Unmanned Shop Terminal Control for Coordinated Store Operations
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing store management systems are limited in their integration of kiosks and other apparatuses, restricting their application scope and requiring manual intervention for operations like lighting and air conditioning, which hampers the efficient management of unmanned stores.
Innovation Solution
An integrated store management system and method that allows simultaneous operation of multiple apparatuses based on the sales stage status, using an unmanned terminal apparatus to select and transmit operating modes to connected devices such as display units, mobile robots, and environmental controls, enabling context-aware management across all operational periods.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If kiosks are used in conjunction with POS terminal for synchronization only, then order and payment management is improved, but application scope is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The kiosk is transformed from a single-function ordering device into a multi-functional terminal that can perform ordering, payment, inventory management, menu modification, and control of various store apparatuses (lighting, air conditioning, robots). This universal design allows one device to serve multiple purposes, expanding application scope without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges previously separate functions (kiosk operations, POS terminal management, apparatus control) into a unified system where the kiosk acts as a central control point. By combining these functions, the system reduces the number of separate devices needed and simplifies the overall architecture while expanding capabilities.
2Ease of operation
If manual operation is used for lighting and air conditioning control, then operational flexibility is maintained, but operational burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service operation where the kiosk automatically controls store apparatuses based on pre-set conditions or simple user inputs. For example, the kiosk can automatically adjust lighting and air conditioning based on time of day, customer presence detection, or energy saving rules, reducing the need for manual intervention while maintaining operational flexibility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows pre-configuration of control parameters for various apparatuses through the kiosk interface. Managers can set up automated schedules, temperature preferences, and lighting scenarios in advance, so that during operation, the system executes these pre-planned actions automatically, reducing real-time operational burden.
3Productivity
If multiple apparatuses operate independently, then device autonomy is maintained, but store management efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates control of multiple independent apparatuses (lighting, air conditioning, robots, displays) through a unified kiosk-based management system. This merging allows coordinated operation where all devices work together based on a common control logic, significantly improving management efficiency compared to independent operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The kiosk serves as an intermediary device that mediates between the manager and various store apparatuses. It provides a centralized interface for controlling multiple devices, translating user commands into appropriate actions for each apparatus, and coordinating their operations to achieve overall store management goals efficiently.
Data Source
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AI summary
Disclosed are an integrated shop management system (1000) and an integrated shop management method. An integrated shop management method according to the present invention comprises: a step for communicatively connecting (S10) an unmanned terminal apparatus and a plurality of apparatuses in a shop in response to the execution of a shop management mode; a step for receiving (S20)an input selecting one of a plurality of operating modes via the unmanned terminal apparatus; and a step for making(S30) each of the plurality of apparatuses in the shop that have received a signal corresponding to the selected operating mode perform an operation related to the operating mode corresponding to the signal. Accordingly, the plurality of apparatuses in the shop can be simultaneously operated in a manner suitable for the business situation of the shop, and thus efficient integrated operation of the shop is possible with little manpower or effort.