Registers – Systems controlled by data bearing records – Mechanized store
Utility Patent
1997-06-06
2001-01-02
Le, Thien Minh (Department: 2876)
Registers
Systems controlled by data bearing records
Mechanized store
C235S462010
Utility Patent
active
06168079
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Data collection devices, such as customer information terminals, consumer assistant terminals, pen-based data terminals, hand held scanners and the like, have been finding widespread use in a variety of applications. One recently popular application for data collection devices has been as a data collection device for consumers as they shop in a store. Typically, the data collection device is mounted to a shopping cart, and used to advertise products as the consumer shops, scan product codes to identify the price of a product, keep a running total of purchases, store shopping lists, assist a consumer in locating a desired product, and provide other helpful conveniences.
In recent years, several forces have been at work in the field of consumer retailing. First, strong competition between stores has led retailers to find new ways to attract and maintain customer loyalty. Consumers desire well-stocked convenient stores, fast service, low prices and high quality goods. In addition, manufacturers are seeking to reach targeted consumers with product advertising and coupons. Accordingly, the data collection device can help to serve the foregoing needs of retailers, consumers and manufacturers. The present invention provides means for mounting a data collection device to a cart, wall or the like, which enhances the convenience of the data collection device for both the consumer and the retailer. In addition, the present invention provides an improved system for providing power to the data collection device as it is alternatively used in remote and docked positions.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
In accordance with the present invention, there is provided a customer information terminal system including a host computer for storing customer shopping data for a plurality of customers; a customer information terminal having a input means, a barcode reader, data communication means for communicating with the host computer, display means, and a mechanical coupling means for coupling the terminal to a docking support; a central docking area having a plurality of docking supports; and a plurality of shopping carts, each cart including support means for supporting the terminal on the shopping cart.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a docking member for receiving a data collection device. The docking member includes mounting means for mounting the docking member to a support structure, such as a shopping cart or wall, and a support means for supporting the data collection device in a manner which allows for convenient remote use of the data collection device.
In accordance with another aspect of the present invention, there is provided an interlock switching system which allows for alternative sources of power to data collection device. An internal power source supplies power to the data collection device when it is used in a remote position, and an external power source supplies power to the data collection device when it is used in a docked position.
An advantage of the present invention is the provision of a customer information terminal system which provides communication between a host computer system, which stores customer shopping data, and a portable customer information terminal.
Another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a customer information terminal system including a plurality of docking members for supporting a customer information terminal, and for changing the source of power supplied to the customer information terminal.
Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a docking member for conveniently locating a data collection device on a support structure such as a cart, wall or the like.
Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a docking member for a data collection device, which allows the data collection device to be conveniently removed from a support structure for remote use or storage.
Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a docking member for a data collection device, which provides an easy, convenient and pleasant shopping experience.
Still another advantage of the present invention is the provision of a docking member for a data collection device, which allows store personnel to conveniently remove the data collection device from the cart before the consumer exits the store with the cart.
Yet another advantage of the present invention is the provision of an interlock switching system which automatically changes the source of power supplied to a data collection device, depending on whether the data collection device is being used from a remote position or a docked position.
Still other advantages and benefits of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon a reading and understanding of the following detailed description.
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Becker Robert J
Canda Gregory R.
Ramsey Roger H.
VanHorn David B.
Le Thien Minh
Renner, Otto, Boiselle & Sklar, P.L.L.
Telxon Corporation
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