Wireless POS Data Capture Hub for Parallel Order Processing
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for processing customer orders at retail checkout locations using multiple data capture devices often require modifications to point of sale systems, which can introduce errors and are not capable of simultaneous operation, leading to increased waiting times and inefficiencies.
Innovation Solution
A system where two information gathering devices, one fixed and one handheld, communicate with each other to process orders simultaneously, with the fixed device acting as a central hub that sends combined data to the POS system without requiring modifications, allowing for parallel processing of orders and reducing the need for hardware or software alterations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If multiple data capture devices are used to process customer orders simultaneously, then productivity is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed data capture device serves as an intermediary between the handheld device and the POS system. It receives data from the handheld device, processes it locally, and forwards it to the POS system, eliminating the need for the POS system to directly communicate with multiple devices simultaneously.
Solution Approach 2:
The fixed data capture device performs multiple functions: it acts as a standalone data capture device for counter items, serves as a base station for the handheld device, and functions as a communication gateway to the POS system. This multi-functionality allows simultaneous operation of multiple devices without increasing overall system complexity.
2Ease of operation
If hand-held data capture device operates independently from fixed device, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability worsens due to lack of coordination
Solution Approach 1:
The fixed data capture device provides feedback to the handheld device by receiving data transmissions, processing them, and confirming successful receipt. This feedback mechanism ensures data consistency and coordination between the independent devices without requiring complex communication protocols.
3Adaptability or versatility
If POS system is modified to support multiple data capture devices, then adaptability is improved, but manufacturing precision worsens due to software modifications
Solution Approach 1:
The system architecture segments the multi-device support functionality into the fixed data capture device, which handles communication with the handheld device. This segmentation allows the POS system to maintain its original stable architecture while the fixed device provides the necessary adaptability for multi-device operation.
4Device complexity
If fixed data capture device is used for all items, then device complexity is reduced, but productivity worsens during peak demand
Solution Approach 1:
The system adds a spatial dimension to data capture by introducing the handheld device that can move throughout the storage area, complementing the fixed device at the counter. This dimensional addition increases processing capacity without significantly increasing overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
An information gathering and decoding apparatus includes two information gathering devices that communicate with one another, preferably wirelessly. The two information gathering devices may be used substantially simultaneously to process one, or multiple, customer orders. Customer order information is sent from one information gathering device to the other, and only one of the information gathering devices communicates with a computer system to send information from both of the information gathering devices to the computer system as if the information originated from the one information gathering device. Communication between the two information gathering devices combined with a microprocessor in at least one of the information gathering devices may allow the information gathering and decoding apparatus to be used with existing computer systems, such as point of sale systems, preferably without modifying the computer system. One information gathering device may pre-qualify customers to purchase restricted items. The second information gathering device may access the pre-qualification from the first information gathering device to process sales of restricted items to customers.