Input Output Device Table Unit Notched Recessed Portion Design

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing store visit reception systems face issues with users placing incidental items like drinks or canes at improper locations, leading to malfunctions or forgotten items, as these systems lack specific designated spaces for such items.

Innovation Solution

The input and output device features a table unit with a notched portion for rod-shaped items like canes and a recessed portion for beverage containers, both positioned forward of the operation unit, with light emitting units to guide users on correct placement, and a detection system to alert users of forgotten items.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If a baggage table is provided on the front surface of the terminal for user convenience, then user convenience is improved, but the risk of items being placed at improper locations increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveuser convenienceVSAvoidrisk of malfunction
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The baggage table is segmented into multiple functional regions: a first region for bags, a second region for incidental items, and a third region for beverages. This segmentation guides users to place different types of items in designated areas, preventing improper placement while maintaining convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the baggage table are assigned different functions and characteristics. The first region accommodates bags, the second region handles incidental items like canes, and the third region receives beverages. Each region has specific placement guidelines to prevent malfunction while ensuring user convenience.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Device complexity

If a simple baggage table is provided, then device complexity is reduced, but the ability to prevent improper item placement deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvestructure simplicityVSAvoiditem placement control
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The baggage table is divided into multiple regions without requiring complex mechanical structures. This segmentation approach provides clear placement guidelines while maintaining structural simplicity and avoiding unnecessary complexity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Visual indicators such as icons or markings are introduced as intermediaries between the simple table structure and the required item placement control. These indicators guide users to the correct regions without adding mechanical complexity to the device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11250674B2Input/output device and terminal device
Publication Date: 2022.02.15 NEC CORP
  • US11250674B2 patent drawing
  • US11250674B2 patent drawing
  • US11250674B2 patent drawing

AI summary

An input and output device includes: an operation unit that is disposed on a front side and that receives data input by an operator; and a table unit that is disposed further forward than the operation unit and that protrudes in a forward direction. The table unit includes: a notched portion that is provided on a first side in a left-right direction and that opens forward and upward; and a recessed portion that is provided on a second side in the left-right direction, the first side being opposite to the first side, the recessed portion comprising an upper surface having a recessed shape.