AU2011101587A4 - Point of sale (POS) cash register system in POS data key that is suitable for online and offline use. - Google Patents

Abstract

The current invention is a POS register system contained within a POS data key. The use of the POS data key provides data security, and enables flexibility of use as it can be utilised interchangeably on different computers without the need for installation. Further, the system enables the synchronisation of data between different stores, and between the real store and the online store. The system provides greater security for data by also functioning offline as well. With an Internet connection, the terminal will establish a connection with the central server and automatically update information. Without an Internet connection, the information will be automatically saved in the data key, and uploaded into the central server once a connection is reestablished. Central management is also able to utilise the system to issue instructions and changes to each terminal to aid the efficiency and accuracy of information. Figure 1: Server and Data Center Interneth g.~ Online web store - " """ Real Store Computer Cash draw Sc n r A. POS Data Key with accessories (computer, cash drawer, scanner, printer etc.) B. Server and Data center - central server C. Online web store D. Real Store

Description

1 DESCRIPTION TITLE Point of sale (POS) cash register system in POS data key that is suitable for online and offline use. TECHNICAL FIELD The present innovation represents the first removable POS data key providing a means for synchronising data between real stores and online stores. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] Web cash register systems have been around for decades and have always faced the issue of data synchronisation and security. In particular, even though Internet disconnections are unavoidable, the register systems were not capable of dealing with such contingencies. [0002] The current technology is a removable data key that continues to operate offline. Where an Internet connection is available, the data is automatically updated into the central server database. [0003] In relation to businesses with both an online store and real store, it was often difficult to keep track of the movement of stock between both channels. Moreover, chain stores found it especially arduous to monitor stock levels amongst the individual stores. This system promotes the synchronisation of data in real time through a main database eradicating such problems. Central management use this system can also deliver instructions to every store.

2 [0004] The main differentiator of this technology from other register systems is that it is stored in a data key device. That is, once the mobile device is connected to any computer, that computer can automatically be used as a register. This also means that the data is secure and always backed up on the data key. SUMMARY OF INVENTION [0005] Originally, stores faced the problem of synchronising and coordinating their registration systems with their stock systems. Further, if the Internet network failed, stores would lose their data. [0006] The invention has two main objectives. Firstly, the use of the removable key provides a better means for the security of data. Secondly, the system itself eliminates the difficulties of data coordination between online stores and real stores, and between chain stores. [0007] The removable drive utilises a browse/server so that the system runs automatically without the need for installation. Its usefulness lies in its offline data synchronisation capabilities. If faced with network failure, the system will continue to operate offline, and automatically update the database once reconnected to the Internet. DESCRIPTION OF EMOBIDMENTS [0008] Using the system is simple. By plugging in the data key (which is so far, a 40mm long, 13cm wide and 5mm thick USB drive with 2GB memory space), the register system is immediately capable of being used without installation. A program for a cash register will appear and if paired with a barcoding system, 3 the system will update the stock database once an item is scanned. When paired with a wireless network, the new data is immediately updated into the central server that acts as a common database (Figure 1). Essentially the system enables real-time synchronisation of data and a means for the centralised management of data. [0009] The program can also be complemented with a variety of hardware devices including a cash drawer, security cameras or customer display screens (Figure 1). The program can also be complemented with the use of membership cards. The data can be exported to ERP, Financial Systems such as MYOB in order to aid the effective operation of the business. On top of this, the system requires at least a Windows-XP operating system with 256-colour graphics. [0010] Further, the system can be customised with an array of add-on modules. These modules include; the E-Shop module, the Data Management module, the Basic Data module, the User Management module, the Supplier module, the Inventory module, the Financial Accounting module, the Query analysis module, the Gifts and Promotional Items module, the Price Management module, the Returns Management module, the Member Points Management module, and the Statistics and Day-End module. [0011] The core functioning blocks of the system includes: (a) A web server system that incorporates all scripts, pictures and other information that can be attained from each terminal by going online. (b) An offline service system that contains the minimum set of scripts and resources necessary for operation in order to allow for the effective operation of the system where there is no Internet connection. (c) If the data is temporarily unable to be uploaded, the local cache encryption system will store the data in a compressed and encrypted 4 format in the POS data key for security and will be automatically uploaded in a compatible format when appropriate. The POS data key is also protected with a pin-code. (d) When connected to the Internet, the system will be automatically synchronise the online and offline sets of data. (e) A central data storage system that is responsible for the storage of data from all terminals. (f) A database back-up system for the central data storage system for an extra level of security. [0012] In more detail, once online, the central server will send a signal to determine which terminals are online. The central server then uses an algorithm to determine the network bandwidth or whether there are network outages. At a certain network bandwidth level, a connection will be established. If there are issues with bandwidth, then the connection will be dropped in order to keep the data safe. [0013] When the system is online, the central server must internally process requests and respond to such requests. Such updates to the terminals will be provided in minimal form in order to avoid backlog. [0014] Further, before passing the data to the central server, the terminal will ensure that there is no overlap of data. [0015] Although the browse/server system can maximise the benefits from the Internet, the unavoidable reality is that a network failure will occur. As aforementioned, if the system is offline, data cannot be transferred to the central server. Nonetheless, the data will be submitted to the data key terminal to keep the information secure and mobile. More importantly, the data will be marked as 5 offline data for that specific period. Therefore, the system will continue to operate despite being offline. [0016] The industrial applicability of the invention extends to shopping malls, chain stalls, supermarkets, distribution companies, and other retail or wholesale businesses that need receivables management.

Claims (6)

1. A cash register and data synchronisation system contained within an easily compatible, portable and removable POS device.

2. In relation to claim 1, the removable POS device includes any device that can be removed from a computer, and when removed can be considered to be independent from the computer.

3. In furtherance of claim 2, the removable POS device covers devices that are utilized at the point of sale (POS).

4. In relation to claim 1, the removable POS device is immune from computer viruses as a computer program cannot add or alter the system contained in the device.

5. It is a register and data synchronisation system that is capable of complete function and operation offline. The system can switch between offline and online modes and will update information once online. All information will be kept secure when functioning offline.

6. A system that uses a synchronisation strategy to bridge the gap between an online shop and a real shop, and between chain stores.