GB2511328A

GB2511328A - A Retail Transaction System

Info

Publication number: GB2511328A
Application number: GB1303556.3A
Authority: GB
Inventors: David Rimer
Original assignee: Autosafe International Ltd
Current assignee: Autosafe International Ltd
Priority date: 2013-02-28
Filing date: 2013-02-28
Publication date: 2014-09-03
Anticipated expiration: 2033-02-28
Also published as: GB2511328B; GB201303556D0

Abstract

A retail transaction system comprising a display module comprises a frame 2 which encloses a tablet computer 9 including a display for displaying product or service information, and a bank card reader 7 connected to the frame, characterised in that the bank card reader is in data communication with the tablet computer such that items selected from the display can be paid for by a customer using the bank card reader. The frame is arranged around the outer edge of the tablet computer to enable the display side of the tablet computer to be clear of any obstruction. The reader is attached to the frame on the opposite side to the tablet computer display. The frame has a strap 8 attached to it to enable the retailer to support the frame and to allow customers to observe the display. The tablet computer is in wireless communication with a computer network which transfers the transaction details and also serves to update the product information. The card reader may be removable from the frame. The display module may be stored in a storage pod 4 or dock which provides data and power connections to the tablet computer and power to the card reader.

Description

RETMLTRANSACTION SYSTEM

BACKGRO(JNI) OF TilE INVENTION This invention relates to a retail transaction system incorporating a portable computing device for transactions in a retail environment. In particular the portable computing device may he a tablet computer, laptop, smartphone, sateUite navigaflon system etc., with a sufficiently large display to he useful iii a retail environment. [he retail environment may inchide any product or 13 service transaction from traditional shopping for goods to buying tickets for events or any other service, such as seating allocation on aeropfties, insurance, warranty upgrade etc..

It is advantageous in designing retail environments for the opportunity for the Is customer to decide and pay for a purchase in the most efficient way possible.

Consumers are coming to expect a more complete and rewarding retail experience which is required to comçete with the alternative of online siioppmg. It is therefore critically i nportant that retail environments can display the products or Scrvices available to their best advantage, enabling the 23 potential consLin ci to appreciate. the range. of products and services available and to interact with the seller and wiLh the display device, Another issue that is important in a retai.l environment is queuing for payment, which when riot properly managed can put consumers off conventional shop retri ensironments is the problem of queuing for payments. Queues can occur rapidly due to surges in customers during lunch breaks and oilier peak traffic times. Payment queues quickly build up due to Limits in the number of.

payment stations or alternatively the number of qualified or auti'iorised staff available, According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided a retail transaction system comprising a display module comprising a frame which encloses a tablet computer including a display for displaying product or service information, and the display module includes a bank card reading means s connected to the frame, characterised in that the bank card reading means is in data communication with the tablet computer such that items selected from the di splay can be paid flu by a customer by use of the bank card reading means debiting the customers bank card.

The frame is arranged around the outer edge of the tablet computer to enable the display side of the tablet computer to be clear of any obstruction. The reader is attached to the frame on the opposite side to the tablet computer display. The frame may also have strap means attached to it, again on the reverse side to the display to enable the retailer to hold the frame and to allow is customers to observe the display.

Preferably the tablet computer is in wireless communication with a computer network, which transfers the transaction details and also serves to update the product information.

The frame may be stowed in a storage pod which provides a connection to a power supply to replenish the tablet computer battery and data communication means for updating and back-up when the wireless communication is not available. The frame is preferably lockable in the storage pod for security to 23 prevent unauthorised removal. The pod may be securely fastened to a fixed sufface.

The card reader is preftrably removably attached to the frame by means of corresponding sliding surfaces on the frame and on the housing of the card reader. The frame includes automatic data connection means 19 to enable data communication between the card reader and the tablet computer when the card reader is in the fitted position on the frame, The automauc connection means 19 may also include power connect jon for re-charging the card reader. The atitomauc data cormection nieans 19 is also connected to the tablet 9 when the tablet is fitted hi the frame 2. This permits the transfer of data between the tablet arid the card reader for the purposes of carrying out a transaction, Once in the connected position the card reader 7 is fixed to the frame by a retaining screw joining the frame 2 and the card reader housing 17 and preventing unauthorised removal of the card reader.

13 The frame preferaNy comprises first and second side parts with top and bottom parts connected thereto. The top and bottom parts are connected to the first and second side parts by corresponding interlocking slots and retaining screws and at e.ast. one of the top or bottom is preferably removable to enable the tablet computer to be replaced. The first side part extends along the rear (non is display) side of the tablet computer to a width which is sufficient to form the sliding means which engage with corresponding slide means on the card reader.

Preferably the retaining screw head is provided on die tablet computer side of the first side part and when fastened is countersunk into the first side part so 23 that the tablet can befitted into the frame so coveiThg the screw head.

Consequently the card reader may not be removed from the frame wiLhout first renioving the tablet computer.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF' THE DRAWINGS

Fig I shows a perspective view of an example of a retail transaction system according to this invention, Fig. 2 shows the same view as Fig. I with the tablet computer removed and the card reader partially removed, Fig. 3 shows an exploded view of the connection means of Fig 2,

S

Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the pod, Fig 5 shows an enlarged view of the rear side of the frame with a top portion removed, Fig 6 shows an enlarged view of the front side of the frame with a top portion removed, Fig. 7 shows a reduced view of the frame with its components parts shown IS separated, Fig 8 shows anenlarged rearview ofthepod showingalockingmeans for the frame, and Fig 9 shows an enlarged view of the locking means of Fig. 8.

In a first embodiment of the invention, shown in Fig 1 to Fig 9, there is provided a retail transaction system 1 comprising a display module 5 23 comprising a frame 2 which encloses a tablet computer 9 including a display for displaying product or service information, and includes a bank card reading means 7 connected to the frame 2. The bank card reading means 7 is in data communication with the tablet computer 9 such that items selected from the display can be paid for by a customer by use of the bank card reading means 3 debiting the customers bank card. The card can be either a debit card, a credit card, or a cash card, or alternatively or additionally a chip and pin reader.

The frame 2 is arranged around the outer edge of the tablet computer 9. This enables the display side 10 of the tablet computer 9 to be clear of any obstruction. The reader 3 is attached to the frame 2 on the opposite side to the s tablet computer dispLay 10. The frame 2 has strap means S attached to it, again on the reverse side to the display 10, to enable the retailer to hold the display module 5 by the frame 2 and to allow customers to observe the display 10.

The strap mean is releasably attached to the frame by first attachment means 12, see Fig 5, and corresponding second releasable attachment means at the opposite end 14, see Fig 7. The retailer can retain control of the system and yet clearly show the display side 10 of the tablet 9 to the consumer and readily change the pages on display using suitable known software and discuss the various products on offer, be shown further details relating to them, and even compare them with competing products from other suppliers. In this way the is retailer and the customer can have an improved and informed conversation which leads to greater opportunity for the customer to find the right product and receive a positive retail experience. The display 10 is ideally a touch screen display with a digitising layer to permit improved interaction between the retailer and the customer. In addition the customer can be invited to mnke selections and browse to display variations options before making a selection.

Preferably the tablet computer 9 is in wireless communication with a computer network, which transfers the transaction details and also serves to update the product information.

The display module S may be stowed in a storage pod 4 which is shown separately in Fig. 4. The pod 4 comprises a recess 16 which coffesponds to the shape of the table computer so that an intimate fit with little play is achieved when the tablet 9 is inserted in the pod 4. Ideally the pod 4 will be a dedicated shape to the model of the tablet 9, but it will be possible for the pod to accommodate alternative models. An improved intimate fit may be achieved with alternative models by means of adaptive inserts, insertable in a generic arid inevitably larger recess 16. The pod 4 provides a connection to a power supply 10 replenish the tablet computer battery arid data communication means for updating and back-up when the wireless communication is not available.

During normal active selling use the retailer will remove the display module 2 from tile pod 4 and hold the display module by the frame 2 with the assistance strap 8. Ideally the front of the hand will grip against the rear of the franie 2 and the back of the retailer hand will bear against the inside surface of the strap 8. The strap may he removed and attached across the opposite diagonal for left 13 handed users, During inactive neriods or for re-charging the display module 5 is returned to the pod 4. in this position the tablet computer 9 still ftnctions and its display 10 is still visible and the display module is able to function as a conventional fixed till. Advantageously the pod is located at a till desk close to access toacash till and other items needed for conventlon2j transactions. The is frame 2. is preferably lockable in the storage pod 4 for security to prevent unauthoriscd removal, The pod may he securely fastened to a fixed surface and.

includes fixed line data and power communication means through external connection ii, which in this embodiment is a USB standard connection, although alternatives would also serve.

Referring now in particular to Fig 3 the card reader 7 is shown in a position partially removed from the frame 2. The reader 7 is removably attached to the frame 2 by means of corresponding sliding surfaces 13, 15 on the frame 2 and on the housing 17 of the card reader 7 respectively. The frame 2 also includes automatic data connection means 19 to enable data communication between the card reader 7 and the tablet computer 9 when the card reader is in the fitted position on the frame 2. [he automatic connection means i9 may also include power connection for re-charging the card reader 7 Once in the connected position the card reader 7 is fixed to the frame 2 by a retaining screw (not 33 shown) joining the frame 2 and the card reader housing 17. Alternatively as shown in FigS a retaining screw (not shown) secures a stop means 2i wheh secures the reader 17 against a stopping surface 23. This prevents the card reading means from being easily separated from the display module as might occur in an attempt by thieves to steal the card reader.

s Referring now to Pig. 5, Fig. 6, and Pig. 7, the frame 2 is made from a first frame side part 25 and a second frame side part 26 with a top frame part 28 and bottom frame part 29 connected thereto. The top and bottom parts 28,29 are connected to the first and second side parts 25,26 by corresponding interlocking slots 30 and retaining screws 31. Thus the top or bottom part 28, 29is removable to enable the tablet computer to be removed from the rest of the frame and replaced following repair or upgrading.

The first side part 25 is noticeably wider than the second side part 26 and extends along the rear (non display) side of the tablet computer 9 to a width is which is sufficient to form the sliding means 13 which engage with corresponding slide means 15 on the card reader 7.

The retaining screw head (not shown) is provided on the tablet computer side of the first side parr 25 and when fastened is countersunk into the first side part 25 so that the tablet 9 can be fitted into the frame 2 so covering the screw head.

Consequently the card reader 7 may not be removed 11Dm the frame 2 without first removing the tablet computer 9. The frame parts in this embodiment are made from an aluminium alloy by metal iijection moulding to achieve the integrally formed connection features. The frames parts may alternatively be 23 made from any sufficiently robust material.

Referring now particularly to Fig. 8, locking means 32 is provided as referred to previously to lock the display module 5 in the docking pod4to prevent against theft of the display module 5. The locking means 32 shown is of the type described in UK patent application number 0802558.7 in the name of the applicant, the contents of the specification of which is incorporated herein by reference, The lock controls a locking latch 33 which operates agifinsi a spring 34, and in the locked position acts against a locking surface 35 of the lower part 29 of the flame 2 to secure the frame 2 and theretbre the display module 5 in the stowed posi Lou in the pod 4. This prevents unauthorised removal of the display module 5 from the pod 4. such as might be attempted by thieves, Thus it can be seen how this retail transaction system can be used to improve the retail experience by its portability allowing it to be used in the proximity of displayed goods and also for use in queues for queue-busting during peak 13 periods as well as for temporary events such as shows, exhibitions, sports events, concerts etc..

It will be appreciated that the term tablet computer can include any computing device which includes a display that is large enough to effectively display is products or services in a retail environment and includes suitably adapted notebooks or laptops and the like.

Every dument cited herein, including any cross referenced or related patent or patent application is hereby incorporated herein by reference in its entirety 23 unless expressly excluded or otherwise limited. The citation of any document is not an admission that it is prior art with respect to any invention disclosed or claimed herein or that it alone, or in any combination with any other reference or references, teaches, suggests or discloses any such invention. Further, to the extent that any meaning or definition of a term in this document conflicts with any meaning or definition of the same term in a document incorporated by reference, the meaning or definition assigned to that term in this document shall govern.

It is to he understood that the above-referenced arrangements are only 33 illustrative of the application for the principes of the present invention, Numerous modifications and altemati ye arrangements can he devised without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. While the present invention has been shown in the drawings and fully described above with particularity and detail in connection with what is presently deemed to be the most practical and preferred example(s) of the invention, it will be apparent to s those of ordinary skill in the art that numerous modifications can be made without departing from the principles and concepts of the invention as set forth herein.

Component List I Retail transaction system 2 Frame 3 Not used 4 Pod Display module 6 Locking means 7 Card reading means Ia 8 Strap

9 Tablet computer

Display side 11 External USB connection means 12 First strap attaching means is 13 Sliding surface 14 Second strap attaching means Sliding surface 16 Recess 17 Reader housing 18 Not used 19 Automatic data connection means Not used 21 Stop means 22 Not used 23 Stopping surface 24 Not used First frame side 26 Second frame side 27 Not used 28 Top frame part 29 Bottom frame part Interlocking slots 31 Retaining screw 32 Locking means 33 Locking latch 34 Spring Locking surface

Claims

Claims 1. A retail transaction system including a display module which comprises: a frame which encloses a tablet computer including a display for displaying product or service information, and a bank payment reading means connected to the frame, characterised in that the bank card reading means is in data communication with the tablet computer such that items selected from the display can be paid for by a customer by use of the bank card reading means.
2. A retail transaction system according to claim I, characterised in that the frame is arranged around the outer edge of the mblet computer to enable the display side of the tablet computer to be clear of any obstruction.
3. A retail transaction system according to claim 2, characterised in that the reader is attached to the frame on the opposite side to the display side of the tablet computer.
4. A retail transaction system according to claim 1, characterised in that the display module includes a strap means attached to the frame on the opposite side to the display side to assist in holding the module.
5. A retail transaction system according to claim 1, characterised in that the tablet computer is in wireless communication with a computer network, which transfers the transaction details and also serves to update product information.
6. A retail transaction system according to claim 1. characterised in that the display module is stowed in a storage pod.
7. A retail transaction system according to claim 6, characterised in that the pod provides a connection to a power supply to replenish the tablet computer battery and data communication means for updating and back-up when the wireless communication is not available.
8. A retail transaction system according to claim 6, characterised in that the s pod provides a power supply to replenish a payment reader battery.
9. A retail transaction system according to claim 6, characterised in that the display frame is lockable in the storage pod for security to prevent unauthorised removal.
10. A retail transaction system according to claim I, characterised in that the card reader is removably attached to the frame.
11. A retail transaction system according to claim 8, characterised in that is removeable attachment means are provided in the form of corresponding sliding surfaces on the frame and on a housing of the card reader.
12. A retail transaction system according to claim I, characterised in that the frame includes automatic data connection means to enable data communication between the card reader and the table computer when the card reader is in the fitted position on the frame.
13. A retail transaction system according to claim 1, characterised in that the frame comprises first and second side parts.
14. A retail transaction system according to claim It, characterised in that the card reader is removably attached to first side part.
15. A retail transaction system according to claim 1, characterised in that the card reader is attached by corresponding sliding means on a card reader housing and the frame.
16. A retail transaction system according to claim 11, characterised in that the first side part is wider than the second side part.
17. A retail transaction system according to claim 1, characterised in that the first and second side parts are connected together by means of top and bottom parts connected thereto at each end thereof.
18. A retail transaction system according to claim 14, characterised in that the cop and bottom parts are connected to the first and second side parts by corresponding interlocking slots and retaining screws.to
19. A retail transaction system according to claim 14, characterised in that at least one of the top or bottom is removable to enable the tablet computer to be replaced.
20. The first side part extends along the rear (non display) side of the tablet is computer to a width which is sufficient to form the sliding means which engage with corresponding slide means on the card reader.