Modular Cash Desk Assembly Using Tool-Free Quick-Connect Panels

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing cash desk systems require tools for assembly and maintenance, which can be cumbersome and pose safety risks, while also lacking efficient security tag detection and cash recycling functionalities.

Innovation Solution

A modular cash desk system composed of flat elements with quick-connection mechanisms that allow tool-free assembly, integrated security label detection modules with concealed antennas for enhanced security, and a cash recycling module for efficient cash handling.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Ease of operation

If traditional assembly methods are used for cash desk systems, then structural stability is achieved, but assembly complexity and tool requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveassembly easeVSAvoidconnection mechanism complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The cash desk system is divided into modular flat elements (wall panels, floor panels, functional modules) that can be independently assembled and configured. Each module contains integrated quick-connect elements, allowing the system to be segmented into manageable units that simplify assembly while maintaining overall structural integrity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Traditional mechanical fastening systems (screws, bolts, welding) are replaced with a click-connect mechanism involving quick-connect elements and counterparts. This substitution eliminates the need for tools and complex mechanical assembly procedures while achieving sufficient connection strength for the application.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Reliability

If openly arranged security detection devices are used, then detection effectiveness is achieved, but aesthetic appearance and customer experience deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesecurity tag detection reliabilityVSAvoidvisual intrusiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The security detection antenna is nested within the flat elements of the cash desk system. The antenna is concealed inside wall panels or floor panels, allowing the detection function to be embedded within the aesthetic surfaces rather than being mounted externally. This maintains detection reliability while eliminating visual intrusiveness.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #7Nested doll (Nesting)

Solution Approach 2:

The flat elements (wall panels, floor panels) serve as intermediaries that hide the antenna from view while still allowing it to perform its detection function. The panel structures act as a mediating layer between the aesthetic requirements and the security detection requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Adaptability or versatility

If modular design is implemented for cash desk systems, then adaptability and ease of assembly are improved, but connection reliability may deteriorate

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem configurabilityVSAvoidconnection reliability
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system is segmented into standardized modular flat elements with uniform quick-connect interfaces. This segmentation enables high adaptability as modules can be reconfigured in various arrangements, while the standardized connection design ensures consistent reliability across all connections.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The quick-connect elements and counterparts are designed as universal connection mechanisms that work across all types of flat elements (wall panels, floor panels, functional modules). This universality allows different module types to be interconnected reliably while maintaining adaptability for various configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Data Source

PatentEP3530151B1Cash desk system
Publication Date: 2020.09.09 WANZL GMBH & CO KGAA
  • EP3530151B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3530151B1 patent drawingFigure 3
  • EP3530151B1 patent drawingFigure 4

AI summary

The present invention relates to a cash register system (10) with at least one first planar element, in particular a wall and/or floor panel (42), and at least one second planar element, in particular a wall and/or floor panel (44), wherein the first planar element has at least one quick-connect element (46) and the second planar element has at least one quick-connect counterpart (48), wherein in the assembled state of the cash register system (10) the at least one quick-connect element (46) is connected to the at least one quick-connect counterpart (48), in particular engaging with it.