In a smart cooler, customers take items themselves. The device needs to know what they took. Here are the technologies that make it possible.
A smart cooler first authorizes a payment, for example by card, then unlocks the door, and after it closes works out which items were taken and charges only for those. Recognition uses shelf scales, RFID tags, or cameras with software, depending on the model.
Step by step
- The customer taps a card or phone.
- The terminal places an authorization hold.
- The lock releases the door.
- The customer takes items and closes the door.
- The system identifies the items and settles the transaction.
Recognition technologies
Shelf scales detect weight changes. RFID reads tags on products. Cameras analyze shelf images. Each method has its own requirements, such as for packaging and product layout.
Example devices
The page on vending coolers (publisher's site) describes these devices.
FAQ
Why is the hold higher than my purchase? The terminal places a hold before unlocking. In the end, only the items taken are charged.
Does a smart cooler record customers? It depends on the model – cameras may analyze only images of the shelves. If the device processes personal data, the data controller, usually the operator, provides information about it.
This article is general information only and is not legal advice. The rules for processing personal data in a given system are set by its controller.