Multifunction Point of Sale System with Verification Subsystem
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Solution Overview
Problem
Point of sale systems face challenges in efficiently combining indicia reading and verification functions, often requiring additional space and time, which can slow down the checkout process and may not discreetly detect counterfeit items.
Innovation Solution
A multifunction point of sale system that integrates an illumination subsystem, an imaging subsystem, and a verification subsystem, capable of operating in both indicia-reading and verification modes, using various light sources (visible, ultraviolet, infrared) to decode barcodes and detect security marks, and store verification results for record-keeping.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If multiple separate data-collection devices are added to the checkout area, then verification capabilities are improved, but space requirements and device complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple data-collection functions (indicia reading and verification) into a single integrated device. The verification subsystem includes illumination sources (UV, visible, infrared), imaging subsystem, and processor that work together with the indicia reading subsystem in one unit, eliminating the need for separate peripheral devices and reducing checkout area space requirements
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated device performs multiple functions: reading barcodes/indicia, illuminating items with various light sources, capturing images, and verifying security marks. This multi-functional approach allows a single device to replace multiple specialized devices, improving verification capabilities while managing space and complexity
2Measurement precision
If traditional verification processes are implemented, then authentication accuracy is improved, but processing time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by having the imaging subsystem capture images of security marks while the item is being positioned for indicia reading. The processor then analyzes these images for security features (fluorescence, infrared patterns, holograms) before the transaction is complete, enabling verification to occur in parallel with other checkout activities rather than as a separate sequential step
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual verification processes (visual inspection, separate authentication steps) with automated optical and electronic systems. The imaging subsystem captures images and the processor automatically analyzes security marks, substituting human time-consuming inspection with rapid machine-based authentication that maintains high accuracy
3Reliability
If overt security processes are used, then verification effectiveness is improved, but customer experience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The illumination subsystem uses periodic or pulsed illumination at different wavelengths (UV, visible, infrared) to detect security marks. This periodic action allows the system to gather verification data quickly during brief intervals, maintaining verification effectiveness while minimizing the time and notice given to potential counterfeiters, and keeping the process unobtrusive for customers
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables efficient and discreet verification of items at checkout, reducing processing time and space requirements while providing a record of authentication, thus preventing losses and fines.
Implementation Method 1
an illumination subsystem configured to illuminate an item with radiation from a light source
Implementation Method 2
an imaging subsystem configured to acquire images within a field of view illuminated by the illumination subsystem
Implementation Method 3
security marks printed using invisible ink may fluoresce visibly under special illumination
Data Source
AI summary
A point of sale system capable of operating in an indicia-reading mode or a verification mode is disclosed. In the indicia-reading mode, the point of sale system configures its illumination, imaging, and processing to read indicia as part of a normal checkout process. If triggered by a user or by an event, the point of sale system may operate in a verification mode. In the verification mode, the point of sale system enables the necessary illumination, imaging, and processing to verify an item. This verification includes illuminating the item in a way that causes a noticeable response from a security mark (or marks) on the item. An image of the response may be captured and processed to authenticate/verify the item. The point of sale system may then respond to the verification and/or may store the image/results as a record of the verification.