WO2010106360A2

WO2010106360A2 - Improvements in or relating to electronic financial transaction point of sale systems

Info

Publication number: WO2010106360A2
Application number: PCT/GB2010/050450
Authority: WO
Inventors: Mark Stewart; Garry Knox
Original assignee: Tailwind Solutions Limited
Priority date: 2009-03-17
Filing date: 2010-03-16
Publication date: 2010-09-23
Also published as: WO2010106360A3; GB201004338D0; GB0904545D0; GB2468771A

Abstract

The invention provides an apparatus (10) for mounting at least one electronic financial transaction (EFT) data input device (34) to a surface. The apparatus (10) comprises a mounting platform (12) which is fixedly attachable to said surface; and at least one adaptor (14) which, in use, receives and secures a first EFT data input device (34) thereto, wherein said at least one adaptor (14) is detachably mountable to said mounting platform (12).

Description

Improvements in or relating to Electronic Financial Transaction Point of Sale Systems

The present invention relates to the field of electronic financial transactions (EFT). More particularly, the present invention relates to the field of EFT point-of-sale (EFTPOS) terminals and electronic point-of-sale systems (EPOS).

Known EFT systems employ credit cards with relevant data encoded on magnetic strips, together with EFTPOS terminals or EPOS systems, such terminals and systems being equipped with card readers for reading the magnetic stripe data and telecoms functions for authorising payment transactions. More recently, "magstripe" cards have begun to be replaced by "smart cards" (also known as IC cards or chip cards) with embedded microprocessors, which communicate with the EFTPOS terminals and EPOS systems via contact with a suitable read head. Smart cards also enable Chip & PIN technology, whereby users identity is verified by entry of a personal identity number (PIN). PIN entry devices (PEDs, or "PIN pads"), generally comprising a card reader, keypad and visual display, have become ubiquitous wherever Chip & PIN EFT sytems are employed.

In pay-at-counter environments, card readers or PEDs are commonly placed on the counter, or mounted on a stand or pedestal on the counter and connected to an EFTPOS terminal or EPOS system.

While these EFTPOS terminals and EPOS systems simplify financial transactions, and are thus convenient to both retailers and consumers, their use also introduces some additional problems. For example, the card readers or PEDs are often easily dislodged from the counter or stand and become damaged. Additionally, the card readers or PEDs are often stolen and replaced with fraudulent devices. This is obviously problematic for both the retailer and the consumer.

Furthermore, in the case where the PED is mounted to a stand or pedestal on a counter, it is very costly to the retailer when it becomes necessary to upgrade and replace the PED with newer technology, as it is generally necessary to replace the stand/pedestal, PED and associated data/power cables with all new componentry.

It is an object of the present invention to obviate or mitigate one or more of the disadvantages referred to above.

According to a first aspect of the invention there is provided an apparatus for mounting at least one EFT data input device to a surface comprising: a mounting platform being fixedly attachable to said surface; and at least one adaptor which, in use, receives and secures a first EFT data input device thereto, wherein said at least one adaptor is detachably mountable to said mounting platform.

The term "electronic financial transaction (EFT) data input device" used throughout the description is considered to be a device which facilitates data entry to electronic financial transaction point-of-sale (EFTPOS) terminals and electronic point-of-sale systems (EPOS).

Preferably, said adaptor fixedly secures said first EFT data input device thereto.

Preferably, said apparatus further comprises a locking device for locking said adaptor to said mounting platform. Preferably, said locking device is provided on one of said mounting platform and said adaptor.

Preferably, one of said mounting platform and said adaptor includes a recessed portion and the other of said mounting platform and said adaptor includes a protruding portion, wherein, in use, said recessed portion receives said protruding portion therein when said adaptor is mounted to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said recessed portion and said protruding portion are complementary in shape, such that said adaptor is securely mounted to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said recessed portion and said protruding portion are sized such that, in use, an interference fit is obtained between said recessed portion and said protruding portion.

Preferably, one of said mounting platform and said adaptor includes an aperture or recess for housing said locking device.

Preferably, said locking device is fixedly attachable to said mounting platform or said adaptor.

Preferably, in use, said locking device is configured to lock one of said recessed portion or said protruding portion to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said locking device is lockable with a key. Preferably, said apparatus comprises a plurality of adaptors, wherein each adaptor is configured to receive and secure a specific EFT data input device thereto.

Preferably, each adaptor has a recessed portion or a protruding portion which is complementary in shape to said recessed portion or said protruding portion of said mounting platform, such that any one of said plurality of adaptors can be securely mounted to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said apparatus further comprises a detachable handle attachable to one of said mounting platform and said adaptor.

Preferably, said apparatus further comprises an attachment device for attaching a second EFT data input device thereto.

Preferably, said attachment device is configured such that said second EFT data input device is removably attachable to said apparatus.

Preferably, said attachment device is provided on one of said mounting platform and said adaptor.

Preferably, said apparatus includes a detachable EFT data input device.

Preferably, said first and/or second EFT data input device is one of the group consisting of magnetic stripe card readers, personal identity number (PIN) entry devices (PEDs, or "PIN pads"), contactless card readers, biometric devices and cheque scanners. Preferably, said apparatus further comprises a stand, wherein said stand is fixedly attachable to said surface and said mounting platform is fixedly attachable to said stand.

Preferably, said mounting platform is pivotably attachable to said stand.

Preferably, the height of said stand is adjustable.

According to a second aspect of the invention there is provided an EFT payment system comprising: an apparatus according to the first aspect of the invention; and a first EFT data input device mountable to said at least one adaptor of said apparatus.

Preferably, said system comprises a plurality of adaptors, wherein each adaptor is configured to receive and secure a specific EFT data input device thereto.

Preferably, said EFT payment system further comprises a second EFT data input device attachable to said attachment device of said apparatus.

Preferably, said first and/or second EFT data input device is one of the group consisting of magnetic stripe card readers, personal identity number (PIN) entry devices (PEDs, or "PIN pads"), contactless card readers, biometric devices and cheque scanners. Preferably, said EFT payment system further comprises a stand, wherein said stand is fixedly attachable to said surface and said mounting platform of said apparatus is fixedly attachable to said stand.

Preferably, said mounting platform of said apparatus is pivotably attachable to said stand.

Preferably, the height of said stand is adjustable.

Preferably, said EFT payment system further comprises a detachable handle attachable to one of said mounting platform and said adaptor of said apparatus.

According to a third aspect of the invention there is provided an EFT data input device mounting apparatus comprising: a mounting platform which, in use, is used to mount a first EFT data input device thereto; and an attachment device which, in use, is used to attach a second EFT data input device to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said attachment device is configured such that said second EFT data input device is removably attachable to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said apparatus includes a detachable EFT data input device.

Preferably, said first and/or second EFT data input device is one of the group consisting of magnetic stripe card readers, personal identity number (PIN) entry devices (PEDs, or "PIN pads"), contactless card readers, biometric devices and cheque scanners. Preferably, said apparatus further comprises a stand, wherein said mounting platform is fixedly attachable to said stand.

Preferably, said mounting platform is pivotably attachable to said stand.

Preferably, the height of said stand is adjustable.

According to a fourth aspect of the invention there is provided an EFT data input device mounting apparatus comprising: a mounting platform which, in use, is used to mount a first EFT data input device thereto; and a locking device for locking said first EFT data input device to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said locking device is lockable with a key.

Preferably, said apparatus further comprises an attachment device which, in use, is used to attach a second EFT data input device to said mounting platform.

Preferably, said apparatus includes a detachable EFT data input device.

Preferably, said mounting platform is pivotably attachable to said stand.

Preferably, the height of said stand is adjustable.

Embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, by reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a top perspective view of a mounting platform of an apparatus for mounting an EFT data input device;

Figure 2 is a bottom perspective view of the mounting platform of figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a top perspective view of the mounting platform of figure 1 fitted with a locking device and a handle;

Figure 4 is a cross sectional side view of the mounting platform of figure 3;

Figures 5a to 5c are bottom perspective views of adaptors of an apparatus for mounting an EFT data input device;

Figure 6 is a partial cross sectional side view of the platform of figure 4 fitted with the adaptor of figure 5c mounted with an EFT data input device;

Figures 7a and 7b are perspective views of the mounting platform of figure 3 mounted to a stand; Figure 7c is a perspective view of the mounting platform of figure 3 mounted to a stand in an alternate manner to figures 7a and 7b; and

Figures 8a and 8b are top and bottom perspective views of the mounting platform of figure 3 mounted with a second EFT data input device.

Figures 1 to 6 illustrate an apparatus 10 for mounting electronic financial transaction (EFT) data input devices, such as magnetic stripe card readers, personal identity number (PIN) entry devices (PEDs, or "PIN pads"), contactless card readers, biometric devices and cheque scanners, to a surface. The apparatus 10 comprises a mounting platform 12 which is fixedly attachable to a surface (not shown) and at least one adaptor 14 which, in use, receives and secures an EFT data input device thereto.

As illustrated in figures 1 to 4, the mounting platform 12 has a rectangular- shaped body 16 with a recessed portion 18. The recessed portion 18 has a first portion 18a which is configured to receive a complementary shaped portion of the adaptor 14 (see below), and a second portion 18b which is configured to house a locking device 20 (see figures 3 and 4).

The first and second portions 18a, 18b of the recessed portion 18 include mounting portions 18c, 18d for mounting the locking device 20 thereto (see figure 4). The second portion 18b also includes an aperture 18e to allow operation of the locking device 20 from the rear of the mounting platform 12 (see figure 4).

On the rear of the body 16 there is provided a stand attachment portion 22 which, as illustrated in figures 7a and 7b, is used to attach the mounting platform 12 to a stand 24. The stand attachment portion 22 has apertures 26 which allow the mounting platform 12 to be bolted to the stand 24, i.e. such that the mounting platform 12 is fixedly attachable thereto. The mounting platform 12 is also pivotably adjustable with respect to the stand 24 to allow ease of use by the operator. Furthermore, the stand 24 has a base portion 27 which is used to support the stand 24 on a surface (not shown). The base portion 27 (and stand 24) may be secured to a surface by a fastening device (not shown) such as screws, or other suitable fastening members. As illustrated in figure 7c, the mounting platform 12 may be attached to the stand 24 in one of two positions, i.e. the mounting platform 12 in figure 7c is rotated 180 degrees from the attachment illustrated in figures 7a and 7b.

Figure 5a illustrates an adaptor 14 for receiving and securing a first EFT data input device thereto. The adaptor 14 has a body portion 28 with a protruding portion 30. The protruding portion 30 is complementary in shape to the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12. The protruding portion 30 includes a lock engagement portion 30a for engaging with the locking device 20.

The adaptor 14 also includes connecting portions 32 located at opposite ends of the body portion 28 which, in use, are used to secure an EFT data input device thereto. The connecting portions 32 include a first portion 32a which abuts the EFT data input device and a second portion 32b which is in the form of a resilient clip 32c which is releasably engageable with the EFT data input device.

Figures 5b and 5c illustrate alternate embodiments of the adaptor 14. The adaptors 114, 214 of figures 5b and 5c have body portions 128, 228 which are shaped to receive and secure a specific EFT data input device thereto. The adaptors 114, 214 also include connecting portions 132, 232 for engaging and securing a specific EFT data input device thereto. The connecting portions 132, 232 include at least one resilient clip 232c which releasably engage with the EFT data input device. The connecting portions 132 of adaptor 114 (figure 5b) includes at least one aperture 132d for receiving a screw, or the like, such that the adaptor 114 is screwed to the EFT data input device.

The adaptors 14, 114, 214 (figures 5a, 5b and 5c) each include identical protruding portions 30.

Figure 6 illustrates a first EFT data input device 34 mounted to the mounting platform 12. In the embodiment illustrated here, the first EFT data input device 34 is secured to the adaptor 214 (figure 5c) and locked in place with the mounting platform 12 via the locking device 20.

In order to mount the first EFT data input device 34 to the mounting platform 12, the first EFT data input device 34 is firstly mounted to the adaptor 214. The adaptor 214 is attached and secured to the rear side of the first EFT data input device 34 via the connecting portions 232. As illustrated in figure 6, the protruding portion 30 protrudes from the rear of the adaptor 214. With the adaptor 214 securely attached to the first EFT data input device 34, the first EFT data input device 34 and the adaptor 214 are together mounted to the mounting platform 12. In order to mount the adaptor 214 and first EFT data input device 34 to the mounting platform 12, the protruding portion 30 of the adaptor 214 is simply inserted into the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12 to engage with the locking device 20.

As illustrated in figure 6, the locking device 20 is mounted within the second portion 18b of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12. The locking device 20 has mounting portions 20a, 20b which engage with the mounting portions 18c, 18d of the first and second portions 18a, 18b of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12 to secure the locking device 20 therein.

In the embodiment illustrated here, when the protruding portion 30 of the adaptor 214 is inserted into the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18, the lock engagement portion 30a of the protruding portion 30 engages with the locking device 20.

In the present embodiment, the locking device 20 is a latch-type lock which is configured to allow the protruding portion 30 to engage a locking portion 20c by simply pressing the protruding portion 30 of the adaptor 214 firmly into the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12. This motion forces the locking portion 30a of the protruding portion 30 into engagement with the locking portion 20c of the locking device 20 thus preventing removal of the adaptor 214 and EFT data input device 34 from the mounting platform 12.

When the first EFT data input device 34 is mounted to the mounting platform 12 in this manner it can only be removed by unlocking the locking device 20. The locking device 20 is accessed via aperture 18e on the rear of the mounting platform 12. In this embodiment a key-operated locking device has been illustrated. However, it should be appreciated that any suitable type of locking device may be used to lock the protruding portion 30 of the adaptor 214 in engagement with the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12.

With reference to figures 3 and 7a to 7c, the mounting platform 12 is also provided with a detachable handle 36 which allows a user to move the mounting platform 12 during use. For example, the detachable handle 36 may be used to pivot the mounting platform 12 on the stand 24. The detachable handle 36 may be secured to the mounting platform 12 by a fastening device (not shown) attached to fastening points 38 located on the rear of the mounting platform 12, as illustrated in figure 2. As illustrated in figure 2, the detachable handle 36 may be attached at either end of the mounting platform 12.

With reference to figures 8a and 8b, the apparatus 10 may further comprise an attachment device 40 for attaching a second EFT data input device 42 to the mounting platform 12. As best illustrated in figure 8b, the attachment device 40 may be attached to the mounting platform 12. The attachment device 40 is removably attachable to the mounting platform 12 by, for example, screwing the attachment device 40 thereto. In the embodiment illustrated here, the attachment device 40 may be attached to the mounting platform 12 at fastening portions 38. In the embodiment illustrated in figure 8b, the detachable handle 36 is located at one end of the mounting platform 12 and the attachment device 40 is located at the other end.

The second EFT data input device 42 may be attached to the attachment device 40 by a fastening device such as screws. However, it should be appreciated that the second EFT data input device may be attached to the attachment device 40 by any suitable means.

The second EFT data input device 42 may be a magnetic stripe card reader, a personal identity number (PIN) entry device (PEDs, or "PIN pads"), a contactless card reader, a biomethc device or a cheque scanner.

The apparatus 10 therefore obviates or mitigates the disadvantages of previous proposals, by securely mounting the EFT data input device 34 to the mounting platform 12. Therefore, the EFT data input device 34 may not be easily dislodged from the counter or stand and become damaged.

Furthermore, as the EFT data input device 34 is locked to the mounting platform 12 and may only be removed by unlocking the locking device 20, the EFT data input device 34 may not be easily stolen.

Additionally, since the mounting platform 12 is configured to receive any adaptor having the protruding portion 30 described above, the apparatus 10 is capable of mounting a large number of different types of EFT data input devices without the need to replace remaining componentry. The apparatus 10 is capable of mounting various EFT data input devices by simply using a specific adaptor which is shaped and configured to receive and secure the specific EFT data input device thereto. Since the protruding portions 30 of each adaptor are identical, each adaptor is mounted to the mounting platform 12 in the same manner described above.

Modifications and improvements may be made to the above without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, although in the above embodiment the apparatus 10 has been described as having a locking device 20 for locking the adaptor 14 in engagement with the mounting platform 12, it should be appreciated that the adaptor 14 and the mounting platform 12 may not be required to be in a locked engagement with one another. It should be appreciated that the adaptor 14 may simply be mounted to the mounting platform 12 in a non-locking manner. For example, the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 and the protruding portion 30 may be sized such that, in use, an interference fit is obtained between the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 and the protruding portion 30 such that the adaptor 14 is secured to the mounting platform 12, but not locked thereto.

Furthermore, although the locking device 20 has been described as a key- operable latch-type lock it should be appreciated that any suitable locking device, key-operated or otherwise, could be used to lock the adaptor 14 in engagement with the mounting platform 12.

Also, although the locking device 20 has been described above as being provided on the mounting platform 12, it should be appreciated that a locking device may be provided on the adaptor 14. In this case, the adaptor 14 would include a recessed portion to receive the locking device 20 therein.

Furthermore, although in the embodiment described above the mounting platform 12 has been described as having a recessed portion 18 and the adaptor 14 has been described as having a protruding portion 30, it should be appreciated that the mounting platform may have a protruding portion and the adaptor may have a recessed portion.

Also, although the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 and protruding portion 30 have been described above as being complementary in shape, it should be appreciated that it is not essential that the protruding portion 30 and the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 are complementary in shape.

Furthermore, the apparatus 10 may be provided with a plurality of adaptors, wherein each adaptor is configured to receive and secure a specific type of EFT data input device thereto. This allows a plurality of different EFT data input devices to be attached to the mounting platform 12. Thus the apparatus 10 is capable of mounting a plurality of specific types of EFT data input devices thereto. Each of the plurality of adaptors includes a protruding portion 30 which is complementary in shape to the first portion 18a of the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12.

Furthermore, the height of the stand may be adjustable.

Also, the apparatus 10 may additionally comprise a universal serial bus (USB) hub to allow the EFT data input device to drive one or more additional peripherals. The apparatus 10 may also comprise a secure key storage module for internet protocol (IP) and/or transaction authentication. The apparatus 10 may also comprise a powerline Ethernet bridge to allow Ethernet connectivity via mains power supply. The apparatus 10 may also comprise a global positioning system (GPS) which allows the apparatus 10 to be tracked for logistical purposes, to be tracked if stolen or to validate transaction location.

The apparatus 10 may also comprise a privacy shield which may be mounted to the platform 12 to shield from view a users PIN number, or the like.

The apparatus 10 may also comprise one or more mounts (not shown) upon which advertisements or promotional material may be placed. The mounts may be detachably fixed to the apparatus 10. The mounts may be in the form of a plastic sheet which provides advertisement or promotional space. The mount may be located around the platform 12. Preferably, the mount is a plastic or laminate sheet having an aperture located approximately in the centre thereof. The aperture is generally in the shape of the lower surface of the adaptor 14. That is, the aperture has a shape that matches the outline of the adaptor 14 when viewed from below. The mount may be fixed to the apparatus 10 by placing the mount between the adaptor 14 and the platform 12. The aperture allows the protruding portion 30 of the adaptor 14 to pass therethrough and engage with the recessed portion 18 of the mounting platform 12, as described above. The mount is thus prevented from being removed from the apparatus 10, unless the adaptor 14 is removed. The mount may include one or more radio-frequency identification (RFID) tags, or the like, located thereon, or therein. The RFID tags may be used to transfer electronic data and/or information to a user. The electronic data and/or information may be transferred to, for example, a user's mobile telephone, or the like. The data may be redeemable voucher, coupon, or the like.

Claims

1. An apparatus for mounting at least one EFT data input device to a surface comprising: a mounting platform being fixedly attachable to said surface; and at least one adaptor which, in use, receives and secures a first EFT data input device thereto, wherein said at least one adaptor is detachably mountable to said mounting platform.

2. An apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein one of said mounting platform and said adaptor includes a recessed portion and the other of said mounting platform and said adaptor includes a protruding portion, wherein, in use, said recessed portion receives said protruding portion therein when said adaptor is mounted to said mounting platform.

3. An apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said recessed portion and said protruding portion are complementary in shape, such that said adaptor is securely mounted to said mounting platform.

4. An apparatus according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein said recessed portion and said protruding portion are sized such that, in use, an interference fit is obtained between said recessed portion and said protruding portion.

5. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein said apparatus further comprises a locking device for locking said adaptor to said mounting platform.

6. An apparatus according to claim 5, wherein said locking device is provided on one of said mounting platform and said adaptor.

7. An apparatus according to claim 5 or claim 6, wherein one of said mounting platform and said adaptor includes an aperture or recess for housing said locking device.

8. An apparatus according to any of claims 5 to 7, wherein said locking device is fixedly attachable to said mounting platform or said adaptor.

9. An apparatus according to any of claims 5 to 8, wherein, in use, said locking device is configured to lock one of said recessed portion or said protruding portion to said mounting platform.

10. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein said apparatus comprises a plurality of adaptors, wherein each adaptor is configured to receive and secure a specific EFT data input device thereto.

11. An apparatus according to claim 10, wherein each adaptor has a recessed portion or a protruding portion which is complementary in shape to said recessed portion or said protruding portion of said mounting platform, such that any one of said plurality of adaptors can be securely mounted to said mounting platform.

12. An apparatus according to claim 10 or claim 11 , wherein said apparatus further comprises an attachment device for attaching a second EFT data input device thereto.

13. An apparatus according to claim 12, wherein said attachment device is configured such that said second EFT data input device is removably attachable to said apparatus.

14. An apparatus according to claim 12 or claim 13, wherein said attachment device is provided on one of said mounting platform and said adaptor.

15. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein said apparatus further comprises a stand, wherein said stand is fixedly attachable to said surface and said mounting platform is fixedly attachable to said stand.

16. An apparatus according to any preceding claim, wherein said apparatus includes a detachable EFT data input device.

17. An EFT payment system comprising: an apparatus according to any of claims 1 to 16; and a first EFT data input device mountable to said at least one adaptor of said apparatus.

18. An EFT data input device mounting apparatus comprising: a mounting platform which, in use, is used to mount a first EFT data input device thereto; and an attachment device which, in use, is used to attach a second EFT data input device to said mounting platform.

19. An EFT data input device mounting apparatus according to claim 18, wherein said attachment device is configured such that said second EFT data input device is removably attachable to said mounting platform.

20. An EFT data input device mounting apparatus comprising: a mounting platform which, in use, is used to mount a first EFT data input device thereto; and a locking device for locking said first EFT data input device to said mounting platform.

21. An EFT data input device mounting apparatus according to claim

20, wherein said apparatus further comprises an attachment device which, in use, is used to attach a second EFT data input device to said mounting platform.

22. An EFT data input device mounting apparatus according to claim

21 , wherein said attachment device is configured such that said second EFT data input device is removably attachable to said mounting platform.