POS Terminal Synchronization via Ad Hoc Network Queuing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current point-of-sale (POS) systems face limitations in scalability and efficiency, particularly under intermittent network conditions, as they often require manual processing when local area networks fail and are unable to handle multiple orders simultaneously across multiple POS terminals.
Innovation Solution
A synchronization system for intermittently-connected POS terminals that includes a state processor, order processor, and link select element, enabling durable order queuing and conflict resolution, with the ability to tether to cellular networks for connectivity, allowing multiple terminals to process portions of orders and maintain order states across non-persistent connections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If POS terminals are hardwired to a local area network, then order processing is reliable and fast, but the system loses portability and cannot operate when the network fails
Solution Approach 1:
The POS terminal dynamically switches between wired and wireless network modes based on connectivity availability. The system transitions from a static hardwired connection to a dynamic multi-mode connectivity approach, allowing the terminal to adapt its communication method to current environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the connectivity parameter from exclusively wired to a variable state that includes both wired and wireless options. The terminal monitors network conditions and adjusts its connection mode accordingly, transforming the fixed network parameter into a flexible, changeable state.
2Adaptability or versatility
If a single mobile POS device is used, then portability is achieved, but order throughput is limited and wait times increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the order processing function across multiple independent mobile POS terminals. Instead of one device handling all orders sequentially, multiple terminals can simultaneously process different portions of orders, dividing the workload and increasing overall throughput while maintaining portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent combines multiple mobile POS terminals into a coordinated network that functions as a unified system. The terminals work together to process orders simultaneously, merging their individual capabilities to achieve higher collective productivity while retaining the portability benefits of mobile devices.
3Productivity
If multiple POS terminals operate independently, then order processing capacity increases, but conflict resolution becomes complex under intermittent connectivity
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing durable order queues and conflict resolution rules before connectivity issues occur. Orders are pre-queued with unique identifiers and priority levels, and synchronization protocols are pre-configured to automatically resolve conflicts when terminals reconnect, reducing the complexity of real-time coordination.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where POS terminals continuously report their order processing state to a central coordinator or to each other. When connectivity is restored, terminals exchange state information and automatically resolve conflicts based on pre-established rules, creating a self-regulating system that manages complexity through automated feedback loops.
4Reliability
If manual order entry is used during network failures, then the system can operate without network dependency, but processing speed decreases and labor intensity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The POS terminal provides self-service capabilities by maintaining local order queues and processing orders autonomously during network outages. The terminal independently manages order state, stores orders in durable queues, and handles basic processing without external network assistance, eliminating the need for manual intervention while maintaining operational reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A POS terminal for fulfilling orders includes a state processor and an order processor. The state processor queues state changes in durable order queues that correspond to orders in a restaurant. The order processor, coupled to the state processor, generates the state changes and accesses and transmits the state changes in each of the durable order queues to a synchronization server, from oldest to youngest, when operably connected to a network, where the order processor includes current order state fields corresponding to all of the orders, and where the order processor utilizes domain specific rules disposed therein to resolve conflicts in the orders occurring from state change updates received from the synchronization server which result from other state changes to the one or more orders generated by one or more other POS terminals, where one or more of the orders are received from a third-party terminal that is not on-premise with the POS terminal.