Signal Interception System for Retail POS Adaptability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing retail point-of-sale systems face challenges in adding new functionality without substantial modifications, which can lead to errors and interoperability issues, especially when dealing with complex couponing rules and promotions.
Innovation Solution
A data processing system that intercepts signals between peripheral devices and the computing system, allowing for additional functionality to be added by processing and modifying these signals, enabling new data flows without altering existing software or peripherals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If new functionality is added to deployed technology architectures through substantial modification, then the functionality is improved, but the reliability deteriorates due to unexpected effects and increased error chances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary component that sits between the peripheral device and the application, intercepting signals and enabling new functionality without modifying the original system components. This mediator allows couponing functionality to be added while maintaining the stability of the existing point-of-sale system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system is segmented into distinct components: the original peripheral device, the interception mechanism, the processing logic for new functionality, and the application. This segmentation allows new functionality to be added in isolation without affecting the core system's reliability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If substantial modification is made to deployed technology, then new functionality is achieved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
By using an intermediary that intercepts and processes signals, the patent avoids the complexity of modifying the core system. The intermediary handles all new functionality logic, keeping the original components simple and unchanged.
Solution Approach 2:
The intermediary component is designed to handle multiple functions including signal interception, processing, and routing, consolidating complexity into a single universal component rather than distributing it across multiple modified system elements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If existing retail systems are modified to implement advanced couponing rules, then the adaptability improves, but the ease of operation deteriorates due to potential errors
Solution Approach 1:
The intermediary automatically intercepts and processes coupon-related signals, handling complex couponing rules without requiring operator intervention or system modification. This maintains operational simplicity while enabling advanced couponing capabilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic processing of coupon signals through the intermediary, eliminating the need for manual configuration or complex operator actions. The new functionality serves itself by automatically intercepting and processing relevant signals.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a data processing method, including the steps of intercepting a signal within a communications channel between a predefined peripheral device for a computing system and an application executing on the computing system and processing the signal and performing one or more actions in response to the processing. At least one action affects onward transmission of one or more signals within the communications channel. A data processing system is also described.