EP0755546A1 - Systemes d'enregistrement, de gestion de files d'attente, de delivrance de visas, de recherche de personnes et d'evaluation - Google Patents

Systemes d'enregistrement, de gestion de files d'attente, de delivrance de visas, de recherche de personnes et d'evaluation

Info

Publication number
EP0755546A1
EP0755546A1 EP95915071A EP95915071A EP0755546A1 EP 0755546 A1 EP0755546 A1 EP 0755546A1 EP 95915071 A EP95915071 A EP 95915071A EP 95915071 A EP95915071 A EP 95915071A EP 0755546 A1 EP0755546 A1 EP 0755546A1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
service
check
information
point
people
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.)
Withdrawn
Application number
EP95915071A
Other languages
German (de)
English (en)
Other versions
EP0755546A4 (fr
Inventor
Richard Thomas Ross
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.)
Visual Technology Pty Ltd
Original Assignee
Visual Technology Pty Ltd
Priority date (The priority date 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 date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Priority claimed from AUPM4995A external-priority patent/AUPM499594A0/en
Priority claimed from AUPM5885A external-priority patent/AUPM588594A0/en
Priority claimed from AUPM8536A external-priority patent/AUPM853694A0/en
Priority claimed from AUPM8546A external-priority patent/AUPM854694A0/en
Application filed by Visual Technology Pty Ltd filed Critical Visual Technology Pty Ltd
Publication of EP0755546A1 publication Critical patent/EP0755546A1/fr
Publication of EP0755546A4 publication Critical patent/EP0755546A4/fr
Withdrawn legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • G—PHYSICS
    • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
    • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
    • G06Q10/00—Administration; Management
    • G06Q10/06—Resources, workflows, human or project management; Enterprise or organisation planning; Enterprise or organisation modelling

Definitions

  • the first aspect of the invention relates to check-in guidance systems for guiding passengers who are checking in to a transport system, and particularly, although not exclusively, for guiding passengers who are checking in at an airport.
  • Passengers arriving at an airport are required check in themselves and their baggage before being allowed to board their plane.
  • each airline provides a number of check-in points, staffed by check-in point operators, at which passengers travelling on that airline can check in.
  • Passengers present their flight tickets to the check-in point operators, and are in turn provided with boarding passes which allow them to board the flight.
  • Passengers' baggage is also checked in at the check-in points and, after being weighed, is placed on a moving baggage belt which conveys it to a baggage handling section.
  • a passenger's baggage exceeds a specified limit and the passenger is required to pay excess baggage charges, the passenger is usually directed to a separate sales centre which has a number of service points, staffed by service point operators.
  • the sales centre then issues the passenger with a boarding pass once any excess baggage payment has been made.
  • the sales centre often provides a number of other services, in addition to the collection of excess baggage payments, such as reissuing tickets, ticket sales, flight bookings, and providing general information on flights and services provided by the airline.
  • long queues can build up at the check-in points and at the service points of the sales centre.
  • Such queues have a number of disadvantageous effects.
  • long queues obstruct the free movement of people around the airport, and lead to congestion.
  • the queues can also have the effect of obscuring other check-in points from view and/or making other check-in points difficult to reach, with the result that certain check-in points become under-used, thus reducing the overall efficiency of the system.
  • long queues mean that there is a substantial delay between a passenger arriving at the airport and checking in his baggage. Such a delay can prove disastrous if the passenger has arrived late and his flight is about to depart. If the passenger pushes to the front of the queue, or is allowed to jump to the front of the queue, other passengers may become resentful, particularly if they are not aware of the late passenger's situation.
  • a further disadvantage of such a system is that, in order to provide a faster service for first and business class passengers, it is necessary to provide one or more separate check-in points which are dedicated to the service of first and business class passengers. If queues form at the dedicated check-in points, then first and business class passengers are, in any case, obliged to wait.
  • Another disadvantage of such as system is that, if a passenger at the front of a queue has a problem which takes some time to sort out with the check-in point operator, there is no mechanism for transferring the other passengers in that queue to other check- in points in an orderly and fair manner. If a late passenger is required to pay excess baggage charges, then even if he is able to proceed quickly through the check-in procedure, he may be delayed in queuing at the sales centre. Again, such a delay could prove disastrous if the departure of his flight is imminent.
  • a still further disadvantage of such a system is that, although an airline is aware of which passengers have already checked in to a particular flight, it is not aware of which, or how many, passengers have already arrived at the airport but are still waiting to check in.
  • the invention seeks to overcome at least some of the problems of the prior art.
  • a check-in guidance system for guiding passengers who are checking in to a transport service in an environment having a passenger waiting area and a plurality of check-in points operated by check-in point operators
  • the check-in guidance system comprising: passenger information input means at which passengers who wish to check in to the transport service register their arrival, and input information relating to their travel requirements; display means for displaying information to passengers waiting in said waiting area; a plurality of operator information input means, each located at a respective check-in point, at which check-in point operators input information relating to the checking in of passengers; and computing means for sorting passengers who have input information into said passenger information input means into a priority sequence according to the order in which they should be checked in, and for controlling, in response to information received from the passenger information input means and the operator information input means, the information displayed on the display means so as to direct passengers from the waiting area to the check-in points in accordance with said priority sequence.
  • Such a check-in guidance system provides a number of benefits. There is no need for passengers to form long queues at each check-in point, and congestion and frustration are thereby avoided. In addition, first and business class passengers can be given priority over other passengers without the need for separate dedicated first and business class check-in points.
  • the computing means can assign the first or business class passenger a higher position in said priority sequence than other passengers, and cause the display means to direct the first or business class passenger to the next available check-in point that becomes free. This process can take place transparently to the other passengers, who remain unaware that another passenger, arriving later than themselves, has been granted a higher priority, and has effectively jumped the queue.
  • a late passenger can automatically be given a higher priority than other passengers of the same class who are checking in for a later flight, without the other passengers being aware that the late passenger has effectively jumped in front of them.
  • each operator information input means comprises a respective paging means which, on actuation by the corresponding check-in point operator, causes the next passenger in said priority sequence to be directed by the display means from the waiting area to the corresponding check-in point.
  • This feature allows the check-in point operator to control the length of the queue, if any, at his or her check-in point.
  • the check-in point operator can keep the queue down to a reasonable number, for example two or three passengers, while at the same time ensuring that there is never a period when there are no passengers waiting to be checked in at the check-in point of the check-in point operator.
  • each operator information input means comprises commence- serve means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that the check-in point operator is beginning to serve the next passenger, so that the computing means knows who is being served at any given check- in point at any given time.
  • each operator information input means comprises no-show means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that a passenger who has been directed to the check-in point by the display means has failed to show at the check-in point, so that the computing means can decide whether, and if so when, to allow the passenger to be repaged. It will be appreciated that there are a number of possible ways in which this could be done.
  • such a no-show passenger could be simply returned to a lower position in the priority sequence, and repaged in the normal way when he or she again reached the top of the priority sequence.
  • the no-show passenger could be allowed to be repaged after a fixed time interval following actuation of the no- show means.
  • each operator information input means comprises on-duty means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that the check-in point is operational and can have passengers directed to it by the display means.
  • the operator information input means also preferably comprises off- duty means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that the check-in point is no longer operational, and can no longer have passengers directed to it by the display means.
  • the operator information input means comprises return-to-queue means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that the passenger who is currently being served at that check-in point is to be returned to the waiting area to await repaging.
  • Such a return-to-queue means can be used when a passenger enters incorrect information at the passenger information input means. For example, if an economy class passenger specifies at the passenger information input means that he is a first class passenger, then the check-in point operator has the discretion to return the passenger to the waiting area, and to correct the erroneous information entered by the passenger, so that the passenger is then paged at the correct time. Of course, if the check-in point operator feels that the passenger's mistake is genuine then the check-in point operator has the discretion to check in the passenger and not actuate the return-to-queue means.
  • the operator information input means comprises first transfer- request means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that all passengers at that check-in point other than the passenger currently being served are to be transferred to one or more other check-in points.
  • the first transfer-request means is particularly useful in the case where there is a problem with the checking in of a passenger, and the check-in point operator foresees that the problem will take some time to resolve.
  • the other passengers can be redirected to other check-in points by means of the display means.
  • the computing means can ensure that the priorities of the passengers are preserved in the transfer.
  • the operator information input means comprises second transfer-request means which, when actuated by the check-in point operator, informs the computing means that the passenger who is currently being served is to be transferred to another check-in point.
  • the second transfer-request means can allow the check-in point operator to specify where the passenger is to be transferred to.
  • the check-in point operator may wish to transfer the passenger to a supervisor station if the check-in point operator is unable to deal with a particular problem.
  • the computing means if there are insufficient free check-in points available, the computing means returns passengers to the waiting area to await redirection by the display means.
  • the operator information input means comprises operator display means which displays information to the check-in point operator under the control of the computing means .
  • the operator display means can display information identifying the check-in points to which passengers are to be transferred after actuation of the first or second transfer-request means.
  • the operator display means allows the check-in point operator to tell the passengers in the queue for that check-in point where they are being transferred to, so that the passengers do not have to rely entirely on the display means.
  • the first and second transfer-request means can also be used in the event of the failure of a luggage belt. If the luggage belt serving a particular group of check-in points suffers a breakdown, then the check-in point operators for those check-in points can request that all passengers waiting at their check-in points are transferred to other check-in points, and at the same time actuate their off-duty means to indicate that their check-in points are no longer operational.
  • the operator display means displays information which informs the check-in point operator which passengers, if any, have been paged but not yet served.
  • the check-in point operator always knows how may passengers should be in the queue for the check-in point.
  • each check-in point is provided with a respective display device which displays information to passengers at the check-in point under the control of the computing means, and the information displayed by the display device confirms to passengers arriving at the check-in point that they are at the correct check-in point.
  • the passenger information input means allows passengers to specify their flight number, the class they are travelling, and/or the number of people in their group.
  • the passenger information input means comprises a machine reading device for machine reading information, such as that specified above, from media provided by passengers.
  • air tickets can be provided with a magnetic strip or bar code adapted to be read by the machine reading device.
  • the passenger information input means can be provided with a touch sensitive screen for allowing passengers to input information.
  • the touch sensitive screen can display a plurality of areas, each area labelled with a respective letter of the alphabet, and the required information can be input by touching each area in turn, the letter corresponding to each area being displayed on the screen each time the corresponding area is touched so that the user can view the information being entered.
  • the passenger information input means comprises a voucher dispenser for dispensing vouchers to passengers, each voucher bearing one or more identifying letters and/or numbers which can be displayed by the display means to guide passengers to the correct check-in points.
  • the voucher dispenser dispenses a single voucher to the group, and the group is treated as a single entity as it passes through the system.
  • the check-in guidance system is designed to handle both single passengers and groups of passengers, and the word "passenger" above should be interpreted as referring to either a single passenger or a group of passengers.
  • the check-in point operator while checking in a group of passengers, actuates the second transfer-request means, the whole group of passengers is transferred to another check-in point.
  • the vouchers which are dispensed by the voucher dispenser can be provided with additional information designed to assist passengers through the check-in guidance system.
  • the voucher can specify where the appropriate waiting area is located, and the time by which passengers should arrive at the waiting area. This allow passengers to make maximum use of their time. For example, passengers may wish to make purchases or eat and drink before checking in.
  • the passenger information input means can be adapted to receive and validate money from passengers, and to dispense a voucher only if a required fee is paid.
  • Such a system could be used, for example, to collect departure tax at an airport.
  • the check-in guidance system can comprise second display means for displaying information, under the control of the computing means, to direct each passenger who is waiting to make an excess baggage payment to a specified one of the service points, in an order determined by the computing means.
  • Such a system has the advantage of allowing certain passengers, for example first and business class passengers and late passengers to proceed through the service points at a faster rate.
  • the check-in guidance system can further comprise a service point voucher dispenser for dispensing vouchers to people who wish to use a service point but do not require to make an excess baggage payment, each voucher bearing one or more identifying numbers and/or letters which can be displayed by the second display means to guide people to the service points.
  • the check-in guidance system can further comprise service information input means to allow people to specify the service they require, or the nature of their enquiry.
  • ticket reading means can be provided at which passengers can present machine readable flight tickets.
  • the ticket reading means may read a magnetic stripe or other form of information encoded on the ticket, and verify its validity for a particular airline, date, flight and class.
  • the ticket reading means may automatically notify a reservation system that the particular passenger has arranged at the airport or city terminal or airport bus temiinal (by the presentation of his/her ticket) and is about to be issued with a valid flight boarding pass.
  • the ticket reading means marks the ticket or removes the relevant ticket or portion of ticket from any attendant ticket sachet or other stapled or attached portions.
  • the ticket reading means can automatically issue a boarding pass which itself may be encoded to allow automatic entry through machine reading checkpoints to the passageways leading to the respective aircraft if such access is desired.
  • the ticket reading means incorporates means to enable the passenger selecting automatic issue of a boarding pass to make a choice as to seating position e.g. window or aisle - smoking or non-smoking.
  • a passenger can conveniently approach the ticket reading means to change seating position. In such - o - event, the passenger can re-insert the boarding pass. This would be automatically checked.
  • the passenger may notify (by means of a keyboard, touchscreen, etc) any change required. If the desired seating is available, the changes to the records of the seating reservation system would be made and a replacement boarding pass automatically issued.
  • the guidance system can further comprise a boarding pass which when interrogated by a signal at a checkpoint is triggered into responding with its encoded date.
  • a transponding boarding pass can be of any suitable material, and can embody its own microprocessor. It can be self powered (e.g. electric cell or battery of cells; photovoltaic type energy acceptance from ambient light sources) or powered by any form of stored energy.
  • the boarding pass may convert some or all of the energy received from the interrogating signal and gain sufficient energy by this means to transmit its code response.
  • the invention also independently provides a touch sensitive screen for allowing a user to input information into a computing means, the touch sensitive screen being divided into a number of regions, and each region displaying a respective letter of the alphabet so that actuation of any one of said regions by the user causes the letter associated with that region to be displayed at another location on the touch sensitive screen.
  • Such an arrangement allows a touch sensitive screen to double as a keyboard and screen, thus removing the need for the user to use a separate mechanical-type keyboard to input information.
  • Such an arrangement can also serve as a multilingual keyboard, in which case after the user has specified the language required, the number of regions on the touch sensitive screen can change if the required alphabet has a different number of letters.
  • additional regions of the touch sensitive screen can be allocated for punctuation, numbers and other functions.
  • a second aspect of the invention relates to a queue management system.
  • the traditional method of queuing involves clients standing in a line one behind the other. It is well known that queuing in this manner can be a frustrating and tiring experience, especially if the queue is long and slow moving. In addition, such a method of queuing can also be inefficient, particularly in the case where it is necessary for clients to form several different queues for different services. If a client finds himself inadvertently in the wrong queue he may find that, having worked his way to the front of that queue, he is then forced to join the back of a different queue. This simply frustrates the client further, and wastes time.
  • the invention seeks to overcome or ameliorate such problems, and to provide a number of other benefits, as will be described below.
  • a queue management system comprising: a service device for providing people with information, the service device comprising at least a screen for displaying information to users of the service device; an authorisation device for determining whether people who wish to use the service device are authorised to use the service device; a waiting area in which people wait after identifying themselves at the first identification device; display means for displaying information to people waiting in the waiting area; and computing means for controlling, in response to information received from at least the authorisation device and the service device, the information displayed on the display means so as to direct only those people who are authorised to use the service device sequentially from the waiting area to the service device, in an order determined by the computing means, so that the service device is used by people from the waiting area one after the other.
  • Such a system avoids the need for people to stand in a queue, and allows them to wait in a more relaxed manner in a waiting area, which can for example be provided with chairs.
  • the system also provides the advantage of allowing the computing means to automatically keep track of how the system is being used, and to automatically provide statistical information on the use of the system.
  • the authorisation device can comprise a first identification device for identifying people who wish to use the service device in order to determine whether they are authorised to use the service device.
  • the authorisation device can comprise a payment device for accepting a payment from people wishing to use the service device, and said determination of whether said people are authorised to use the service device can depend on whether or not a required payment is made.
  • the queue management system further comprises a second identification device at the location of the service device (regardless of whether or not the system also comprises said first identification device) for identifying people who wish to use the service device, and allowing use of the service device by only those people who have been directed to the service device by the display means.
  • the service device is connected to, and controlled by, the computing means.
  • the computing means can collect statistical data not only on such things as the number and rate of people using the system, but also on what information is being supplied to people using the service device.
  • the identity of each user of the system is identified by the first and second identification devices.
  • the service device is able to provide information which is specific to each user of the system.
  • the computing means is able to collect statistical information on each individual user, rather than simply on the use of the system as a whole.
  • the system can also include a staffed service point operated by a member of staff, and the display means can display information to direct people from the waiting area to the service point, in accordance with instructions sent to the display means by the computing means.
  • people can be directed to the service point before, after, or instead of, being directed to the service device.
  • the computing means can decide, on the basis of the identity of each person as determined by the first identification device, where each person should be directed by the display means.
  • each service device can be provided with a respective second identification device.
  • service devices and service points need not be identical, and different service devices and service points can be adapted to provide different services to users of the system.
  • the computer means can decide, on the basis of the identity of each person as determined by the first identification device, to which service device or service point each person should be directed by the display means.
  • the authorisation device can be provided with input means for allowing the user to specify which of a range of services is required, and the computing means can decide where to direct the person on the basis of the choice that person has made at the input means.
  • the system can further comprise a ticket dispenser for dispensing tickets to people who are determined by the authorisation device to be authorised people, the tickets bearing one or more identifying numbers or letters, and the display means can be adapted to display said identifying numbers or letters in order to direct such authorised people to a service device or service point.
  • the first and second identification devices can be provided with machine reading devices for machine reading personal identification cards presented to the first and second identification devices by users.
  • the personal identification cards can be provided with bar codes or magnetic strips.
  • the ticket dispenser dispenses tickets which are provided with bar codes
  • the second identification devices are provided with bar code reading devices for reading the bar codes on the tickets when the tickets are presented to the second identification devices, in order to allow use of the service devices by only those people who have been directed to the service devices by the display means.
  • the service devices can be provided with one or more printing devices for providing users with hard copies of information.
  • a third aspect of the invention relates to an automatic visa issuing device.
  • an automatic visa issuing device comprising applicant information input means at which an applicant for a visa inputs information relating to the applicant's request for the visa; computing means for storing and processing the information input by the applicant; and visa issuing means for issuing the visa to the applicant if the computing means determines that the applicant is entitled to the visa.
  • the visa issuing means can be an automatic stamping device for stamping the applicant's passport with a stamp representing the visa.
  • the visa issuing means can also comprise a sticker dispensing device for dispensing a visa sticker to the applicant, which can be stuck in the applicant's passport.
  • the applicant information input means can comprise a display screen for displaying general information to the applicant, prompting the applicant for required information, and/or displaying information input by the applicant.
  • the issuing device further comprises a camera, and the display screen is adapted to display an image of the applicant produced by the camera.
  • the screen can be a touch sensitive screen, preferably of the type
  • the automatic visa issuing device further comprises payment means for accepting a payment from the applicant before issuing a visa, the issuance of the visa being dependent on the payment made.
  • the payment means can comprise a coin and note validation device, and/or a bank card reader for debiting the applicant's bank account directly.
  • the automatic visa issuing device comprises a passport reading device for reading, for example optically or magnetically, information from the applicant's passport before issuing a visa, the issuance of the visa being dependent on the information read.
  • the automatic visa issuing device can comprise image recording means for recording an image of the applicant, and providing the computing means with a digitised image of the applicant, so that the computer means can compare the digitised image with a digitised image of the owner of the passport presented to the passport reading device, and determine whether the applicant is the true owner of the passport.
  • the digitised image of the owner of the passport can be read by the passport reading device from a photograph in the passport, or can be stored in memory and accessed by the computing means on the basis of other information read from the passport.
  • a fourth aspect of the invention relates to a queue management system.
  • the traditional method of queuing involves clients standing in a line one behind the other. It is well known that queuing in this manner can be a frustrating and tiring experience, especially if the queue is long and slow moving. In addition, such a method of queuing can also be inefficient, particularly in the case where it is necessary for clients to form several different queues for different services. If a client finds himself inadvertently in the wrong queue he may find that, having worked his way to the front of that queue, he is then forced to join the back of a different queue. This simply frustrates the client further, and wastes time.
  • a queue management system comprising: a service point for providing people with information; an arrival device which people who wish to use the service point are required to operate on arrival at the system; a multilingual instruction display device, comprising at least a screen and being located at or near the arrival device, for displaying information on how to use the system in a plurality of languages; display means for displaying information to people waiting in the waiting area; and computing means for controlling, in response to information received from at least the arrival device and the service point, the information displayed on the display means so as to direct people who have operated the arrival device sequentially to the service point, in an order determined by the computing means, so that the service point is used by people one after the other.
  • the system further comprises a waiting area in which people wait after operating the arrival device, and the display means directs people sequentially from the waiting area to the service point.
  • Such a system avoids the need for people to stand in a queue, and allows them to wait in a more relaxed manner in a waiting area, which can for example be provided with chairs.
  • the system also provides the advantage of allowing the computing means to automatically keep track of how the system is being used, and to automatically provide statistical information on the use of the system.
  • the arrival device can comprise an authorisation device for determining whether people who wish to use the service point are authorised to use the service point.
  • the multilingual instruction display device comprises a touch sensitive screen, or a screen with buttons arranged alongside it, to enable users to make choices or enter information in response to information displayed by the screen.
  • the multilingual instruction display device can allow the user to select in which language information is displayed by the multilingual instruction display device.
  • the authorisation device can comprise a first identification device for identifying people who wish to use the service point in order to determine whether they are authorised to use the service device. Additionally or alternatively, the authorisation device can comprise a payment device for accepting a payment from people wishing to use the service point, and said determination of whether said people are authorised to use the service point can depend on whether or not a required payment is made.
  • the queue management system further comprises a second identification device at the location of the service point (regardless of whether or not the system also comprises said first identification device) for identifying people who wish to use the service point, and allowing use of the service point by only those people who have been directed to the service point by the display means.
  • the service point can be a staffed service point operated by a member of staff.
  • the service point can be a service device comprising at least a screen for displaying information to users of the service device.
  • the service device can be connected to, and controlled by, the computing means.
  • the computing means can collect statistical data not only on such things as the number and rate of people using the system, but also on what information is being supplied to people using the service point.
  • the identity of each user of the system is identified by the first and second identification devices.
  • the service point is able to provide information which is specific to each user of the system.
  • the computing means is able to collect statistical information on each individual user, rather than simply on the use of the system as a whole.
  • the system can comprise both a staffed service point and a service device. In that case, people can be directed to the staffed service point before, after, or instead of, being directed to the service device.
  • the computing means can decide, on the basis of the identity of each person as determined by the first identification device, where each person should be directed by the display means.
  • each service point can be provided with a respective second identification device.
  • the various service devices and staffed service points need not be identical, and different service devices and staffed service points can be adapted to provide different services to users of the system.
  • the computer means can decide, on the basis of the identity of each person as determined by the first identification device, to which service device or staffed service point each person should be directed by the display means.
  • the authorisation device can be provided with input means for allowing the user to specify which of a range of services is required, and the computing means can decide where to direct the person on the basis of the choice that person has made at the input means.
  • Such an input means can be provided by the multilingual instruction display device.
  • the arrival device can be provided with a ticket dispenser for dispensing tickets to people operating the arrival device, the tickets bearing one or more identifying numbers or letters, and the display means can be adapted to display said identifying numbers and/or letters in order to direct people to a service device or staffed service point.
  • the ticket dispenser can be adapted to dispense tickets to people who are determined by the authorisation device to be authorised people.
  • the first and second identification devices can be provided with machine reading devices for machine reading personal identification cards presented to the first and second identification devices by users.
  • the personal identification cards can be provided with bar codes or magnetic strips.
  • the ticket dispenser dispenses tickets which are provided with bar codes
  • the second identification devices are provided with bar code reading devices for reading the bar codes on the tickets when the tickets are presented to the second identification devices, in order to allow use of the service points by only those people who have been directed to the service points by the display means.
  • the service points can be provided with one or more printing devices for providing users with hard copies of information.
  • a fifth aspect of the invention relates to paging devices for use in queue management systems.
  • the check-in guidance system and various other queue management systems described above make use of paging devices for enabling staff members to page the next client, or more generally user, of the system.
  • the operator module 34 can be regarded as the paging device.
  • the paging devices are not specifically illustrated in the accompanying figures, but reference is made to buttons (not shown) which are provided at the staffed service points 6, and which can be regarded as paging devices. It should be noted, however, that this aspect of the invention is not limited to paging devices for use in the particular queue management systems described above.
  • each paging device must be electrically connected by a cable to the computer or computers which is or are controlling the queue management system.
  • a computer controls a display device which directs clients to the appropriate staffed service points in response to operation of the paging devices at the staffed service points by the members of staff who are operating the service points.
  • each staffed service point is given a number, indicated by a position marker which is displayed by the display device in order to direct users to that staffed service point.
  • cabling connecting the paging devices can involve a substantial amount of labour, particularly if there are a large number of cables which must be routed across floors in an aesthetically pleasing manner, which is also safe and does not present a hazard to users of the system.
  • a paging device for use in a queue management system having a number of service points for providing people with a service, each service point being operated by a staff member, the paging device comprising: a paging unit, the operation of which by a staff member causes the next user of the system to be paged to that staff member; at least one cable connecting the paging unit to a computer controlling the queue management system; and guide means for guiding at least a portion of said cable from a ceiling above the paging unit to the paging unit, the guide means being provided with ceiling attachment means for attaching an upper portion thereof to said ceiling.
  • a paging device allows cables from the paging device to be routed through the sealing of the building in which the queue management system is in operation, thus providing a substantial reduction in the labour involved in installing such cables.
  • the paging unit comprises a display for displaying information to the staff member operating the paging unit.
  • the display can display the ticket number of the next client in the case where the queue management system involves dispensing numbered tickets to clients arriving at the queue management system.
  • the paging unit such as the display
  • the paging unit, or part thereof, supported at the lower end of the guide means is rotatably mounted to the guide means to allow its orientation to be adjusted to suite the staff member operating the paging unit.
  • the guide means can be of adjustable length to allow the paging unit, or part thereof, at the lower end of the guide means to be adjusted in height.
  • the paging device can further comprise a number identifier supported by the guide means for identifying the number of the staffed service point at which the paging device is located.
  • the sixth aspect of the invention relates to automated assessment.
  • a method of assessing the ability of a person in a particular field comprising displaying a plurality of questions on a screen controlled by computing means, recording the responses of the person to said questions, and using the computing means to carry out an analysis of said responses.
  • the method preferably further includes measuring the time taken by the person to answer each question.
  • the method can further include the step of automatically moving on to the next question if the person has not responded to a question within a predetermined time interval.
  • different predetermined time intervals can be used for different questions.
  • the time allowed for each question can be made to depend on the likely difficulty of the question to the person.
  • the computing means can include, as a factor in said analysis, the order in which the person chooses to answer the questions.
  • the method includes the step of stopping the test if an answer is given to a question which is inconsistent with an answer already given to a previous question.
  • the invention also provides an assessment device adapted to carry out the above method, comprising computing means, a screen for displaying the questions, and input means for enabling the person to input responses to the questions.
  • the screen and input means are combined in the form of a touch sensitive screen, or a screen with adjacent keys or a keyboard.
  • the invention also provides a client management system comprising one or more service points for providing clients with a service, and the assessment device described above, which people wishing to use the service point(s) are required to operate before proceeding to the service point(s), wherein the client management system further comprises communication means for communicating at least some of the results of said analysis to the service point(s).
  • the invention further provides a client management system comprising a plurality of service points for providing clients with a service, and the assessment device described above, which people wishing to use a service point are required to operate before proceeding to the service point, wherein clients, after having operated the assessment device are required to proceed to one of the service points, in dependence on the results of said analysis.
  • the service points mentioned above can be either staffed service points, automated service devices, or a combination of both.
  • the questions presented to the client by the assessment device are preferably related to the service which is being provided by the service point(s) so that the client is not necessarily aware of the fact that he is being assessed by the assessment device.
  • the assessment device is adapted to stop testing in the event of an answer being given by a client which is inconsistent with an answer already given to a previous question, in the manner described above, the client is preferably directed to a service point as soon as the test is stopped.
  • the invention also provides a client management system comprising an automated service device for providing clients with a service, the service device being adapted to also operate as an assessment device of the type described above, and a queuing system for directing people wishing to use the service device to the service device one after the other.
  • the service device can, for example, be adapted to carry out literacy and/or psychometric testing using the method described above.
  • Figure 12 relates to the second aspect of the invention
  • Figure 13 relates to the third aspect of the invention.
  • Figure 14 relates to the fourth aspect of the invention
  • Figure 15 relates to the fifth aspect of the invention
  • Figures 16 to 19 relate to the sixth aspect of the invention.
  • Figure 1 shows a check-in guidance system in operation at an airport
  • Figures 2 to 4 show three different layouts of a touch sensitive screen
  • Figure 5 shows part of a computer controlled display board
  • Figure 6 shows a check-in point operator serving a passenger at a check-in point
  • Figures 7 to 10 show various information displayed on the display of an operator module.
  • Figure 11 shows a touch sensitive screen functioning as an alphanumeric keyboard.
  • Figure 1 shows a number of check-in points 2 for checking in passengers 4 at an airport.
  • the check-in points 2 are arranged around a luggage conveyor belt 6 which conveys passengers' luggage 8 from the check-in points 2 to a baggage handling area (not shown).
  • Each check-in point 2 is staffed by a check-in point operator 10 who examines passengers' tickets and issues passengers with boarding passes.
  • a passenger information input kiosk 12 which is provided with a number of touch sensitive screens 14, at which passengers input information identifying their flight number, class and group size in a manner which will be described below.
  • the kiosk 12 then automatically dispenses a voucher to the passenger, which is printed with a four digit voucher number (other numbers or digits can of course be used).
  • a single voucher is dispensed, printed with a single voucher number, so that the group of passengers passes through the check-in guidance system as a single entity.
  • the voucher is also printed with other useful information, including the part of the airport to which the passenger should proceed in order to check in, and the earliest and latest times by which the passenger should arrive to check in.
  • the passenger information input kiosk 12 is also provided with an information screen 16, which simply displays useful information to passengers and is not used for information input.
  • the information screen 16 can display instructions for using the passenger information input kiosk 12, current information on flight delays and check-in times, and other useful information.
  • the passenger is directed from a waiting area 18 to one of the check-in points 2 by a display board 20 which is controlled by a central computer (not shown), and which is mounted at an elevated location so that it is visible to all passengers waiting in the waiting area 18.
  • a central computer not shown
  • a number of waiting areas 18 can be present, each provided with one or more kiosks 12. In such a case, each waiting area is provided with at least one display band 20.
  • the first line 22 specifies the flight number.
  • the information on the display board 20 is divided up according to flight number, so that passengers for a particular flight only have to look at a particular portion of the display board 20.
  • the first line 22 can be offset from the following information, so that it stands out to passengers viewing the display board 20.
  • a number of different colours can be used for different information on the display board 20 in order to make the information easier to read.
  • the lines 24 of information immediately below the first line 22 each specify a four digit voucher number followed be a two digit check-in point number. This information directs a passenger or group of passengers having a particular voucher number to the check-in point 2 having the number which is displayed alongside the corresponding voucher number. The number identifying each check-in point 2 is displayed on a check-in point number identifier 26 located at each check-in point 2.
  • the remaining lines of information 28 each contain a voucher number followed by the word "NEXT".
  • the purpose of these lines of information is to alert those passengers who are shortly to be directed to one of the check-in points 2.
  • the touch sensitive screens 14 of the kiosk 12 display various pages of information to passengers in order to obtain the required information.
  • the first page is shown in Figure 2.
  • the passenger is required to touch one of boxes 30 in order to specify his flight number.
  • the page shown in Figure 3 is then displayed to the passenger, and the passenger is required to touch one of the boxes 32 in order to specify the class which he is travelling. Once he has done this, the page shown in Figure 4 is displayed, and the passenger is required to input the size of his group. If the passenger is travelling alone, he simply enters one.
  • the passenger is required to input additional information, for example information identifying himself.
  • the passenger information input kiosk 12 is provided with devices for reading bar codes or magnetic strips, thus allowing the information to be input quickly and easily without the need for the passenger to use a touch sensitive screen.
  • the touch sensitive screen 14 can display an alphanumeric keyboard on part of the screen, as shown in Figure 11 , and the passenger can type in the required information by touching the key areas 31 on the screen 14. Prompts 33 and information typed by the passenger appear on the upper part of the screen 14.
  • All information which is collected at the kiosk 12 is fed to the central computer which sorts the passengers into a priority sequence, and determines which passengers should be allowed to check in next.
  • Any information displayed at the kiosk 12 can be displayed in a number of alternative languages, as specified by the passengers using the kiosk 12.
  • the kiosk 12 is also provided with a coin and note validation (not shown) for collecting a departure tax from passengers. The departure tax must be paid before a voucher is issued.
  • the display board 20 displays the surname ( or a portion of the surname) and/or the ticket number of each passenger, rather than a voucher number for each passenger. It will be appreciated that, in such an embodiment, the kiosk 12 need not dispense vouchers.
  • FIG. 6 shows one of the check-in points 2 in operation.
  • Each check-in point 2 is provided with an operator module 34, which is connected to the central computer.
  • Each operator module 34 is provided with a number of buttons 36, and a display 38. The operation of the operator module 34 will now be described.
  • the operator module 34 is provided with buttons which are labelled ON- DUTY, OFF-DUTY, PAGE, COMMENCE-SERVE, NO-SHOW, RETURN-TO- QUEUE, TRANSFER-FIRST, and TRANSFER-OTHERS (not specifically shown in Figure 6).
  • buttons 36 which are labelled ON- DUTY, OFF-DUTY, PAGE, COMMENCE-SERVE, NO-SHOW, RETURN-TO- QUEUE, TRANSFER-FIRST, and TRANSFER-OTHERS (not specifically shown in Figure 6).
  • the embodiment being described uses a number of separate buttons 36, it will be appreciated that there are any number of other arrangements which would perform the same function.
  • the buttons 36 could be replaced by a computer keyboard and/or mouse, and the display 38 could be replaced by a conventional computer VDU, or a touch sensitive VDU. Such an arrangement is particularly suitable if the system is implemented using a Local Area Network.
  • the ON-DUTY button is used by the check-in point operator 10 to indicate to the central computer that he is on duty, and that passengers may be directed to the check-in point 2 by the display board 20 under the control of the central computer. Similarly, the check-in point operator 10 presses the OFF-DUTY button when he is going off duty. The central computer then knows that no further passengers should be directed to that check-in point 2.
  • the check-in point operator 10 When the check-in point operator 10 wants the display board 20 to direct another passenger to his check-in point 2 he actuates the PAGE button. It will be appreciated that the check-in point operator 10 can use the PAGE button to control the length of the queue at his check- in point 2, and to ensure that there are always at least some passengers waiting to be served at his check-in point 2. At the same time, the check-in point operator 10 is able to keep the size of his queue down to a minimum so as to avoid congestion, and also to avoid frustration of passengers.
  • the COMMENCE-SERVE button is used by the check-in point operator 10 each time he begins to serve a new passenger or group of passengers.
  • the purpose of the COMMENCE-SERVE button is to keep the central computer informed of who is being served at any given check-in point 2 at any given time, and to allow the central computer to generate statistics as has been described above. If a passenger has been paged but fails to show up at the check-in point 2, the operator 10 presses the NO-SHOW button in order to indicate this fact to the central computer. The central computer can then decide when the passenger should be allowed to be repaged, as has been described above.
  • the RETURN-TO-QUEUE button allows the operator 10 to return the passenger who is currently being served to the waiting area 18 to await repaging. This might be necessary if the passenger has entered the wrong information at the kiosk 12. For example, the passenger may have indicated that he is travelling first class, when in fact he is travelling economy.
  • the operator 10 may wish to transfer the passenger who is being served to another check-in point 2 which is being operated by a supervisor or a more senior check-in point operator 10. This would be the case if there is a problem in the checking in of the passenger which requires to be dealt with by a more senior person.
  • the operator 10 can press the TRANSFER-FIRST button, which informs the central computer that the first person in the queue, namely the person who is currently being served by the operator 10, is to be transferred to another check- in point 2.
  • the operator module 34 can include provision for allowing the operator 10 to specify where the passenger is to be transferred to.
  • the operator 10 may wish to transfer all of the passengers in the queue, except who is currently being served, to one or more other check-in points 2. This is done by pressing the TRANSFER-OTHERS button.
  • An example of an instance where the TRANSFER-OTHERS button is used is when there is a problem with the checking of a passenger and the operator 10 foresees that the problem may take some time to resolve.
  • FIGS 7 to 10 are schematic drawings showing some examples of information displayed on the display 38 of the operator module 34.
  • Figure 7 shows the case where an operator 10 has just come on duty and has pressed the PAGE button. It will be seen that information relating to the passenger who has been paged is displayed on the lower of two lines 40 on the display 38.
  • the central computer has decided to page a single passenger having voucher number 2523, who is travelling economy on flight number QF101.
  • the operator 10 presses the COMMENCE-SERVE button and again presses the PAGE button.
  • the display 38 displays the information shown in Figure 8 in which the information relating to the first passenger moves up to the upper line of the display 38, and information relating to the passenger who has been paged appears on the lower line.
  • the operator 10 has finished serving the passenger with voucher number 2523, he again presses the PAGE and COMMENCE-SERVE buttons, and the information on the display 38 changes to that shown in Figure 9.
  • the check-in operator 10 then experiences a problem with the checking in of the passenger having voucher number 3552, and decides that the problem is likely to take some time to resolve.
  • the operator 10 therefore presses the TRANSFER-OTHERS button and the computer transfers the next group of two passengers (having voucher number 3567) to check-in point number 25.
  • the display board 20 indicates that the two passengers having voucher number 3567 should proceed to check-in point number 25.
  • the check-in point number to which the passengers are being transferred is also displayed on the display 38 of the operator module 34, as shown in Figure 10, so that the two passengers who are being transferred can be told by the check-in point operator 10 where they are being transferred to, and do not have to rely entirely on the display board 20.
  • Figures 7 to 10 show a display 38 having only two lines 40, the display 38 can have any number of lines. Ideally, the display 38 has sufficient lines to display the details of all passengers who have been paged to that check-in point 2.
  • the check-in point number identifier 26 also comprises a computer controlled display which is controlled by the central computer to display the voucher numbers of all passengers who have been paged to the corresponding check-in point 2 but not yet served. The display is not shown in Figure 6 because it is located on the reverse side of the number identifier 26. The display performs the function of verifying to passengers who are arriving at the check-in point 2 that they have come to the correct check-in point 2.
  • FIG. 1 also shows a sales centre 42 provided with a number of service points
  • the sales centre is provided with a second display board 48 which is controlled by the central computer, and operates in the same way as the display board 20 to direct each passenger to a particular service point 44, the service points 44 being identified by number identifiers 50.
  • the central computer gives priority to the passengers waiting at the sales centre 42 in accordance with their class, and also gives a higher priority to late passengers.
  • a service voucher is printed with a voucher number which allows the person holding the service voucher to be directed to one of the service points 44 by the second display board 48.
  • the voucher dispenser 52 also comprises a touch sensitive screen 54 at which people can specify the particular service which they require from the sales centre 42. In the past, instances have arisen where a passenger requiring to make an excess baggage payment has missed a flight because a sales centre has had long queues of people requiring various services.
  • the present system overcomes such a problem and allows a late passenger to pay his excess baggage payment quickly even if there are a large number of other people waiting to use the sale centre 42.
  • the central computer gives priority to passengers making excess baggage payments according to their class of travel.
  • any information displayed by the touch sensitive screen 54 of the voucher dispenser 52 can be displayed in a number of different languages as specified by the person using the touch sensitive screen 54.
  • the queue management system 2 which will be described is for use by an organisation which assists people to find employment, and comprises ten automated service devices 4, three staffed service points 6, a display device 8 and a first identification device 10.
  • the queue management system is set up in an office 11 of the organisation as shown in the drawing.
  • Each client of the organisation is issued with a personal identification card on which the client's identity is recorded by means of a magnetic strip.
  • the client On arriving at the office 11 of the organisation, the client starts at an information board 12 on which the first identification device 10 is mounted.
  • the information board 12 is entitled "WHAT TO DO", and displays written instructions on how to use the system.
  • the client must first insert his personal identification card into the first identification device 10 in order to identify himself to the system.
  • the first identification device 10 is connected to a central computer (not shown) which controls the operation of the system and also records statistical information on the use of the system.
  • the client inserts his personal identification card into the first identification device 10 determines the identity of the client, and informs the computer accordingly.
  • the message is then displayed on a small screen 15 provided on the first identification device 10 informing the client that he has been correctly identified, and asking the client to provide information on what service is required.
  • the client may then enter information, using a keypad 13 provided on the first identification device, specifying the service or services that he requires. For example, the client may choose whether to use one of the automated service devices 4 or to go to one of the staffed service points 6.
  • the client may specify what information he requires and the computer may decide whether the client needs to attend one of the staffed service points 6 or whether the information that the client requires can be obtained from one of the automated service device 4.
  • the computer checks whether the client is authorised to use the requested service and informs the client accordingly by means of information displayed on the screen 15.
  • the first identification device 10 is provided with a visual display unit (VDU) for displaying information on how to use the system in a range of alternative languages, thus making the system readily accessible by people of different nationalities.
  • VDU visual display unit
  • the VDU can be provided with a touch sensitive screen for allowing the user to make selections and choices, and to request further information.
  • the first identification device 10 dispenses a numbered ticket to the client, and the client takes a seat in the waiting area 14.
  • the tickets can be provided with a bar code.
  • the waiting area 14 contains a number of chairs 16 which face the display device 8 which is suspended from the ceiling of the office 11.
  • the person is a new client who does not yet have a personal identification card, or an existing client who has lost his identification card or whose identification card has expired, he presses a specified button on the keypad 13 which causes the computer to register the fact that the person needs to be issued with a personal identification card.
  • the first identification device 10 then issues the person with a ticket in the normal way, but the computer makes a note that that person should be directed, by the display device 8, to the one of the staffed service points 6 where he can be issued with a personal identification card.
  • the information displayed by the display device 8 is controlled by the computer, and is used to direct clients from the waiting area 14 to the automated service devices 4 and staffed service points 6, which are numbered using position markers 18. As can be seen from the drawing, the display device 8 displays both the ticket number and the number of the appropriate position marker 18.
  • All of the automated service devices 4 are connected to the computer, and the computer is thus aware of which automated service devices 4 are in use, and which are available, at any given time.
  • the computer is therefore able to direct clients to free service devices 4 as they become available.
  • the computer need not necessarily direct clients to free service devices 4 in the same order in which the clients identified themselves at the first identification device 10. For example, if a client indicated at the first identification device 10 that he was disabled and in a wheel chair, the computer can wait until one of the sitting height service devices 4 becomes available, rather than directing that client to the first available standing height service device 4.
  • different service devices 4 can perform different, specialised functions, in which case the computer directs clients to the appropriate service devices 4, rather than to the first available service devices 4.
  • Each staffed service point 6 is provided with a button (not shown) which is connected to the computer, and which the staff member 20 operates when his service point 6 becomes free. The computer then decides which client to direct to the free service point 6.
  • each staffed service point can be provided with a computer keyboard and/or mouse and computer VDU (not shown), to enable the staff member 20 to monitor the operation of the queuing system and/or to feed information to the computer or computers controlling the system. This is particularly appropriate if the system is controlled by, or incorporates, a local Area Network.
  • the staff members 20 can by use of a pointing device such as a mouse or cursor keys or individual keys on the keyboard identify to the system that they wish to page a client or recall a client for further service. In the case of paging, initially the staff member would move a cursor or pointer or press an appropriate button and inform the system that that staff member 20 wishes to page a client to that particular position within the office or working environment.
  • the respective serving staff member 20 When the client or customer to be served arrives for service the respective serving staff member 20 would press a button appropriate to inform the system that a service is being commenced. At the end of such service the staff member can press an appropriate button to identify the end of that service or the commencement of another service or that they are leaving their position etc.
  • a staff member 20 can log on to the queuing system and log off at the end of their duty time. Further, by this facility the serving staff members 20 can look into the recall registers of the system to establish individual clients' ticket numbers who require further onwards service. Similarly, any staff member can access the system statistics. Monitor screens using touchscreen technology with touch sensitive screens or similar devices that perform a similar role can also be employed.
  • All of the momtor screen can be devoted to the queue management information whilst such facility is required being able to revert to other uses of the computer and the Local Area Network as appropriate in intervening times e.g. during serving of an individual client where a client's personal records or other information may need to be brought up on screen from an internal database from a Local Area Network fileserver or a linking through modem or other means to a mainframe located elsewhere.
  • a further variation of this arrangement is a combination of a separate keypad with onscreen information in relation to the queue management operations or the inversion of this arrangement being identifiable keys on the Local Area Network computer or terminal keyboard with ticket number displays separately provided by way of liquid crystal or light emitting diode displays etc located on or near or in view of the staff member 20 operating at that position.
  • An advantage of these variations is the ability to enter client names or other information such as the type of service that a particular client has required or what documents are being lodged as part of a client's application, and how many documents are being lodged.
  • Each service device 4 is provided with a visual display unit (VDU) 22 for displaying information to the client.
  • the client may interact with the service device 4 by means of any suitable interface, including a touch sensitive screen, or a keyboard, or keypad.
  • VDU visual display unit
  • the client may interact with the service device 4 by means of any suitable interface, including a touch sensitive screen, or a keyboard, or keypad.
  • the VDU 22 can be used for a variety of purposes other than providing the client with requested information. For example, psychometric or literacy testing can be carried out using the VDUs 22.
  • An advantage of the system is that, because the computer is aware of the identity of the client, specific information relating to the client can be displayed by the service devices 4. For example, the computer can control the service device 4 to provide information on only those jobs which relate to specific qualifications or are located in specific areas which are suitable for the particular client using the service device 4.
  • Each service device 4 is also provided with a respective second identification device 24 adapted to receive the personal identification card, or the bar coded ticket, of the client in order to check that the client trying to use the service device 4 has been directed to the service device 4 by the display device 8. If a client goes to the wrong service device 4, the computer instructs the service device 4 to ask the client to proceed to the correct service device 4, or to return to the waiting area 14.
  • Each service device 4 is also provided with a respective printing device (not shown) for providing the client with a hard copy of information displayed on the VDU 22, at the request of the client.
  • the first identification device 10 is provided with a coin and note validating device for accepting a payment from clients arriving at the information board 12.
  • the amount charged for use of the service can be a flat fee, or can depend on the identity of the client. In the latter case, the client must first identify himself and/or specify the service required at the first identification device 10, and then he will then be informed by the screen 15 of the amount, if any, required.
  • the issuing device 2 is provided with a passport insertion slot 4 into which a person wishing to obtain a VISA must insert his or her passport. Also provided on the front of the issuing device 2 is a coin slot 6 for receiving coins, and a note validation slot 8 for receiving bank notes, which may be required if there is a fee attached to the issue of the VISA. Below those slots is a card slot 10 adapted to receive a banking card, such as a credit card, or smart card, in order to provide an alternative form of payment.
  • a banking card such as a credit card, or smart card
  • a camera 12 for producing an image of the applicant on a screen 14. Although only one camera 12 is shown, there may be a number of cameras, including for example stereo of multiple camera lenses. Lights 16 are also provided for illuminating the face of the applicant. Below the screen 14, there is provided a keyboard 18, which allows the applicant to input the necessary information, for example in response to questions displayed on the screen 14. As an alternative to the keyboard 18, the screen 14 may be touch sensitive. Beside the keyboard 18 there is provided a signature device 20 for obtaining a signature from the applicant. The signature device 20 moves out a piece of paper or card 22 which the applicant is required to sign, and then retracts the paper or card 22 back into the issuing device 2 in order to prevent fraud.
  • the issuing device 2 avoids the possibility of an applicant presenting an unauthorised copy of some other persons signature to the issuing device 2 for verification.
  • the issuing device 2 carries out various checks in order to determine whether or not to issue the applicant with a VISA.
  • the issuing device 2 compares the signature on the applicant's passport with the signature of the applicant on the paper or card 22.
  • the issuing device 2 also compares the image of the applicant's face obtained via the camera 12, and displayed on the screen 14, with an image of the applicant stored in an appropriate database, or with an image of the applicant obtained from a photograph on the applicant's passport. It will be appreciated that these procedures involve conventional methods of digitising and comparing images using appropriate software.
  • the issuing device 2 determines that the applicant is entitled to a VISA, the issuing device 2 either presents the applicant with a printed authorisation, or automatically stamps, or applies a sticker to, the applicants passport. In the case of issuance of a printed authorisation, the applicant must take the printed authorisation to the relevant authorised officer in order to obtain a VISA.
  • the issuing device 2 is linked to a central records facility by a local area network, wide area network or modem as appropriate. It will be appreciated mat this provides the ability to automatically detect certain persons, such as known terrorists. Similar, if the issuing device 2 determines that fraud is likely, appropriate members of the VISA issuing organisation may be alerted automatically.
  • the issuing device 2 in a semi-automatic manner, in which images of the passport and of the applicant are transmitted in real time to an officer undertaking comparison.
  • Voice communication can be provided between the officer and the applicant, who may be located at separate locations in a building, or even in separate countries.
  • the issuing device 2 can also perform the function of taking passport or similar photographs upon payment of a fee.
  • the applicant or customer requiring such a photograph has the opportunity to check his or her personal appearance and presented view by observing the image on the screen 14 before activating the cameras digitised storage ability by the pressing of a button or key as appropriate.
  • there may be two separate cameras one being the electronic imaging camera 12 which provides an image on the screen 14 (which can be a conventional cathode ray display or a liquid crystal display), and the other being a camera which exposes conventional film in order to provide the customer with prints.
  • the respective lenses are preferably placed immediately adjacent each other in order to obtain the closest correspondence of views.
  • the lenses can be co-located via mirrors, or accept incident light reflected from the subject through a single lense.
  • a twin lense reflex arrangement can be used to enhance the image definition, personal appearance and/or clarity means can be provided to allow the customer to adjust the brightness of the facial illumination device and/or the direction or directions from which light from the illumination device illuminates the subject's face.
  • the issuing device 2 can also be provided with a hand-print profile recording device which records, measures and compares the shape and size of a hand. Additionally or alternatively, a finger print comparison device or other means of comparing physical attributes of a VISA applicant with information contained in their passport or other records, can also be provided.
  • the queue management system 2 which will be described is for use by an organisation which assists people to find employment, and comprises ten automated service devices 4, three staffed service points 6, a display device 8, a first identification device 10, and a multilingual instruction display device 10a.
  • the queue management system is set up in an office 11 of the organisation as shown in the drawing.
  • Each client of the organisation is issued with a personal identification card on which the client's identity is recorded by means of a magnetic strip.
  • the client On arriving at the office 11 of the organisation, the client starts at an information board 12 on which the first identification device 10 and multilingual instruction display device 10a are mounted.
  • the information board 12 is entitled "WHAT TO DO", and displays brief written instructions in different languages directing the user to the first identification device 10 and the multilingual instruction display device 10a.
  • the client must first insert his personal identification card into the first identification device 10 in order to identify himself to the system.
  • the first identification device 10 is connected to a central computer (not shown) which controls the operation of the system and also records statistical information on the use of the system.
  • the first identification device 10 determines the identity of the client, and informs the computer accordingly.
  • the message is then displayed on a small screen 15 provided on the first identification device 10 informing the client that he has been correctly identified, and asking the client to provide information on what service is required.
  • the client may then enter information, using a keypad 13 provided on the first identification device, specifying the service or services that he requires. For example, the client may choose whether to use one of the automated service devices 4 or to go to one of the staffed service points 6.
  • the client may specify what information he requires and the computer may decide whether the client needs to attend one of the staffed service points 6 or whether the information that the client requires can be obtained from one of the automated service devices 4.
  • the computer checks whether the client is authorised to use the requested service and informs the client accordingly by means of information displayed on the screen 15.
  • the multilingual instruction display device 10a is located beside the first identification device 10, and is provided with a visual display unit (VDU) for displaying information on how to use the system in a range of alternative languages, thus making the system readily accessible by people of different nationalities.
  • VDU visual display unit
  • the VDU is provided with a touch sensitive screen 15a for allowing the user to make selections and choices, and to request further information.
  • the user can specify in which language information is to be displayed on the touch sensitive screen.
  • the touch sensitive screen can be of any suitable type, and can, for example, operate by means of the interruption of crossing infrared beams located just above the surface of the screen.
  • the first identification device 10 and the multilingual instruction display device 10a are combined to form a single unit, so that use of the multilingual instruction display device 10a is conditional on the user first identifying himself.
  • the small screen 15 and keypad 13 can be replaced by the touch sensitive screen 15a.
  • the first identification device 10 dispenses a numbered ticket to the client, and the client takes a seat in the waiting area 14.
  • the tickets can be provided with a bar code.
  • the waiting area 14 contains a number of chairs 16, which face the display device 8 which is suspended from the ceiling of the office 11.
  • the person is a new client who does not yet have a personal identification card, or an existing client who has lost his identification card or whose identification card has expired, he presses a specified button on the keypad 13 (or touch sensitive screen 15a) which causes the computer to register the fact that the person needs to be issued with a personal identification card.
  • the first identification device 10 then issues the person with a ticket in the normal way, but the computer makes a note that that person should be directed, by the display device 8, to the one of the staffed service points 6 where he can, for example, be issued with a personal identification card.
  • the person can be directed by the display device 8 to one of the automated service devices 4.
  • the first identification device 10 can therefore be regarded, in a general sense, as an arrival device which must be operated by a person before using the system. That is to say, in the case of a person who does not have an identification card the person is still directed by the display device 8, even though the person has not been identified.
  • a member of staff could be provided to operate the arrival device on behalf of clients wishing to use the system.
  • the information displayed by the display device 8 is controlled by the computer, and is used to direct clients from the waiting area 14 to the automated service devices 4 and staffed service points 6, which are numbered using position markers 18. As can be seen from the drawing, the display device 8 displays both the ticket number and the number of the appropriate position marker 18.
  • the computer need not necessarily direct clients to free service devices 4 in the same order in which the clients identified themselves at the first identification device 10. For example, if a client indicated at the first identification device 10 that he was disabled and in a wheel chair, the computer can wait until one of the sitting height service devices 4 becomes available, rather than directing that client to the first available standing height service device 4. Furthermore, different service devices 4 can perform different, specialised functions, in which case the computer directs clients to the appropriate service devices 4, rather than to the first available service devices 4.
  • Each staffed service point 6 is provided with a button which is connected to the computer, and which the staff member 20 operates when his service point 6 becomes free.
  • the computer decides which client to direct to the free service point 6.
  • buttons can be replaced by a computer keyboard and/or mouse, and a computer VDU, which can be touch sensitive. This is particularly appropriate if a Local Area Network is used, as described above.
  • Each service device 4 is provided with a visual display unit (VDU) 22 for displaying information to the client.
  • the client may interact with the service device 4 by means of any suitable interface, including a touch sensitive screen, or a keyboard, or keypad.
  • VDU visual display unit
  • the client may interact with the service device 4 by means of any suitable interface, including a touch sensitive screen, or a keyboard, or keypad.
  • the VDU 22 can be used for a variety of purposes other than providing the client with requested information. For example, psychometric or literacy testing can be carried out using the VDUs 22.
  • An advantage of the system is that, because the computer is aware of the identity of the client, specific information relating to the client can be displayed by the service devices 4. For example, the computer can control the service device 4 to provide information on only those jobs which relate to specific qualifications or are located in specific areas which are suitable for the particular client using the service device 4.
  • Each service device 4 is also provided with a respective second identification device 24 adapted to receive the personal identification card, or the bar coded ticket, of the client in order to check that the client trying to use the service device 4 has been directed to the service device 4 by the display device 8. If a client goes to the wrong service device 4, the computer instructs the service device 4 to ask the client to proceed to the correct service device 4, or to return to the waiting area 14.
  • Each service device 4 is also provided with a respective printing device (not shown) for providing the client with a hard copy of information displayed on the VDU 22, or other information, at the request of the client.
  • the first identification device 10 is provided with a coin and note validating device for accepting a payment from clients arriving at the information board 12.
  • the amount charged for use of the service can be a flat fee, or can depend on the identity of the client or the service required. In the latter case, the client must first identify himself and/or specify the service required at the first identification device 10, and then he will then be informed by the screen 15 of the amount, if any, required.
  • the queue management system can comprise only staffed service points 6, and no automated service devices 4.
  • queue managements systems described herein can be used to control access into a private or administrative office or interview room or similar secure environment through a two door "Man Trap" or similar access device.
  • the queue management invention provides additional and very special features to the existing concept of "man trap" type two door sequential access paths.
  • the outer door being the nearest one to the public area, say a waiting room or similar environment, can be equipped as part of the queue management system such that when a client's ticket number is being paged it may be paged to the "man trap" security access passage.
  • Such door to the public access area may be equipped with a number identifier or similar device which may be visual, aural or both to guide a person to service at that door.
  • a number identifier or similar device which may be visual, aural or both to guide a person to service at that door.
  • For the currency of the paging time span or some other controllable time frame selectable in the controls for the queue management system such door would be automatically unlocked to allow the person or persons passage through the first door into the air lock.
  • the staff member on the secure side of the secondary door can press a release button to allow the visitors or clients to pass through the second door into the secure area.
  • a release button to allow the visitors or clients to pass through the second door into the secure area.
  • such inner door has security glass so that a staff member on the secure side can see or observe the incoming clients.
  • such facility may be implemented by closed circuit television or other means, such as one-way glass.
  • the secondary door can be actuated by the staff member pressing the serve button as part of the queue management system to identify that the correct client is being taken into the secure area for interview or otherwise as appropriate.
  • the normally fitted security glass in the secondary entrance door facilitates a client showing their ticket number through the glass before the staff member presses the serving button or actuating the door lock release by other means to allow passage into the secure area by the incoming client or clients.
  • the client can have in hand a ticket issued by the queue management system with bar-code to provide access by identifying that particular ticket at the entrance door as further confirmation at the secondary door before passage would be allowed into the secure area.
  • Other means such as smart-card or magnetic encoded cards, could be similarly employed.
  • the various necessary devices within the queue management system can communicate with each other via infra-red or other radiation such as lasers etc, or via radio transmission on discreet frequencies in the local environment.
  • such devices may communicate as part of a cohesive queue management system by implementing additive or subtractive voltage signals superimposed upon the natural sine- wave wave form of the reticulated electricity supply within an office such that the devices could readily plug in to the nearest general power outlet (power point) and apply and retrieve their various signals from the electricity supply cabling.
  • FIG 15 shows three adjacent staffed service points 6a, 6b and 6c which are provided with a queue management system for directing clients to appropriate staffed service points at appropriate times in any of the manners described above.
  • Each service point 6 is provided with a respective desk 8a, 8b, 8c operated by a respective staff member (not shown).
  • Service point 6a is provided with a paging device comprising a control unit 10a and a display unit 12a provided with a display 14a.
  • the control unit 10a is used by the staff member to page clients, and to send other relevant information to a computer controlling the queue management system.
  • the display 14a displays the ticket number of the next client to the staff member.
  • the control unit 10a and display unit 12a are connected to the rest of the queue management system by a cable 16a, the upper portion of which is supported within a guide conduit 18a.
  • the display unit 12a is supported at the lower end 20a of the guide conduit 18a.
  • the display unit 12a is rotatably mounted to the guide conduit 12a so as to be able to swivel about a vertical axis to suit the position of the staff member operating the service point 6a.
  • the guide conduit 18a is formed from upper and lower parts 28a and 30a respectively, which are telescopically connected together to form adjustable friction joint 32a which allows the height of the display unit to be adjusted.
  • a bracket 34a connects the upper part 22a of the guide conduit 18a to the sealing 36 above the service points 6a, 6b and 6c.
  • the upper part 28a of the guide conduit 18a extends through the sealing 36a, and it feed at its upper end by wires 38 which combine to form the cable 16a.
  • the second service point 6b is provided with a paging device 9b which combines a control unit 10b with a display 14b.
  • the paging device 9b is connected by a cable 16b to the wires 38 above the sealing 36, without the aid of a guide conduit.
  • a guide conduit can be used to guide the upper part of the cable 16b, in the manner described in relation to the first service point 6a.
  • the third service point 6c is provided with a paging device 9c which incorporates a control unit 10c and a display 14c.
  • the paging device 9c is rotatably mounted at the lower end 20c of a guide conduit 18c, in the manner described in relation to the first service point 6a.
  • the guide conduit 18c is again telescopically adjustable, and also supports a number of identifier 14 which identifies the third service point 6c to users of the system.
  • the third service point 6c is service point number 3, as indicated by the number identifier 40.
  • Figures 16 to 18 show three consecutive screens used in a method of literacy assessment; and ⁇ / *"
  • Figure 19 shows a client management system incorporating the assessment method.
  • the literacy assessment method is capable of being carried out on an ordinary personal computer having a touch sensitive screen 50, shown in Figures 16 to 18.
  • the touch sensitive screen may be of any type, including a type using a crossing beams of electromagnetic radiation located just above the surface of the screen. —
  • the screen 50 is controlled by the computer to present a person to be tested with a series of questions, examples of which are shown in Figures 16 to 18.
  • the screen 50 displays the next question, shown in Figure 17, and so on for subsequent questions.
  • the system also has the capability to determine what questions are subsequently asked on the basis of answers given to previous questions. In this way, the answers given to questions can determine what "path" the client follows through a branching network of questions.
  • the computer records not only the answers given to each question, but also the time taken by the person to answer each question. This provides useful additional information, which can be used in an analysis of the answers given carried out by the computer.
  • the screen 50 automatically moves on to the next question.
  • the predetermined time interval for each question can be adjusted in accordance with, for example, the difficulty of each question.
  • some or all of the questions, together with their associated answers, are displayed simultaneously on the screen 50, and the person is allowed to answer the questions in the order which he chooses.
  • the order in which the person chooses to answer the questions may also provide valuable additional information, which can be included in the analysis carried out by the computer. For example, it can be expected that difficult questions would often be attempted last, and the order in which the questions are attempted is, therefore, likely to give some indication of the order of difficulty which the person finds with the questions.
  • the computer is adapted to stop the test in the event of an answer being given to a question which is inconsistent with an answer already given to a different question.
  • the computer would stop the test. That is because, having established that the person may have a literacy problem, it would be unnecessary to ask further questions.
  • the client management system is in the form of a queue management system 2.
  • the queue management system 2 which will be described is for use by an organisation which assists people to find employment, and comprises ten automated service devices 4, three staffed service points 6, a display device 8 and a first identification device 10.
  • the queue management system is set up in an office 11 of the organisation as shown in the drawing.
  • Each client of the organisation is issued with a personal identification card on which the client's identity is recorded by means of a magnetic strip.
  • the client On arriving at the office 11 of the organisation, the client starts at an information board 12 on which the first identification device 10 is mounted.
  • the information board 12 is entitled “WHAT TO DO", and displays written instructions on how to use the system.
  • the client must first insert his personal identification card into the first identification device 10 in order to identify himself to the system.
  • the first identification device 10 is connected to a central computer (not shown) which controls the operation of the system and also records statistical information on the use of the system.
  • the first identification device 10 determines the identity of the client, and informs the computer accordingly.
  • the message is then displayed on a touch sensitive screen 15 provided on the first identification device 10 informing the client that he has been correctly identified, and asking the client to provide information on what service is required.
  • the client may then enter information, by touching/pressing the touch sensitive screen 15, specifying the service or services that he requires. For example, the client may choose whether to use one of the automated service devices 4 or to go to one of the staffed service points 6.
  • the client may specify what information he requires and the computer may decide whether the client needs to attend one of the staffed service points 6 or whether the information that the client requires can be obtained from one of the automated service device 4.
  • the computer checks whether the client is authorised to use the requested service and informs the client accordingly by means of information displayed on the screen 15.
  • the screen 15 is controlled by the computer to ask the client a series of questions of the type described above with reference to Figures 18 to 16 in order to detect whether the client may have a literacy problem. It will be appreciated that, because the questions relate to the service which is being provided, the client will not necessary be aware that his literacy is being assessed by the system. If the computer detects, on the basis of the answers provided by the client, that the client may have a literacy problem, the computer makes note that the client should be directed to a particular staffed service point 6.
  • the member of staff operating the staffed service point 6 to which the client is directed can be informed by the computer that the client may have a literacy problem.
  • the member of staff can, for example, be informed by means of information displayed on a VDU located at the staffed service point 6, or by means of information printed on the ticket issued to the client. It will be appreciated that this information is of particular importance in helping the client to find an appropriate form of employment.
  • all of the principles described above with reference to Figures 16 to 18 can be applied to the operation of screen 15, so that screen 15 can, in effect, operate as an assessment device.
  • the first identification device 10 is provided with a visual display unit (VDU) for displaying information on how to use the system in a range of alternative languages, thus making the system readily accessible by people of different nationalities.
  • VDU visual display unit
  • the VDU can be provided with a touch sensitive screen for allowing the user to make selections and choices, and to request further information.
  • the first identification device 10 dispenses a numbered ticket to the client, and the client takes a seat in the waiting area 14.
  • the tickets can be provided with a bar code.
  • the waiting area 14 contains a number of chairs 16 which face the display device 8 which is suspended from the ceiling of the office 11.
  • the person is a new client who does not yet have a personal identification card, or an existing client who has lost his identification card or whose identification card has expired, he presses a specified button on the keypad 13 or the touch sensitive screen 15 which causes the computer to register the fact that the person needs to be issued with a personal identification card.
  • the first identification device 10 then issues the person with a ticket in the normal way, but the computer makes a note that that person should be directed, by the display device 8, to the one of the staffed service points 6 where he can be issued with a personal identification card.
  • the information displayed by the display device 8 is controlled by the computer, and is used to direct clients from the waiting area 14 to the automated service devices 4 and staffed service points 6, which are numbered using position markers 18. As can be seen from the drawing, the display device 8 displays both the ticket number and the number of the appropriate position marker 18.
  • All of the automated service devices 4 are connected to the computer, and the computer is thus aware of which automated service devices 4 are in use, and which are available, at any given time.
  • the computer is therefore able to direct clients to free service devices 4 as they become available.
  • the computer need not necessarily direct clients to free service devices 4 in the same order in which the clients identified themselves at the first identification device 10. For example, if a client indicated at the first identification device 10 that he was disabled and in a wheel chair, the computer can wait until one of the sitting height service devices 4 becomes available, rather than directing that client to the first available standing height service device 4. Furthermore, different service devices 4 can perform different, specialised functions, in which case the computer directs clients to the appropriate service devices 4, rather than to the first available service devices 4. Similar considerations apply to the staffed service points 6. Each staffed service point 6 is provided with a button which is connected to the computer, and which the staff member 20 operates when his service point 6 becomes free. The computer then decides which client to direct to the free service point 6. As described above, such buttons can be replaced by a computer keyboard and/or mouse, and a computer VDU, which can be touch sensitive. This is particularly appropriate if a Local Area Network is used, as described above.
  • Each service device 4 is provided with a visual display unit (VDU) 22 for displaying information to the client.
  • the client may interact with the service device 4 by means of any suitable interface, including a touch sensitive screen, or a keyboard, or keypad.
  • VDU visual display unit
  • the client may interact with the service device 4 by means of any suitable interface, including a touch sensitive screen, or a keyboard, or keypad.
  • the VDU 22 can be used for a variety of purposes other than providing the client with requested information. In particular, psychometric, literacy and/or other testing can be carried out using the VDUs 22.
  • any or all of the principles and features described above in relation to Figures 16 to 18 can be used in any testing which is carried out at the service devices 4.
  • An advantage of the system is that, because the computer is aware of the identity of the client, specific information relating to the client can be displayed by the service devices 4. For example, the computer can control the service device 4 to provide information on only those jobs which relate to specific qualifications or are located in specific areas which are suitable for the particular client using the service device 4.
  • Each service device 4 is also provided with a respective second identification device 24 adapted to receive the personal identification card, or the bar coded ticket, of the client in order to check that the client trying to use the service device 4 has been directed to the service device 4 by the display device 8. If a client goes to the wrong service device 4, the computer instructs the service device 4 to ask the client to proceed to the correct service device 4, or to return to the waiting area 14.
  • Each service device 4 is also provided with a respective printing device (not shown) for providing the client with a hard copy of information displayed on the VDU 22, at the request of the client.
  • a respective printing device not shown
  • the first identification device 10 is provided with a coin and note validating device for accepting a payment from clients arriving at the information board 12.
  • the amount charged for use of the service can be a flat fee, or can depend on the identity of the client. In the latter case, the client must first identify himself and/or specify the service required at the first identification device 10, and then he will then be informed by the screen 15 of the amount, if any, required.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • Human Resources & Organizations (AREA)
  • Economics (AREA)
  • Strategic Management (AREA)
  • Entrepreneurship & Innovation (AREA)
  • Operations Research (AREA)
  • Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Educational Administration (AREA)
  • Marketing (AREA)
  • Development Economics (AREA)
  • Quality & Reliability (AREA)
  • Tourism & Hospitality (AREA)
  • Game Theory and Decision Science (AREA)
  • General Business, Economics & Management (AREA)
  • General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
  • Theoretical Computer Science (AREA)
  • Cash Registers Or Receiving Machines (AREA)
  • Management, Administration, Business Operations System, And Electronic Commerce (AREA)
  • Time Recorders, Dirve Recorders, Access Control (AREA)
  • Ticket-Dispensing Machines (AREA)
  • Financial Or Insurance-Related Operations Such As Payment And Settlement (AREA)

Abstract

Système de guidage pour l'enregistrement servant à guider les passagers (4) qui vont enregistrer leur billet dans un service de transport, dans un environnement comprenant une zone d'attente (18) pour les passagers et plusieurs guichets (2) d'enregistrement où se trouvent des personnes (10) affectées à l'enregistrement. Ce système de guidage pour l'enregistrement comprend: un dispositif d'entrée (12) d'informations relatives aux passagers dans lequel les passagers (4) qui désirent enregistrer leur billet dans le service de transport enregistrent leur arrivée et entrant des informations concernant leurs besoins lors de leur voyage; un dispositif d'affichage (20) qui affiche des informations destinées aux passagers situés dnas la zone d'attente; plusieurs dispositifs d'entrée (34) d'informations pour le personnel qui sont respectivement placés aux guichets (2) d'enregistrement et permettent aux personnes (10) affectées à l'enregistrement d'entrer des informations relatives à l'enregistrement des passagers (4); et un dispositif informatique qui sert à classer les passagers (4) ayant entré des informations dans le dispositif d'entrée (12) d'informations relatives aux passagers, dans une séquence prioritaire en fonction de l'ordre dans lequel ils devraient être enregistrés, et pour commander, en réponse aux informations reçues par les dispositifs d'entrée (12 et 34) d'informations des passagers et du personnel, les informations affichées sur le dispositif d'affichage (20) de manière à diriger les passagers (4) de la zone d'attente (18) vers les guichets d'enregistrement (2) en fonction de ladite séquence prioritaire.
EP95915071A 1994-04-12 1995-04-12 Systemes d'enregistrement, de gestion de files d'attente, de delivrance de visas, de recherche de personnes et d'evaluation Withdrawn EP0755546A4 (fr)

Applications Claiming Priority (9)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
AUPM4995A AUPM499594A0 (en) 1994-04-12 1994-04-12 Queuing systems
AUPM4995/94 1994-04-12
AUPM5885/94 1994-05-26
AUPM5885A AUPM588594A0 (en) 1994-05-26 1994-05-26 Check-in guidance systems
AUPM8536/94 1994-09-30
AUPM8546/94 1994-09-30
AUPM8536A AUPM853694A0 (en) 1994-09-30 1994-09-30 Automated assessment
AUPM8546A AUPM854694A0 (en) 1994-09-30 1994-09-30 Queuing systems
PCT/AU1995/000210 WO1995027949A1 (fr) 1994-04-12 1995-04-12 Systemes d'enregistrement, de gestion de files d'attente, de delivrance de visas, de recherche de personnes et d'evaluation

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0755546A1 true EP0755546A1 (fr) 1997-01-29
EP0755546A4 EP0755546A4 (fr) 2004-09-15

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EP95915071A Withdrawn EP0755546A4 (fr) 1994-04-12 1995-04-12 Systemes d'enregistrement, de gestion de files d'attente, de delivrance de visas, de recherche de personnes et d'evaluation

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EP (1) EP0755546A4 (fr)
JP (1) JPH10502470A (fr)
CN (1) CN1088870C (fr)
CA (1) CA2187798A1 (fr)
NZ (2) NZ283699A (fr)
WO (1) WO1995027949A1 (fr)

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AU4242300A (en) 1999-04-19 2000-11-02 David N. Brotherston Apparatus and method for providing products and services in a transport vehicle using a network of computers
US7171369B1 (en) * 2000-11-08 2007-01-30 Delta Air Lines, Inc. Method and system for providing dynamic and real-time air travel information
CN104044737A (zh) * 2013-03-15 2014-09-17 天津鸿海科技开发有限责任公司 安全快速登机方法
CN103310299B (zh) * 2013-05-17 2016-09-28 北京博研智通科技有限公司 一种机场导乘系统及方法
CN108305411B (zh) * 2018-03-30 2024-04-16 广州市华标科技发展有限公司 出入境全业务一体化智慧办证终端及业务处理方法
IT202000007789A1 (it) * 2020-04-14 2021-10-14 Sunland Optics Srl Sistema visivo di gestione automatica dell’ingresso in esercizi commerciali e/o uffici pubblici o aperti al pubblico

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US4449186A (en) * 1981-10-15 1984-05-15 Cubic Western Data Touch panel passenger self-ticketing system
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EP0427511A2 (fr) * 1989-11-06 1991-05-15 Fujitsu Limited Dispositif d'information sur guichet

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CN1088870C (zh) 2002-08-07
EP0755546A4 (fr) 2004-09-15
JPH10502470A (ja) 1998-03-03
CA2187798A1 (fr) 1995-10-19
NZ283699A (en) 1998-06-26
WO1995027949A1 (fr) 1995-10-19
NZ330395A (en) 2000-01-28
CN1147873A (zh) 1997-04-16

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