REGISTERING AND CALLING SYSTEM FOR WAITING NUMBERS
United States Patent 3641553
A unified system for recording the presence of patrons in a waiting area, registering the total number of such patrons to enter said waiting area, and notifying said patrons of the availability of servicing facilities consecutively, in the order of their arrival in said waiting area. Until such time as a patron is called to an available servicing facility, there is no requirement to wait in a particular regimented position within the waiting area. No pens, guard railings or the like are utilized to maintain lines and the waiting area may be comfortably and aesthetically designed.
US Patent References:
Production control system
Kohler et al. - May 1961 - 2985368
Admission pass manipulating machine
Arcus, Sr. - February 1966 - 3236135
Check-out regulator system for stores
Tuttle - May 1965 - 3182357
Business order control system and apparatus
Wolf - February 1967 - 3304416
Business control apparatus
Nixon et al. - August 1965 - 3203627
Production control system
Kohler et al. - May 1961 - 2985368
Admission pass manipulating machine
Arcus, Sr. - February 1966 - 3236135
Check-out regulator system for stores
Tuttle - May 1965 - 3182357
Business order control system and apparatus
Wolf - February 1967 - 3304416
Business control apparatus
Nixon et al. - August 1965 - 3203627
Application Number:
05/034039
Publication Date:
02/08/1972
Filing Date:
05/04/1970
View Patent Images:
Export Citation:
Primary Class:
Other Classes:
235/146, 186/38, 377/13
International Classes:
G07C11/00; G08B3/10; G08B5/22; G08B3/00; G08B5/00; G07C9/00
Field of Search:
340/286,311 186/1,1A 235/92AC,146,92EA,91PR
US Patent References:
Primary Examiner:
Caldwell, John W.
Assistant Examiner:
Partridge, Scott F.
Claims:
What I claim as new is
1. A registering and calling system for patron waiting numbers comprising, in combination; holding means for holding a plurality of removable number plates, register means for registering the total number of said number plates removed during a predetermined time interval, electrical connection means between said holding means and said register means for transmitting actuating signals from said holding means to said register means, recorder means for recording the particular number designation of a particular one of said plurality of removable plates, manual actuation means for actuating said recorder means, electrical connection means between said manual actuation means and said recorder means for transmitting actuating signals to said recorder means, waiting-number signifying means for notifying the patron holding said particular one of said plates of the availability of a patron-servicing facility, electrical connection means between said manual actuation means and said waiting-number signifying means for actuating said waiting-number signifying means and for selectively actuating said signifying means simultaneously with said recorder means.
2. The invention of claim 1 wherein said waiting-number signifying means includes a plurality of waiting-number display devices, each associated with one of a plurality of patron servicing facilities.
3. The invention of claim 1 wherein said waiting-number signifying means includes an audio transmission device.
4. The invention of claim 1 wherein said register means includes a plurality of electrically motivated number-registering devices, one for each patron servicing facility, all of which are simultaneously actuated upon the removal of a number plate from said holding means.
5. The invention of claim 1 wherein said holding means includes a base portion and a plate-retaining portion removably attached to said base portion, said base portion having a manually actuated plate removal means and an electrical switching device which automatically provides a number plate for removal by a patron while simultaneously actuating said register means.
6. The invention of claim 4 wherein said manual actuation means includes a plurality of actuating devices, one for each servicing facility.
7. The invention of claim 6 wherein said recorder means includes a plurality of recording devices, one associated with each patron servicing facility, all of said devices being simultaneously actuated upon the signal from one of said actuating devices.
8. The invention of claim 7 wherein one recording device, one actuating device and one register device is contained within a unitary housing and wherein one said unitary housing is provided for each patron servicing facility.
9. A method for directing waiting patrons to an available one of a plurality of servicing facilities in the order of their arrival at a waiting area comprising the steps of:
1. A registering and calling system for patron waiting numbers comprising, in combination; holding means for holding a plurality of removable number plates, register means for registering the total number of said number plates removed during a predetermined time interval, electrical connection means between said holding means and said register means for transmitting actuating signals from said holding means to said register means, recorder means for recording the particular number designation of a particular one of said plurality of removable plates, manual actuation means for actuating said recorder means, electrical connection means between said manual actuation means and said recorder means for transmitting actuating signals to said recorder means, waiting-number signifying means for notifying the patron holding said particular one of said plates of the availability of a patron-servicing facility, electrical connection means between said manual actuation means and said waiting-number signifying means for actuating said waiting-number signifying means and for selectively actuating said signifying means simultaneously with said recorder means.
2. The invention of claim 1 wherein said waiting-number signifying means includes a plurality of waiting-number display devices, each associated with one of a plurality of patron servicing facilities.
3. The invention of claim 1 wherein said waiting-number signifying means includes an audio transmission device.
4. The invention of claim 1 wherein said register means includes a plurality of electrically motivated number-registering devices, one for each patron servicing facility, all of which are simultaneously actuated upon the removal of a number plate from said holding means.
5. The invention of claim 1 wherein said holding means includes a base portion and a plate-retaining portion removably attached to said base portion, said base portion having a manually actuated plate removal means and an electrical switching device which automatically provides a number plate for removal by a patron while simultaneously actuating said register means.
6. The invention of claim 4 wherein said manual actuation means includes a plurality of actuating devices, one for each servicing facility.
7. The invention of claim 6 wherein said recorder means includes a plurality of recording devices, one associated with each patron servicing facility, all of said devices being simultaneously actuated upon the signal from one of said actuating devices.
8. The invention of claim 7 wherein one recording device, one actuating device and one register device is contained within a unitary housing and wherein one said unitary housing is provided for each patron servicing facility.
9. A method for directing waiting patrons to an available one of a plurality of servicing facilities in the order of their arrival at a waiting area comprising the steps of:
Description:
The present invention relates to a registering and calling system for waiting numbers. It is a novel system and very useful to banks, theaters, restaurants, stadiums, large department stores, race courses, airports, railroad and bus stations, and other government offices and cultural institutions which usually have many patrons waiting for service.
Inside these commercial or public establishments, the patrons often form into long lines waiting for service in front of the counter windows. Sometimes the lines are several persons abreast and stretch out to the streets. Because of waiting too long, some of the patrons may suffer stiff legs, sore feet, and aching arms, particularly those shoppers carrying heavy bags, women carrying babies on their arms, and elderly and crippled people who walk with canes and crutches. A commercial or public establishment will prosper when more people patronize it. Therefore, patron discomfort should be eliminated wherever possible. One of the principal objects of my invention is to provide a system which allows patrons to wait for service in a comfortable, unregimented manner. The orderly formation of waiting lines is generally a desirable function. However, it sometimes results in inequities, as described, for instance, by the following example: Suppose 30 persons lined up outside of a bank before opening time. When the bank opened for business, they entered and automatically formed into three lines. Those who were in the order of one, four, seven, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28 when they entered formed into the first line in front of the first counter window. Those who were in the order of two, five, eight, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29 when they entered formed into the second line in front of the second counter window. Those who were in the order of three, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30 when they entered formed into the third line in front of the third counter window. The first person in the first line had extensive business to transact. Consequently, while the teller of the first counter window still carefully and diligently handled the requirements of the first person, the teller at the second window had finished with the twenty-sixth person and the teller of the third window had finished with the eighteenth person. It is apparent that such a procedure was very unfair to those in the first line who came to the bank earlier and had to wait while those in the second and third lines, who came in later, were served. Another object of my invention is to prevent such inequities.
A further object of my invention is to furnish the management of such business establishments a topical indication during the day of the number of patrons who have come in and of the number who have actually been served at any given time by the counter. With this information, it is a simple matter to decide the correct number of facilities which should be kept open to adequately service the patrons. This will help to maintain a very efficient and economical operation.
A still further object of my invention is to revolutionize the planning and design of modern banks and like establishments. This invention will make it possible to convert the present simple, penlike design of the receiving areas in banks and the like into plush reception halls with comfortable sofas, or into an indoor garden, fountains and other amenities.
Another object of my invention is to discourage the occurrence of robberies and other legal transgressions which seem to have become the order of the day. With my invention for instance, anyone who wishes to approach a bank teller must first take a number plate and then wait until his number is called. A person is intending to rob a bank would want neither to leave his fingerprints on a number plate nor to wait for a turn with a teller. Failure to take these steps would immediately raise suspicion and place the suspect under the surveillance of the bank security personnel.
For further comprehension of the invention which is believed to be novel, and of the objects and advantages thereof, reference may be made to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 shows diagrammatically the general arrangement of the system in a bank.
FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken on the line I--I of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows the perspective view of a console which comprises a waiting numbers register and a calling numbers recorder inside a case with a numbers-calling operation panel on its top.
FIG. 4 is a front view of a number plates holder.
FIG. 5 is a vertical sectional view of a number plates holder taken on the line II--II of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a horizontal sectional view of a number plates holder taken on the line III--III of FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 shows the constituent mechanism and parts inside a waiting numbers register.
FIG. 8 is the sectional view of a waiting numbers register taken on the line IV--IV of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is the sectional view of a waiting numbers register taken on the line V--V of FIG. 7.
FIG. 10 shows diagrammatically the arrangement and connection of the commutator, solenoids, and armature which form the driving mechanism of a waiting numbers register as taken on the line VI--VI of FIG. 7.
FIG. 11 is a plan view of a numbers-calling operation panel.
FIG. 12 shows the sectional view of a numbers-calling operation panel installed on top of a console taken on the line VII--VII of FIG. 11.
FIG. 13 shows an elevation of a numbers-calling sign. The left half is an elevation with the case on and the right half is an elevation with the front of the case cut away.
FIG. 14 shows the sectional view of a numbers-calling sign taken on the line VIII--VIII of FIG. 13.
FIG. 15 shows the sectional view of a numbers-calling sign taken on the line IX--IX of FIG. 14.
FIG. 16 shows the construction inside of a calling numbers recorder taken on the line XI--XI of FIG. 17.
FIG. 17 is the sectional view of a calling-numbers recorder taken on the line X--X of FIG. 16.
FIG. 18 shows diagrammatically the wiring system connecting the number plates holder to the waiting numbers registers.
FIG. 19 shows diagrammatically a part of the wiring system connecting the numbers-calling operation panels to the calling numbers recorders and the numbers-calling signs.
Referring more in detail to the drawings in which similar reference numerals identify corresponding parts throughout all the views, this registering and calling system for waiting numbers, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, consists of a waiting area 01, a single 1 number plates holder 101 with a two-conductor cable 102 connecting it with a plurality of waiting numbers registers 201 and, numbers-calling operation panels 301. A plurality of numbers-calling signs 401 with their supporting posts 402 and associated calling numbers recorders 501 are also provided. Units comprising one waiting numbers register, one numbers calling operation panel, and one calling numbers recorder are packaged in attractive consoles the size of a portable radio set, as shown in FIG. 3. These consoles are placed at convenient positions on the counters so the tellers can operate them without difficulty.
FIGS. 4 to 6 illustrate the construction of a number plates holder which may be constructed of metal, plastic, or synthetic materials. The number plates holder is made up of two parts: A threaded upper tube 105 and a base box 106. The upper tube may be either circular or square in shape and it is circular in this case. It is attached to the base box by means of the screws 107 or other clamping devices and secured to the wall by means of the steel clamp 108. Before the holder is filled with number plates, the upper tube 105 is removed from the base box 106. Then the number plates 109 which may be made of metal, plastic, or other materials are stacked inside a wire cage 110 with numerals increasing upwards from unity at the bottom to the largest number containable at the top. The purpose of the opne-ended wire cage 110 is to retain the number plates in the correct position when the upper tube 105 is removed. After the holder is filled, generally with a number of plates sufficient to cover the number of patrons in an average day, the upper tube is restored to position on the base box. The base box 106 is rectangular in shape and is secured to the wall by means of the angle 111 and the bolts 112. In front of the base box there is an opening 113. Around the inside perimeter of the base box 106 there is a bent bar member 114 which has a right-hand leg which extends through a tube 115 to the outside of the base box. A knob 116 is attached to the member as a handle. Inside the tube 115 there is a spring 117 which acts upon a lug 118 fixed on the bar member. The left-hand leg of the bar 114 is attached to a block 119 made of wood, plastic, or other nonconducting material with a strip of conducting material 120 mounted upon its left surface. The block 119 slides along the trough 121. On the left side of the trough at the level of the conductive strip 120 on the block 119 there are two terminals 122 and 123 which are connected to the two conductors 103 and 104 in the two-conductor cable 102.
When a patron wants to take a number plate, he simply pulls the knob 116 of the bent bar 114. This procedure will push a number plate 109 halfway out of the holder through the opening 113. At this moment the conductive strip 120 on the block 119 which has slid forward into the trough 121 links the two terminals 122 and 123 together and closes the circuit in the two-conductor cable 102. This will turn one number in each waiting numbers register by means of the wiring system shown in FIG. 18. After the patron takes the protracted number plate, he releases the knob 116 and the bent bar 114 is forced back to its original position by the spring 117. The block 119 slides out of the trough and breaks the circuit in the two-conductor cable. This action will repeat whenever a patron takes a number plate.
FIGS. 7 to 10 show the construction of a waiting numbers register 201 which consists of three main parts: the driving mechanism, the number wheels, and the transmission gears. The driving mechanism is made up of a revolving armature 202 and a stationary electromagnet 203. The revolving armature has ten revolving electromagnets 204 mounted upon the axle 205 and connected to a commutator which is divided by insulating material into an incoming section 206 and an outgoing section 207. Each section is again divided by insulating material into ten strips. The wiring of each revolving electromagnet 204 is connected to its respective incoming and outgoing strips. The stationary electromagnet 203 is fixed to the register's body frame and aligned with each revolving electromagnet. An incoming brush 208 which is connected to conductor 103 through the wiring of the stationary electromagnet 203 is kept in contact with an incoming strip. The outgoing brush 209 is directly connected to conductor 104 and is kept in contact with an outgoing strip. When the two terminals 122 and 123 in the number plates holder are joined together by the conductive strip 120, current from conductor 103 passes through the wiring of the stationary electromagnet 203, then by means of the incoming brush 208 through the wiring of a revolving electromagnet 204 and then through an outgoing brush 209 to conductor 104 to complete a circuit. This current will energize the stationary electromagnet 203 and a corresponding revolving electromagnet which will attract to each other and turn the armature around one-tenth a revolution. While the armature revolves, the commutator turns with it and the brushes 208 and 209 fall ahead and are in contact with the next two strips of the commutator. Because of this, when the circuit is closed again, the next revolving electromagnet 204 will be energized to turn the armature for another one-tenth of a revolution and so on. FIG. 18 shows the wiring system connecting the holder 101 to the registers 201.
There are three number wheels 211, 215, and 219 in the registers. The first consists of a drum 212 and a driving toothed wheel 213. The second one comprises a drum 216 and a driven toothed wheel 217, and driving toothed wheel 218. The third one has a wheel drum 220 and a driven toothed wheel 221. The rim of each wheel drum is divided into 10 segments whose centers are marked in sequence with numerals from 0 to 9. The driving toothed wheels 213 and 218 of the first and second number wheels 211 and 215 have two teeth only. The driven toothed wheels 217 and 221 of the second and third number wheels 215 and 219 have 10 teeth equally spaced around their rims.
The two sets of transmission gears are mounted on their respective axles 222 and 223 supported by a common shaft 224. Each set has a smaller gear at the right and a larger gear at the left. Each gear has 10 teeth equally spaced around its periphery. In the first set, the smaller gear 225 meshes with the larger, two-tooth driving wheel 213 of the first number wheel 211 and the larger gear 226 meshes with the equal in size, 10-tooth driven wheel 217 of the second number wheel 215. In the second set, the smaller gear 227 meshes with the larger two-tooth driving wheel 218 of the second number wheel 215 and the larger gear 228 meshes with the equal in size, 10-tooth driven wheel 221 of the third number wheel 219.
The first number wheel 211 and the revolving armature 202 are mounted on the same axle 205. The other two number wheels are mounted on their respective axles. They all are supported by the same shaft 210. With such an arrangement, the first number wheel 211 revolves with the revolving armature 202, and will revolve 10 times for each revolution of the second number wheel 215. The second number wheel will also revolve 10 times for each revolution of the third number wheel 219. Therefore, the numerals on the wheel 211 are in units, those on the wheel 215 are in tens and those on the wheel 219 are in hundreds. The number shown in the viewing window of the register indicates the total number of patrons who have come in to join the waiting list during a given period. As shown in FIG. 3 the portion at the right-hand side of the console 601 is the waiting numbers register and the total number of patrons registered is 236 persons.
The numbers-calling operation panel 301 is used to operate the numbers-calling signs 401 and the calling numbers recorders 501. As shown in FIG. 11 there are three columns of 10 operating keys 302 on each operations panel. At the top of each key 302 is set a button 303 with a numeral inscribed upon it. The numerals start from unity on the first button at the top of each column and run in consecutive order to 0 at the bottom. A portion of each key rests upon a spring 304 which is attached to a conductive strip 305 as shown in FIG. 12. This conductive strip acts as a common terminal for all the keys and has a binding post 306 with nut and washer for connecting to the conductor 307.
As shown in FIG. 12, the operations panel 301 actually consists of two boards; a top board 308 and a bottom board 309. All the operating keys 302, springs 304, and the conductive strip 305 are fixed to the top board 308. Opposite to each operating key 302 there is a terminal 310 with a binding post, nuts, and washers on the bottom board 309. Each of these terminals 310 is connected to a conductor 311. Thirty of these conductors 311 and three of conductors 307 are wrapped in a multiple-conductor cable 312.
Counting from the right, the numerals on the buttons are in units in the first column, in tens in the second column, and in hundreds in the third column. If the operator wants to call the number 35, he simply presses the button marked 3 in the second column and the button marked 5 in the first column. When a button is pressed, the key 302 forces the spring 304 down into contact with the terminal 310. The specific circuit is closed and the current will operate the corresponding numbers in the specific numbers-calling sign associated with the operations panel and all the calling numbers recorders. In this case, only the numbers-calling sign in front of the panel operator and all the calling numbers recorders connected to the circuit as shown in FIG. 19 will show the number 35.
FIGS. 13 and 15 illustrate the construction of a numbers calling sign which is used by the tellers to notify patrons of the availability of a servicing facility. A given patron will approach a window facility when the number he holds is shown on the calling sign associated with that facility.
The signs are usually rectangular or square; however, they may be designed in any desired shape and color. The principal parts of a numbers-calling sign are the three revolving drums 403 and three sets of stationary electromagnets 404. The rim of each revolving drum is divided into 10 segments. The center of each segment is marked a numeral as indicated by 405. A series of permanent magnets are attached to the inner face of the rim opposite to the electromagnets. Among these permanent magnets, only one magnet 406 has opposite polarity with the energized electromagnet. Each of the three revolving drums is mounted on its own independent axle 408 by means of walls 407. These 3 independent axles 408 are supported by the common shaft 409 and revolve on ball bearings 413. Inside each revolving drum 403, ten stationary electromagnets 404 are mounted around on this common shaft 409. The outgoing ends of the wirings 410 associated with the ten stationary electromagnets 404 are connected to a common terminal which is in turn connected to conductor 307. The incoming ends of all wirings 410 are connected to their respective conductors 311. When an operating key 302 is pressed, the circuit is closed and the current will pass through conductor 311 to the wiring of the respective electromagnet 404 and thence to the conductor 307. This will energize the respective stationary electromagnet 404 which will attract the permanent magnet 406. The revolving drum is arranged such that when the permanent magnet 406 is attracted to a specific stationary magnet 404, a certain numeral on the rim of the revolving drum 403 will appear in the viewing window 412. All incoming and outgoing conductors connected to all the stationary electromagnets in a numbers-calling sign are wrapped in a multiple-conductor cable 411 which is in turn connected to a multiple-conductor cable 312 inside the supporting post 402.
The numerals on the three revolving drums 403 of a given number-calling sign 401 correspond to the numerals on the key columns of a given operations panel 301. The numerals on the first revolving drum, from the right, are in units; those on the second revolving drum are in tens, and those on the third revolving drum are in hundreds. When the number 35 is pressed on the keys 302 on the operation panel 301, the numeral 3 on the second drum 403 from the right and the numeral 5 on the first drum 403 at the right side will be seen through the viewing window 412. By the wiring pattern shown in FIG. 19, only the numbers calling sign in front of the operator's counter will be actuated. All other signs will be unaffected.
In addition to the visual display provided by numbers shown on the numbers calling signs, the tellers may also notify the patrons audibly. To accomplish this, an audiotransmission means such as a tape player with a series of consecutive numbers recorded on a magnetic tape could be interrelated with each numbers-calling sign. The means could be synchronized such that when a certain number appeared on a numbers-calling sign, the tape player would broadcast the same number repeatedly. This will notify those patrons who do not wish to pay attention to the visual displays and who would rather read or engage in conversation while waiting for service.
A calling numbers recorder is similar to a waiting numbers register both are used to register numbers. The register, however, is used to register the numbers which have been served as well as to be served. The recorder, on the other hand, is used to register only the numbers which are to be called. The basic difference between these two apparatus is in the mode of operation. All waiting numbers registers are operated simultaneously upon the actuation of the singular number plates holder in the system. All the calling numbers recorders, however, are operated simultaneously upon the actuation, one at a time, of each of the plurality of operation panels in the system. In construction, the calling numbers recorders are similar to the numbers-calling signs. They differ in that the calling numbers recorders have a revolving permanent magnet 504 mounted upon the central axis 505 and the stationary electromagnets 506 fixed on the inner side of the case while the numbers-calling signs have revolving permanent magnets fixed inside the rim of the revolving drums and stationary electromagnets mounted upon the central shaft.
FIGS. 16 and 17 show the construction of a calling numbers recorder 501. On the surface of each of the three circular bands 502, numerals from 0 to 9 are marked and equidistantly spaced thereupon. Circular plates 503 as central stems are mounted perpendicularly to the centers of these circular bands 502. A circular stem plate 503 and a permanent magnet 504 are mounted together on an independent axle 505. When the permanent magnet 504 revolves, the circular band 502 revolves with it. Opposite to each permanent magnet 504, there is a stationary electromagnet 506 fixed on the inside face of the case. The three independent axles 505 are supported by a common shaft 507 with ball bearings 508. The wiring 509 of each stationary electromagnet 506 in a calling numbers recorder 501 is connected to the respective operating key 302 on the operation panel 301. By means of the wiring system shown in FIG. 19, when a number is pressed on the keys of the operation panel, the same number will appear through the viewing windows of all calling numbers recorders and the numbers-calling sign in front of the operator.
The operation may be explained more clearly thus: At each counter window there is a console 601 in front of a teller and a numbers-calling sign overhead. The console has a waiting numbers register 201 at the right, a numbers-calling operation panel 301 at the center, and a calling numbers recorder 501 at the left as shown in FIG. 3. Suppose five counter windows are open to service and all the tellers are busy with their clients. At this moment the readings of the waiting numbers registers are 236 and the readings of the calling numbers recorders are 145. After a period of time, the teller at the third window has finished with a patron and wants to call another. She simply presses the number 146 on her operations panel keyboard. The numbers on all calling numbers recorders at all the five counter windows and the numbers-calling sign in front of her window will thus change to 146 and the number 146 will be audibly broadcasted, if desired. The numbers on the other numbers-calling signs will remain unchanged. This will notify the patron who holds the waiting number 146 to approach the third window. By this time, the teller at the fifth counter window has also finished with her patron. She looks at the number appearing on the calling numbers recorder and notes that the last number served was 146. She then presses the number 147 on her operations panel keyboard. This will change the readings on all the calling numbers recorders to 147 and the numbers-calling sign in front of her window will read 147. Then the patron who holds the waiting number 147 will approach the fifth window and the procedure will be repeated.
While the preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that these embodiments are capable of variation and modification and are not limited to the precise details set forth. Rather, they include such variations and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.
Inside these commercial or public establishments, the patrons often form into long lines waiting for service in front of the counter windows. Sometimes the lines are several persons abreast and stretch out to the streets. Because of waiting too long, some of the patrons may suffer stiff legs, sore feet, and aching arms, particularly those shoppers carrying heavy bags, women carrying babies on their arms, and elderly and crippled people who walk with canes and crutches. A commercial or public establishment will prosper when more people patronize it. Therefore, patron discomfort should be eliminated wherever possible. One of the principal objects of my invention is to provide a system which allows patrons to wait for service in a comfortable, unregimented manner. The orderly formation of waiting lines is generally a desirable function. However, it sometimes results in inequities, as described, for instance, by the following example: Suppose 30 persons lined up outside of a bank before opening time. When the bank opened for business, they entered and automatically formed into three lines. Those who were in the order of one, four, seven, 10, 13, 16, 19, 22, 25, 28 when they entered formed into the first line in front of the first counter window. Those who were in the order of two, five, eight, 11, 14, 17, 20, 23, 26, 29 when they entered formed into the second line in front of the second counter window. Those who were in the order of three, six, nine, 12, 15, 18, 21, 24, 27, 30 when they entered formed into the third line in front of the third counter window. The first person in the first line had extensive business to transact. Consequently, while the teller of the first counter window still carefully and diligently handled the requirements of the first person, the teller at the second window had finished with the twenty-sixth person and the teller of the third window had finished with the eighteenth person. It is apparent that such a procedure was very unfair to those in the first line who came to the bank earlier and had to wait while those in the second and third lines, who came in later, were served. Another object of my invention is to prevent such inequities.
A further object of my invention is to furnish the management of such business establishments a topical indication during the day of the number of patrons who have come in and of the number who have actually been served at any given time by the counter. With this information, it is a simple matter to decide the correct number of facilities which should be kept open to adequately service the patrons. This will help to maintain a very efficient and economical operation.
A still further object of my invention is to revolutionize the planning and design of modern banks and like establishments. This invention will make it possible to convert the present simple, penlike design of the receiving areas in banks and the like into plush reception halls with comfortable sofas, or into an indoor garden, fountains and other amenities.
Another object of my invention is to discourage the occurrence of robberies and other legal transgressions which seem to have become the order of the day. With my invention for instance, anyone who wishes to approach a bank teller must first take a number plate and then wait until his number is called. A person is intending to rob a bank would want neither to leave his fingerprints on a number plate nor to wait for a turn with a teller. Failure to take these steps would immediately raise suspicion and place the suspect under the surveillance of the bank security personnel.
For further comprehension of the invention which is believed to be novel, and of the objects and advantages thereof, reference may be made to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which:
FIG. 1 shows diagrammatically the general arrangement of the system in a bank.
FIG. 2 is a sectional view taken on the line I--I of FIG. 1.
FIG. 3 shows the perspective view of a console which comprises a waiting numbers register and a calling numbers recorder inside a case with a numbers-calling operation panel on its top.
FIG. 4 is a front view of a number plates holder.
FIG. 5 is a vertical sectional view of a number plates holder taken on the line II--II of FIG. 4.
FIG. 6 is a horizontal sectional view of a number plates holder taken on the line III--III of FIG. 4.
FIG. 7 shows the constituent mechanism and parts inside a waiting numbers register.
FIG. 8 is the sectional view of a waiting numbers register taken on the line IV--IV of FIG. 7.
FIG. 9 is the sectional view of a waiting numbers register taken on the line V--V of FIG. 7.
FIG. 10 shows diagrammatically the arrangement and connection of the commutator, solenoids, and armature which form the driving mechanism of a waiting numbers register as taken on the line VI--VI of FIG. 7.
FIG. 11 is a plan view of a numbers-calling operation panel.
FIG. 12 shows the sectional view of a numbers-calling operation panel installed on top of a console taken on the line VII--VII of FIG. 11.
FIG. 13 shows an elevation of a numbers-calling sign. The left half is an elevation with the case on and the right half is an elevation with the front of the case cut away.
FIG. 14 shows the sectional view of a numbers-calling sign taken on the line VIII--VIII of FIG. 13.
FIG. 15 shows the sectional view of a numbers-calling sign taken on the line IX--IX of FIG. 14.
FIG. 16 shows the construction inside of a calling numbers recorder taken on the line XI--XI of FIG. 17.
FIG. 17 is the sectional view of a calling-numbers recorder taken on the line X--X of FIG. 16.
FIG. 18 shows diagrammatically the wiring system connecting the number plates holder to the waiting numbers registers.
FIG. 19 shows diagrammatically a part of the wiring system connecting the numbers-calling operation panels to the calling numbers recorders and the numbers-calling signs.
Referring more in detail to the drawings in which similar reference numerals identify corresponding parts throughout all the views, this registering and calling system for waiting numbers, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, consists of a waiting area 01, a single 1 number plates holder 101 with a two-conductor cable 102 connecting it with a plurality of waiting numbers registers 201 and, numbers-calling operation panels 301. A plurality of numbers-calling signs 401 with their supporting posts 402 and associated calling numbers recorders 501 are also provided. Units comprising one waiting numbers register, one numbers calling operation panel, and one calling numbers recorder are packaged in attractive consoles the size of a portable radio set, as shown in FIG. 3. These consoles are placed at convenient positions on the counters so the tellers can operate them without difficulty.
FIGS. 4 to 6 illustrate the construction of a number plates holder which may be constructed of metal, plastic, or synthetic materials. The number plates holder is made up of two parts: A threaded upper tube 105 and a base box 106. The upper tube may be either circular or square in shape and it is circular in this case. It is attached to the base box by means of the screws 107 or other clamping devices and secured to the wall by means of the steel clamp 108. Before the holder is filled with number plates, the upper tube 105 is removed from the base box 106. Then the number plates 109 which may be made of metal, plastic, or other materials are stacked inside a wire cage 110 with numerals increasing upwards from unity at the bottom to the largest number containable at the top. The purpose of the opne-ended wire cage 110 is to retain the number plates in the correct position when the upper tube 105 is removed. After the holder is filled, generally with a number of plates sufficient to cover the number of patrons in an average day, the upper tube is restored to position on the base box. The base box 106 is rectangular in shape and is secured to the wall by means of the angle 111 and the bolts 112. In front of the base box there is an opening 113. Around the inside perimeter of the base box 106 there is a bent bar member 114 which has a right-hand leg which extends through a tube 115 to the outside of the base box. A knob 116 is attached to the member as a handle. Inside the tube 115 there is a spring 117 which acts upon a lug 118 fixed on the bar member. The left-hand leg of the bar 114 is attached to a block 119 made of wood, plastic, or other nonconducting material with a strip of conducting material 120 mounted upon its left surface. The block 119 slides along the trough 121. On the left side of the trough at the level of the conductive strip 120 on the block 119 there are two terminals 122 and 123 which are connected to the two conductors 103 and 104 in the two-conductor cable 102.
When a patron wants to take a number plate, he simply pulls the knob 116 of the bent bar 114. This procedure will push a number plate 109 halfway out of the holder through the opening 113. At this moment the conductive strip 120 on the block 119 which has slid forward into the trough 121 links the two terminals 122 and 123 together and closes the circuit in the two-conductor cable 102. This will turn one number in each waiting numbers register by means of the wiring system shown in FIG. 18. After the patron takes the protracted number plate, he releases the knob 116 and the bent bar 114 is forced back to its original position by the spring 117. The block 119 slides out of the trough and breaks the circuit in the two-conductor cable. This action will repeat whenever a patron takes a number plate.
FIGS. 7 to 10 show the construction of a waiting numbers register 201 which consists of three main parts: the driving mechanism, the number wheels, and the transmission gears. The driving mechanism is made up of a revolving armature 202 and a stationary electromagnet 203. The revolving armature has ten revolving electromagnets 204 mounted upon the axle 205 and connected to a commutator which is divided by insulating material into an incoming section 206 and an outgoing section 207. Each section is again divided by insulating material into ten strips. The wiring of each revolving electromagnet 204 is connected to its respective incoming and outgoing strips. The stationary electromagnet 203 is fixed to the register's body frame and aligned with each revolving electromagnet. An incoming brush 208 which is connected to conductor 103 through the wiring of the stationary electromagnet 203 is kept in contact with an incoming strip. The outgoing brush 209 is directly connected to conductor 104 and is kept in contact with an outgoing strip. When the two terminals 122 and 123 in the number plates holder are joined together by the conductive strip 120, current from conductor 103 passes through the wiring of the stationary electromagnet 203, then by means of the incoming brush 208 through the wiring of a revolving electromagnet 204 and then through an outgoing brush 209 to conductor 104 to complete a circuit. This current will energize the stationary electromagnet 203 and a corresponding revolving electromagnet which will attract to each other and turn the armature around one-tenth a revolution. While the armature revolves, the commutator turns with it and the brushes 208 and 209 fall ahead and are in contact with the next two strips of the commutator. Because of this, when the circuit is closed again, the next revolving electromagnet 204 will be energized to turn the armature for another one-tenth of a revolution and so on. FIG. 18 shows the wiring system connecting the holder 101 to the registers 201.
There are three number wheels 211, 215, and 219 in the registers. The first consists of a drum 212 and a driving toothed wheel 213. The second one comprises a drum 216 and a driven toothed wheel 217, and driving toothed wheel 218. The third one has a wheel drum 220 and a driven toothed wheel 221. The rim of each wheel drum is divided into 10 segments whose centers are marked in sequence with numerals from 0 to 9. The driving toothed wheels 213 and 218 of the first and second number wheels 211 and 215 have two teeth only. The driven toothed wheels 217 and 221 of the second and third number wheels 215 and 219 have 10 teeth equally spaced around their rims.
The two sets of transmission gears are mounted on their respective axles 222 and 223 supported by a common shaft 224. Each set has a smaller gear at the right and a larger gear at the left. Each gear has 10 teeth equally spaced around its periphery. In the first set, the smaller gear 225 meshes with the larger, two-tooth driving wheel 213 of the first number wheel 211 and the larger gear 226 meshes with the equal in size, 10-tooth driven wheel 217 of the second number wheel 215. In the second set, the smaller gear 227 meshes with the larger two-tooth driving wheel 218 of the second number wheel 215 and the larger gear 228 meshes with the equal in size, 10-tooth driven wheel 221 of the third number wheel 219.
The first number wheel 211 and the revolving armature 202 are mounted on the same axle 205. The other two number wheels are mounted on their respective axles. They all are supported by the same shaft 210. With such an arrangement, the first number wheel 211 revolves with the revolving armature 202, and will revolve 10 times for each revolution of the second number wheel 215. The second number wheel will also revolve 10 times for each revolution of the third number wheel 219. Therefore, the numerals on the wheel 211 are in units, those on the wheel 215 are in tens and those on the wheel 219 are in hundreds. The number shown in the viewing window of the register indicates the total number of patrons who have come in to join the waiting list during a given period. As shown in FIG. 3 the portion at the right-hand side of the console 601 is the waiting numbers register and the total number of patrons registered is 236 persons.
The numbers-calling operation panel 301 is used to operate the numbers-calling signs 401 and the calling numbers recorders 501. As shown in FIG. 11 there are three columns of 10 operating keys 302 on each operations panel. At the top of each key 302 is set a button 303 with a numeral inscribed upon it. The numerals start from unity on the first button at the top of each column and run in consecutive order to 0 at the bottom. A portion of each key rests upon a spring 304 which is attached to a conductive strip 305 as shown in FIG. 12. This conductive strip acts as a common terminal for all the keys and has a binding post 306 with nut and washer for connecting to the conductor 307.
As shown in FIG. 12, the operations panel 301 actually consists of two boards; a top board 308 and a bottom board 309. All the operating keys 302, springs 304, and the conductive strip 305 are fixed to the top board 308. Opposite to each operating key 302 there is a terminal 310 with a binding post, nuts, and washers on the bottom board 309. Each of these terminals 310 is connected to a conductor 311. Thirty of these conductors 311 and three of conductors 307 are wrapped in a multiple-conductor cable 312.
Counting from the right, the numerals on the buttons are in units in the first column, in tens in the second column, and in hundreds in the third column. If the operator wants to call the number 35, he simply presses the button marked 3 in the second column and the button marked 5 in the first column. When a button is pressed, the key 302 forces the spring 304 down into contact with the terminal 310. The specific circuit is closed and the current will operate the corresponding numbers in the specific numbers-calling sign associated with the operations panel and all the calling numbers recorders. In this case, only the numbers-calling sign in front of the panel operator and all the calling numbers recorders connected to the circuit as shown in FIG. 19 will show the number 35.
FIGS. 13 and 15 illustrate the construction of a numbers calling sign which is used by the tellers to notify patrons of the availability of a servicing facility. A given patron will approach a window facility when the number he holds is shown on the calling sign associated with that facility.
The signs are usually rectangular or square; however, they may be designed in any desired shape and color. The principal parts of a numbers-calling sign are the three revolving drums 403 and three sets of stationary electromagnets 404. The rim of each revolving drum is divided into 10 segments. The center of each segment is marked a numeral as indicated by 405. A series of permanent magnets are attached to the inner face of the rim opposite to the electromagnets. Among these permanent magnets, only one magnet 406 has opposite polarity with the energized electromagnet. Each of the three revolving drums is mounted on its own independent axle 408 by means of walls 407. These 3 independent axles 408 are supported by the common shaft 409 and revolve on ball bearings 413. Inside each revolving drum 403, ten stationary electromagnets 404 are mounted around on this common shaft 409. The outgoing ends of the wirings 410 associated with the ten stationary electromagnets 404 are connected to a common terminal which is in turn connected to conductor 307. The incoming ends of all wirings 410 are connected to their respective conductors 311. When an operating key 302 is pressed, the circuit is closed and the current will pass through conductor 311 to the wiring of the respective electromagnet 404 and thence to the conductor 307. This will energize the respective stationary electromagnet 404 which will attract the permanent magnet 406. The revolving drum is arranged such that when the permanent magnet 406 is attracted to a specific stationary magnet 404, a certain numeral on the rim of the revolving drum 403 will appear in the viewing window 412. All incoming and outgoing conductors connected to all the stationary electromagnets in a numbers-calling sign are wrapped in a multiple-conductor cable 411 which is in turn connected to a multiple-conductor cable 312 inside the supporting post 402.
The numerals on the three revolving drums 403 of a given number-calling sign 401 correspond to the numerals on the key columns of a given operations panel 301. The numerals on the first revolving drum, from the right, are in units; those on the second revolving drum are in tens, and those on the third revolving drum are in hundreds. When the number 35 is pressed on the keys 302 on the operation panel 301, the numeral 3 on the second drum 403 from the right and the numeral 5 on the first drum 403 at the right side will be seen through the viewing window 412. By the wiring pattern shown in FIG. 19, only the numbers calling sign in front of the operator's counter will be actuated. All other signs will be unaffected.
In addition to the visual display provided by numbers shown on the numbers calling signs, the tellers may also notify the patrons audibly. To accomplish this, an audiotransmission means such as a tape player with a series of consecutive numbers recorded on a magnetic tape could be interrelated with each numbers-calling sign. The means could be synchronized such that when a certain number appeared on a numbers-calling sign, the tape player would broadcast the same number repeatedly. This will notify those patrons who do not wish to pay attention to the visual displays and who would rather read or engage in conversation while waiting for service.
A calling numbers recorder is similar to a waiting numbers register both are used to register numbers. The register, however, is used to register the numbers which have been served as well as to be served. The recorder, on the other hand, is used to register only the numbers which are to be called. The basic difference between these two apparatus is in the mode of operation. All waiting numbers registers are operated simultaneously upon the actuation of the singular number plates holder in the system. All the calling numbers recorders, however, are operated simultaneously upon the actuation, one at a time, of each of the plurality of operation panels in the system. In construction, the calling numbers recorders are similar to the numbers-calling signs. They differ in that the calling numbers recorders have a revolving permanent magnet 504 mounted upon the central axis 505 and the stationary electromagnets 506 fixed on the inner side of the case while the numbers-calling signs have revolving permanent magnets fixed inside the rim of the revolving drums and stationary electromagnets mounted upon the central shaft.
FIGS. 16 and 17 show the construction of a calling numbers recorder 501. On the surface of each of the three circular bands 502, numerals from 0 to 9 are marked and equidistantly spaced thereupon. Circular plates 503 as central stems are mounted perpendicularly to the centers of these circular bands 502. A circular stem plate 503 and a permanent magnet 504 are mounted together on an independent axle 505. When the permanent magnet 504 revolves, the circular band 502 revolves with it. Opposite to each permanent magnet 504, there is a stationary electromagnet 506 fixed on the inside face of the case. The three independent axles 505 are supported by a common shaft 507 with ball bearings 508. The wiring 509 of each stationary electromagnet 506 in a calling numbers recorder 501 is connected to the respective operating key 302 on the operation panel 301. By means of the wiring system shown in FIG. 19, when a number is pressed on the keys of the operation panel, the same number will appear through the viewing windows of all calling numbers recorders and the numbers-calling sign in front of the operator.
The operation may be explained more clearly thus: At each counter window there is a console 601 in front of a teller and a numbers-calling sign overhead. The console has a waiting numbers register 201 at the right, a numbers-calling operation panel 301 at the center, and a calling numbers recorder 501 at the left as shown in FIG. 3. Suppose five counter windows are open to service and all the tellers are busy with their clients. At this moment the readings of the waiting numbers registers are 236 and the readings of the calling numbers recorders are 145. After a period of time, the teller at the third window has finished with a patron and wants to call another. She simply presses the number 146 on her operations panel keyboard. The numbers on all calling numbers recorders at all the five counter windows and the numbers-calling sign in front of her window will thus change to 146 and the number 146 will be audibly broadcasted, if desired. The numbers on the other numbers-calling signs will remain unchanged. This will notify the patron who holds the waiting number 146 to approach the third window. By this time, the teller at the fifth counter window has also finished with her patron. She looks at the number appearing on the calling numbers recorder and notes that the last number served was 146. She then presses the number 147 on her operations panel keyboard. This will change the readings on all the calling numbers recorders to 147 and the numbers-calling sign in front of her window will read 147. Then the patron who holds the waiting number 147 will approach the fifth window and the procedure will be repeated.
While the preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated and described, it is to be understood that these embodiments are capable of variation and modification and are not limited to the precise details set forth. Rather, they include such variations and modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.