Configurable and modular transaction terminal

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-service terminals are not easily configurable between different modes of operation, require manual rebooting, and often lack accessibility for individuals with disabilities, leading to delayed customer transaction throughput and non-compliance with disability access mandates.

Innovation Solution

A modular and configurable transaction terminal with a touchscreen display that dynamically switches between modes of operation by activating selective integrated devices and orienting displayed information, featuring a horizontal operating surface supported by vertical components, allowing for wheelchair accessibility and integration of various payment and interaction methods.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If dedicated terminals are used for each service mode, then service reliability is improved, but device complexity and loss of time increase due to manual reconfiguration and rebooting

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice reliabilityVSAvoidreconfiguration time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal is designed to perform multiple service modes (self-service, assisted-service, teller-service) within a single device. The system dynamically configures its functionality based on detected user needs, eliminating the requirement for separate dedicated terminals for each service mode while maintaining reliable operation across all modes.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The terminal employs dynamic configuration capabilities that allow it to adapt its service mode in real-time based on user interaction and detected needs. This dynamic switching occurs without manual reconfiguration or rebooting, enabling the system to transition smoothly between different service modes while maintaining operational reliability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If manual reconfiguration is implemented, then adaptability is improved, but productivity deteriorates due to delayed customer transaction throughput

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveservice mode adaptabilityVSAvoidtransaction throughput
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal autonomously detects user needs and automatically configures itself to the appropriate service mode without requiring manual intervention. This self-service configuration capability maintains high adaptability to different service scenarios while preventing disruptions to transaction throughput, as the switching occurs seamlessly during normal operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system proactively detects user characteristics and service needs before a transaction begins, allowing it to pre-configure the appropriate service mode. This preliminary detection and configuration ensures the terminal is ready to serve immediately, maintaining both adaptability and high productivity without delays.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Ease of manufacture

If traditional SST design is used, then manufacturing simplicity is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates for wheelchair users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveterminal design simplicityVSAvoidwheelchair accessibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The terminal incorporates a vertically oriented touchscreen display that extends downward, creating additional interaction space in the vertical dimension. This allows wheelchair users to access the interface from a lower position while maintaining the overall compact structure, thus improving accessibility without significantly complicating the manufacturing process.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Data Source

PatentUS10891821B2Configurable and modular transaction terminal
Publication Date: 2021.01.12 NCR ATLEOS CORP
  • US10891821B2 patent drawing
  • US10891821B2 patent drawing
  • US10891821B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A terminal is provided. The terminal includes a horizontal touch-based operating surface, a first vertical support side car, and a second vertical support safe enclosure. The operating surface includes integrated transaction devices that perform transaction processing on the terminal. The operating surface can be dynamically switched between a self-service mode of operation, an assisted service mode of operation, and a teller-service mode of operation. Each mode of operation dynamically orients displayed information on the operating surface to a particular side or both sides of the operating surface and selectively activates and deactivates the integrated devices.