Self-Service Terminal Processor Device Status Consolidation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing self-service terminal systems require extensive and costly protocol changes at the host for each additional device, limiting the integration of multiple devices into an existing network and increasing the likelihood of programming errors.
Innovation Solution
A self-service terminal with a processor that receives and combines status data from multiple functionally similar devices, allowing selective communication of the best operational device's status to a remote host, eliminating the need for host protocol changes and enabling integration of multiple devices into existing networks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple functionally similar devices are integrated into a single SST, then device functionality and versatility are improved, but host protocol complexity and implementation costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple functionally similar devices (e.g., multiple cash dispensers) into a single SST unit, allowing them to operate as an integrated system. The processor consolidates status data from all devices and presents a unified interface to the host, enabling multi-device functionality without requiring the host to manage each device separately through complex protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The SST processor acts as an intermediary between multiple devices and the host system. It receives status data from each device, processes and consolidates this information, and communicates with the host using standard existing protocols. This mediator role shields the host from device-level complexity while enabling versatile multi-device operation.
2Manufacturing precision
If each device type requires a specific host application and protocol, then device control precision is improved, but network integration flexibility deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal SST architecture that can accommodate multiple functionally similar devices through a single standardized interface. The processor is designed to handle various device types (cash dispensers, bill validators, etc.) using the same communication protocol and status data structure, enabling different device configurations without requiring custom host applications or protocol modifications.
3Manufacturing precision
If host protocol changes are implemented for each additional device, then device management accuracy is improved, but implementation time and costs increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs device status consolidation and protocol standardization in advance at the SST processor level. By pre-processing status data from multiple devices and presenting a unified view to the host, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming host protocol modifications when adding devices. The processor is pre-configured to handle multiple device types through standardized interfaces.
4Adaptability or versatility
If multiple devices are integrated into an SST, then system versatility is improved, but likelihood of programming errors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs homogeneous status data structures and communication protocols for all functionally similar devices within the SST. Each device reports status using the same data format and communication interface, simplifying processor logic and reducing programming complexity. This uniformity across devices minimizes the likelihood of programming errors while maintaining system versatility.
Data Source
AI summary
A self-service terminal (SST), such as an ATM, comprises a processor, and two functionally similar devices, for example cash dispense units, and an input/output (IO) port. The processor receives status data from each of the similar devices and determines which set of status data to communicate to a remote host via the IO port dependent upon device status and health parameters contained within the status data.