GB937450A - Checkout counter for conveying packages - Google Patents

Abstract

937,450. Self-service checking counters. W. T. BRIGHAM, and L. GERWECK. Jan. 10, 1962 [Jan. 17, 1961], No. 902/62. Class 116. [Also in Group XXX] In a self-service retail store, a check-out counter for advancing packages from a packagedeposit location at one end of the counter to a package-check-out location intermediate the ends of the counter comprises a movable package-pick-up platform 34 and a stationary package-deposit platform 22. The movable platform 34 is formed of spaced members 44, eight of which fit between a series of platform members 36 forming the stationary platform 22. The movable platform 34 is mounted on a wheeled carriage 48 by links 56 and may be raised or lowered by a handle 60 pivoted at 62 to one of the members 44 of the movable platform. A customer having deposited packages P on the stationary platform 22, a cashier pushes the platform 34 from the lower to the upper end of tracks 30, 32 supporting the carriage 48. Further pushing the handle 60 causes it to pivot and raise the platform 34 which lifts the packages P from the stationary platform 22, Fig. 2. A stop 68 on a platform member 44 engages one of the links 56 and the platform 34 remains in the raised position when the handle is released. The handle is then returned by spring means (not shown) to the position in Figs. 1, 3. The weight of the packages and of the platform 34 causes the platform to move down the tracks 30, 32 until the first package engages a cross-member 26 provided at a checkout location 24. After recording the price of the first package, the cashier moves the package on to a discharge platform 28, the platform 34 now being free to move down the tracks 30, 32 until the next package is engaged against the cross-member 26 and is price-recorded. When all the packages P are cleared, the platform 34 moves to the lower end of the tracks and engages a stop 30b. The sudden halt causes the platform 34 to pivot on its links 56 and to be moved to its lowered position, Fig. 1. While the recording of the packages P is taking place, packages P1 (Fig. 3) of the next customer may be placed on the stationary platform 22 ready for removal by the platform 34. In a modification, Fig. 7, the handle 60 cooperates with a spring stop 184 and is provided with an extension 182 for engagement with a stop 164 on a carriage member 152. The arrangement enables the platform 134 to be moved from its raised to its lowered position in cases where the platform has not made its full travel. In a further modification, Fig. 8 (not shown), the wheels of the carriage are dispensed with and the carriage is supported on rollers which replace the tracks. In place of the inclined tracks to move the platform towards the check-out location 24, spring means may be used.