ATM Transaction Guidance via Synced Audio Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing ATM transactions are time-consuming and inefficient, particularly in busy locations where users may need to check multiple ATMs for available denominations, and there is a need to guide authorized users to the correct ATM.

Innovation Solution

A system and method that allows users to submit transaction requests ahead of time, with a server determining the most suitable ATM and guiding the user to it using sound and visual signals, ensuring efficient resource allocation and accessibility for disabled individuals.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If users check multiple ATMs manually to find available denominations, then they can complete their transaction, but the time required and complexity of the process increases

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveATM transaction speedVSAvoidTime to locate appropriate ATM

Core Design Contradiction:

ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by notifying the user's device and the designated ATM in advance before the user arrives. The ATM prepares the requested denominations and the user's device receives navigation guidance, so when the user arrives, the transaction can proceed immediately without manual searching or waiting.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system establishes feedback loops where the server communicates with both the user's device and the ATM. The ATM provides feedback on its status (available denominations, readiness), and the user's device provides feedback on location and arrival status, enabling coordinated preparation and reducing transaction time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

2Adaptability or versatility

If ATMs are distributed across multiple locations with limited capacity each, then resource availability is maintained, but users must check multiple machines increasing transaction complexity

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveATM resource availabilityVSAvoidSystem coordination complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The server acts as an intermediary between users and multiple ATMs. It receives user requests, determines the most suitable ATM based on availability, and coordinates between the user's device and the selected ATM. This intermediary simplifies the system by centralizing the decision-making logic for ATM selection and resource allocation.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If traditional ATM transactions require direct interaction at the machine, then security is maintained, but accessibility for disabled individuals is reduced

Engineering Contradiction:

ImproveTransaction securityVSAvoidAccessibility for disabled users

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system replaces the mechanical requirement of physical presence and manual operation at the ATM with electronic communication through the user's device. The device receives audio and visual signals for navigation and confirmation, allowing disabled individuals to interact with the system remotely while maintaining security through authenticated electronic verification.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentEP3680869B1Synced audio signals between a device and ATM

Publication Date: 2025.04.30 CAPITAL ONE SERVICES LLC

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AI summary

A user can submit a request to a server associated with an ATM. The request can be submitted from a device (or portable device) of the user. The server can evaluate the request and designate which ATM or ATMs are best suited to process the request. This determination can be based on availability of resources on the ATM. Subsequently, the server can transmit a communication to the device of the user and the designated ATM. The communication can cause both the device and the ATM to emit a sound or display a visual cue to guide the user to approach the designated ATM. The device and the ATM can emit various patterns of sound to better guide the user to approach the designated ATM.