Docking Module for Automated Transaction Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional transactions require on-site personnel to repeatedly intake and record data, increasing costs and limiting transaction locations due to direct customer-employee interaction.
Innovation Solution
A modular system comprising a system computer communicating with Primary Lock Control Boards, which authorize transactions and record data, allowing customers to access products or services without employee intervention through a network of Lock Control Boards and Daughter Boards that control locking mechanisms and data readers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Extent of automation
If traditional direct customer-employee interaction is used for transactions, then accurate transaction records can be maintained, but on-site personnel are required which increases costs and limits transaction locations
Solution Approach 1:
The docking module enables self-service transactions where the item itself communicates its identity and transaction status to the system. The item's embedded identifier is automatically read by the docking module, eliminating the need for manual data entry by employees while ensuring accurate record-keeping through automated data capture from the item's own identification system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of manual data intake and recording with an automated electronic identification system. Data readers and docking modules automatically capture item identifiers and transaction data, substituting human employees with electronic devices that read item-specific identification information and maintain accurate records without manual intervention.
2Productivity
If multiple employees are deployed for transaction intake and recording, then transaction accuracy is maintained, but transaction costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The docking module serves multiple functions within a single device: it locks items, reads item identifiers, communicates with the central system, and maintains transaction records. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate employees performing different tasks (intake, recording, verification) while reducing overall system complexity compared to deploying multiple specialized personnel.
Solution Approach 2:
The docking module acts as an intermediary between the item and the central system, automatically capturing transaction data and communicating it without human intervention. This intermediary device handles all data intake and recording functions that previously required multiple employees, improving productivity while keeping the system relatively simple through a single automated interface at each docking location.
3Adaptability or versatility
If employees are required for each transaction, then customer assistance is provided, but transaction locations are limited to staffed areas
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables customers to complete transactions independently at any docking location without requiring employee assistance. The automated identification and data capture processes guide customers through the transaction, allowing transactions to occur at any location with a docking module rather than only at staffed counters, thereby improving location flexibility while maintaining operational simplicity through automated guidance.
Data Source
AI summary
A docking module for use in a modular locking system includes a locking daughter board configured to selectively operate a locking mechanism into locking and unlocking positions. The docking module further includes an ID daughter board configured to interact with an identifier incorporated into a latching body of a tangible item in order to generate identification information regarding the tangible item. The ID daughter board is configured to transmit the identification information to a remote computer. The locking daughter board is configured to receive instructions from the remote computer regarding whether to selectively move the locking mechanism into the locking and unlocking positions.