Fuel Dispenser Credit Card Application Interface
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
The existing credit card application process requires a third party for data entry, which is inefficient and inconvenient for applicants.
Innovation Solution
Equipping fuel dispensers with an application processor, a user interface including a card reader, keypad, and screen, allowing applicants to complete credit card applications independently without third-party assistance by entering and submitting their information directly.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a third party is involved with data entry at a retail location, then the application process can be assisted, but the process becomes less efficient and more time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling applicants to complete credit card applications directly at the fuel dispenser using the integrated user interface, card reader, and keypad. The system allows applicants to independently enter their information without requiring assistance from store clerks or cashiers, thereby eliminating the time loss associated with third-party data entry while maintaining ease of operation through guided prompts and instructions displayed on the screen.
2Ease of operation
If data entry is done by a clerk or cashier, then applicant assistance is provided, but the system requires third-party intervention
Solution Approach 1:
The fuel dispenser system enables applicants to independently complete the entire data entry process through its integrated user interface, card reader, and keypad. The system provides automated guidance through displayed prompts and instructions, allowing applicants to enter their information without clerk or cashier assistance, thereby increasing automation while maintaining operational ease.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual data entry process performed by clerks or cashiers with an automated electronic system integrated into the fuel dispenser. The card reader, keypad, and screen work together to capture and process applicant information electronically, substituting the mechanical/manual intervention of human employees with an automated computational system.
3Reliability
If a third party handles data entry, then data accuracy can be monitored, but the process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual data entry by clerks with an automated electronic data capture system using a card reader and keypad integrated into the fuel dispenser. This electronic system automatically processes and stores applicant information, reducing device complexity by eliminating the need for separate manual data entry procedures while maintaining data accuracy through direct electronic capture at the source.
Data Source
AI summary
Credit card applications typically involve the help of a third party to input the necessary data required by a credit card issuing agency. Using the present invention, a customer at a fuel dispenser can complete a credit card application and have it approved or denied in a quick and easy transaction, without the need of assistance from a third party. All required data at the fuel dispenser is entered through a user interface which includes card swipe inputs and numeric inputs through a numeric key pad. The customer does not make any alphabetical inputs on a typical keyboard because fuel dispensers do not have keyboards.