Magnetic Adapter Sled for Mobile Computer and Payment Terminal Docking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile checkout operations in retail settings require employees to manage two separate mobile electronic devices for barcode scanning and payment processing, which can be cumbersome due to size differences and the need for physical co-location or separation of devices.
Innovation Solution
A connectivity sled with adapter plate assemblies that magnetically couple a handheld point-of-sale computer and a mobile payment terminal, allowing for secure attachment while maintaining access to ports, function keys, and interfaces, enabling easy detachment and reattachment without interfering with device functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two separate mobile electronic devices are used for barcode scanning and payment processing, then device functionality is improved, but operational complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two separate mobile electronic devices (barcode scanner and payment terminal) into a single integrated unit with a shared display, processor, and housing. This merging maintains all required functionalities while reducing operational complexity by eliminating the need to manually switch between devices or physically connect them during transactions.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the payment terminal is made large and bulky for payment processing, then payment functionality is improved, but portability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The payment terminal functionality is merged with a compact mobile computing device, sharing common components such as the display, processor, battery, and housing. This integration allows the payment terminal to perform all necessary payment processing functions without requiring a separate large device, thereby maintaining portability while ensuring full payment functionality.
3Volume of moving object
If the barcode scanning device is made compact for portability, then portability is improved, but scanning capability may be limited
Solution Approach 1:
The barcode scanning device is merged with a compact mobile computing device, integrating the scanning functionality into the same housing and display system. This allows the device to maintain a smartphone-like compact form factor while incorporating full barcode scanning, point-of-sale, and payment processing capabilities through shared hardware and software resources.
4Productivity
If two devices are physically co-located and coupled, then operational efficiency is improved, but ease of use deteriorates when separation is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the previously separate barcode scanning device and payment terminal into a single integrated unit with a unified display and control interface. This eliminates the need to physically connect or switch between devices during transactions, maintaining operational efficiency while significantly improving ease of use by allowing the user to access all functions through one device without physical manipulation of multiple separate units.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Facilitates efficient and convenient operation by allowing store associates to physically and electronically connect devices as needed, enhancing usability and reducing operational complexity during transactions.
Implementation Method 1
including at least one magnet that magnetically couples to the at least one magnet of the first adapter plate assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A connectivity sled for docking and undocking a mobile computer and a payment device, comprises a first adapter plate assembly directly coupled to the payment device, including a configuration that couples to a surface of the payment device is exposes all ports, function keys, and interfaces of the payment device and at least one magnet. The sled further comprising a second adapter plate assembly directly coupled to the mobile computer, including a first portion that couples to a top surface of the mobile computer device, and at least one magnet that magnetically couples to the at least one magnet of the first adapter plate assembly.