Self-checkout device
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional self-checkout devices have fixed camera and printer positions, which do not accommodate the varying heights of operators, limiting usability for customers of different heights.
Innovation Solution
A self-checkout device with interchangeable and adjustable mounting structures for the camera, scanner, and printer, allowing for customizable installation heights and left-right arrangements to accommodate different user preferences and heights.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If camera and printer are installed at a fixed height for most people, then the device structure is simple and easy to manufacture, but usability is limited for customers of different heights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by making the mounting positions of the camera and printer adjustable rather than fixed. The camera can be moved vertically along the housing, and the printer's mounting height can be changed, allowing the device to adapt to operators of different heights. This transforms static components into dynamically reconfigurable ones, resolving the contradiction between fixed structure simplicity and height adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the mounting structure into adjustable components. The camera is separated from a fixed position and can be relocated along the housing, while the printer is mounted on a support structure that allows height adjustment. This segmentation enables independent positioning of each component, allowing customization for different user heights without redesigning the entire device.
2Ease of operation
If camera and printer are installed at a fixed position, then the device is easier to manufacture, but it cannot accommodate varying operator heights
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements universality by designing mounting structures that can accommodate multiple positions and configurations. The camera mounting allows vertical adjustment to a range of heights, and the printer support can be positioned at different heights as well. This multi-functional mounting capability enables a single device to serve operators of various heights effectively, improving ease of operation without requiring multiple specialized device versions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a single fixed configuration is provided, then product variety is reduced and manufacturing is simplified, but user preference accommodation is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by enabling the camera and printer to be repositioned according to user preferences. The camera can be moved to different vertical positions on the housing, and the printer's height can be adjusted via its support structure. This dynamic reconfigurability allows a single device model to provide multiple configurations, accommodating diverse user preferences without increasing product variety lines.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-checkout device of an embodiment includes a bagging stand, a pair of pillars, a beam, a user interface terminal, and one or more brackets. The bagging stand includes a table and a scale that weighs a load placed on the table. The pair of pillars is installed on the bagging stand with a longitudinal direction thereof oriented vertically, and at least one outer surface of the pair of pillars is configured with a split exterior member that is splittable into a plurality of pieces in the longitudinal direction. The beam connects upper ends of the pillars. The user interface terminal is mounted on the beam. The one or more brackets receive attachment of an external device, and the bracket is positionally interchangeable with a part of the split exterior member.