BookBox | Slim
A self-service device that allows users to borrow and return library collections by themselves.
KapiSolutions - Jakub Kapturkiewicz
Description
BookBox | Slim is a device that allows readers to independently borrow and return library collections based on barcodes and magnetic stripes. In addition, the device also gives readers the opportunity to check their own account balance. Integration with a given library system is based on REST services.
Background
Creation of a self-service library that meets the needs of libraries whose resource labeling system is based on barcodes and magnetic stripes.
Process
Competition and market research including consultations with employees and administration of one of the public libraries in order to determine the legitimacy of the project and learn about specific expectations and requirements for the operation of this type of device.
2. Project
Preparation of initial project documentation including:
- Project schedule
- Ideational project with key assumptions, functionalities and requirements
- Risk analysis
- Selection of components and technologies
- Electrical diagram
- BOM preparation
- 3D model of the device and 2D documentation of individual components
Start of production of the device, including:
- Constructional adaptation of the casing based on infokiosk
- 3D printing of designed components
- Production of steel components (cutting, welding, varnishing, etc.)
- Electrical prefabrication of the device
- Development of software based on the Raspberry Pi 4B driver (Python, Node.js, JavaScript, HTML, CSS)
- Integration of used component devices into one working system
- Device commissioning, measurements and tests
Creation of the final documentation of the device, including:
- User's manual together with technical and operational documentation - DTR
- Electrical documentation - diagram, BOM list
- Construction documentation - technical drawings, BOM list
- CE Declaration of Conformity
Implementation of the device in the library facility involved, among others:
- Integrating the device with the existing library system using REST services
- Device and final acceptance tests
- Training library staff
- Submission of a set of required documents
Features
- Self-service library checkout and return
- Checking your reader's account balance
- Login readers by scanning a library card
- Intuitive and friendly interface
- Stack detection - a proprietary solution that 100% protects the library against fraudulent use of the device by users
- Automatically logs out the reader after a certain period of inactivity
- Integration with a selected library system using REST services
Conclusion
Two BookBoxes | Slim were sold and implemented in the MBP Oświęcim public library. The implementation took place at the turn of 2020 and 2021. Both devices work properly without any problems to this day. Thanks to the purchase of my devices, the MBP Oświęcim library has extended its accessibility for readers by an additional day - also open on Saturdays in a self-service system based on reliable devices BookBox | Slim.
