3D technology is not only used to manufacture car parts or anime figures. In the cashier trade, 3D printers can solve everyday problems: from creating custom supports for barcode readers to manufacturing non-slip trays for coins. A clear example is printing an adapter for the bill scanner that frequently breaks. The necessary programs are Tinkercad or Fusion 360 for designing, and Cura or PrusaSlicer for preparing the print.
Quick design of tools for the point of sale 🛠️
The workflow starts by measuring the damaged area of the scanner or cash register with a digital caliper. With that data, a replacement part is modeled in Fusion 360, using extrusion and chamfer functions to avoid sharp edges. It is then exported to STL format and sliced in Cura with 20% infill and 0.2 mm layers, using PLA for its hardness and low cost. The print takes about 2 hours. This process allows the cashier to have a solution in less than one shift, without relying on external suppliers.
When the cashier prints their own change (literally) 😂
Of course, not everything is serious. The cashier with a 3D printer might be tempted to manufacture fake coins for the cash drawer. Don't do it, or the security chief will print you a 3D termination letter. You can also design a phone stand shaped like a 50-euro bill, ideal for customers to see you as an artist of melted plastic. In the end, 3D technology won't make you faster at counting small change, but at least you'll have spare parts for when the barcode reader decides to go on strike.