Modular Checkout Desk Assembly for Fast Store Reconfiguration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing checkout tables are time-consuming and expensive to set up due to their complex modular designs, making them impractical for flexible and cost-effective deployment in department stores.
Innovation Solution
A modular checkout table design featuring at least two units with different fixing means, including a flat component with holes and a U/L-shaped profile rail, allowing for flexible assembly and increased rigidity, along with variable dimensions and integrated components like vending machines and adjustable conveyor belts, enabling efficient use of space and cost-effective installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with many individual parts is used to achieve flexibility and adaptability, then the checkout table can be adapted to spatial conditions, but the setup time increases and production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The checkout table is divided into modular units that can be independently manufactured and assembled. Each module has standardized connection interfaces, allowing rapid assembly without complex alignment procedures. This segmentation enables flexibility in configuration while maintaining efficient setup through pre-fabricated components.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed with universal connection mechanisms that can accommodate different spatial arrangements. The standardized fixing means and profile bars can be used across all modules, enabling the same basic components to serve multiple configuration needs while reducing the number of unique parts required.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a modular design with many individual parts is used to achieve flexibility, then the checkout table can be adapted to different configurations, but the production cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The design employs universal profile bars and standardized fixing means that can be used across all modular units. This allows the same components to serve multiple functions and configurations, reducing the total number of unique parts that need to be manufactured and inventoried, thereby lowering production costs while maintaining flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The modular units are designed with homogeneous connection interfaces and standardized components. This uniformity allows for economies of scale in manufacturing, as the same parts can be produced in larger quantities using the same tooling and processes, reducing per-unit costs while maintaining configurability.
3Stability of the object's composition
If module units are connected with multiple fixing means to achieve high rigidity, then the structural stability improves, but the assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is segmented into distinct, standardized components: profile bars for structural connection and separate fixing means for securing modules. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized for its specific function while maintaining simple, standardized interfaces that reduce assembly complexity despite using multiple fixing elements.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a cash desk (1), which consists of at least two modular units (A, B, C, D), at least one modular unit having at least two different types of fixing means (20, 23, 23'), via which the at least two Module units are fixed together. One type of fixing means is designed as a flat component with at least two, but preferably four, bores, and the other type of fixing means is designed as a profile rail, with the profile rail essentially having a U-shape or an L-shape. The modular units essentially have a cube or cuboid frame structure. In addition, the modular units lack at least one side wall and/or have at least one side opening. The missing side walls and/or openings face each other during assembly.