Multi-Screen ATM Accessibility Without Mechanical Lifts
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Solution Overview
Problem
Wheelchair-bound individuals face difficulties accessing automated teller machines (ATMs) and automated teller assist machines (ATAs) designed primarily for ambulatory individuals, as existing solutions often rely on moving systems like lifting mechanisms.
Innovation Solution
An ATM with multiple user screens, including touch screens and keypads, that uses an ATM processor to validate user identification through PIN, NFC, Bluetooth, QR Codes, or bar codes, allowing for independent access without the need for moving parts, and featuring environmentally sealed components and OLED technology for flexible screen placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a lifting mechanism is used to raise or drop the ATM, then wheelchair-bound individuals can access the ATM, but the device complexity increases and reliability decreases due to moving parts
Solution Approach 1:
The ATM is divided into multiple functional modules: a first set of input components (keypad, display) positioned at one height, and a second set of input components positioned at a different height. This segmentation allows wheelchair-bound users to access the second set while ambulatory users access the first set, eliminating the need for a lifting mechanism while maintaining accessibility.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of providing accessibility through vertical movement (lifting mechanism), the patent introduces a new dimension by placing duplicate input components at different heights. This creates multiple access points at different vertical positions, allowing users to choose the appropriate interface based on their needs without requiring mechanical movement.
2Ease of operation
If multiple input components are provided at different heights, then accessibility for wheelchair-bound individuals is improved, but the quantity of components and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The ATM incorporates universal design by providing the same functional input components (keypad, display, card reader) at multiple heights. Each set of components can independently perform the same functions, allowing the system to serve multiple user groups (ambulatory and wheelchair-bound) simultaneously without requiring additional specialized components for each user type.
3Reliability
If environmental sealing is implemented to prevent damage from environmental conditions, then reliability is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs environmental sealing through gaskets, seals, and protective enclosures that create barriers between the internal electronic components and the external environment. These sealing mechanisms protect against moisture, dust, and other environmental factors, ensuring reliable operation in various conditions while using standard manufacturing techniques for enclosures and sealing elements.
Data Source
AI summary
An automated teller machine (ATM) including multiple user screens is provided. The ATM preferably includes an ATM processor, an ATM user information input device and/or an ATM receiver, a customer-facing ATM touch screen configured to display an initial ATM display, an ATM dispenser configured to dispense a cash withdrawal amount in the event that an ATM central processing unit (CPU) receives information relating to a selection of the cash withdrawal amount. The ATM may further include a second, customer-facing, touch screen configured to selectably display an automated teller assist (ATA) display configured to provide a video display of a live teller located at a remote location.