EP0445422B1 - Article-recording device for points of sale - Google Patents

Article-recording device for points of sale Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0445422B1
EP0445422B1 EP90125300A EP90125300A EP0445422B1 EP 0445422 B1 EP0445422 B1 EP 0445422B1 EP 90125300 A EP90125300 A EP 90125300A EP 90125300 A EP90125300 A EP 90125300A EP 0445422 B1 EP0445422 B1 EP 0445422B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
goods
merchandise
scanner according
control
transporting surface
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP90125300A
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German (de)
French (fr)
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EP0445422A1 (en
Inventor
Günter Baitz
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH
Original Assignee
Wincor Nixdorf International GmbH
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Filing date
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Publication of EP0445422A1 publication Critical patent/EP0445422A1/en
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Publication of EP0445422B1 publication Critical patent/EP0445422B1/en
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    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07G—REGISTERING THE RECEIPT OF CASH, VALUABLES, OR TOKENS
    • G07G1/00—Cash registers
    • G07G1/0036—Checkout procedures
    • G07G1/0045—Checkout procedures with a code reader for reading of an identifying code of the article to be registered, e.g. barcode reader or radio-frequency identity [RFID] reader
    • A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
    • A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
    • A47F—SPECIAL FURNITURE, FITTINGS, OR ACCESSORIES FOR SHOPS, STOREHOUSES, BARS, RESTAURANTS OR THE LIKE; PAYING COUNTERS
    • A47F9/00—Shop, bar, bank or like counters
    • A47F9/02—Paying counters
    • A47F9/04—Check-out counters, e.g. for self-service stores
    • A47F9/046—Arrangement of recording means in or on check-out counters
    • G—PHYSICS
    • G07—CHECKING-DEVICES
    • G07G—REGISTERING THE RECEIPT OF CASH, VALUABLES, OR TOKENS
    • G07G1/00—Cash registers
    • G07G1/0018—Constructional details, e.g. of drawer, printing means, input means

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a goods detection device for sales transactions according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • WO 90/15559 (Article 54 (3) EPC) has already proposed a goods registration device of this type, in which all goods, goods or articles for their registration are placed on the goods transport surface and guided past the goods registration window so that the goods labeling is carried out by a scanning device can be detected.
  • This procedure is problematic, however, particularly in the case of bulky and / or heavy articles which have to be lifted onto the goods transport surface by the user, that is to say the operating personnel or the customer.
  • a process requires a great deal of force and can lead to internal injuries to the user. Certain groups of users may not be able to lift the articles in question onto the goods transport area.
  • the invention has for its object to provide a goods entry device of the type specified, in which the goods entry is improved especially of bulky and / or heavy articles.
  • the vertically adjustable goods transport surface With the help of the vertically adjustable goods transport surface, it is possible to adapt them precisely to the level of the articles concerned, so that the articles can simply be pushed onto the goods transport surface. It is therefore possible to match the height of the goods transport area to the height of the means of transport. This will result in injuries such as It effectively prevents ligament strains or user breaks.
  • the goods detection window is advantageously upright and arranged parallel to the goods transport direction next to the goods transport surface.
  • the goods identification is often located on a side surface, so that the goods in question can be simply placed on the goods transport surface to record their goods identification without the laborious turning of the goods around a horizontal axis as is necessary for the cases, where the goods entry window is provided in the goods transport area.
  • the goods can be easily rotated around a vertical axis depending on the attachment of the goods label so that the goods label faces the goods entry window. Since the goods do not have to be put aside, the goods can be processed faster in this embodiment.
  • the goods detection window can preferably be arranged on the side of the operating surface near the goods transport surface.
  • the goods entry window can be provided in holders which are already present for the operating surface and therefore accommodate both the operating surface and the goods entry window in the sense of a double effect. Such an arrangement protects the goods detection window even during the operation of the goods detection device, so that the window can be damaged less easily.
  • the goods registration window can be adjusted vertically together with the goods transport surface.
  • the goods entry window is always at the correct distance from the goods transport area and thus from the lower edge of the goods to be registered.
  • An adjustment of the goods transport surface automatically results in a corresponding adjustment of the goods entry window.
  • the user therefore does not have to worry whether the goods entry window is also set at a suitable height for the registration of the goods. It is therefore easily possible for the user to gradually unload a trolley loaded in several layers and always to find the optimal, i.e. adjust the height of the goods transport area to the respective position.
  • the goods detection window is preferably vertically adjustable relative to the goods transport surface.
  • This Embodiment it is possible to exactly adapt the arrangement of goods registration window and goods transport area to the different goods. For heavy, large-volume goods in particular, it may be necessary to set the goods transport surface in a position close to the ground and the goods detection window in a position away from the ground, because the goods identification to be recorded is located approximately in the vertical center of the goods or near the top edge thereof.
  • goods labels attached to remote locations can therefore also be recorded mechanically, so that complicated and time-consuming manual input of the data, for example into an input keyboard, is not necessary. But even small articles can be easily recorded with the goods registration device. For this purpose, the user can adjust the goods transport surface into its upper position, so that such articles can be detected in an upright, ergonomically correct posture of the user when the goods detection window is arranged near the goods transport surface.
  • a manually operated scanning device that can be transferred into the area of the goods transport surface is advantageously provided.
  • a scanning device called a hand scanner
  • a scanning device can also be used to mechanically register goods identifications of goods placed on the goods transport surface, if these markings are placed in extreme positions. This can eliminate the need to turn the goods.
  • the registration or registration of the goods can be carried out mechanically and therefore efficiently, despite the extreme conditions.
  • a data display device with a screen on a top of a column that receives the control surface. This makes it possible to position the control surface and the screen favorably for the user, so that the data of the goods can be entered ergonomically and the information displayed on the screen can be easily viewed and read.
  • the arrangement of the control surface and the screen can thus be provided in a position which is advantageous for the user, regardless of the respective position of the goods transport surface.
  • one of the control elements is designed as an input and / or control keyboard, so that the goods can also be entered manually if the goods label is missing or damaged, or if for other reasons the machine registration of the goods label leads to incorrect registrations.
  • the control keyboard for example, the respective vertical position of the goods detection area and the goods detection window can be changed or set.
  • the input and / or control keyboard and the data display device are arranged one behind the other transversely to the direction of goods transport.
  • Such an arrangement additionally enables a quick check of the data entered or recorded by means of the input keyboard or the scanning device. Since the user expediently stands in front of the goods entry window when operating the goods entry device, he can check the acquired data simply by looking up without turning his head.
  • one of the output openings as an output compartment for a receipt, e.g. a goods entry document or a receipt, since such an output compartment is on the one hand in the user's field of vision, so that the user can easily remove the document once the entry process has ended.
  • the document in the output compartment is largely secured against unintentional tearing off or damage.
  • such a goods detection device can be installed in a feed and discharge system without any problems, since no operating elements and / or input or output openings are provided on the side walls or the rear wall of such a device.
  • a goods detection device 1 is shown in a schematic perspective illustration in FIG. 1.
  • the goods scanning device 1 has a column 2, the lower end 3 of which is firmly connected to a base (not shown in more detail) by means of fastening screws 5 by means of a base 4.
  • 1 has an approximately square cross section.
  • the column 2 carries a table 6, which has a horizontal top 7.
  • the table 6 has a passage opening 10 approximately corresponding to the cross section of the column 2, through which the column 2 extends in such a way that the table 6 places the column in an upper part 11 arranged above the upper side 7 of the table 6 and in an underneath a lower side 12 of the table 6 arranged lower part 13 divided. 1, the column 2 is thus completely surrounded by the table 6.
  • a horizontal goods transport surface 14 forming a transport path is embedded in the top 7 of the table 6 in such a way that the top 15 of the goods transport surface 14 is approximately flush with the top 7 of the table 6.
  • a roller conveyor 16 is inserted, which is schematically indicated by way of example in FIG. 1 at the left end of the table 6.
  • the roller conveyor 16 allows an easy displacement of the goods, goods or articles to be detected in the direction of the goods transport path, ie along the goods transport surface 14.
  • seated balls can also be provided in recesses in the upper side 15 of the goods transport surface 14, which also allow the goods to be moved transversely to the goods transport direction or to be turned around a vertical axis.
  • the goods transport surface 14 extends almost over the entire length of the table 6 with a width starting in the region near a front edge 17 of the table 6, which occupies approximately 40% of the total table width. However, it is also possible to make the width of the goods transport surface 14 larger or smaller than the aforementioned value.
  • the goods transport surface 14 therefore runs close and parallel to the front edge 17 of the table 6, so that the passage opening 10 and the column 2 are arranged in the rear table section 20.
  • the passage opening 10 and thus the column 2 are arranged centrally in the table 6 with respect to the longitudinal axis running parallel to the goods transport direction and asymmetrically transversely to the goods transport direction.
  • a groove-shaped recess 22 with a rear wall 23 extending parallel to the direction of goods transport (see arrow A) and side walls 24, 25 running transversely to the direction of goods transport.
  • a housing 26 is fitted with little play to the rear wall 23 and to the side walls 24, 25, which has a front wall 27 facing the area above the goods transport surface 14, an inclined wall 30 and has an associated horizontal top 31.
  • a goods inspection window 32 behind which a scanning device, not shown, is arranged.
  • Two differently colored signal lamps 33, 34 are arranged in the wall 30, each of which indicates whether a detection process was carried out properly or incorrectly.
  • the goods detection window 32 is therefore upright and arranged parallel to the goods transport direction (see arrow A) next to the goods transport surface 14. Due to the aforementioned play between the side walls and the rear wall of the housing 26 and the groove-shaped recess 22, the goods detection window 32 can be adjusted vertically together with the housing 26 in the recess with the aid of a drive (not shown) (see arrow B). Likewise, the goods transport surface 14 can be adjusted vertically together with the table 6 along the column 2 by means of a drive (not shown) (see arrow C), it being possible, on the one hand, to move the goods detection window 32 up and down with the up and down movements of the table 6 to couple, so that the goods detection window 32 is adjustable in height together with the goods transport surface 14. On the other hand, the goods detection device 1 can also be designed such that the goods detection window 32 relative to the goods transport surface 14, i.e. regardless of the sliding movement of the table 6, is vertically adjustable.
  • An operating surface 35 with operating elements 36 and a dispensing opening 37 are arranged in an attachment 40 on the top 41 of the column 2 to the side of the goods transport surface 14 and transversely to the goods transport direction.
  • the attachment 40 also receives a data display device 43 which has a screen 42 and which can be connected to the attachment 40 directly or by means of a (not shown) Carrier is connected. 1, the data display device 43 is connected in one piece to the top 44 of the attachment 40.
  • one of the operating elements 36 is designed as an input keyboard 45 and as a control keyboard 46, the input keyboard 45 being attached to the data display device 43 in a sloping front wall 47 of the attachment 40 and the control keyboard 46 next to the screen 42.
  • the input and control keyboard 45, 46 and the data display device 43 are then arranged one behind the other transversely to the goods transport direction (see arrow A).
  • the output opening 37 is an output compartment 50 for a receipt or receipt 51.
  • the attachment 40 has a receipt printer (not described in more detail) which records the data or information of the goods registered with the aid of the scanning device on the receipt 51 prints.
  • the output tray 50 may be trough-shaped so that the document 51 does not protrude beyond the edge of the output tray. It is also possible to close the output compartment with a hinged lid (not shown).
  • the dispensing opening 37 is arranged to the left of the input keyboard 45, partly in the upper side 44, partly in the front wall 47 of the attachment 40.
  • the attachment 40 also has a vertically extending front wall 52, which has a recess 53 below the input keyboard 45 as a storage space for a manually operated scanning device 54.
  • the scanner 54 is connected to the attachment 40 via a cable 55.
  • the cable 55 has a sufficient length or consists of an elastic material so that the scanning device 54 can be transferred into the area of the goods transport area 14 or into the area of the goods placed near the goods transport area.
  • FIG. 2 A second exemplary embodiment of the goods detection device is shown in FIG. 2. The same parts are identified here with the same reference numerals as in the first exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 1.
  • the data display device 43 is arranged on the right next to the column 2 and a receipt printer 56 on the left next to the column 2 on the upper side 7 of the table 6.
  • the receipt printer 56 has an output compartment 50 for the receipt 51 which is designed as an output opening 37.
  • the control keyboard 46 is located to the left of the entry keyboard 45 in the front wall 47 of the attachment 40. It is clear that in this case the data display device 43 'and the receipt printer 56 can be moved up and down together with the table 6 in the direction of the arrow C.
  • a cutting device (not shown in more detail) is provided near the output compartment 50, which separates the printed part of the receipt 51 from the unprinted part of the supply roll.
  • the operating elements 36 can also have an intercom and an input opening, for example for a card reader. All control elements 36 are connected to a computer, not shown. With the card reader, for example, credit or customer cards are for non-cash Readable for payment.
  • the input keyboard 45 can be used to manually enter a personal identification number assigned to the aforementioned cards or the goods identification data attached to the goods. With the help of the control keyboard 46, the table 6 and the housing 26 with the goods inspection window 32 can be adjusted vertically together or independently of one another.
  • control keyboard can be used to inform the computer, for example, of the end of a specific goods acquisition process or to request a supervisor.
  • the separate input keyboard can be omitted if it is integrated in a part of the screen 42.
  • the respective screen has, at least in part, a touch-sensitive, transparent coating.
  • touch screen or touch display Such devices are generally known as a touch screen or touch display.
  • the user drives his transport trolley loaded with goods, for example, from the right to the table 6 of the goods detection device 1 and then sets the height of the top 7 of the table 6 to the height of the individual by operating the control keyboard 46, goods located on the transport trolley so that bulky and / or heavy goods in particular cannot be lifted onto the goods transport surface 14, but rather pushed onto them.
  • the goods are now on the goods transport surface 14 and are guided along the transport direction (see arrow A) past the goods detection window 32 in such a way that the goods identification (bar code marking) is from that behind the window located scanning device detected and the information thereon can be displayed on the screen 42 of the data display device 43 or 43 'and / or transmitted to a data processing device.
  • the goods identification is preferably affixed to side surfaces, which then have to be turned in each case to the goods detection window 32. If such a rotation of the goods is too cumbersome or difficult or if the goods identification is in an extreme position, the information on the goods identification or the data contained therein can also be recorded by means of the manually operated scanning device 54 and processed by the control device. In the case of goods which have no or only a damaged goods identification, the information contained on the goods can be entered into the goods detection device 1 via the input keyboard 45.
  • the receipt printer prints the data on the goods label, e.g. the type of goods and the price on receipt 51, which is further subtracted from the supply roll in the printer after each item of goods printed on the receipt.
  • the document 51 gradually gets into the interior of the output compartment 50. After the goods have been entered, the document 51 is separated from the supply roll and can now be removed from the output compartment 50.
  • the goods guided past the goods detection window via the goods transport surface 14 can, for example, be placed in a shopping cart (not shown) provided on the left of the goods detection device.
  • the customer pays the amount printed out on the document and displayed by the respective data display device either by means of a customer or credit card via the card reader (not shown) or via cash entry and exit openings, which can be arranged on the operating surface 35. It is of course also possible to pay the invoice amount at a separate cash desk. If problems arise with the goods entry, the customer can request a supervisor, for example, via the control keyboard 46.
  • the housing 26 with the goods detection window 32 can also be moved in the vertical direction, i.e. can be adjusted up or down.
  • the user will therefore move the table 6 into a position as close to the floor as possible.
  • the goods detection window 32 is then set so that the goods identification can be detected by the scanner. Since the scanning device allows a certain scattering range, the goods detection window 32 does not have to be arranged exactly at the height of the goods identification.
  • the operating surface 35 is located above the goods detection window and the goods transport surface, so that the user can operate the elements located thereon in an ergonomic position or posture. This considerably simplifies the entry of bulky and / or heavy items.

Description

Die Erfindung bezieht sich auf ein Warenerfassungsgerät für Verkaufsgeschäfte nach dem Oberbegriff des Patentanspruchs 1.The invention relates to a goods detection device for sales transactions according to the preamble of claim 1.

Es wurde in WO 90/15559 (Artikel 54(3) EPÜ) bereits ein Warenerfassungsgerät dieser Art vorgeschlagen, bei dem sämtliche Waren, Güter oder Artikel zu ihrer Registrierung auf der Warentransportfläche abgelegt und an dem Warenerfassungsfenster vorbeigeführt werden, damit die Warenkennzeichnung von einer Abtasteinrichtung erfaßt werden kann. Problematisch ist diese Vorgehensweise aber insbesondere bei sperrigen und/oder schweren Artikeln, die von dem Benutzer, also dem Bedienpersonal oder dem Kunden, auf die Warentransportfläche gehoben werden müssen. Ein solcher Vorgang erfordert in Abhängigkeit des Artikelgewichts einen hohen Kraftaufwand und kann zu inneren Verletzungen des Benutzers führen. Bestimmte Gruppen von Benutzern sind unter Umständen gar nicht in der Lage, die betreffenden Artikel auf die Warentransportfläche zu heben.WO 90/15559 (Article 54 (3) EPC) has already proposed a goods registration device of this type, in which all goods, goods or articles for their registration are placed on the goods transport surface and guided past the goods registration window so that the goods labeling is carried out by a scanning device can be detected. This procedure is problematic, however, particularly in the case of bulky and / or heavy articles which have to be lifted onto the goods transport surface by the user, that is to say the operating personnel or the customer. Depending on the weight of the article, such a process requires a great deal of force and can lead to internal injuries to the user. Certain groups of users may not be able to lift the articles in question onto the goods transport area.

Der Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, ein Warenerfassungsgerät der eingangs angegebenen Art zu schaffen, bei dem die Warenerfassung insbesondere von sperrigen und/oder schweren Artikeln verbessert ist.The invention has for its object to provide a goods entry device of the type specified, in which the goods entry is improved especially of bulky and / or heavy articles.

Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch ein Warenerfassungsgerät mit den Merkmalen des Patentanspruchs 1 gelöst.According to the invention, this object is achieved by a goods detection device having the features of patent claim 1.

Mit Hilfe der vertikal verstellbaren Warentransportfläche ist es möglich, diese an das Niveau der betreffenden Artikel genau anzupassen, so daß die Artikel einfach auf die Warentransportfläche geschoben werden können. Es ist demnach möglich, die Höhe der Warentransportfläche auf die Höhe des Transportmittels abzustimmen. Dadurch werden Verletzungen wie z.B. Bänderzerrungen oder Brüche des Benutzers wirksam verhindert.With the help of the vertically adjustable goods transport surface, it is possible to adapt them precisely to the level of the articles concerned, so that the articles can simply be pushed onto the goods transport surface. It is therefore possible to match the height of the goods transport area to the height of the means of transport. This will result in injuries such as It effectively prevents ligament strains or user breaks.

Vorteilhafterweise ist das Warenerfassungsfenster aufrecht stehend und parallel zur Warentransportrichtung neben der Warentransportfläche angeordnet. Bei Gütern der vorgenannten Art befindet sich die Warenkennzeichnung nämlich häufig an einer Seitenfläche, so daß die betreffende Ware zum Erfassen ihrer Warenkennzeichnung einfach auf der Warentransportfläche abgestellt werden kann, ohne daß ein mühevolles Drehen der Ware um eine horizontale Achse wie für die Fälle erforderlich ist, wo das Warenerfassungsfenster in der Warentransportfläche vorgesehen ist. Bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel kann die Ware je nach Anbringung der Warenkennzeichnung leicht um eine vertikale Achse so gedreht werden, daß die Warenkennzeichnung zum Warenerfassungsfenster gewandt ist. Da die Waren nicht auf die Seite gelegt werden müssen, können die Waren bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel schneller abgefertigt werden. Da die Bedienfläche ohnehin schon seitlich der Warentransportfläche vorgesehen ist, kann das Warenerfassungsfenster vorzugsweise auf der Seite der Bedienfläche nahe der Warentransportfläche angeordnet sein. In diesem Fall kann das Warenerfassungsfenster in Halterungen vorgesehen sein, die für die Bedienfläche bereits vorhanden sind und deshalb im Sinne einer Doppelwirkung sowohl die Bedienfläche als auch das Warenerfassungsfenster aufnehmen. Eine solche Anordnung schützt das Warenerfassungsfenster auch während des Betriebs des Warenerfassungsgerätes, so daß es weniger leicht zu Beschädigungen des Fensters kommen kann.The goods detection window is advantageously upright and arranged parallel to the goods transport direction next to the goods transport surface. In the case of goods of the aforementioned type, the goods identification is often located on a side surface, so that the goods in question can be simply placed on the goods transport surface to record their goods identification without the laborious turning of the goods around a horizontal axis as is necessary for the cases, where the goods entry window is provided in the goods transport area. In this embodiment, the goods can be easily rotated around a vertical axis depending on the attachment of the goods label so that the goods label faces the goods entry window. Since the goods do not have to be put aside, the goods can be processed faster in this embodiment. Because the control surface is already provided on the side of the goods transport surface anyway, the goods detection window can preferably be arranged on the side of the operating surface near the goods transport surface. In this case, the goods entry window can be provided in holders which are already present for the operating surface and therefore accommodate both the operating surface and the goods entry window in the sense of a double effect. Such an arrangement protects the goods detection window even during the operation of the goods detection device, so that the window can be damaged less easily.

In einer anderen Weiterbildung des Warenerfassungsgeräts ist das Warenerfassungsfenster zusammen mit der Warentransportfläche vertikal verstellbar. Dadurch hat das Warenerfassungsfenster stets den richtigen Abstand zur Warentransportfläche und damit zur Unterkante der zu erfassenden Waren. Ein Verstellen der Warentransportfläche hat somit automatisch ein entsprechendes Verstellen des Warenerfassungsfensters zur Folge. Der Benutzer muß sich also keine Gedanken machen, ob auch das Warenerfassungsfenster in einer für die Registrierung der Ware passenden Höhe eingestellt ist. Es ist somit für den Benutzer ohne weiteres möglich, einen in mehreren Lagen beladenen Förderwagen stufenweise abzuladen und dabei stets die optimale, d.h. an die jeweilige Lage angepaßte Höhe der Warentransportfläche einzustellen.In another development of the goods registration device, the goods registration window can be adjusted vertically together with the goods transport surface. As a result, the goods entry window is always at the correct distance from the goods transport area and thus from the lower edge of the goods to be registered. An adjustment of the goods transport surface automatically results in a corresponding adjustment of the goods entry window. The user therefore does not have to worry whether the goods entry window is also set at a suitable height for the registration of the goods. It is therefore easily possible for the user to gradually unload a trolley loaded in several layers and always to find the optimal, i.e. adjust the height of the goods transport area to the respective position.

Vorzugsweise ist das Warenerfassungsfenster relativ zur Warentransportfläche vertikal verstellbar. Mit dieser Ausführungsform ist es möglich, die Anordnung von Warenerfassungsfenster und Warentransportfläche den unterschiedlichen Waren exakt anzupassen. So kann es insbesondere bei schweren, großvolumigen Gütern erforderlich sein, die Warentransportfläche in eine bodennahe Position und das Warenerfassungsfenster in eine bodenferne Position einzustellen, weil die zu erfassende Warenkennzeichnung etwa in der vertikalen Mitte der Ware oder nahe deren Oberkante angebracht ist. Mit dieser Ausführungsform der Warenerfassungsgeräts können deshalb auch an entlegenen Stellen angebrachte Warenkennzeichnungen maschinell erfaßt werden, so daß ein umständliches und zeitaufwendiges manuelles Eingeben der Daten z.B. in eine Eingabetastatur nicht erforderlich ist. Aber auch kleine Artikel lassen sich mit dem Warenerfassungsgerät unproblematisch erfassen. Der Benutzer kann dazu die Warentransportfläche in ihre obere Stellung verstellen, so daß solche Artikel bei nahe der Warentransportfläche angeordnetem Warenerfassungsfenster in aufrechter, ergonomisch richtiger Haltung des Benutzers erfaßt werden können.The goods detection window is preferably vertically adjustable relative to the goods transport surface. With this Embodiment, it is possible to exactly adapt the arrangement of goods registration window and goods transport area to the different goods. For heavy, large-volume goods in particular, it may be necessary to set the goods transport surface in a position close to the ground and the goods detection window in a position away from the ground, because the goods identification to be recorded is located approximately in the vertical center of the goods or near the top edge thereof. With this embodiment of the goods detection device, goods labels attached to remote locations can therefore also be recorded mechanically, so that complicated and time-consuming manual input of the data, for example into an input keyboard, is not necessary. But even small articles can be easily recorded with the goods registration device. For this purpose, the user can adjust the goods transport surface into its upper position, so that such articles can be detected in an upright, ergonomically correct posture of the user when the goods detection window is arranged near the goods transport surface.

Vorteilhafterweise ist eine manuell bedienbare, in den Bereich der Warentransportfläche überführbare Abtasteinrichtung vorgesehen. Mit Hilfe einer solchen Abtasteinrichtung, Handscanner genannt, ist es zum einen möglich, besonders sperrige oder schwere Güter auf ihrem jeweiligen Fördermittel wie zum Beispiel einem Transportwagen zu erfassen, ohne daß diese Güter auf der Warentransportfläche abgelegt werden müssen. Zum anderen kann eine solche Abtasteinrichtung dazu dienen, Warenkennzeichnungen von auf der Warentransportfläche abgestellten Waren auch dann maschinell zu registrieren, wenn diese Kennzeichnungen an extremen Positionen angebracht sind. Dadurch kann sich ein Drehen der Ware erübrigen. Die Registrierung bzw. Erfassung der Ware ist bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel trotz der extremen Bedingungen maschinell und damit rationell durchführbar.A manually operated scanning device that can be transferred into the area of the goods transport surface is advantageously provided. With the aid of such a scanning device, called a hand scanner, it is possible, on the one hand, to detect particularly bulky or heavy goods on their respective means of conveyance, such as a transport trolley, without these goods having to be placed on the goods transport surface. On the other hand, such a scanning device can also be used to mechanically register goods identifications of goods placed on the goods transport surface, if these markings are placed in extreme positions. This can eliminate the need to turn the goods. In this exemplary embodiment, the registration or registration of the goods can be carried out mechanically and therefore efficiently, despite the extreme conditions.

Günstig ist außerdem, an einer die Bedienfläche aufnehmenden Oberseite einer Säule ein einen Bildschirm aufweisendes Datensichtgerät anzuordnen. Dadurch ist es möglich, die Bedienfläche und den Bildschirm für den Benutzer günstig zu positionieren, so daß die Daten der Ware ergonomisch eingegeben und die auf dem Bildschirm dargestellten Informationen gut eingesehen und abgelesen werden können. Die Anordnung der Bedienfläche und des Bildschirms kann damit unabhängig von der jeweiligen Stellung der Warentransportfläche in einer für den Benutzer vorteilhaften Position vorgesehen sein.It is also favorable to arrange a data display device with a screen on a top of a column that receives the control surface. This makes it possible to position the control surface and the screen favorably for the user, so that the data of the goods can be entered ergonomically and the information displayed on the screen can be easily viewed and read. The arrangement of the control surface and the screen can thus be provided in a position which is advantageous for the user, regardless of the respective position of the goods transport surface.

Vorzugsweise ist eines der Bedienelemente als Eingabe- und/oder Steuertastatur ausgebildet, so daß die Waren auch manuell erfaßt werden können, wenn die Warenkennzeichnung fehlt oder beschädigt ist, oder wenn es aus anderen Gründen bei der maschinellen Erfassung der Warenkennzeichnung zu Fehlregistrierungen kommt. Mit Hilfe der Steuertastatur kann beispielsweise die jeweilige vertikale Position der Warenerfassungsfläche und des Warenerfassungsfensters verändert bzw. eingestellt werden. Diese Bedienelemente sind vorteilhafterweise als Teil der Bedienfläche an der Oberseite der das Datensichtgerät tragenden Säule angeordnet, können aber auch an jeder anderen Stelle seitlich der Warentransportfläche quer zur Warentransportrichtung angebracht sein.Preferably, one of the control elements is designed as an input and / or control keyboard, so that the goods can also be entered manually if the goods label is missing or damaged, or if for other reasons the machine registration of the goods label leads to incorrect registrations. With the help of the control keyboard, for example, the respective vertical position of the goods detection area and the goods detection window can be changed or set. These control elements are advantageously arranged as part of the control surface on the top of the column carrying the data display device, but can also be attached at any other point to the side of the goods transport surface transversely to the goods transport direction.

In einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung sind die Eingabe- und/oder Steuertastatur und das Datensichtgerät hintereinander quer zur Warentransportrichtung angeordnet. Eine solche Anordnung ermöglicht zusätzlich eine schnelle Überprüfung der mittels der Eingabetastatur oder der Abtasteinrichtung eingegebenen bzw. erfaßten Daten. Da der Benutzer beim Bedienen des Warenerfassungsgeräts zweckmäßigerweise vor dem Warenerfassungsfenster steht, kann er die erfaßten Daten ohne ein Drehen des Kopfes lediglich durch ein Aufblicken kontrollieren.In a development of the invention, the input and / or control keyboard and the data display device are arranged one behind the other transversely to the direction of goods transport. Such an arrangement additionally enables a quick check of the data entered or recorded by means of the input keyboard or the scanning device. Since the user expediently stands in front of the goods entry window when operating the goods entry device, he can check the acquired data simply by looking up without turning his head.

Günstig ist ferner, eine der Ausgabeöffnungen als Ausgabefach für einen Beleg, z.B. einen Warenerfassungsbeleg oder einen Kassenbon, auszubilden, da ein solches Ausgabefach zum einen im Sichtbereich des Benutzers liegt, so daß dieser nach Beendigung des Erfassungsvorgangs den Beleg leicht entnehmen kann. Zum anderen ist der Beleg in dem Ausgabefach weitgehend gegen ein unbeabsichtigtes Abreißen oder Beschädigen gesichert. Außerdem kann ein solches Warenerfassungsgerät unproblematisch in ein Zu- und Abfördersystem eingebaut werden, da auf den Seitenwänden oder der Rückwand eines solchen Geräts keine Bedienelemente und/oder Ein- bzw. Ausgabeöffnungen angebracht sind.It is also favorable to use one of the output openings as an output compartment for a receipt, e.g. a goods entry document or a receipt, since such an output compartment is on the one hand in the user's field of vision, so that the user can easily remove the document once the entry process has ended. On the other hand, the document in the output compartment is largely secured against unintentional tearing off or damage. In addition, such a goods detection device can be installed in a feed and discharge system without any problems, since no operating elements and / or input or output openings are provided on the side walls or the rear wall of such a device.

Ausführungsbeispiele des Erfindungsgegenstandes werden nachfolgend anhand der Zeichnung näher erläutert. Es zeigen:

Fig. 1
eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht eines Warenerfassungsgeräts für Verkaufsgeschäfte in einer ersten Ausführungsform; und
Fig. 2
eine schematische perspektivische Ansicht eines Warenerfassungsgerätes für Verkaufsgeschäfte gemäß einer zweiten Ausführungsform.
Exemplary embodiments of the subject matter of the invention are explained in more detail below with reference to the drawing. Show it:
Fig. 1
is a schematic perspective view of a goods detection device for sales in a first embodiment; and
Fig. 2
is a schematic perspective view of a goods capture device for sales according to a second embodiment.

In Fig. 1 ist ein Warenerfassungsgerät 1 in schematischer perspektivischer Darstellung gezeigt. Das Warenerfassungsgerät 1 hat eine Säule 2, deren unteres Ende 3 über einen Sockel 4 mit Hilfe von Befestigungsschrauben 5 fest mit einem nicht näher dargestellten Boden verbunden ist. Die Säule 2 hat gemäß Fig. 1 einen etwa quadratischen Querschnitt.A goods detection device 1 is shown in a schematic perspective illustration in FIG. 1. The goods scanning device 1 has a column 2, the lower end 3 of which is firmly connected to a base (not shown in more detail) by means of fastening screws 5 by means of a base 4. 1 has an approximately square cross section.

Die Säule 2 trägt einen Tisch 6, der eine horizontale Oberseite 7 hat. Der Tisch 6 hat eine dem Querschnitt der Säule 2 etwa entsprechende Durchtrittsöffnung 10, durch die sich die Säule 2 derart hindurch erstreckt, daß der Tisch 6 die Säule in ein oberhalb der Oberseite 7 des Tisches 6 angeordnetes Oberteil 11 und in ein unterhalb einer Unterseite 12 des Tisches 6 angeordnetes Unterteil 13 unterteilt. Gemäß Fig. 1 ist die Säule 2 also vollständig von dem Tisch 6 umgeben.The column 2 carries a table 6, which has a horizontal top 7. The table 6 has a passage opening 10 approximately corresponding to the cross section of the column 2, through which the column 2 extends in such a way that the table 6 places the column in an upper part 11 arranged above the upper side 7 of the table 6 and in an underneath a lower side 12 of the table 6 arranged lower part 13 divided. 1, the column 2 is thus completely surrounded by the table 6.

In die Oberseite 7 des Tisches 6 ist eine horizontale, einen Transportweg bildende Warentransportfläche 14 so eingelassen, daß die Oberseite 15 der Warentransportfläche 14 etwa bündig mit der Oberseite 7 des Tisches 6 abschließt. In die Oberseite 15 des Tisches 6 ist eine Rollenbahn 16 eingesetzt, die in Fig. 1 am linken Ende des Tisches 6 beispielhaft schematisch angedeutet ist. Es ist aber auch möglich, anstelle der Rollenbahn 16 einen Ketten- oder Bandförderer vorzusehen. Die Rollenbahn 16 erlaubt ein leichtes Verschieben der zu erfassenden Waren, Güter oder Artikel in Richtung des Warentransportweges, d.h. längs der Warentransportfläche 14. An Stelle der Rollenbahn 16 können aber auch in Ausnehmungen der Oberseite 15 der Warentransportfläche 14 sitzende Kugeln vorgesehen sein, die auch ein Verschieben der Waren quer zur Warentransportrichtung oder deren Umdrehen um eine vertikale Achse gestatten.A horizontal goods transport surface 14 forming a transport path is embedded in the top 7 of the table 6 in such a way that the top 15 of the goods transport surface 14 is approximately flush with the top 7 of the table 6. In the top 15 of the table 6, a roller conveyor 16 is inserted, which is schematically indicated by way of example in FIG. 1 at the left end of the table 6. However, it is also possible to provide a chain or belt conveyor instead of the roller conveyor 16. The roller conveyor 16 allows an easy displacement of the goods, goods or articles to be detected in the direction of the goods transport path, ie along the goods transport surface 14. Instead of the roller conveyor 16, seated balls can also be provided in recesses in the upper side 15 of the goods transport surface 14, which also allow the goods to be moved transversely to the goods transport direction or to be turned around a vertical axis.

Gemäß Fig. 1 erstreckt sich die Warentransportfläche 14 nahezu über die gesamte Länge des Tisches 6 mit einer Breite beginnend im Bereich nahe einer Vorderkante 17 des Tisches 6, die etwa 40% der gesamten Tischbreite einnimmt. Es ist aber auch möglich, die Breite der Warentransportfläche 14 größer oder geringer als den vorgenannten Wert auszubilden. Die Warentransportfläche 14 verläuft demnach nahe und parallel zur Vorderkante 17 des Tisches 6, so daß die Durchtrittsöffnung 10 und die Säule 2 im hinteren Tischabschnitt 20 angeordnet sind. Die Durchtrittsöffnung 10 und damit die Säule 2 sind mittig in bezug auf die parallel zur Warentransportrichtung verlaufende Längsachse und asymmetrisch quer zur Warentransportrichtung in dem Tisch 6 angeordnet.1, the goods transport surface 14 extends almost over the entire length of the table 6 with a width starting in the region near a front edge 17 of the table 6, which occupies approximately 40% of the total table width. However, it is also possible to make the width of the goods transport surface 14 larger or smaller than the aforementioned value. The goods transport surface 14 therefore runs close and parallel to the front edge 17 of the table 6, so that the passage opening 10 and the column 2 are arranged in the rear table section 20. The passage opening 10 and thus the column 2 are arranged centrally in the table 6 with respect to the longitudinal axis running parallel to the goods transport direction and asymmetrically transversely to the goods transport direction.

In der Vorderwand 21 der Säule 2 ist eine nutförmige Ausnehmung 22 mit einer parallel zur Warentransportrichtung (siehe Pfeil A) sich erstreckenden Hinterwand 23 und quer zur Warentransportrichtung verlaufenden Seitenwänden 24, 25 vorgesehen. In die Ausnehmung 22 ist ein Gehäuse 26 mit geringem Spiel zur Hinterwand 23 und zu den Seitenwänden 24, 25 eingepaßt, das eine dem Bereich oberhalb der Warentransportfläche 14 zugewandte Vorderwand 27, eine sich daran in Fig. 1 nach oben anschließende schräg verlaufende Wand 30 und eine damit verbundene horizontale Oberseite 31 hat. In der Vorderwand 27 sitzt ein Warenerfassungsfenster 32, hinter dem eine nicht gezeigte Abtasteinrichtung angeordnet ist.Provided in the front wall 21 of the column 2 is a groove-shaped recess 22 with a rear wall 23 extending parallel to the direction of goods transport (see arrow A) and side walls 24, 25 running transversely to the direction of goods transport. In the recess 22, a housing 26 is fitted with little play to the rear wall 23 and to the side walls 24, 25, which has a front wall 27 facing the area above the goods transport surface 14, an inclined wall 30 and has an associated horizontal top 31. In the front wall 27 there is a goods inspection window 32, behind which a scanning device, not shown, is arranged.

In die Wand 30 sind zwei nebeneinander angeordnete verschiedenfarbige Signallampen 33, 34 eingesetzt, die jeweils anzeigen, ob ein Erfassungsvorgang ordnungsgemäß oder fehlerhaft durchgeführt wurde.Two differently colored signal lamps 33, 34 are arranged in the wall 30, each of which indicates whether a detection process was carried out properly or incorrectly.

Das Warenerfassungsfenster 32 ist also aufrecht stehend und parallel zur Warentransportrichtung (siehe Pfeil A) neben der Warentransportfläche 14 angeordnet. Aufgrund des vorgenannten Spiels zwischen den Seitenwänden und der Rückwand des Gehäuses 26 und der nutförmigen Ausnehmung 22 ist das Warenerfassungsfenster 32 zusammen mit dem Gehäuse 26 in der Ausnehmung vertikal mit Hilfe eines nicht näher gezeigten Antriebs verstellbar (siehe Pfeil B). Ebenso ist die Warentransportfläche 14 zusammen mit dem Tisch 6 entlang der Säule 2 mittels eines nicht gezeigten Antriebs vertikal verstellbar (siehe Pfeil C), wobei es möglich ist, die Auf- und Abwärtsbewegung des Warenerfassungsfensters 32 einerseits mit der Auf- und Abwärtsbewegung des Tisches 6 zu koppeln, so daß das Warenerfassungsfenster 32 zusammen mit der Warentransportfläche 14 höhenverstellbar ist. Andererseits kann das Warenerfassungsgerät 1 auch so ausgebildet sein, daß das Warenerfassungsfenster 32 relativ zur Warentransportfläche 14, d.h. unabhängig von der Verschiebebewegung des Tisches 6, vertikal verstellbar ist.The goods detection window 32 is therefore upright and arranged parallel to the goods transport direction (see arrow A) next to the goods transport surface 14. Due to the aforementioned play between the side walls and the rear wall of the housing 26 and the groove-shaped recess 22, the goods detection window 32 can be adjusted vertically together with the housing 26 in the recess with the aid of a drive (not shown) (see arrow B). Likewise, the goods transport surface 14 can be adjusted vertically together with the table 6 along the column 2 by means of a drive (not shown) (see arrow C), it being possible, on the one hand, to move the goods detection window 32 up and down with the up and down movements of the table 6 to couple, so that the goods detection window 32 is adjustable in height together with the goods transport surface 14. On the other hand, the goods detection device 1 can also be designed such that the goods detection window 32 relative to the goods transport surface 14, i.e. regardless of the sliding movement of the table 6, is vertically adjustable.

Seitlich der Warentransportfläche 14 und quer zur Warentransportrichtung ist eine Bedienfläche 35 mit Bedienelementen 36 und eine Ausgabeöffnung 37 in einem Aufsatz 40 an der Oberseite 41 der Säule 2 angeordnet. Der Aufsatz 40 nimmt neben den Bedienelementen 36 und der Ausgabeöffnung 37 außerdem ein einen Bildschirm 42 aufweisendes Datensichtgerät 43 auf, das mit dem Aufsatz 40 direkt oder mittels einer (nicht gezeigten) Tragvorrichtung verbunden ist. Gemäß Fig. 1 ist das Datensichtgerät 43 einstückig mit der Oberseite 44 des Aufsatzes 40 verbunden.An operating surface 35 with operating elements 36 and a dispensing opening 37 are arranged in an attachment 40 on the top 41 of the column 2 to the side of the goods transport surface 14 and transversely to the goods transport direction. In addition to the operating elements 36 and the dispensing opening 37, the attachment 40 also receives a data display device 43 which has a screen 42 and which can be connected to the attachment 40 directly or by means of a (not shown) Carrier is connected. 1, the data display device 43 is connected in one piece to the top 44 of the attachment 40.

Eines der Bedienelemente 36 ist nach Fig. 1 als Eingabetastatur 45 und als Steuertastatur 46 ausgebildet, wobei die Eingabetastatur 45 in einer schräg verlaufenden Vorderwand 47 des Aufsatzes 40 und die Steuertastatur 46 neben dem Bildschirm 42 am Datensichtgerät 43 angebracht ist. Es ist aber auch möglich, einen Teil der in der Vorderwand 47 angeordneten Bedienelemente 36 als Steuertastatur 46 auszubilden. Die Eingabe- und Steuertastatur 45, 46 und das Datensichtgerät 43 sind dann hintereinander quer zur Warentransportrichtung (siehe Pfeil A) angeordnet.1, one of the operating elements 36 is designed as an input keyboard 45 and as a control keyboard 46, the input keyboard 45 being attached to the data display device 43 in a sloping front wall 47 of the attachment 40 and the control keyboard 46 next to the screen 42. However, it is also possible to design part of the operating elements 36 arranged in the front wall 47 as a control keyboard 46. The input and control keyboard 45, 46 and the data display device 43 are then arranged one behind the other transversely to the goods transport direction (see arrow A).

Die Ausgabeöffnung 37 ist in dem gezeigten Ausführungsbeispiel ein Ausgabefach 50 für einen Beleg oder Kassenzettel 51. In dem Aufsatz 40 ist in einem solchen Fall ein nicht näher beschriebener Belegdrucker vorgesehen, der die mit Hilfe der Abtasteinrichtung registrierten Daten bzw. Informationen der Ware auf den Beleg 51 druckt. Das Ausgabefach 50 kann muldenförmig ausgebildet sein, so daß der Beleg 51 nicht über den Rand des Ausgabefachs vorsteht. Ferner ist es möglich, das Ausgabefach mit einem (nicht gezeigten) Klappdeckel zu verschließen. In dem Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig. 1 ist die Ausgabeöffnung 37 links neben der Eingabetastatur 45, teilweise in der Oberseite 44, teilweise in der Vorderwand 47 des Aufsatzes 40 sitzend, angeordnet.In the exemplary embodiment shown, the output opening 37 is an output compartment 50 for a receipt or receipt 51. In such a case, the attachment 40 has a receipt printer (not described in more detail) which records the data or information of the goods registered with the aid of the scanning device on the receipt 51 prints. The output tray 50 may be trough-shaped so that the document 51 does not protrude beyond the edge of the output tray. It is also possible to close the output compartment with a hinged lid (not shown). In the exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 1, the dispensing opening 37 is arranged to the left of the input keyboard 45, partly in the upper side 44, partly in the front wall 47 of the attachment 40.

Der Aufsatz 40 hat außerdem eine vertikal verlaufende Vorderwand 52, die unterhalb der Eingabetastatur 45 eine Ausnehmung 53 als Ablage für eine manuell bedienbare Abtasteinrichtung 54 hat. Die Abtasteinrichtung 54 ist über ein Kabel 55 mit dem Aufsatz 40 verbunden. Es ist aber auch möglich, das Kabel 55 mit der Säule 2 oder dem Tisch 6 zu verbinden und damit an die Steuerelektronik (nicht gezeigt) elektrisch anzuschließen. Das Kabel 55 hat eine ausreichende Länge oder besteht aus einem elastischen Material, so daß die Abtasteinrichtung 54 in den Bereich der Warentransportfläche 14 bzw. in den Bereich der nahe der Warentransportfläche abgestellten Waren überführt werden kann.The attachment 40 also has a vertically extending front wall 52, which has a recess 53 below the input keyboard 45 as a storage space for a manually operated scanning device 54. The scanner 54 is connected to the attachment 40 via a cable 55. However, it is also possible to connect the cable 55 to the column 2 or the table 6 and thus to connect it electrically to the control electronics (not shown). The cable 55 has a sufficient length or consists of an elastic material so that the scanning device 54 can be transferred into the area of the goods transport area 14 or into the area of the goods placed near the goods transport area.

Ein zweites Ausführungsbeispiel des Warenerfassungsgeräts ist in Fig. 2 dargestellt. Gleiche Teile sind hier mit den gleichen Bezugszeichen gekennzeichnet wie im ersten Ausführungsbeispiel gemäß Fig. 1.A second exemplary embodiment of the goods detection device is shown in FIG. 2. The same parts are identified here with the same reference numerals as in the first exemplary embodiment according to FIG. 1.

Bei diesem Ausführungsbeispiel ist das Datensichtgerät 43 rechts neben der Säule 2 und ein Belegdrucker 56 links neben der Säule 2 auf der Oberseite 7 des Tisches 6 angeordnet. Der Belegdrucker 56 hat ein als Ausgabeöffnung 37 ausgebildetes Ausgabefach 50 für den Beleg 51. In diesem Ausführungsbeispiel befindet sich die Steuertastatur 46 links neben der Eingabetastatur 45 in der Vorderwand 47 des Aufsatzes 40. Es ist klar, daß in diesem Fall das Datensichtgerät 43' und der Belegdrucker 56 zusammen mit dem Tisch 6 in Richtung des Pfeils C auf- und abbewegt werden.In this exemplary embodiment, the data display device 43 is arranged on the right next to the column 2 and a receipt printer 56 on the left next to the column 2 on the upper side 7 of the table 6. The receipt printer 56 has an output compartment 50 for the receipt 51 which is designed as an output opening 37. In this exemplary embodiment, the control keyboard 46 is located to the left of the entry keyboard 45 in the front wall 47 of the attachment 40. It is clear that in this case the data display device 43 'and the receipt printer 56 can be moved up and down together with the table 6 in the direction of the arrow C.

In dem Belegdrucker 56 ist nahe dem Ausgabefach 50 eine nicht näher gezeigte Schneideinrichtung vorgesehen, die den bedruckten Teil des Belegs 51 von dem unbedruckten Teil der Vorratsrolle abtrennt. Die Bedienelemente 36 können zusätzlich auch eine Gegensprechanlage und eine Eingabeöffnung zum Beispiel für einen Kartenleser haben. Sämtliche Bedienelemente 36 sind mit einem nicht dargestellten Rechner verbunden. Mit dem Kartenleser sind zum Beispiel Kredit- oder Kundenkarten für unbare Zahlungsweise lesbar. Außerdem kann mit der Eingabetastatur 45 eine den vorgenannten Karten zugeordnete persönliche Kennziffer oder die auf der Ware angebrachten Warenkennzeichnungsdaten manuell eingegeben werden. Mit Hilfe der Steuertastatur 46 können der Tisch 6 und das Gehäuse 26 mit dem Warenerfassungsfenster 32 gemeinsam oder unabhängig voneinander vertikal verstellt werden. Außerdem kann über die Steuertastatur dem Rechner beispielsweise das Ende eines bestimmten Warenerfassungsvorgangs mitgeteilt oder eine Aufsichtsperson angefordert werden. Bei den zuvor beschriebenen Ausführungsbeispielen kann die separate Eingabetastatur entfallen, wenn diese in einen Teil des Bildschirms 42 integriert ist. In diesem Fall hat der jeweilige Bildschirm zumindest teilweise eine berührungsempfindliche, durchsichtige Beschichtung. Solche Einrichtungen sind allgemein als Touch-Screen oder Touch-Display bekannt.In the receipt printer 56, a cutting device (not shown in more detail) is provided near the output compartment 50, which separates the printed part of the receipt 51 from the unprinted part of the supply roll. The operating elements 36 can also have an intercom and an input opening, for example for a card reader. All control elements 36 are connected to a computer, not shown. With the card reader, for example, credit or customer cards are for non-cash Readable for payment. In addition, the input keyboard 45 can be used to manually enter a personal identification number assigned to the aforementioned cards or the goods identification data attached to the goods. With the help of the control keyboard 46, the table 6 and the housing 26 with the goods inspection window 32 can be adjusted vertically together or independently of one another. In addition, the control keyboard can be used to inform the computer, for example, of the end of a specific goods acquisition process or to request a supervisor. In the exemplary embodiments described above, the separate input keyboard can be omitted if it is integrated in a part of the screen 42. In this case, the respective screen has, at least in part, a touch-sensitive, transparent coating. Such devices are generally known as a touch screen or touch display.

Nachfolgend wird der Betrieb des Warenerfassungsgeräts beispielhaft erläutert.The operation of the goods scanning device is explained below by way of example.

Der Benutzer, zum Beispiel ein Kunde in einem Verkaufsgeschäft, fährt seinen mit Waren beladenen Transportwagen zum Beispiel von rechts an den Tisch 6 des Warenerfassungsgeräts 1 und stellt anschließend durch Bedienung der Steuertastatur 46 die Höhe der Oberseite 7 des Tisches 6 auf die Höhe der einzelnen, auf dem Transportwagen befindlichen Waren so ein, daß insbesondere sperrige und/oder schwere Waren möglichst nicht auf die Warentransportfläche 14 gehoben, sondern auf diese geschoben werden können. Die Waren befinden sich nun auf der Warentransportfläche 14 und werden entlang der Transportrichtung (siehe Pfeil A) so an dem Warenerfassungsfenster 32 vorbeigeführt, daß die Warenkennzeichnung (Strichkodemarkierung) von der hinter dem Fenster befindlichen Abtasteinrichtung erfaßt und die darauf befindliche Information auf dem Bildschirm 42 des Datensichtgeräts 43 bzw. 43' angezeigt und/oder zu einer Datenverarbeitungseinrichtung übertragen werden kann. Bei besonders sperrigen und schweren Waren ist die Warenkennzeichnung vorzugsweise auf Seitenflächen angebracht, die dann jeweils zum Warenerfassungsfenster 32 gedreht werden müssen. Ist ein solches Drehen der Ware zu umständlich oder beschwerlich oder befindet sich die Warenkennzeichnung in einer extremen Position, können die auf der Warenkennzeichnung befindlichen Informationen bzw. die dort enthaltenen Daten auch mittels der manuell bedienbaren Abtasteinrichtung 54 aufgenommen und von der Steuereinrichtung verarbeitet werden. Bei Waren, die keine oder lediglich eine beschädigte Warenkennzeichnung tragen, kann die auf der Ware enthaltene Information über die Eingabetastatur 45 in das Warenerfassungsgerät 1 eingegebenen werden.The user, for example a customer in a retail store, drives his transport trolley loaded with goods, for example, from the right to the table 6 of the goods detection device 1 and then sets the height of the top 7 of the table 6 to the height of the individual by operating the control keyboard 46, goods located on the transport trolley so that bulky and / or heavy goods in particular cannot be lifted onto the goods transport surface 14, but rather pushed onto them. The goods are now on the goods transport surface 14 and are guided along the transport direction (see arrow A) past the goods detection window 32 in such a way that the goods identification (bar code marking) is from that behind the window located scanning device detected and the information thereon can be displayed on the screen 42 of the data display device 43 or 43 'and / or transmitted to a data processing device. In the case of particularly bulky and heavy goods, the goods identification is preferably affixed to side surfaces, which then have to be turned in each case to the goods detection window 32. If such a rotation of the goods is too cumbersome or difficult or if the goods identification is in an extreme position, the information on the goods identification or the data contained therein can also be recorded by means of the manually operated scanning device 54 and processed by the control device. In the case of goods which have no or only a damaged goods identification, the information contained on the goods can be entered into the goods detection device 1 via the input keyboard 45.

Der Belegdrucker druckt die auf der Warenkennzeichnung befindlichen Daten wie z.B. die Warenart und den Preis auf den Beleg 51, der nach jeder auf dem Beleg ausgedruckten Warenangabe weiter von der in dem Drucker befindlichen Vorratsrolle abgezogen wird. Dabei gelangt der Beleg 51 allmählich in das Innere des Ausgabefachs 50. Nach beendeter Warenerfassung wird der Beleg 51 von der Vorratsrolle abgetrennt und kann nun dem Ausgabefach 50 entnommen werden.The receipt printer prints the data on the goods label, e.g. the type of goods and the price on receipt 51, which is further subtracted from the supply roll in the printer after each item of goods printed on the receipt. In the process, the document 51 gradually gets into the interior of the output compartment 50. After the goods have been entered, the document 51 is separated from the supply roll and can now be removed from the output compartment 50.

Die über die Warentransportfläche 14 vorbei an dem Warenerfassungsfenster geführten Waren können beispielsweise in einen links am Warenerfassungsgerät bereitgestellten Warenkorb (nicht gezeigt) abgelegt werden. Der Kunde bezahlt anschließend den auf dem Beleg ausgedruckten und von dem jeweiligen Datensichtgerät angezeigten Betrag entweder mittels einer Kunden- oder Kreditkarte über den nicht gezeigten Kartenleser oder über Geldein- und ausgabeöffnungen, die auf der Bedienfläche 35 angeordnet sein können. Es ist selbstverständlich auch möglich, den Rechnungsbetrag an einem separat aufgestellten Kassenplatz zu entrichten. Bei auftretenden Problemen mit der Warenerfassung kann der Kunde beispielsweise über die Steuertastatur 46 eine Aufsichtsperson anfordern.The goods guided past the goods detection window via the goods transport surface 14 can, for example, be placed in a shopping cart (not shown) provided on the left of the goods detection device. Of the The customer then pays the amount printed out on the document and displayed by the respective data display device either by means of a customer or credit card via the card reader (not shown) or via cash entry and exit openings, which can be arranged on the operating surface 35. It is of course also possible to pay the invoice amount at a separate cash desk. If problems arise with the goods entry, the customer can request a supervisor, for example, via the control keyboard 46.

Der Kunde wird also versuchen, die Oberseite 7 des Tisches 6 dem Niveau der jeweiligen zu registrierenden Ware anzupassen. In Abhängigkeit von der jeweiligen Position der Warenkennzeichnung kann zusätzlich zur Warentransportfläche 14 auch das Gehäuse 26 mit dem Warenerfassungsfenster 32 in vertikaler Richtung, d.h. nach oben bzw. unten verstellt werden. Bei einer großvolumigen, besonders schweren Ware, die sich beispielsweise auf einer Palette befindet, wird der Benutzer deshalb den Tisch 6 in eine möglichst bodennahe Position verfahren. Das Warenerfassungsfenster 32 wird dann so eingestellt, daß die Warenkennzeichnung von der Abtasteinrichtung erfaßt werden kann. Da die Abtasteinrichtung einen gewissen Streubereich zuläßt, muß das Warenerfassungsfenster 32 nicht exakt in Höhe der Warenkennzeichnung angeordnet sein. Die Bedienfläche 35 befindet sich oberhalb des Warenerfassungsfensters und der Warentransportfläche, so daß der Benutzer die darauf befindlichen Elemente in einer für ihn ergonomischen Stellung bzw. Haltung bedienen kann. Damit ist die Warenerfassung von sperrigen und/oder schweren Artikeln beträchtlich vereinfacht.The customer will therefore try to adapt the top 7 of the table 6 to the level of the respective goods to be registered. Depending on the respective position of the goods identification, in addition to the goods transport surface 14, the housing 26 with the goods detection window 32 can also be moved in the vertical direction, i.e. can be adjusted up or down. In the case of large-volume, particularly heavy goods, which are, for example, on a pallet, the user will therefore move the table 6 into a position as close to the floor as possible. The goods detection window 32 is then set so that the goods identification can be detected by the scanner. Since the scanning device allows a certain scattering range, the goods detection window 32 does not have to be arranged exactly at the height of the goods identification. The operating surface 35 is located above the goods detection window and the goods transport surface, so that the user can operate the elements located thereon in an ergonomic position or posture. This considerably simplifies the entry of bulky and / or heavy items.

Claims (9)

  1. Merchandise scanner for points of sale, having an essentially horizontal merchandise transporting surface (14) forming a transport path, a merchandise scanning window (32) facing the area above the merchandise transporting surface, and having a control surface (35) having control elements (36), which control surface is disposed to the side of the merchandise transporting surface transversely to the merchandise transport direction, the merchandise transporting surface (14) being vertically adjustable.
  2. Merchandise scanner according to Claim 1, characterized in that the merchandise scanning window (32) is vertically adjustable together with the merchandise transporting surface (14).
  3. Merchandise scanner according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the merchandise scanning window (32) is vertically adjustable relative to the merchandise transporting surface (14).
  4. Merchandise scanner according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a manually operated sensor (54) is provided, which is conveyable into the area of the merchandise transporting surface (14).
  5. Merchandise scanner according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that one of the control elements (36) is configured as an input and/or control keyboard (45, 46).
  6. Merchandise scanner according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that on a top side (41), receiving the control surface (35), of a column (2) there is disposed a mount (40) containing a visual display unit (43) exhibiting a screen (42).
  7. Merchandise scanner according to Claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the input and/or control keyboard (45, 46) and the visual display unit (43) are disposed one behind the other transversely to the merchandise transport direction (A).
  8. Merchandise scanner according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the mount (40) has a discharge opening (37) which is a discharge compartment (50) for a voucher (51).
  9. Merchandise scanner according to one of Claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the merchandise transporting surface (14) is disposed on a vertically adjustable table (6), on which there are also located a visual display unit (43') and/or a voucher printer (56).
EP90125300A 1990-03-07 1990-12-21 Article-recording device for points of sale Expired - Lifetime EP0445422B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE4007219 1990-03-07
DE4007219A DE4007219A1 (en) 1990-03-07 1990-03-07 GOODS DETECTING DEVICE FOR SALES

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0445422A1 EP0445422A1 (en) 1991-09-11
EP0445422B1 true EP0445422B1 (en) 1995-02-15

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EP90125300A Expired - Lifetime EP0445422B1 (en) 1990-03-07 1990-12-21 Article-recording device for points of sale

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US (1) US5177345A (en)
EP (1) EP0445422B1 (en)
JP (1) JPH0821129B2 (en)
DE (2) DE4007219A1 (en)
ES (1) ES2067639T3 (en)

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP0445422A1 (en) 1991-09-11
US5177345A (en) 1993-01-05
ES2067639T3 (en) 1995-04-01
JPH04219892A (en) 1992-08-10
DE59008483D1 (en) 1995-03-23
DE4007219A1 (en) 1991-09-12
JPH0821129B2 (en) 1996-03-04

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