Fully self-service check-out counter incorporating an integral apparatus for on demand manufacturing of custom-sized bags conforming to the volume of articles received therein

Abstract

A self-service check-out counter for cashier-unattended use and operation includes an laser scanner for automated reading of product identification codes borne by articles to be purchased, a keyboard for manual entry of article-identifying information, a variety of indicators and signalling devices for instructing actions by the customer, devices for preventing pilferage, fraud and inadvertent errors and an integral bag forming apparatus for manufacturing custom-formed bags on-site at the counter and on demand and, preferably, custom-sized to conform to the volume of articles to be packed in the bags. A customer individually scans articles to be purchased and the scanned data is verified through comparison with stored product identifying information. Following verification of each article, customer placement of the article into the bag forming apparatus in enabled and a bag preferably conforming to the volume of articles purchased in manufactured within the check-out counter. When filled, the bag is automatically sealed and discharged from the check-out counter for subsequent removal by the customer. Customers completing the scanning and packing of purchased articles proceed to a central cashier to pay for their purchases.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.