Self-serve kiosk
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Solution Overview
Problem
The integration of user interface and controller components into self-serve kiosks is challenging due to the need for easy accessibility for users and technicians while minimizing modifications to existing structures, such as coolers, without increasing the footprint or requiring significant structural changes.
Innovation Solution
A multi-function bar is integrated onto the exterior of existing product cooler doors, serving as a handle and mounting point for user interfaces and controllers, allowing for easy access and maintenance while minimizing additional structural changes, and enabling the conversion of product coolers into self-service kiosks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If user interface and controller components are integrated into the cooler structure, then the kiosk functionality is achieved, but the accessibility for technicians to install and service these components becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The bar assembly is made movable relative to the cooler door, transitioning between a retracted position during normal operation and an extended position during maintenance. This dynamic configuration allows the bar to serve dual purposes: providing structural support and mounting functionality during operation, and enabling technician access to the controller when needed.
2Ease of manufacture
If components are mounted directly on the cooler door, then installation is simplified, but the structural integrity and cooling efficiency may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The bar assembly serves as an intermediary structure between the cooler door and the controller components. Rather than mounting components directly to the door, the bar provides a dedicated mounting platform that distributes mechanical loads away from the door structure, preserving the door's structural integrity and thermal performance while enabling component installation.
3Ease of repair
If a separate mounting structure is added for the controller, then component accessibility is improved, but the device complexity and footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bar assembly is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it serves as the door handle for user operation, provides structural support for the controller and user interface components, and acts as a movable access mechanism for technicians. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate mounting structures, reducing overall device complexity while maintaining component accessibility.
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
This solution provides easy user access to products and improved installation and maintenance access to components, integrating seamlessly into existing structures without extensive modifications, reducing costs and maintaining the kiosk's footprint.
Implementation Method 1
a bar (140) that is movably connected to the door
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the present disclosure include a self-serve kiosk with a door that allows access to products inside the kiosk. A bar is disposed on the door and contains a user interface that allows the user to purchase products. The bar also includes a handle that the user can grasp to open and close the door. The bar can rotate with respect to the door into an access position that improves maintenance access to the user interface and related components. In aspects, the bar and related components improve integration of self-serve functionality into existing product storage devices.