RETAIL TRANSACTION SYSTEM

Abstract

The invention relates to a retail transaction system comprising a display module, a display module support, a bank payment reader, a bank payment reader support, a printer, a printer housing and a base arranged to be fixed to a payment counter, characterised in that the display module support, the bank payment reader support, the printer or the printer housing are removably affixed to the base. The invention includes a customer side and a merchant side, and at least one panel for displaying information, characterised in that the panels are removable and replaceable with an alternative panel showing different information. The invention can alternate between at least two viewing positions, a first position in which it can be viewed by the customer on one side of the counter, and a second position, in which it can be viewed by a merchant on the opposite side of the counter.

Claims

1-52. (canceled)

53. A retail transaction system comprising: a display module, a display module support, a bank payment reader, a bank payment reader support, a printer module and a base arranged to be fixable to a payment counter, wherein at least one of, the display module, the bank payment reader and the printer module are removably attachable to the base and that the display module is in wireless communication with at least one of the bank payment reader and the printer module, and in that the display module is removably attachable to the display module support.

54. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the display module, bank payment reading means and printer are interconnected such that if there is a fault or a battery is low this is detectable and can be indicated via the display module.

55. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the display module is rotatably movable, between a first merchant facing position and a second customer facing position.

56. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the display module and the bank payment means include mutually cooperative attachment means to enable them to be fixable to each other.

57. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein at least one of the display module support and the bank payment reader support are removable from the base, for locating in an alternative location, in which alternative location the display module or bank payment reader are still in wireless communication.

58. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the tablet computer is in wireless communication with an external computer network, which transfers the transaction details and also serves to update product information.

59. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the display module includes a display casing which is lockable via a latching means to the base for security to prevent unauthorised removal.

60. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the base includes automatic data connection means to enable data communication between the bank payment reading means, the display module and the printer when they are interconnected upon being attached to the base.

61. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the base is attached to the payment counter by a single lead which provides power, data connectivity and security from theft.

62. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the base is an inverted U shape with vertically extending sides each forming a respective top part with having an angled surface for receiving the display and the card reader respectively.

63. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein a computer processor located in the base.

64. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein when both the bank payment reader and the display module are removed from the base, the bank payment reader is removably attached to the display module by removable attachment means thus create a single portable point of sale transaction unit.

65. A retail transaction system according to claim 53, wherein the removable attachment means are provided in the form of corresponding sliding surfaces on the display module and on a housing of the bank payment reading means.

66. A retail transaction system according to claim 65, wherein the removable attachment means includes a spring loaded detent.

67. A retail transaction system comprising: a display module, a display module support, a bank payment reader, a bank payment reader support, a printer module and a base arranged to be fixed to a payment counter, wherein at least one of, the display module, the bank payment reader and the printer module are removably affixed to the base and that the display module is in wireless communication with at least one of the bank payment reader and the printer module and in that the system can be arranged in a first configuration in a first location in which the bank payment reader, the bank payment reader support, the display module, the display module support and the printer are affixed to the base and the system functions in this configuration, and the system can subsequently be arranged in an alternative second configuration, in a second location in which one of the bank payment reader, the bank payment reader support, the display module, the display module support and the printer is not connected to the base but is located in an alternative location.

68. A retail transaction system according to claim 67, including a customer side and a merchant side, and at least one panel for displaying information, wherein the at least one panel is removable and replaceable with an alternative panel appropriate for the alternative configuration.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0032] FIG. 1: Shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the retail transaction system assembly.

[0033] FIG. 2: Shows a perspective view of a first embodiment of the retail transaction system assembly in the customer facing configuration.

[0034] FIG. 3: Shows a side view of a first embodiment of the retail transaction system assembly in the customer facing configuration.

[0035] FIG. 4: Shows a perspective view of the base of a first embodiment.

[0036] FIG. 5: Shows a side view of the base of a first embodiment.

[0037] FIG. 6: Shows an enlarged perspective view of the first base connecting means of a first embodiment.

[0038] FIG. 7: Shows an enlarged perspective view of the second base connecting means of a first embodiment.

[0039] FIG. 8: Shows a perspective view of the unconnected mobile transaction module, with the display module and bank card reading means of a second embodiment shown separately.

[0040] FIG. 9: Shows a perspective view of the connected mobile transaction module of the second embodiment.

[0041] FIG. 10: Shows an exploded rear view of the casing of the third embodiment.

[0042] FIG. 11: shows an alternative perspective view of the fourth embodiment of the retail transaction system assembly of the invention,

[0043] FIG. 12: shows a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the retail transaction system assembly of the invention,

[0044] FIG. 13: shows a perspective view of the display module of the retail transaction system of FIG. 11,

[0045] FIG. 14: shows a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the retail transaction system assembly,

[0046] FIG. 15: shows a perspective view of the retail transaction system assembly of FIG. 14 in a customer facing configuration, and

[0047] FIG. 16: shows a side view of the retail transaction system assembly of FIG. 14 in the customer facing configuration.

[0048] FIG. 17: Shows a perspective view of a further alternative embodiment of the retail transaction system of the invention in the customer facing configuration, at a point of sale,

[0049] FIG. 18: Shows a perspective reverse view of the retail transaction system of FIG. 17 in the customer facing configuration.

[0050] FIG. 19: Shows a side view of the retail transaction system of FIG. 17 in the merchant facing configuration.

[0051] FIG. 20: Shows an exploded view of the components of the retail transaction system, of FIG. 17.

[0052] FIG. 21: Shows a view of the modular printer housing, of FIG. 17.

[0053] FIG. 22: Shows a view of the base, of FIG. 17.

[0054] FIG. 23: Shows an enlarged perspective view of the bank card reader support, of FIG. 17.

[0055] FIG. 24: Shows a perspective view of the bank payment reading means disconnected form the support, of FIG. 17.

[0056] FIG. 25: Shows a perspective view of the display module of FIG. 17 disconnected from the support.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0057] In this description the reference numbers for common parts remain the same throughout the various embodiments.

[0058] Referring now specifically to FIG. 1 to FIG. 10: In one embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 1 to FIG. 9, there is provided a retail transaction system 1 comprising a display module 3 comprising a casing 2 which encloses a tablet computer 9 including a display for displaying product or service information attached to a first base connecting means 10, of a base 4. Directly opposite the display module 3 is a bank card reading means 5 connected to a second base connecting means 11. The bank card reading means 5 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 payment reading means 5 debiting the customers bank account. 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 base 4 is fixedly secured to the counter such that the retail transaction system 1 can be used in a retail environment with a customer on one side of the counter (not shown) facing the bank card reader means 5 and the merchant on the other side of the counter (not shown) facing the display module 3.

[0059] The casing 2 covers the back and the perimeter of the tablet computer 9, leaving the front of the display module 3 exposed to allow the display side 24 of the tablet computer 9 to be viewed. The back of the casing 2 is attached to the base 4 by a first base connecting means 10, which is attached to the base 4 by hinge 13. The hinge 13 allows the display module 3 to alternate between a customer facing configuration (FIG. 2) and a merchant facing configuration (FIG. 1), by rotating around the hinge 13 relative to the base 4. This allows the merchant to easily display merchandise on the display unit to the customer in the customer facing configuration and also carry out a purchase or other transaction in the merchant facing configuration.

[0060] The casing 2 attaches to the display module connecting means 8 which allows the display module 3 to be removably attached to the base 4 and the bank payment reading means 5. The bank payment reading means 5 is attachable to the casing 2 on the rear side of the display module 3 and to the base 4 by the second base connecting means 11. The bank payment reading means 5 and the display module 3 are able to disengage the base 4 and be used wirelessly; the bank payment reading means 5 and the display can be used simultaneously. The display module 3 and the bank payment reading means 5 can receive power and be recharged and also remain secure and protected from theft while attached to the base 4. There is also preferably at least one USB ports (not shown) provided on the base 4 to provide power and connectivity to optional peripheral devices such as printers or scanners (not shown). The card reader connecting means 7 includes a locking means 18, releasable by a latch 17 which is accessed by the retail merchant, as shown in FIG. 4. The merchant can use the display module 3 to display a variety of product information and marketing material using suitable known software and in this way provide the customer with a more satisfying and informed retailing experience. Through the use of price or product comparison with other competitors the merchant can also provide the customer with the best opportunity and a positive retail experience. The display is ideally a touch screen display with a digitising layer to permit easier interaction between the merchant or customer and the tablet computer 9.

[0061] Preferably the tablet computer 9 is also in wireless communication with a computer network to transfer and approve transaction details and update product information.

[0062] To attach the bank card payment means 5 the merchant locates the interlocking tongue 14 in the interlocking slot 12 and slides the bank payment reader means 5 across so that the interlocking tongue 14 slides into the grooves 33 and engages the flanges 32 which hold the interlocking tongue 14 in place. The interlocking tongue 14 is prevented from sliding back out of the groove 33 by the locking means 18.

[0063] The locking means consists of a spring loaded detent which is depressed by the locking latch 17 in order to remove the interlocking tongue 14 from the groove 33.

[0064] The casing 2 corresponds to the shape of the tablet computer 9 but fixes to display module connecting means 8 using a standard fitting so that alternative tablet computer models with respective casings can be attached to the base 4 by the display module connecting means. The base casing 2 will be dedicated to the model of the tablet computer 9, but it is possible for the base 4 to accommodate alternative models through the use of display module connecting means. Preferably the base station 4 provides a power connection for replenishing the battery of the display module 3 and data communication means for backup and update when wireless communication is not possible and when the display module 3 and bank payment reader means 5 are connected to the base 4. The tablet computer 9 connects to the bank payment reader means wirelessly. The base 4 then connects to a separate computer network (not shown) via an external USB connection means (not shown). The base 4 may be securely fastened to a fixed surface via retaining screws through dock-to-surface retaining screw holes (not shown); these are inaccessible whilst the base is engaged with the counter (not shown). Whilst the display module 3 is engaged with the base 4 it can still be used as a traditional fixed till and is preferably lockable and cannot be removed without merchant approval, using a key inserted into a key hole (not shown), for security purposes.

[0065] Referring in particular to FIG. 8 the bank payment reader 5 shown removed from the display module 3. The reader 5 is removably attached to the display module 3 by means of interlocking tongue 14 on the bank payment reader 5 and a corresponding interlocking slot 12 on the display module. Both the bank card reading means 5 and the display module 3 can be used whether or not they are attached to each other or the base 4.

[0066] Referring still to FIG. 8, the casing 2 is made up of three parts, the first side part 19, the second side part 21 and the rear part 23. The first and second side parts 19, 21 slide on to the tablet computer 9 and abut together to encase the tablet computer 9.

[0067] The first and second side parts 19, 21 have corresponding interconnecting tongs and grooves 27 located on the rear of the display module 3, which interconnect as the two parts come into contact. The mating of the tong and grooves provide added flexural rigidity. The rear part 23 then slides over corresponding sliding surfaces 26 on the two side parts to secure all three pieces together. All three pieces are then held in place with a single retaining screw 28. The process is reversed in order to remove the tablet for repair, replacement or upgrade.

[0068] The retaining screw head is provided on the rear side of the casing 2 on the rear part 23 and when fastened is countersunk into all three casing parts 19, 21, 23. Once the display module 3 is in the base 4 the rear part 23 is covered. Consequently the casing 2 may not be removed without first removing the display module 3 from the base 4. The casing parts 19, 21, 23 and the bank card reading means 5 are all made from a sufficiently robust material, preferably a polycarbonate to protect from accidental damage or tampering.

[0069] Referring now to FIGS. 4, 6 and 8, the locking means 18 locks the bank payment reading means 5 and the display module 3 into the base 4, and to each other when in the mobile configuration, to prevent against theft. The locking means 18 is controlled by a locking latch 17 which, in locked position, retains against the interlocking tongue on the card reader connecting means 7 of the bank card reading means 5. This prevents unauthorised removal of the bank card reading means 5.

[0070] Referring to FIGS. 6, 7 and 8, the bank payment reading means 5 is removably attached to the base 4 or, alternatively the display module 3. The display module 3 and the bank payment reading means 5 attach to the base 4 and together by means of a mutual sliding tongue and slot mechanism. The tongue 14, being a constituent of the first base connecting means 10 and the card reader connecting means 7 which is in turn a constituent of the bank card reading means 5 not only allows for easy removal but also permits flexibility in the type and size of the attached bank payment reading means 5. The bank card reading means 5 or the base 4 and the display module 3 attach together by means of the same mutual sliding tongue and slot mechanism. The slot, being a constituent of the display module connecting means and the second base connecting means, not only allows for easy removal but also permits flexibility in the type and size of the attached display module 3. The display module 3 and the bank card reading means 5 are locked in place by the locking means 18, a constituent of the display module connecting means and the second base connecting means.

[0071] It will be appreciated that the term tablet computer 9 can include any computing device which includes a display that is large enough to effectively display products or services in a retail environment and includes suitably adapted notebooks or laptops and the like.

[0072] Referring now specifically to FIG. 11 to FIG. 16: In a second embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 10, there is provided a retail transaction system 1 comprising a display module 3, a bank payment reading means 5, and base 4. The base 4 includes several information panels 20 which are attached to it. The display module 3 includes a tablet computer 9 and a display side 24 for displaying product or service information and is attached to a first base connecting means 10, of a base 4. Directly opposite the display module 3 is a bank card reading means 5 connected to a second base connecting means 11. The bank card reading means 5 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 payment reading means 5 debiting the customers bank account. 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 base 4 is fixedly secured to the counter such that the retail transaction system 1 can be used in a retail environment with a customer on one side of the counter (not shown) facing the bank card reader means 5 and the merchant on the other side of the counter (not shown) facing the display module 3.

[0073] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 the base has an inverted U shape, with angled sides 6 and 7 which angle outwardly from a top surface 29 to provide a stable support and an enlarged surface to affix an information panel 20. The customer facing side 25 and the merchant facing side 7 face opposite directions and are angled upwards towards the line of sight of either the customer or merchant. Information on the panels 2 could, for example, identify an independent merchant within a larger store or be easily replaced in the case where the in-store merchant changes.

[0074] The information panels 20 cover the top side of the base 4, the back side of the display module 3 and both the customer facing side 25 and the merchant facing side 26 of the retail transaction system 1; allowing the marketing or advertising material to be viewable from all angles during normal use. The back of the display module 3 attaches to the base 4 by a first base connecting means 10, which is attached to the base 4 by hinge 13. The hinge 13 allows the display module 3 to alternate between a customer facing configuration (FIG. 15) and a merchant facing configuration (FIG. 10), by rotating around the hinge 13 relative to the base 4. This allows the merchant to easily display merchandise on the display unit to the customer in the customer facing configuration and also carry out a purchase or other transaction in the merchant facing configuration.

[0075] The display module 3 includes a display module connecting means 8 which allows the display module 3 to be removably attached to the base 4 and the bank payment reading means 5. The bank payment reading means 5 is attachable to the display module 3 on the rear side of the display module 3 and to the base 4 by the second base connecting means 11. The bank payment reading means 5 and the display module 3 are able to disengage the base 4 and be used wirelessly; the bank payment reading means 5 and the display can be used simultaneously. The display module 3 and the bank payment reading means 5 can receive power and be recharged and also remain secure and protected from theft while attached to the base 4. There is also preferably at least one USB ports (not shown) provided on the base 4 to provide power and connectivity to optional peripheral devices such as printers 30 or scanners (not shown). The merchant can use the display module 3 to display a variety of product information and marketing material using suitable known software and in this way provide the customer with a more satisfying and informed retailing experience. Through the use of price or product comparison with other competitors the merchant can also provide the customer with the best opportunity and a positive retail experience. The display is ideally a touch screen display with a digitising layer to permit easier interaction between the merchant or customer and the tablet computer 9.

[0076] Preferably the tablet computer 9 is also in wireless communication with a computer network to transfer and approve transaction details and update product information.

[0077] To attach the information panels 20 the merchant locates the interlocking tongue 14 in the interlocking slot 12 and presses the information panel 20 so that the interlocking tongue 14 clips into the interlocking slot 12 and engages the recess 22 which hold the interlocking tongues 14 in place.

[0078] FIG. 12 shows an alternative embodiment of the invention which uses an adhesive to affix the information panels 20 to the base 4 and display module 3 instead of the interlocking tongue and slot mechanism as referred to above.

[0079] The information panels 20 correspond to the shape of their respective location on the retail transaction system 1 so as to cover the surface edge to edge. The information panels 20 affix using a standard fitting so that alternative information panels 20 can be removed and replaced. The information panel 20 which affixes to the back of the display module will be dedicated to the model of the tablet computer 9, but it is possible for the base 4 to accommodate alternative models through the use of display module connecting means 8. Preferably the base station 4 provides a power connection for replenishing the battery of the display module 3 and data communication means for backup and update when wireless communication is not possible and when the display module 3 and bank payment reader means 5 are connected to the base 4. The tablet computer 9 connects to the bank payment reader means wirelessly. The base 4 then connects to a separate computer network (not shown) via an external USB connection means (not shown). The base 4 may be securely fastened to a fixed surface via retaining screws through dock-to-surface retaining screw holes (not shown); these are inaccessible whilst the base is engaged with the counter (not shown). Whilst the display module 3 is engaged with the base 4 it can still be used as a traditional fixed till and is preferably lockable and cannot be removed without merchant approval, using a key inserted into a key hole (not shown), for security purposes.

[0080] Referring in particular to FIG. 13 the information panel 20 is shown removed from the display module 3. The display module 3 is removably attachable to the bank payment reading means and the first base connecting means 10 by means of display module connecting means 8 on the back of the display module 3. Both the bank card reading means 5 and the display module 3 can be used whether or not they are attached to each other or the base 4.

[0081] The information panels 20 are all made from a sufficiently robust material, preferably a polycarbonate to protect from accidental damage or tampering.

[0082] The bank payment reading means 5 is removably attached to the base 4 or, alternatively the display module 3. The display module 3 and the bank payment reading means 5 attach to the base 4 and together by means of a mutual sliding tongue and slot mechanism. The tongue (not shown), being a constituent of the first base connecting means 10 and the card reader connecting means (not shown) which is in turn a constituent of the bank card reading means 5 not only allows for easy removal but also permits flexibility in the type and size of the attached bank payment reading means 5. The bank card reading means 5 or the base 4 and the display module 3 attach together by means of the same mutual sliding tongue and slot mechanism. The slot, being a constituent of the display module connecting means and the second base connecting means, not only allows for easy removal but also permits flexibility in the type and size of the attached display module 3. The display module 3 and the bank card reading means 5 are locked in place by the locking means 18, a constituent of the display module connecting means and the second base connecting means.

[0083] It will be appreciated that the term tablet computer 9 can include any computing device which includes a display that is large enough to effectively display products or services in a retail environment and includes suitably adapted notebooks or laptops and the like.

[0084] Referring now specifically to FIG. 17 to FIG. 25: In an alternative embodiment of the invention, shown in FIG. 17, there is provided a retail transaction system 1 comprising a display module 3 a display module support 10, a bank payment reading means 5, a bank payment reader support 11, a printer (not shown), a printer housing 30 and base 4. The base 4 includes several information panels 20 which are attached to it. The display module 3 includes a tablet computer 9 and a display side 24 for displaying product or service information and is attached to a display module support 10, which is attached to a base 4. Directly opposite the display module 3 is a bank card reading means 5 connected to a bank payment reader support 11. The bank card reading means 5 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 payment reading means 5 debiting the customers bank account. 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 printer (not shown) is in the printer housing 30 is located in the area between the display module 3 and the bank card reading means 5 removably fixed directly on top of the base 4. The base 4 is fixedly secured to the counter such that the retail transaction system 1 can be used in a retail environment with a customer on one side of the counter (not shown) facing the bank card reader means 5 and the merchant on the other side of the counter (not shown) facing the display module 3.

[0085] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 19 the base has a cuboid shape, with angled sides 25, 26 and 29 which angle outwardly to provide an enlarged surface to affix an information panel 20. The customer facing side 25 and the merchant facing side 26 face opposite directions and are angled towards the line of sight of either the customer or merchant respectively. Information on the panels 20 could, for example, identify an independent merchant within a larger store and can be easily replaced when the in-store merchant changes.

[0086] The information panels 20 cover the top side of the printed 30, the back side of the display module 3 and both the customer facing side 25 and the merchant facing side 26 of the retail transaction system 1; allowing the marketing or advertising material to be viewable from all angles during normal use. The back of the display module 3 attaches to the display module support 10 by hinge 13, which is attached to the base 4. The hinge 13 allows the display module 3 to alternate between a customer facing configuration (FIG. 18) and a merchant facing configuration (FIG. 19), by rotating around the hinge 13 relative to the base 4. This allows the merchant to easily display merchandise on the display unit to the customer in the customer facing configuration and also carry out a purchase or other transaction in the merchant facing configuration. Furthermore, the display module support 10 and bank card reader support 11 can be adjusted in height allowing flexible adjustment for customer and merchant ease of use.

[0087] The display module 3 includes a display module connecting means 8 which allows the display module 3 to be removably attached to the base 4 and the bank payment reading means 5. The bank payment reading means 5 is attachable to the display module 3 on the rear side of the display module 3 and to the base 4 by the second base connecting means 11. The bank payment reading means 5 and the display module 3 are able to disengage the base 4 and be used wirelessly; the bank payment reading means 5 and the display can be used simultaneously. The display module 3 and the bank payment reading means 5 can receive power and be recharged and also remain secure and protected from theft while attached to the base 4.

[0088] The display module 3, the bank payment reading means 5 and the printer all receive power and a data connection from the base 4. The base 4 in turn is physically connected to the internet and a mains power supply by a connecting means 31. This connecting means 31 includes a data connection, a power connection and a security tether all attached in one position on the base 4. The tether, power cable and data cable attach to the base in one place to reduce the number of cables to a single conduit and also the number of cable ports; this is important in a retail environment to reduce the health and safety hazard that excessive cabling can create. The power supply received by the base 4 allows the base to recharge and power the display module 3, the bank payment reading means 5 and the printer. The physical data connection including in the connecting means 31 can serve as either a primary connection to internet or as a back up to a wireless connection. The tether also acts as an additional security measure in combination with a retaining screw which fixes the base 4 to the counter.

[0089] The merchant can use the display module 3 to display a variety of product information and marketing material using suitable known software and in this way provide the customer with a more satisfying and informed retailing experience. Through the use of price or product comparison the merchant can also provide the customer with the best opportunity and a positive retail experience. The display is ideally a touch screen display with a digitising layer to permit easier interaction between the merchant or customer and the tablet computer 9.

[0090] Preferably the tablet computer 9 is also in wireless communication with a computer network to transfer and approve transaction details and update product information.

[0091] The information panels 20 correspond to the shape of their respective location on the retail transaction system 1 so as to cover the surface edge to edge. The information panels 20 affix using a suitable removable fitting so that alternative information panels 20 can be removed and replaced. The information panel 20 which affixes to the back of the display module will be dedicated to the model of the tablet computer 9, but it is possible for the base 4 to accommodate alternative models through the use of display module connecting means 8. Preferably the base station 4 provides a power connection for replenishing the battery of the display module 3 and data communication means for backup and update when wireless communication is not possible and when the display module 3 and bank payment reader means 5 are connected to the base 4. The tablet computer 9 connects to the bank payment reader means wirelessly. The base 4 then connects to a separate computer network (not shown) via an external USB connection means (not shown). The base 4 may be securely fastened to a fixed surface via retaining screws through dock-to-surface retaining screw holes (not shown); these are inaccessible whilst the base is engaged with the counter (not shown). Whilst the display module 3 is engaged with the base 4 it can still be used as a traditional fixed till and is preferably lockable and cannot be removed without merchant approval, using a key inserted into a key hole (not shown), for security purposes.

[0092] The display module 3 is removably attachable to the bank payment reading means 5 and the display module support 10 by means of display module connecting means 8 on the back of the display module 3. Both the bank card reading means 5 and the display module 3 can be used whether or not they are attached to each other or the base 4.

[0093] The retail transaction system 1 includes a fault management system, wherein a faulty component e.g. printer paper or module i.e. the bank payment reading means 5 the display module 3 or the printer, causing the retail transaction system to as a whole malfunction, can be identified and so it can be replaced. Replacement parts can be kept nearby so there is no time wasted on repairs or part delivery. The retail transaction system, being modular, then allows the merchant to replace, refill, recharge or repair the modules as advised, quickly and easily.

[0094] The fault management system uses a processor (not shown) located in the display module 3, which processes the data from the printer, bank payment reading means 5 and the display module 3 and displays this data on the display side 24 of the display module 3. In another embodiment the processor could be permanently or separately located in the base unit, which could also have a separate diagnostic display.

[0095] The casing 2 and information panels 20 are all made from a sufficiently robust material, preferably a polycarbonate to protect from accidental damage or tampering.

[0096] The bank payment reading means 5 is removably attached to the base 4 or, alternatively the display module 3. The display module 3 and the bank payment reading means 5 attach to the respective apparatus, 10 and 11, and together by means of a mutual sliding tongue and slot mechanism. The tongue 14, being a constituent of the display module support 10 and the bank card reading means 5 not only allows for easy removal but also permits flexibility in the type and size of the attached bank payment reading means 5. The bank card reading means 5 or the base 4 and the display module 3 attach together by means of the same mutual sliding tongue and slot mechanism. The slot, being a constituent of the display module connecting means 8 and the bank payment reader support 11, not only allows for easy removal but also permits flexibility in the type and size of the attached display module 3 and bank card reading means respectively so different models of bank card reading means and display module can be used. The display module 3 and the bank card reading means 5 are locked in place by the locking means (not shown), a constituent of the display module connecting means 8 and the bank payment reader support 11.

[0097] The bank payment reader support, the display module support and the printer housing are all replaceable and removable from the base. The display module support 10 and the bank payment reader support 11 attach to the base by the base-support attaching means 15. The printer attaches to the base via the printer housing 30 by the base-printer housing attaching means 16, as seen in FIG. 22.

[0098] It will be appreciated that the term tablet computer 9 can include any computing device which includes a display that is large enough to effectively display products or services in a retail environment and includes suitably adapted notebooks or laptops and the like.