Abstract: A merchandise sales processing apparatus communicates with a money changer machine for automatically dispensing cash, acquires a sales figure in a transaction, acquires a differential amount in the money changer occurred in the transaction from the money changer, decides if the acquired sales figure matches the acquired price of the fluctuating currency, and acquires a transaction date and time on the transaction if the sales figure does not match the differential amount, and stores the transaction date and time in the memory.

Abstract: A system, such as a checkout station, for positively identifying items includes a reader that reads coded information affixed to an item. The system further includes a capture module, such as a camera. The capture module captures a visual characteristic of the item to be identified, such as the color, size, shape, or texture of the item. The visual characteristic of the item is compared with visual characteristics of candidate items stored within a database. If multiple items within the database are associated with the item to be identified, the images of the candidate items may be displayed to a user. The user may then select the candidate item that most resembles the item to be identified. The coded information of the item being identified is then compared with coded information of the selected item within the database. If the coded information of both items corresponds, the item is positively identified and is accepted for purchase by a consumer.

Abstract: A retail terminal includes a scale for weighing items to be purchased. The scale is operative to obtain a settled or stable weight of items placed thereon either after a predetermined time delay from when the items were placed on the scale or the receipt of an actuation signal from a trigger or actuator. This allows time for the scanning of an item of the items on the scale via a scanner of the retail terminal generally associated with the lifting of the item from the scale in order for the item to be scanned.

Abstract: A self-calibrating photoelectric control system for use in a checkstand to control the starting and stopping of a conveyer belt utilized to move products closer to a checkout clerk. The self-calibrating photoelectric control system including a light source for emitting a light beam having an intensity, a photoelectric sensor for receiving light from the light source and for generating an output signal when the received light is equal to or greater than a light-state threshold of the photoelectric sensor; and a calibration circuit for automatically calibrating the sensitivity of the photoelectric control system to partial beam breaks after occurrence of any one of a plurality of predefined events. The calibration circuit is operative for performing a calibration process which adjusts the intensity of the light beam emitted by the light source such that the intensity is slightly greater than the light-state threshold of the photoelectric sensor.

Abstract: A system tracks items in the checkout area of a self-checkout terminal to reduce the likelihood of fraud in item substitution. The system includes a plurality of weight sensors operatively coupled to a checkout area for sensing a distributed weight of an item placed in a checkout area; and an item locator coupled to the plurality of weight sensors for determining a location for the item from the distributed weight as sensed by the sensors. The item locator identifies a location for an item from the weight differentials sensed at the weight sensors in response to movement of an item within the checkout area. The weight distribution and location data may be correlated to the item identifier for a scanned item so the items in the checkout area may be tracked. A security application program associated with the self-checkout terminal may be coupled to the system of the present invention to identify items placed on the checkout area by location as well as weight.

Abstract: An article data reading apparatus having a first display 4 receiving operational entry from a customer or store clerk as an operator of the apparatus permits setting of operation mode to customer operation mode or store-clerk operation mode. In the customer operation mode, customer operation information relating to operations by the customer when a customer becomes the operator is displayed on the first display 4; in the store-clerk operation mode, store-clerk operation information relating to operations by the store clerk when a store clerk becomes the operator is displayed on the first display 4. Thus, read operability for both customer and store clerk can be improved.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to systems and methods relating to a customizable self-checkout system including a self-checkout device for processing items for purchase by a customer, a processor for controlling the operations of the self-checkout device, and a memory for receiving customer profile data. The processor adapts the operation of the self-checkout system in accordance with the customer profile data.

Abstract: A method for evaluating customer service performance is implemented by a computer software application. Customers are presented with transaction specific questions to evaluate particular employees. A customer's response to a survey question is stored on a computer. Different performance indicators are calculated for the employee based on the responses to the customer surveys. The employee is evaluated based on these performance indicators.

Abstract: A checkout device with a barcode reader and electronic article surveillance (EAS) system. The checkout device includes a barcode reader having substantially horizontal and vertical apertures for reading barcode labels on products, and a security label sensing and deactivation system for deactivating security labels on the products including a coil below the horizontal aperture. The security label sensing and deactivation system has a first range of operation which is increased by the EAS system by increasing field strength of the coil, or by adding a second coil adjacent the vertical aperture. An audible or visible signaling device notifies an operator that the barcode labels have been read and that the security labels have been deactivated.

Abstract: A method of operating a checkout terminal includes the step of detecting generation of a peripheral-request control signal. The peripheral-request control signal including instructions for operating a retail peripheral device. The method also includes the step of generating a dispenser control signal in response to the detecting step. Moreover, the method includes the step of operating a currency dispenser so as to dispense an amount of change due to a customer in response to the dispenser control signal. The currency dispenser is distinct from the retail peripheral device. A checkout terminal is also disclosed.

Abstract: Systems and techniques for more efficient checkout are described. A triangular carousel having a relatively small footprint is employed proximate a bar code scanner and point of sale (POS) terminal so that a checker can efficiently load scanned items into bags, and a customer on the other side of the checkout counter and proximate the bar code scanner can also efficiently load filled bags into his or her shopping cart.

Abstract: A transport apparatus transports objects from one location to another, and in particular between a check station and a conveyor system. The apparatus has an arm that is structured and arranged to be located in a bagwell near the check station. The arm is telescoping and is contained in a base unit. A platform for receiving baggage is coupled to a free end of the arm and extends over the base unit when the apparatus is retracted. The platform has a roller that bears on the floor. As the arm extends and retracts, the platform rolls on the floor. Internal roller bearings allow the arm to telescope. The arm and the platform can be adjusted in height and the widths of the base unit and platform can be adjusted to the bagwell.

Abstract: The invention relates to a counter (10) for presenting and/or selling goods. The aim of the invention is to provide a means of displacing a module consisting of a system of joint mechanisms (22) which are associated with a glass pane (21) by means of fixing elements (23) between a closed position (20) in which the inside of the counter (13) is covered and an open position (20′) in which it is exposed. Said joint mechanisms (22) are mounted on the supports (15) of the counter (10) in such a way that they can pivot about a horizontal pin (18). In order to ensure that the modular unit is secure in the open position (20′) the joint mechanism (22) is provided with an extended arm (24) which has the swivel bearing (18) on its lower arm section. During the transition from the closed position (20) to the open position (20′), the center of gravity (27) of the module in relation to the swivel pin (18) moves to the opposite side (27′).

Abstract: A self-service checkout terminal includes a terminal base having (i) a user side on which a user is positioned during operation of the self-service checkout terminal, (ii) a rear side which is opposite the user side, (iii) an upstream end portion, and (iv) a downstream end portion which is opposite the upstream end portion. The self-service checkout terminal includes a scanner for scanning a product code associated with an item for purchase. The scanner is secured to the upstream end portion of the terminal base. The self-service checkout terminal also includes a printer secured to the user side of the terminal base. The self-service checkout terminal further includes an item collection surface for supporting the item for purchase subsequent to scanning thereof. The item collection surface being secured to the downstream end portion of the terminal base.

Abstract: A system tracks items in the checkout area of a self-checkout terminal to reduce the likelihood of fraud in item substitution. The system includes a plurality of weight sensors operatively coupled to a checkout area for sensing a distributed weight of an item placed in a checkout area; and an item locator coupled to the plurality of weight sensors for determining a location for the item from the distributed weight as sensed by the sensors. The item locator identifies a location for an item from the weight differentials sensed at the weight sensors in response to movement of an item within the checkout area. The weight distribution and location data may be correlated to the item identifier for a scanned item so the items in the checkout area may be tracked. A security application program associated with the self-checkout terminal may be coupled to the system of the present invention to identify items placed on the checkout area by location as well as weight.

Abstract: The apparatus is employed for moving baggage from a scale to a conveyor system. A support member with upper rollers is supported on the scale. Also provided is a bridge base and a bridge having one end pivotally coupled to the forward end of the bridge base. Both the bridge base and bridge have upper rollers. The bridge may be moved to an upward extending position when not in use and to a lower position extending to and supported by the conveyor system such that bags may be placed on the support member, weighed, and then moved by way of the rollers of the support member, the bridge base and the bridge to the conveyor system. In one embodiment, a biasing means is provided for urging the bridge to its upward extending position. A releasable latch is provided for securing the bridge in its lower position. When the latch is released, the biasing means moves the bridge to its upward extending position.

Abstract: A baggage receiving device specifically designed for airport passenger luggage handling. It provides a telescoping conveyor system which can be installed in an airport terminal in connection with an airline ticket counter to assist airline personnel in initially processing a passenger's luggage without the need to lift the luggage between the baggage platform of the counter and the take-away conveyor running behind the ticket counter.

Abstract: An object of the invention is to reduce necessary costs in a merchandise retail store, and to reduce customer inconvenience and waiting time. A customer entering a merchandise retail store borrows a RFID portable terminal at the store entrance. The customer selects a sample commodity from a store sales area, and a commodity code is read out from a wireless tag in a wireless tag label and stored with the RFID portable terminal, which simultaneously relays that information to the outside. An information-processing apparatus in the store receives this message, and prepares the commodity that the customer wishes to purchase. The customer returns the RFID portable terminal to the sales counter, settles payment, and receives his wrapped commodity.

Abstract: A method of operating a self-service checkout system which includes a base having a scanner secured thereto includes the step of securing an itemization-only retail terminal to the base. The method also includes the step of coupling the itemization-only retail terminal to the scanner. The method further includes the step of operating the itemization-only retail terminal and the scanner so as to allow a first user to enter a first number of items for purchase into the self-service checkout system for a first time period while (i) the itemization-only retail terminal is secured to the base, and (ii) the itemization-only retail terminal is coupled to the scanner. Moreover, the method includes the step of detaching the itemization-only retail terminal from the base. Yet further, the method includes the step of decoupling the itemization-only retail terminal from the scanner. The method further includes the step of securing a full-tendering retail terminal to the base.

Abstract: A method of operating a self-service checkout terminal includes the step of detecting an improper-terminal-use activity and generating an improper-use control signal in response thereto. The method also includes the step of operating a status device in a first mode of operation in response to generation of the improper-use control signal. The method further includes the step of updating an electronic log value in response to generation of the improper-use control signal. Moreover, the method includes the step of generating a first intervention signal if the log value has a predetermined relationship to a log threshold. The method also includes the step of operating the status device in a second mode of operation in response to generation of the first intervention control signal, wherein the first mode of operation is different from the second mode of operation.

Abstract: A method of operating a self-service checkout terminal is herein. The self-service checkout terminal has a housing, a stationary scanner secured to the housing, and a hand-held scanner having a holder associated therewith. The hand-held scanner is movable relative to the housing. The method includes the step of detecting when the hand-held scanner is removed from the holder and generating a removed-from-holder control signal in response thereto. The method also includes the step of disabling the stationary scanner in response to generation of the removed-from-holder control signal. The method further includes the step of generating a first item-entered control signal when a first product code associated with a first item for purchase is read by the hand-held scanner. Moreover, the method includes the step of marking the first item for purchase so as to indicate that the first product code was read by the hand-held scanner.

Abstract: A self-service checkout terminal includes a base having a bagwell defined therein. The terminal also includes a first counter supported on the base. The first counter has a first surface which is positioned at a first height. The terminal further includes a scanner secured at a first end of the first counter. The terminal yet further includes an automated teller machine secured at a second end of the first counter. Moreover, the terminal includes an arcuate shaped second counter secured to the first counter, the second counter having a second surface which is positioned at a second height. The first counter has a bagwell opening defined therein at a location interposed between the scanner and the automated teller machine. The bagwell opening is aligned with the bagwell. The first height is less than the second height.

Abstract: A checkout lane blocker and merchandising display stand having a base member, a plurality of wheels located below the base member, an outer shell providing walls on top of the base member, an internal support structure disposed on the base member and including a stepped shelf, and a plurality of merchandise display trays disposed on top of the stepped shelf for holding merchandise for display. The outer shell, internal support structure, and merchandise trays are preferably made of corrugated material and the display therefore is lightweight, inexpensive, and easily recycled. The lane blocker merchandising display may be easily moved into position to block a checkout lane in a store when the checkout lane is closed.

Abstract: The check-out counter has a front end merchandiser which has a fixed display rack forming part of the merchandiser. The fixed display rack has merchandise display devices thereon. A movable display rack is movably mounted with respect to the display rack. The movable display rack also has merchandise display devices thereon. The movable display rack and fixed display rack are preferably engaged by a track system which permits the movable display rack to move from a first position where it covers the fixed display rack to a second position where it uncovers the fixed display rack and blocks the check-out lane adjacent the merchandiser.

Abstract: A check-out counter includes a side frame which has an entrance-side end and an exit-side end. A top plate is provided on the side frame and has a longitudinal direction. An accounting terminal is provided on the top plate. The top plate comprises a first end surface at the entrance-side end, a second end surface extending in the longitudinal direction from the entrance-side end to the exit-side end, and a circular rounded corner provided between the first end surface and the second end surface. The corner confronts an entrance part of an access lane related to the check-out counter and has a radius large enough for a customer to avoid interference with the corner when entering the access lane.

Abstract: A removable conveyor disposed between the scale platform of an airline check-in and the main conveyor system for transporting luggage to be loaded on an airplane. The portable conveyor is constructed of lightweight materials, such as aluminum, and is easily manipulated by the check-in counter attendant. In one embodiment the removable conveyor is pivotally attached to a side rail of the main conveyor so that it may be easily moved by the attendant between the horizontal working position and the vertical storage position. A locking mechanism is provided to secure the movable conveyor in the storage position.

Abstract: A flat writing surface is attached to the chassis of a coin or token dispenser by a hinge or other manner of attachment in either a sloped or horizontal fashion. In a particular embodiment, the attached writing surface has a ledge at one edge to hold the item being written. A writing instrument may be optionally attached. Frequently accessed controls and serviceable components of the coin dispenser can be grouped together in an easily accessible control panel beneath the writing surface, preferentially in a recessed well, that is accessible by flipping up or lifting of the writing surface. Location beneath the writing surface keeps the controls from being accidentally or intentionally operated by an unauthorized person. The control panel is optionally locked shut, preventing the writing surface from being flipped or lifted up to expose the control panel by unauthorized individuals.

Abstract: A checkout counter gap filler which allows liquids to pass through a gap between a checkout counter and an optical scanner, which is mounted within an aperture within the checkout counter, but prevents money and other unwanted debris from passing through the gap. The gap filler includes a rail member which is fastened along left and right sides of the scanner. The rail member includes an upper vertical portion having a bottom edge, a lower vertical portion having a top edge, and a horizontal shelf portion connecting the bottom edge of the upper vertical portion to the top edge of the lower vertical portion. The horizontal shelf portion includes a plurality of apertures which allow liquid to pass, but are small enough to prevent money and other debris from passing through.

Abstract: A purchase checkout system, adapted for use at a self-service store to expedite the checkout procedures, the system including a support platform having a receiving area and a packaging area at opposite distal ends thereof, and a scanning tunnel centrally disposed on the platform between the receiving area and the packaging area, the tunnel having an entry opening at the receiving area, an exit opening at the packaging area, and a central internal scanning chamber defined by a top wall, a pair of opposite side walls, and the platform, wherethrough items to be purchased are transported and scanned such that price data on an exposed side of the item will be read and transmitted to a checkout register regardless of the position of the item while being transported through the tunnel.

Abstract: A checkout counter order divider bar includes merchandise to be purchased and which is displayed through transparent walls of the divider bar. A customer signals an operator at the checkout counter orally or visually that he/she wants to buy the merchandise in the divider bar or by activating a signalling device on the order divider bar.

Abstract: A commodity data reader comprises a bar-code scanner disposed near the edge of one of the longer sides of an elongated check-out counter on which baskets containing commodities are placed on the side of the operator with the scanning window thereof facing the customer. Commodities are passed for scanning across the scanning window before the customer's eyes. Also, the check-out counter may be provided with a body support for supporting the operator in the belly, to thereby alleviate any fatigue which may be felt by the operator.

Abstract: A checkout system includes an optical scanning device removably mounted on the handles of oppositely positioned grocery carts to enable a operator to remove a purchased merchandise item from one of the carts and to move the item past the scanning device for deposit in the second grocery cart. An electrical cable connects the scanning device to an electrical outlet in the floor adjacent the carts. A second embodiment provides a support member removably mounted to the handle of a grocery cart containing purchased merchandise items and extending outwardly from the cart to support the scanning device adjacent the handle allowing a checkout operator to check out the purchased merchandise items located in the grocery cart utilizing the scanning device.

Abstract: An ergonomically designed check-out counter system for supermarket and merchandising industries is characterized by provisions for differences in human heights, hand and position of operators and for ease in handling of merchandise to reduce fatigue and injury to the operators while providing maximum productivity under both light and heavy through put requirements.

Abstract: A check-out counter table has a commodity receiving wall which extends leftwardly and rightwardly of a vertical type bar code reader having a reading window formed in a front wall thereof. A stopper adapted to present a high contacting resistance is provided at a location on the commodity receiving wall directly forwardly of the bar code reader on the carrying in side for a basket. When a basket is pulled toward an operator and slipped on the commodity receiving wall, it is always stopped at a fixed position by the stopper.

Abstract: An automatic bag system for supermarket check-out counters is disclosed. An open top loading compartment is provided adjacent to the check-out clerk and a roll of plastic material is mounted to feed sheet plastic over the open top of the loading compartment. The loading compartment is provided with transversely opposed vertical slots and guide rollers rotatively secured at the top of the slots. Upon loading purchased items into the loading compartment above the plastic material, the plastic material will be urged interiorly of the loading compartment and will assume the shape of the compartment interior configuration. The guide rollers and the vertical slots cooperate to form left and right vertical seams in the plastic material as the compartment is loaded. The left and right seams are heat sealed upon completion of the loading operations to form a finished plastic package with the purchased items contained therewithin.

Abstract: An apparatus for checking out purchases which includes a commodity counter with a commodity bearing surface which is flat and elongated leftward and rightward and a commodity reader portion provided on the aforesaid commodity counter in its center leaving a passage for a basket in front of the same, the commodity reader portion being provided with a reading window made in its front face and with a control portion and a display portion disposed above the same.

Abstract: A system for processing articles selected for purchase and bearing distinct identification codes comprises, in one version: (a) a code reader for generating an output signal indicative of such article identification code; (b) a conveyor for receipt and transport of such article; (c) an entrance sentry for defining an inlet to a secured zone extending along a portion of the conveyor and for generating an output signal indicative of entry of the article into the secured zone and of a measurable characteristic of the article; and (d) a controller for selective movement of the conveyor in respective article acceptance and article rejection senses.

Abstract: A person desiring to check out articles protected by security tags deposits these articles at one end of a check-out aisle. From there, they are transported to the opposite end of the check-out aisle as part of the check-out procedure. The person who deposited the articles is restrained from accompanying these articles all the way through the check-out aisle, but is able to reach its opposite end only via a path which is separate from the check-out aisle itself. That separate path is equipped with an electronic article surveillance system. The same separate path and its associated electronic article surveillance system serve several check-out aisles.

Abstract: A gate for a checkout lane is controlled by the cash register lock key. A cashier may insert the key to obtain access to the cash register and when the cash register is unlocked, the gate will automatically open allowing customers free egress from a checkout lane. When the cashier locks the cash register the gate automatically closes to block the checkout lane associated with that cash register. The gate is slidably mounted within a housing which also encloses a motor used to slide the gate back and forth. A pulley and cable arrangement are used to move the gate. Limit switches are included to cut off power to the gate at the limits of its travel.

Abstract: A checkout station dispossesses a shopper of items identified by the shopper for purchase, which items contain theft-prevention indicators, and then detects the presence of any of such items in the possession of the shopper after the shopper has been dispossessed of the items. After the total cost of the items is printed and paid, the shopper is returned possession of the items.

Abstract: A counter system comprising at least one counter and a plurality of shopping carts. The counter includes a cashier's section and a conveyor band for articles and assists in defining a passage for the carts to move past the cashier's section. The counter further has a receiving section having a height from the floor slightly greater than the loading surface of the carts from the floor and the passage has a width smaller than the shopping carts so that a cart can move in the passage only when it is perpendicular to the passage and its loading surface extends below the receiving section whereby the receiving section removes any articles present on the loading surface of the cart when it passes the system.