Self-Service Checkout Mobile Token Authentication

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing self-service kiosk systems require customers to manually enter various identifying information for each transaction, leading to inefficiencies and potential deterrence due to the need for multiple interfaces and time-consuming processes.

Innovation Solution

A method that uses a customer's mobile device to automatically link with a self-service checkout system through a generated mobile device token, allowing seamless transactions by scanning a 2D barcode or using NFC, which securely communicates with a preference configuring service to retrieve customer profile data and authenticate the user, thereby streamlining the transaction process.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If customers manually enter identifying information at each transaction, then the system can accurately identify customers, but the transaction process becomes time-consuming and complex

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecustomer identification accuracyVSAvoidtransaction time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by storing customer device identifiers (MAC addresses, IMEI, phone numbers) and profile data in advance. During transactions, the kiosk automatically retrieves this pre-stored information using the device identifier, eliminating the need for customers to manually enter identifying information each time, thus reducing transaction time while maintaining identification accuracy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The system creates a digital copy of customer identification information by storing device identifiers and profile data in a database. Instead of requiring customers to repeatedly provide original identification documents or information, the system uses these stored digital copies for rapid authentication, significantly speeding up the transaction process while ensuring accurate customer identification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple interfaces and mechanisms are used for different transactions, then the system can handle various transaction types, but the ease of operation decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransaction type coverageVSAvoiduser interface complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements a universal interface where a single kiosk design and user interaction model handles multiple transaction types (purchases, loyalty program registration, promotional events, information requests). The underlying system adapts to different transaction types through software configuration rather than requiring different physical interfaces, maintaining ease of operation while providing versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The kiosk enables customers to independently complete various transaction types through a consistent, intuitive interface. Customers can perform purchases, register for loyalty programs, enroll in promotions, and request information using the same interaction flow, eliminating the need to learn multiple interfaces while maintaining the ability to handle diverse transaction requirements.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

3Productivity

If automated transaction systems are implemented, then transaction speed increases, but customer engagement decreases due to friction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetransaction throughputVSAvoidcustomer engagement
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary actions by pre-storing customer profile data, loyalty information, and preferences in the database. During transactions, it automatically retrieves and applies this information without requiring customer input, enabling rapid transaction processing while making customers feel valued through personalized, frictionless service that enhances engagement.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The automated kiosk system enables customers to independently and quickly complete transactions without staff intervention. The system handles all processing automatically while providing a user-friendly interface, achieving high transaction throughput while maintaining customer engagement through ease of use and autonomy.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Data Source

PatentUS9824344B2Techniques for automating self-service transactions
Publication Date: 2017.11.21 NCR VOYIX CORP
  • US9824344B2 patent drawing
  • US9824344B2 patent drawing
  • US9824344B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Techniques for automated transactions are provided. A customer uses a mobile device to interact with a self-service checkout device (SSCO) to perform a transaction. Initially, a unique barcode for the transaction is generated and displayed to the customer, via an attract screen of the SSCO. The mobile device scans the barcode (can be a QR code); this causes the mobile device to communicate with a remote server that identifies the customer. Preferences for the customer are retrieved and the transaction and features of the SSCO are configured based on the preferences. The transaction proceeds with the configured preferences.