ATM Display Unit with Movable Interface for Accessibility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ATMs face accessibility issues due to varying vehicle heights and user sizes, particularly at drive-through locations, and are not accommodating for wheelchair-bound individuals or those with disabilities, as they are designed based on average user heights and parking positions.
Innovation Solution
An adaptable ATM with a movable interface area and sensor system that adjusts its position to enhance accessibility, using sensors to detect objects and users, and connecting to smart devices for user-controlled adjustments, allowing for translational and rotational movements to accommodate different users and vehicles.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the interface area is mounted at a fixed height appropriate for average users, then the ATM structure is simple and stable, but accessibility is poor for users with different body sizes, vehicle heights, or disabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The interface area is made movable rather than fixed, allowing it to adjust its position dynamically. The display unit can move vertically and horizontally to accommodate different user needs, transforming the static interface into a dynamic one that adapts to various accessibility requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface area is divided into separable components including the display unit and other interface elements that can move independently. This segmentation allows each component to be positioned optimally for different users while maintaining overall system functionality.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the interface area is positioned for drive-through access, then it accommodates vehicle users, but it becomes inaccessible for wheelchair-bound individuals or those with disabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The interface area can dynamically reposition itself to accommodate different user types. When a wheelchair user approaches, the interface moves to a lower, more accessible position, whereas for drive-through users it positions at vehicle-appropriate heights.
Solution Approach 2:
The ATM system automatically detects user type and adjusts interface position without requiring manual input from the user. Sensors identify whether a user is in a vehicle, on foot, or in a wheelchair, and the interface self-adjusts to the appropriate position.
3Ease of operation
If drivers must park close to the ATM for access, then interface accessibility is improved, but the operation becomes more complex and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The interface area extends outward from the ATM housing to reach users in their vehicles without requiring them to park close. The display unit can telescope or extend toward the vehicle, maintaining accessibility while allowing flexible parking positioning.
Solution Approach 2:
The interface area moves in multiple dimensions including horizontal extension toward the vehicle and vertical adjustment to match vehicle height. This multi-dimensional movement capability allows the interface to reach users regardless of parking distance or vehicle type.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated teller machine (“ATM”) is described. The ATM can be provided with an interface area which includes a display unit and one or more sensors. The display unit can move relative to the interface area so that the display is better accessible for a user of the ATM. For example, the display can make translational or rotational movements, e.g., telescoping movements. The ATM can include a sensor which can detect an object, a location for the object and a distance from the object. Using this information, the ATM can move or guide the display in a direction which makes the display more accessible for the user.