperatively structured to receives wires that electrically couple the external device to a power source.

6. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the external device is a display device, the connecting device is a first connecting device, and wherein the scale system further comprises a second connecting device and a camera connected to the second connecting device, the second connecting device configured to mechanically couple the camera to one of the first coupling structure and the second coupling structure.

7. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the first and second coupling structures comprise first and second openings that are cooperativelyconfigured to receive a connecting member of the connecting device, the connecting member being in the form of a planar member that is configured to pass into one of the first and second openings.

8. The scale system of claim 7, wherein the first and second coupling structures further comprise retractable pins, which engage holes in the connecting member.

9. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the housing further defines a recess configured to receive the load cell.

10. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the external device and the platform device communicate via wireless signals.11 . The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the external device is a display device, and the connecting device has an adjustment member in the form of a hinge that allows the display device to pivot with respect to the connecting device.

12. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the external device is a display device that is a tablet computer.

13. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the second coupling structure is at the second side of the platform device, and wherein the scale system further comprises: a third coupling structure at a third side of the platform device; and a fourth coupling structure at a fourth side of the platform device.

14. The scale system of claim 1 , wherein the platform device has a rectangular shape.

15. A method of using a scale system comprising (i) a platform device comprising a housing, and at least a first side and a second side, the platform device comprising a first coupling structure at the first side and a second coupling structure the second side, (b) an external device, and (c) a connecting deviceconfigured to mechanically couple the external device to one of the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure, the method comprising: obtaining the external device; and connecting the external device to the platform device using the connecting device via the first coupling structure or the second coupling structure.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein the external device is a display device and is coupled to the platform device via the first coupling structure, and wherein the method further comprises: connecting a camera to the platform device using a second connecting device via the second coupling structure.

17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: placing one or more items on the platform device; and comparing, by the platform device a weight of the one or more items to an expected weight of the one or more items.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising: determining that the weight of the one or more items is about the expected weight of the one or more items.

19. The method of claim 18, whereon the one or more items are on a container.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein the one or more items are food items.

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