Low-Cost Media Dispenser Using Token Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
The high cost of traditional ATMs is a limitation on their deployment due to the expense of peripheral devices and software needed for cash dispensing, deposit, and other transactions, which can be mitigated by reducing the complexity and cost of the hardware and software components.
Innovation Solution
A low-cost media dispenser system that eliminates the need for a keypad, display, printers, and complex software by using a contact token reader, cryptographic memory, and cellular modem for secure transactions, allowing users to interact with a simplified user interface of lights and audio for cash dispensing, ticket, or coupon dispensing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional ATM components (keypad, display, printers, complex software) are used, then full functionality and security are achieved, but cost and device complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes unnecessary components (keypad, display, printers, complex software) from the traditional ATM system, retaining only the essential elements (token reader, cryptographic memory, media dispenser) needed for secure cash dispensing. This extraction reduces device complexity while preserving core security functions through the use of cryptographic authentication.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, durable components (physical keypads, displays, printers) with simpler, less costly alternatives (LED lights, audio outputs, token readers). The system uses disposable or replaceable tokens for authentication instead of permanent cryptographic modules in each ATM, reducing overall system cost and complexity.
2Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ATM components (keypad, display, printers, complex software) are used, then full functionality is achieved, but cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential functionality needed for cash dispensing (token reading, cryptographic verification, media dispensing) while removing expensive peripheral components (keypad, display, printers). This extraction maintains core functionality while dramatically reducing manufacturing cost and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical input devices (keypad) and output devices (display, printers) with electronic alternatives (token reader, LED lights, audio outputs). This substitution eliminates complex mechanical components while maintaining user interaction capability, reducing manufacturing cost and improving ease of manufacture.
3Device complexity
If simplified components (token reader, cryptographic memory, LED lights, audio) are used, then cost and device complexity are reduced, but user interface capability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex mechanical user interface components (keypad, display) with simpler electronic alternatives (token reader, LED lights, audio outputs). Despite the simplification, the system maintains ease of operation through intuitive token-based interaction and clear audio-visual feedback, making the interface accessible to users with disabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements a self-service system where users automatically authenticate by presenting tokens and receive feedback through lights and audio signals. The system self-manages the transaction process without requiring complex user input or interpretation, maintaining ease of operation while using simplified components.
4Adaptability or versatility
If traditional ATM components are used, then comprehensive transaction capabilities are achieved, but deployment cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes expensive peripheral components (keypad, display, printers, complex software) from the ATM system, retaining only the essential elements needed for cash dispensing transactions. This extraction dramatically reduces deployment cost while maintaining the core transaction capability of secure cash dispensing.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal platform that can perform cash dispensing transactions using simplified components. The same basic architecture (token reader, cryptographic memory, media dispenser) can be deployed across multiple locations at reduced cost, providing universal access to cash dispensing services without requiring expensive traditional ATM components.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-service terminal comprises a media dispenser coupled to a control board; a cryptographic memory coupled to the control board; a network connection; a contact token reader; and a user interface comprising a plurality of lights. The control board includes a processor executing firmware. The firmware is operable to (i) read a token presented to the token reader each time the token contacts the token reader, (ii) ascertain a number of times a token reader is presented as part of a single transaction, (iii) create a transaction request including (a) an identifier read from the presented token and (b) an amount of cash requested based on the number of times the token was presented, (iv) encrypt the transaction request using data read from the cryptographic memory, and (v) transmit the encrypted transaction request to a remote authorization server using the network connection.