Arc Tepozcalli in Tlatlatiaya Tepoztlamachilli

Press Kit

Unique Properties

An intelligent mobile device management system in one centralized kiosk. Modular to support device growth, the heavy-gauge steel lockers keep devices safe and unauthorized users out. A 17 inch touchscreen facilitates employee self-service, and a wide-lens security camera and RFID enforce user compliance. Integrated OptiCharge Technology ensures the maximum allowable charge is delivered to each device. A backup battery keeps the ARC kiosk running during power outages.

Dimensions & Packaging

The base Arc kiosk unit is 72 Inches in Height x 19 Inches in Depth x 12 Inches in Width and weighs 112lbs. The modular expansion units are 72 x 28 x 12 inches and weigh 61lbs. The base kiosk features a 17 inch built-in touch screen display with bar scan and camera.

Tags

Enterprise charging, mobile device, asset management, mobile device management

Production Technology

A 20-gauge powder-coated steel structure. Device lockers feature plexiglass windows and are engineered to ensure WiFi 2.4, 5.0 GHz signals can reach devices inside the lockers. A scanning device reads a bar code or QR code on both employee badges and devices to track who is accessing devices and lockers. A built-in camera takes photos throughout the checkout and return processes for a secondary level of security and accountability. An active cooling system manages heat dissipation, so devices maintain ideal temperatures in enclosed charging spaces. Modular bays support expansion for more devices and shifting enterprise needs.

Design Challenge

Arc is designed to support different employee behaviors, device types, and charge durations with a simple, secure back-end user portal. Other challenges included airflow for active heat dissipation and successful WiFi 2.4, 5.0 GHz connectivity. The system required sheet metal manufacturing expertise and 3D virtual simulation of cumulative heat impact of many devices charging in a vertical stack.

Research

Thermal simulations helped Design 1st understand heat dissipation throughout the kiosk structure. With many devices charging, the upper lockers were at risk of excessive heat. Thermal simulation data helped influence the geometry of the final sheet metal including cut outs in the metal for air flow, an interior fan and chimney to create an active cooling system. A lab unit was prototyped representing locker compartments and device locations. The window size was manipulated to verify WiFi 2.4, 5.0 GHz connections were achievable from devices inside the kiosk.

Inspiration

Companies that issue enterprise handheld mobile devices to employees for daily jobs struggle to ensure devices are charged, functioning and ready to use when employees need them. Overseeing check-in and check-out of devices, faulty units, and dealing with loss costs organizations millions of dollars each year. ARC (Asset Recharge Center) was inspired by the need for an aesthetic, locker-based, expandable device management kiosk with intelligent software that can track, secure, and manage devices for employees.

Project Duration

THE Arc Kiosk was conceptualized by ChargeitSpot in the spring of 2021 with select product development guidance from Design 1st. The project kicked off in September 2021, and initial manufacture-ready design concepts were finalized shortly thereafter. A pre-production prototype, representing the final product design for low volume distribution, was unveiled at the Modex supply chain automation show in March 2022 and met with great enthusiasm from businesses.

Operation Flow

A simple, touch-screen interface authenticates users and allows access to fully charged devices. To operate, an employee scans their badge using the built-in bar code scanner, selects the device required, and a locker releases the device with the highest charge. The process is repeated at return; employees scan their badges to access the locker, scan the device, report any damage or malfunction, connect the device, and close the locker door.

Patents

Patented. US20210265843A1. ChargeItSpot LLC. 2021. United States

Image Credits

Video Credits: ChargeitSpot
Image Credits: James Henderson