DESIGN INSTITUTE AWARDS

2001

ENGINEERING DESIGN

  • Big Boy Scooters
  • Bobflor-Plus Panel
  • Companion Underwater Video Camera Housing
  • Monorail Climber and Raise Drill Rig
  • Murray 'Tour de Force' Competition Cycle Cranks
  • Pop-a-Plug
  • Safe-T-Punch
  • Safety Isolation Valve
  • Tree Popper
  • Valve Position Indicator
  • ZP 755 Intelligent Sounder

ENGINEERING & INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

  • Qube Mobile Cash Acceptance System  

INDUSTRIAL DESIGN

  • Barracuda Classic
  • Jumbo Price Key
  • Roll It
  • Sanji IRX 550 Remote Extender
  • Transaction Kiosk
Engineering Design

Product: Big Boy Scooters

Company name: Engineering Café & Design
PO Box 1039 Ferndale 2160
Tel: (011) 792 4943
Fax: (011) 792 8370
E-mail: engcafe@vrmc.co.za
Web: http://www.engcafe.co.za/ or http://www.bigboyscooters.com/

Name and position of contact person: Mike Puzey
Main function: Leisure Transport

Leisure transportation, with all the desirable performance and safety features, is available out of a single box with Big Boy Scooters. Stability, good traction both on and off road and easy handling are just a few of the design attributes of this range of scooters, which can be folded into a compact unit for storage or transport.

Exceptional stability, especially at high speeds, has been achieved through the use of a patented positive locking system incorporating a steering dampener. While this safety feature does not compromise the portability of the Big Boy Scooter it completely eliminates headshake.

Designed for children and the young at heart, the brightly coloured Big Boy Scooter is equipped with a centrifugal clutch facilitating easy take off and a front disc brake. This makes the scooter simple to use and ensures good stopping capabilities.

As an additional safety feature, the engine idles when started and only engages once the accelerator throttle is opened. This means that drive to the wheel is eliminated as soon as the throttle is released.

Optimum traction has been achieved through a low centre of gravity and the use of the largest pneumatic wheel possible for the scooter. This, together with the unique steering system, ensure a smoother, more stable overall ride.

A belt drive system and pulley ensures greater top end speed and climbing ability and requires far less maintenance when compared to conventional chain driven scooters. This is also considered a safer option, and Big Boy Scooters are the only scooters that have a clutch and two step belt reduction system.

During transportation or storage a positive locking device ensures rigidity, yet is simple to operate. Manufactured from mild steel using mig welding, the Big Boy Scooter’s frames are high-impact powder coated for durability and all units are tested on a proprietary test rig.

Petrol powered versions of the Big Boy scooters are available in 26cc, 43cc and 55cc two stroke options, while the DC electric model offers up to three hours operation. Upgrades to standard models include a tuned power exhaust pipe that can improve performance by up to 80% on the larger petrol version, and different pulley combinations and a high-speed race kit.

Big Boy Scooter riders have innovated a new sport around this product and the units have gained a strong reputation in the USA where scooter racing is a growing sport with speeds of up to 115 km/h being recorded.


Product: Bobflor-Plus Panel

Company name: Bobcrete (Pty) Ltd
PO Box 450 Bellville 7535
Tel: (021) 951 4574
Fax: (021) 951 6209
E-mail: managmnt@bobcrete.co.za
Cell: 083 461 4247
Web: http://www.bobcrete.co.za/

Name and position of contact person: Phil Surridge
Main function: Precast concrete floor slab system

The innovative design of the Bobflor-Plus concrete flooring panel will reduce on-site installation time and eliminate the need for mesh and concrete toppings resulting in significant cost savings for the building industry.

The Bobflor-Plus pre-cast, pre-stressed, hollow core concrete slabs incorporate a high tensile steel wire loop jointing system that securely connects the panels together. Concreting this joint results in a permanent movement free panel system, which eliminates the cracking of plaster or ceramic tiles along either side of the join line.

The concrete panels, 1.2 meters wide and 150 mm thick, are manufactured, using a quality casting method, to specific lengths up to 7 meters to suit individual customer applications. The top surface of the panel is artificially roughened to facilitate good adherence of non-structural screeds while the bottom is left smooth for painting or plastering.

Cast panels are transported to site where installation is undertaken using cranes and appropriate concrete equipment. Bobflor-Plus concrete panels are ideally suited as an alternative for flooring applications being built using in-situ methods such as soffit shuttering or wet cast concrete with reinforcement.

Prior to being launched the panels were extensively tested until the optimum composition of the pre-stressed wire loop jointing system, including spacing and thickness, was determined.

Use of the labour intensive wet-cast system in the manufacture of the Bobflor-Plus panels has resulted in job opportunities for the local community in the Belville area. Flexibility in manufacturing allows cast-in items such as electrical and plumbing fittings and reinforcing starter bars to be provided when specified.


 
Product: Companion Underwater Video Camera Housing

Company name: Inner Space Developments
PO Box 9724 Centurion 0046
Tel: (012) 653-5191
Fax: (012) 653-5189
E-mail: aslade@uskonet.com
Cell: 082444-5841
Web: http://www.isdsa.co.za/

Name and position of contact person: Andre Slade
Main function: Underwater Video Camera

The Companion underwater video camera housing is the first such cast aluminium unit capable of accommodating a broad range of video cameras.

Designed to load video cameras from the front, the housing comes complete with an active matrix liquid crystal display monitor viewfinder, a built-in, flip-up colour correction filter, an electronic liquid ingress detection device and a 4,5Ah nickel metal hydride battery pack to power a 50 W high-intensity lighting system.

The Companion has a serial programmable microprocessor on board that carries the camera control software. Upgrades to facilitate newer cameras can be done by simply reprogramming on a PC.

The housing has been designed to ensure that the operator’s hands remain on the unit at all times and all functions are visible and easily accessible. The unit can be taken to a depth of 60 metres with a weighting system of lead balls placed in the handles used to achieve negative buoyancy.

All metal fittings are 316 stainless steel, and the cast aluminium housing is soft anodised and double epoxy-coated for longer life.


Product: Monorail Climber and Raise Drill Rig

Company name: Steinmüller Mining & Piping Systems (Pty) Ltd
PO Box 1148 Honeydew 2040
Tel: (011) 462 1903
Fax: (011) 704 2120
E-mail: peter@hydropower.co.za
Cell: 082 780 7884
Web: http://www.hydropower.co.za/

Name and position of contact person: Peter Fraser
Main function: Transportation and fast development of raises

The monorail raise climber and raise drill rig is a cost effective and complete mining system that appropriately mechanises the development of inclined raise tunnels resulting in significant savings in both time and labour.

The monorail raise climber forms the logistical backbone of the system, while the raise drill rig facilitates rapid face advance. Powered by high pressure water, the system rolls underneath a single pipe-rail suspended on chains attached to the hanging wall.

The robust, rigid connection pipe-rail with an integral rack gear is the fundamental innovation on the system,allowing tight bends. Its rigid joints spread loads over numerous support points enabling the track to articulate up, down, left or right.

The monorail raise climber comprises a drive unit, operator cabin and load trolley incorporated into a single 'train'. Other innovative features of this unit are the water-powered positive displacement motor that allows hydropower to be used as the energy source, and the novel peristaltic motor that drives the hose reel tensioning device.

The key innovation in the raise drill rig is the simple mechanical means whereby an optimum, accurate and repeatable drill pattern is achieved without operator discretion or manual effort.

The monorail can transport 1.5 t up a 260 metre long 25 degree raise in about 15 minutes, representing a substantial saving in time and manpower, and an immeasurable increase in productivity and safety. Fail-safe, spring applied hydraulically released brakes are incorporated in the monorail, and the use of hydropower eliminates the risks associated with oil leaks and electricity on sloping footwalls.


Product: Murray 'Tour de Force' Competition Cycle Cranks

Company name: Murray 'Tour de Force' Cycle Technology
PO Box 432 Velddrif 7365
Tel: (02278) 31807
Fax: (02278) 31807
E-mail: murraytourdeforce@telkomsa.net
Cell: 083 432 1575

Name and position of contact person: Graeme Murray
Main function: To enable the rider to match leg length to crank length

The Murray 'Tour de Force' competition cycle crank is designed with an aerodynamic profile that can reduce drag by up to ten times. This 2001 SABS Design Institute Award winning product has a crank length that can be adjusted to match individual leg lengths.

In competition cycling, aerodynamic drag and overall bicycle weight are critical, with races often being decided by centimetres. It is equally important that the crank length be matched to the leg length to facilitate the optimum range of leg movement during cycling. This is considered as fundamental as adjusting the height of the saddle. Weight and drag reduction, as well as achieving the correct crank length without loss of efficiency, are important to the rider.

Conventional cranks weigh 700 g, accounting for a large proportion of drag when cycling. The Murray 'Tour de Force' crank is extremely lightweight, with a mass of only 400 g and can be easily adjusted between 160 and 180 mm to obtain the optimum length.

Considering that the leg goes through an average pedaling cycle of 4000 times an hour, this latter capability is particularly important. Problems, such as irritation and inflammation of the cartilage, kneecap and thigh tendons, caused by incorrect or mismatched crank length, can be avoided by using the adjustable crank as the range of movement and angle of the legs can be adjusted to suit the individual cyclist.

Murray 'Tour de Force' cranks are manufactured from carbon-fibre composite material, with aluminium inserts machined to very close tolerances and chemically treated to promote bonding with the composites.


Product: Pop-a-Plug

Company name: Pop-a-Plug (Pty) Ltd
PO Box 22834 Kenwyn 7790
Tel:(021) 762 8712
Fax: (021) 761 4505
E-mail: hzander@cords.co.za
Cell: 082 880 5295

Name and position of contact person: Hans Zander
Main function: To ease the plug out of a tight fitting electrical socket

The Pop-A-Plug facilitates the easy removal of electrical plugs from any wall socket or multi-plug device. Designed with safety in mind, this innovative plug can be released from even the tightest connection by children, the elderly or infirm.

The device is fitted with two top cap finger-grab handles and a thumb operated free-floating ejector plunger. The plunger is designed to move freely between the brass contact pins of the plug. A simultaneous squeeze and pull action by the user results in the plunger being pressed against the contact surface, forcing the plug from even the tightest socket.

The plug bases are manufactured from clear polycarbonate and the connections between wires and brass componentry are clearly visible. The plugs are available in a variety of colours, with the colour of the ejector always being different so it is easy to see at all times.

An important safety feature of the Pop-A-Plug is that the user’s fingers are nowhere near the contact pins when it is removed from the socket.


Product: Safe-T-Punch

Company name: Emergency Systems
PO Box 1250 Honeydew 2040
Tel: (011) 957 3557
Cell: 072 264 8577

Name and position of contact person: Ivan le Roux
Main function: Public Transport Safety Equipment

The Safe-T-Punch, designed to facilitate fast, easy exit from public transport vehicles in an emergency has won the Chairman's Award in the 2001 SABS Design Institute's Awards programme.

This simple, yet effective device makes use of proven technology to ensure its reliable operation in all conceivable situations to avoid passengers remaining trapped in a vehicle in the event of an accident.

The Safe-T-Punch comprises a tungsten-tipped punch mounted in a readily identifiable plunger and is easily attached to the interior of the vehicle’s rear window using ultraviolet light-cured adhesive.

Commonly, emergency exits require the rear window of the vehicle to be forced out, and this is not always possible, especially when the situation involves children or elderly persons. The specific radius and hardness of the tungsten tipped punch makes it a simple task for anyone, even an 11-year-old child, to safely shatter the toughened glass of the window.

The nature of the design and the force applied by the tungsten-tipped punch does not affect the device’s performance even in extremely adverse conditions such as complete submersion of the vehicle. Activation of the Safe-T-Punch requires only two motions - removal of the safety pin and striking of the knob on the top of the punch.

To date more than 1000 Safe-T-Punches have been installed on various municipal and school buses.


Product: Safety Isolation Valve


Company name: Steinmüller Mining & Piping Systems (Pty) Ltd
PO Box 1148 Honeydew 2040
Tel: (011) 462 1903
Fax: (011) 704 2120
E-mail: dolph@hydropower.co.za
Cell: 082 569 8813
Web: http://www.hydropower.co.za/

Name and position of contact person: Dolph Bührmann
Main function: To isolate and protect pipelines against failure damage

The Safety Isolation Valve is automatically activated by the fluid flow rate and closes safely under excess flow conditions without requiring an external signal or input. Closing of the pipeline and arresting the flow occurs within one fifth of a second after the flow has exceeded pre-set limits.

The Safety Isolation Valve’s closing action is instantaneous during the major portion of this shutting cycle ensuring line pressure and flow velocities are entrapped to within 10% of the normal operational flows and pressures. The remaining closing function occurs slowly preventing surges or hydraulic ramming in the pipeline either upstream or downstream of the valve.

The closing action can be manually overridden by venting the valve’s control chamber. The valve can then be safely reopened to the position where the flow is, according to the pipeline and flow design specification.

This manual isolation function also facilitates pipeline filling and flushing, which can assist in preventing build-up of silt or lime in the valve, ensuring reliable operation. The valve cannot be opened against any significant differential pressures except to the limit of the flow that is considered safe for the flushing and filling of pipelines, making the Safety Isolation Valve inherently safe.

Installation of this robust valve is easy and maintenance simple, because internal parts are cleaned of scale build-up and silting during use of the valve. This action is further enhanced by the smooth surface finish and non-stick characteristics of the seals and bearings.

The Safety Isolation Valve is suitable for pipelines with operating pressures from 2MPa to 25MPa, are not pressure sensitive and range from 50NB to 300NB with flow rates from 10 litres per second to 300 litres per second.


Product: Tree Popper

Company name: Tree Popper
PO Box 551 Somerset West 7129
Tel: (021) 858 1154
Fax: (021) 858 1563
E-mail: negus@worldonline.co.za
Cell: 083 302 1640

Name and position of contact person: Frederick de Wet Negus
Main function: Extracts unwanted plants

Designed in direct response to the need for eradication of invasive alien plants, the Tree Popper is a robust, uncomplicated tool that can be used by one person. A simple concept of leverage has been used to ensure the complete removal of unwanted vegetation providing .a permanent solution to a long standing problem.

Manufactured from mild steel, the Tree Popper comprises a lever/handle with a rubber grip and a foot piece firmly held together by a circlip. These two basic parts form a pliers-like jaw that is used to grip the plant stem.

Operation is simple with the jaw hooked around the plant stem, force is exerted on the handle causing the foot piece to lever the plant and its roots completely out of the ground. This simple manual operation has eliminated the need for high-speed blades and other potentially dangerous mechanical operations. No skill is required when using the Tree Popper and women and children can operate it safely.

The Tree Popper is harmless to the environment, and facilitates the permanent removal of alien vegetation without causing any pollution. Use of this rugged implement also eliminates the need for herbicides and other chemicals. It is suitable for use in areas that are inaccessible to other mechanical implements and has been used successfully on mountain slopes and other difficult terrain.

With only one simple moving part, the tool does not require any form of maintenance and is available in three different sizes to suit the individual.


Product: Valve Position Indicator

Company name: Product Genesis
PO Box 3594 Edenvale 1610
Tel: (011) 609 4172
Fax: (011) 452 7926
E-mail: product@iafrica.com
Cell: 082 859 2248

Name and position of contact person: Gavin Steer
Main function: Monitoring system for automatic valve open/close position monitoring

The "twistset" valve position indicator, incorporating a patented switch adjustment device of cam arrangement, allows the operator to accurately set the switch simply by twisting the striker knob. Exact and reliable indexing on any product line will ensure optimum uptime is maintained.

This cost effective and reliable indicator is the only one of its type that can be set without using any tools, making it easy and simple to operate. It is fitted directly to the actuator using only eight bolts, and once set will remain operational until either the valve or actuator is replaced, making it exceptionally reliable.

All moving parts are situated inside the enclosure, which can withstand severe impact, and can function in extreme temperature ranges from minus 20 up to 80° C and is IP 67 rated. A flameproof aluminium enclosure certified to EXD IIC T6 is also available.

The clear polycarbonate shock resistant lid facilitates inspection of the switches and settings without having to open the switch box. It is also equipped with a beacon indicator that allows personnel to visually check the position of the valve from up to 30 metres. This eliminates the need to enter an area, which could be hazardous.

Another design innovation is the self-test facility incorporated in each unit. During testing, when sounders are operated for 5 seconds from the control panel, a built-in microphone in each unit checks for sound output and automatically signals the control panel should the unit fail to operate according to specification.

The ZP 755 intelligent sounder offers significant cost savings over traditional electronic sounders as the sounder is powered directly from the analogue address loop. This, and the efficiency of the unit, means that practical numbers of sounders can be supported without having to run separate power cables or make additional electrical terminations.

Safety and ergonomics were also taken into account in the design of the unit. Each sounder can be addressed individually by the control panel to facilitate optimum control during an evacuation. This means that a sounder can be activated in the area where the alarm originated with units in adjacent rooms and areas set off in stages minimising the human panic element in an emergency.

The unit can be fitted onto standard electrical fittings and the functions of the sounder can be configured on-site using built-in dipswitches, making installation simple.


Product: ZP 755 Intelligent Sounder

Company name: Ziton (Pty) Ltd
PO Box 4965 Cape Town 8000
Tel: (021) 506 6000
Fax: (021) 506 6100
E-mail: terence.ewers@ziton.spx.com

Name and position of contact person: Terence Ewers
Main function: Fire Alarm Sounder

Designed as a primary evacuation alarm forming part of an analogue addressable fire detection system, the ZP 755 intelligent sounder is acoustically efficient, individually identifiable to the system and can be configured for a variety of application or sound options.

Flexibility in configuration enables the ZP 755 intelligent sounder to be installed as a stand-alone sounder with a simple cover plate, fitted as a clip-on horn for additional sound output or as an optional xenon beacon. Another advantage of this is that it can be used as a fire detector socket with the sounder and detector mounted as an integral unit.

The horn sounder of the ZP 755 can produce 105dB(A) at 1 metre using only 5mA of the available current from the loop, and this includes the power used for communication with the panel and the on-board microprocessor. This is a fraction of the current used by traditional sounders, and has been achieved using a piezo based sound gun and exceptionally efficient driving circuitry.

The design of the dual sound chamber, which provides two paths, one wide-angled and the other narrow, facilitates an improved sound dispersion pattern with an evenly balanced output throughout the given area. This results in optimum efficiency when in dual horn mode.

Engineering & Industrial Design
Product: Qube Mobile Cash Acceptance System

Company name: Qube
PO Box 255 Kelvin 2054
Tel: (011) 466 0823
Fax: (011) 466 0824
E-mail: qubetechnology@mweb.co.za
Cell: 082 892 4402

Name and position of contact person: Rod Dyson
Main function: Secure & Automated Cash handling & Transit

Using the latest technology the QUBE Mobile Cash Acceptance System (MCAS) significantly reduces the physical handling of cash and allows risk free, efficient and simple cash movement from the cashier to a secure depository.

The MCAS can be pushed around a casino, shopping centre or retail store to facilitate the deposit of excess float cash. Incorporating a number of integral hardware, software and network/communication components, the MCAS comprises a mobile cash acceptance terminal (MCAT), an intelligent secure cash box (CATbox), a CATbox emptying jig (CATbox EJ) and a cash-in-transit carrying sleeve box (CATbox Sleeve).

Operation is simple. Cash is fed into the unit with accepted notes moved to an escrow compartment while unacceptable notes are fed into a reject slot. If the depositor agrees with amount counted, the cash is deposited into the CATbox for transportation. A receipt detailing the deposit value as well as an exact breakdown of the denominations is then issued.

The robust CATbox is the heart of the MCAS and any unauthorised attempt at intrusion results in a state of alert leading to the destruction of its contents unless specific inputs are given.

A custom designed power management system on the MCAT shuts down electrical components not in use and constantly monitors battery condition facilitating operation independently of mains power for up to eight hours.

The MCAS uses high-level note recognition equipment that identifies and rejects suspect banknotes. This makes the system accurate enough to allow banks to give instant value to the depositor for money that has not yet reached the bank premises.

The management of information gathered on behalf of system owners and merchants is handled by QUBE’s proprietary applications that are highly configurable to enhance seamless integration into most databases and IS installations.

Industrial Design

Product: Barracuda Classic

Company name: Baracuda SA
Private Bag X127 Halfway House 1685
Tel: (011) 314-5230
Fax: (011) 314-3486
E-mail: smatysiak@zodiac.com
Cell: 082 601 9869
Web: http://www.baracuda.co.za/

Name and position of contact person: Stephen Matysiak
Main function: Automatic Pool Cleaner

The Barracuda Classic automatic pool cleaner, with its distinctive arrowhead design, offers pool owners an easy, simple and cost effective method of pool maintenance.

The heart of the Barracuda Classic is the diaphragm that creates the interruption of water flow, propelling the unit virtually silently through the water. The specially designed adjustable inner body of the unit facilitates quick and easy maintenance as well as removal of the diaphragm, if necessary.

Designed as a plug and go system, the Barracuda Classic features a fluted, segmented and hinged ribbed disc designed to disturb debris as well as prevent the unit from sticking onto obstacles such as pool lights or drains. This feature also enables the cleaner to operate on all pool surfaces, including fiberglass, vinyl, marblelite or plaster.

The new hydro-dynamic casing on the unit reduces water resistance, improving its speed through the water, resulting in a more efficient cleaning activity. This is further enhanced by the deflector wheel, which enables the unit to manoeuvre in and out of difficult areas such as steps and martini seats. The wheel rotates freely to ensure even wear and a longer life.

Ultraviolet protection is standard to prolong the product life. All metallic parts on the Barracuda Classic are coated in a durable plastic to ensure that metals are not leached into the pool water. Corners are well rounded to prevent swimmers being hurt through accidental contact.

The automatic weir valve ensures that should the cleaner become blocked, water flow to the pump will continue preventing pump burnout. The Baracudo Classic will clean an average size pool from top to bottom, picking up all the leaves, bugs and debris in around eight hours.


Product: Jumbo Price Key

Company name: Product Genesis
PO Box 3594 Edenvale 1610
Tel: (011) 609 4172
Fax: (011) 452 7926
E-mail: product@iafrica.com
Cell: 082 859 2248

Name and position of contact person: Gavin Steer
Main function: Retail pricing system

The Jumbo Price Key is a versatile product description and pricing system that offers optimum flexibility and cost effectiveness for all retail applications.

The system can be customised for individual applications, but will typically comprise a backing card, logo brand cards, product shots, message cards and a cover plate.

A theme is silk-screened on the backing card to create general awareness and presence in the outlet. It incorporates extrusions for the easy insertion of the smaller cards that use the principle of fan-folds to facilitate simple, inexpensive in-store changes. The cover plate is used to hold the fan-fold graphic firmly in place and prevent tampering. A removable 'on promotion' flasher is also available.

Installation of the system is simple using double-sided adhesive pads and standard cable ties. High quality materials have been used in the manufacture to ensure durability in the often-harsh retail environment.


Product: Roll It

Company name: Tube Squeezer Trading cc
PO Box 6995 Flamwood Klerksdorp 2571
Tel: (018) 468-6070
Fax: (018) 468-6070
E-mail: hbezt@lantic.net
Cell: 083 267 8809

Name and position of contact person: Manie Bezuidenhout
Main function: Paste Dispenser

The Roll It tube roller is a simple and effective device suitable for dispensing paste like substances such as toothpaste, ointment, glue, paint and even medication.

Designed for easy use by children and adults alike, the Roll It comprises an injection moulded body with a fluted roller ball. In order to use, the roller ball is removed, the tube of substance inserted, and the ball replaced. The contents can then be rolled out in controlled amounts eliminating wastage and unsightly squashed tubes.

The aesthetically pleasing appearance of the Roll It allows it to be placed in full view in the bathroom, bedroom or workshop. Manufactured from high grade ABS plastic, the Roll It is non-toxic and shatterproof. These handy dispensers are available in a variety of colours.


Product: Sanji IRX 550 Remote Extender

Company name: Product Genesis
PO Box 3594 Edenvale 1610
Tel: (011) 609-4172
Fax: (011) 452-7926
E-mail: product@iafrica.com
Cell: 082-859-2248
Name and position of contact person: Peter Dreyer
Main function: RF remote extender for infra red based systems

The Sanji IRX 550 Remote Extender allows the user to control infrared line of sight electronic equipment from one room to another with ease. It can be used to changes tracks on a CD player, lower or raise the temperature on an air conditioning unit or change channels on a television - all from up to 100 metres away.

The system comprises two receiver/transmitters with aerials which receive IR signals from an existing remote control unit, convert the signal to radio frequency (RF), communicate and reconvert the signal close to the device being controlled.

The radio frequency used on the Sanji IRX 550 Remote Extender is crystal controlled to eliminate drift under any temperature or environmental variance. The power supply is isolated from the unit and is based at a wall socket.

The casings are injection moulded using high impact acrylic for durability and the unit has a specially developed rubberised base with an extendable telescopic antenna. The system has low power consumption.

Product: Transaction Kiosk

Company name: Product Genesis
PO Box 3594 Edenvale 1610
Tel:(011) 609 4172
Fax: (011) 452 7926
E-mail: product@iafrica.com
Cell:082 859 2248

Name and position of contact person: Gavin Steer
Main function: Self-service bill and service secure payment kiosk

The Prism Transaction Kiosk provides a secure cost effective and convenient manner for the public to access and pay for services at a single device. Designed around the user, the self-service unit is aesthetically clean, unobtrusive and its sensible contemporary styling fits in with most public environments.

Based on the Prism secure payment module, the Prism Transaction Kiosk comprises a LCD screen, motorised card reader, pin pad and thermal transaction slip printer. Using the latest technology associated with unattended secure transactions, the unit can accommodate contact or contact-less smart cards, magnetic stripe cards as well as transponder tags. Other options include bar code scanning, cash acceptance and fund loads for chip card e-purse solutions.

Installation and ease of maintenance is facilitated by the modular construction of the Prism Transaction Kiosk. The "lift-off" front panel allows easy access to all peripherals and electrics, making maintenance simple. All user interactions, such as slip printer roll replacement and emptying of the card redemption bin are done via the top swing door of the transaction kiosk.

Installation can be either permanent or temporary depending on actual requirements. With access to all peripherals and electrics via the front of the unit, it is ideal for permanent built-in installations. However, an optional freestanding plate is provided making it suitable for temporary applications. Retrofit upgrades are possible because of the modular design of the kiosk.

The mechanical housing is exceptionally rugged and constructed from 3CR12 to withstand both environmental and vandal impact.