Order Terminal Mode Switching via Software Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing order entry systems require dedicated hardware to switch between staff and customer modes, limiting flexibility and increasing costs due to the need for specific hardware components like RFID readers or cradles.

Innovation Solution

An order terminal with a touch-panel display and control device that automatically switches from staff mode to customer mode upon input of initial customer information, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware by using software-controlled mode switching.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If dedicated hardware (RFID reader, cradle, switching key) is used to switch between staff mode and customer mode, then mode switching can be achieved, but device complexity and cost increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching capabilityVSAvoidhardware components

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces mechanical hardware switching mechanisms (RFID readers, cradles, physical switching keys) with a software-based detection system. The control device detects whether a handy terminal is placed on the self-service terminal and automatically switches modes based on this detection, eliminating the need for dedicated hardware switching components.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The self-service terminal is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate in staff mode when a handy terminal is detected, and in customer mode when no handy terminal is present. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated hardware for each mode, reducing overall system complexity.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If dedicated hardware is required for mode switching, then mode switching is reliable, but the number of terminals and hardware components increases

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching reliabilityVSAvoidnumber of terminals

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSQuantity of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the functionality of multiple terminals into a single self-service terminal. By combining staff mode and customer mode capabilities in one device with automatic detection, the system reduces the total number of terminals needed while maintaining reliable mode switching through software control.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If manual switching operation is required, then mode switching can be controlled, but operation time and complexity increase

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvemode switching operationVSAvoidswitching time

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of operationVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The self-service terminal automatically detects the presence or absence of a handy terminal and switches modes autonomously without requiring manual intervention. This self-service capability eliminates the time and complexity associated with manual mode switching operations.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system performs preliminary detection of the handy terminal's presence before mode switching is needed. By continuously monitoring the detection status, the terminal is ready to switch modes immediately when conditions change, reducing switching time.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS9799019B2Order terminal and order entry system using same, and method for changing input mode of order terminal

Publication Date: 2017.10.24 STEERETAIL CO LTD

AI summary

Provided is an order terminal for inputting a customer's order that operates in any one of a staff mode of being operated by an employee and a customer mode of being operated by a customer as an input mode. When the employee inputs initial information on the customer in the staff mode, the input mode of the order terminal is switched over from the staff mode to the customer mode to allow the customer to input an order.