System and method for transmitting data relating to an item

Abstract

Disclosed is a method comprising receiving first data indicative of a machine-readable code. The machine-readable code encodes a first link. The first link comprises an indication of a code ID. The method further comprises initiating a request corresponding to the first link. Further, the method comprises a code ID-processing step, comprising processing the request and determining whether the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link. The code ID-processing step further comprises, if the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link, redirecting the request to the item data link, and otherwise, associating the code ID with an item data link. Further disclosed is a system comprising a first end-user computer device and a server. The system is configured for carrying out the method. Also disclosed is a computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a server, cause the server to perform the code ID-processing step.

Description

System and method for transmitting data relating to an item[1] The present invention relates to the field of data transmission and item identification. In particular, the present invention relates to transmitting data relating to vehicles to enduser computer devices.[2] It is an object of the invention to overcome or at least alleviate the shortcomings and disadvantages of the prior art. More particularly, it is an object of the present invention to provide for an easy means to provide data relating to an item to end-consumer computer devices, as well as to provide a corresponding system and computer program product.[3] It is an optional objective of the present invention to provide for a method, system and computer program product for transmission of data relating to an item, the method, system and computer program product comprising an improved tamper proofness and / or robustness.[4] In a first embodiment, a method is disclosed. The method comprises receiving first data indicative of a machine-readable code. The machine-readable code encodes a first link. The first link comprises an indication of a code ID.[5] The method further comprises initiating a request corresponding to the first link.[6] The method also comprises a code ID-processing step. The code ID-processing step comprises processing the request and determining whether the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link. If the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link, the code ID-processing step comprises redirecting the request to the item data link. Otherwise, the code ID-processing step comprises associating the code ID with an item data link.[7] Receiving the first data indicative of the machine-readable code may be performed by means of a first end-user computer device. Initiating the request corresponding to the first link may be formed by means of the first end-user computer device.[8] The code ID-processing step may comprise processing the request by a server and determining by the server whether the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link. Further, optionally, the server may redirect the request to the item data link if the code ID of the first link is associated with the item data link, and otherwise associate the code ID with an item data link.[9] The machine-readable code may be for example be an optical machine-readable code. In particular, the machine-readable code may be a two-dimensional optical machine- readable code, such as a QR-code, a data matrix code, or another 2D-barcode.

[0010] The machine-readable code may however also be another machine-readable code, such as an RFID tag or an NFC tag.

[0011] In particular, the machine-readable code is configured for encoding alphanumerical strings.

[0012] The code ID may be a unique identifier of the machine-readable code. The term "unique" is intended to refer to unique within the scope of the method, particularly within the scope of machine-readable codes comprising a link directing to the server.

[0013] The code ID may be a UUID. Optionally advantageously, a UUID allows for unique code identifiers for each code, and further may be hard to guess for a malicious user, thus improving robustness and / or tamper-proofness of the method.

[0014] The first data may be scanned data, such as first scanned data. The first data may be generated by the first end-user computer device, particularly by a scanning component of the first data-processing the device, such as a camera or an RFID-reader.

[0015] The first data may be first image data indicative of the machine-readable code. The first data may also be data extracted from the machine-readable code, e.g., data comprising the first link.

[0016] The first data may be scanned from the machine-readable code, e.g., according to a standard, such as ISO / IEC 18004:2006 for QR-codes.

[0017] The method may comprise storing a plurality of code IDs corresponding to a plurality of machine-readable codes in a database. In the code-ID processing step, determining whether the code ID is associated with an item data link may comprise retrieving an entry of the database containing the code ID. The person skilled in the art will easily understand that a result of the retrieving may be an indicating that there is no entry in the database corresponding to the code ID, or that the code ID has not been associated with an item data link, yet.

[0018] Further, in the code-ID processing step, associating a code ID with an item data link may comprise storing an indication of the link with the corresponding code ID in the database.

[0019] In the code ID-processing step, redirecting the request to the item data link may comprise retrieving the item data link from the database based on the code ID. The item data link may be stored directly or in an encoded form in the database.

[0020] The first server may access the database.

[0021] In the code ID-processing step, if the code ID of the first link is not associated with an item data link, yet, the code ID-processing step may further comprises associating the code ID with a user ID.

[0022] The user ID may for example be a username, a number or an alphanumerical string associated with a user scanning a QR-code for the first time or generating an item data link.

[0023] The method may further comprise receiving second data indicative of the machine- readable code by a second end-user computer device after associating the code ID with the item data link. The method may further comprise repeating the code-ID processing step for the code ID determined from the second data. The second data may be corresponding to the first data, if they relate to a same machine-readable code.

[0024] The method may comprise an item data link generation step.

[0025] The item data link generation step may for example be performed if there is no item data link for the machine-readable code or a corresponding item yet, or if there are no item data available under the item data link, which correspond to the item. For example, where the item is a car, where no online listing of the car exists yet, the method may comprise perform the item data link generation step.

[0026] The item data link generation step may comprise receiving an item data set relating to an item and storing the item data set relating to the item in an item database. Further, the item data link generation step comprises generating, for each item data set in the item database, a corresponding item data link, particularly storing an indication of the item data link together with the item data set in the item database.

[0027] The item data set may for example comprise a registration number of the item, a serial number of an item, and / or an indication of a type, a year of manufacture and an equipment version of the item.

[0028] The registration number of the item can for example be a licence plate number of a vehicle. The serial number of the item can for example be a vehicle identification number of a vehicle. The type can for example be a make and model of a vehicle. The equipment version of the item may for example be an equipment level.

[0029] The item data set may comprise an indication of an accumulated use of the item, such as a mileage of a vehicle.

[0030] The method may comprise receiving an item history comprising maintenance data and / or damage data from an item history server.

[0031] The method may comprise receiving an item history comprising maintenance data and / or damage data from the first end-user computer device.

[0032] The item data link generation step may comprise retrieving item image data from an image database based on the item data set. The image data may be representative of at least one picture of a similar item. The similar item may for example be an item comprising same characteristics as the item, such as being of a same make, a same model, a same manufacturing year, comprising a same color and / or a same equipment level.

[0033] The item data link generation step may comprise receiving a price estimation from a pricing server based on the item data set.

[0034] . For example, the item data link generation step may comprise receiving a price range and / or an estimated price.

[0035] Receiving the price estimate may comprise further intermediate steps, such as obtaining an item identification number, e.g., as a serial number or a vehicle identification number, obtaining version details or equipment details of the vehicle, and / or another identification, such as a license plate number or an address.

[0036] The item data link generation step may comprise associating the item data set with the user ID. For example, the database entry containing the item data may further comprise the user ID.

[0037] The method, particularly the item data link generation step, may comprise receiving the image data. The image data may relate to the item. For example, the image data may be representative of a photography of the item.

[0038] The method, particularly the item data link generation step, may comprise receiving the image data from at least one of the first end-user computer device and another enduser computer device, e.g., a desktop computer device where a user has stored image data relating to the vehicle.

[0039] The method, particularly the item data link generation step, may comprise receiving the image data from the first end-user computer device.

[0040] The method, particularly the item data link generation step, may comprise generating the image data by means of at least one camera component of the first enduser computer device. Thus, optionally advantageously, tamper-proofness may be improved, as original (unmodified) image data are available and allow to estimate whether pictures were really taken with the first end-user computer device at the time indicated by the timestamp.

[0041] The method, particularly the item data link generation step, may comprise processing the image data by means of the first end-user computer device. Thus, optionally advantageously, the image data may be available in a controlled quality and / or format.

[0042] The image data may comprise timestamp data. For example, the image data may be generated by the first end-user computer device. Thus, optionally advantageously, verification of a state of an item at a point in time may be enabled.

[0043] The image data may correspond to a plurality of images of pre-determined elements of the item, such as an odometer of a vehicle, optionally advantageously allowing to verify a mileage of the vehicle, a cockpit of a vehicle, and / or at least one of an outside of the vehicle and seats of the vehicle, optionally advantageously allowing to verify an extent or absence of damages. The image data may comprise a 360° image of the item.

[0044] Thus, optionally advantageously, tamper-proofness may be improved by rendering submission of fraudulent or manipulated item data sets more difficult.

[0045] The server may be a first server. In other words, where reference is made to "a server" and / or "the server", this may be intended to refer to said first server.

[0046] The method may comprise forwarding at least a part of the item data set to a second server, and publishing item data corresponding to the item data set by means of the second server.

[0047] This may optionally advantageously allow a user to publish the item data or a corresponding listing on online marketplace where potential sellers can access the item, e.g., the vehicle, for sale without physically seeing it and without scan the machine- readable code attached to the item.

[0048] The first user may choose a corresponding second server or still further servers for forwarding the item data. Thus, optionally advantageously, the user may capture a wider audience in addition to users who physically see the item and scan the machine-readable code.

[0049] The method may comprise an item data link receiving step, for example if there is already an item data link corresponding to the item with which the machine-readable code is associated.

[0050] The item data link receiving step may comprise receiving the item data link.

[0051] The item data link receiving step may comprise redirecting a user to the second server and receiving the item data link from the second server.

[0052] For example, the second server may publish item data on a subpage and send the item data link directing to said subpage to the first server.

[0053] The item data link receiving step may further comprise the first server receiving a token from the second server in response to a user of the first end-user computer device authenticating to the second server. The first server may further retrieve at least one or a plurality of item data link(s), particularly at least one or a plurality of item data link(s) and corresponding item data set(s), from the second server.

[0054] The item data link receiving step may further comprise outputting at least one or a plurality of indication(s) of the item data link(s), particularly of the item data link(s) and item data set(s), by means of the first end-user computer device and receiving a selection of one item data link from a user by means of the first end-user computer device.

[0055] Thus, optionally advantageously, item data links relating to item data published by another server may be processed, without necessarily requiring a new publication of the item data by the first server. If the item data are published again by the first server nevertheless, optionally advantageously, at least the item data set available at the second server does not need to be inputted again.

[0056] The item data link receiving step may comprise associating the received item data link, particularly the received item data link and the token, with the user ID.

[0057] The method may comprise performing the item data link generation step after a beginning of a first code ID-processing step relating to the machine-readable code. This may for example be the case if the item data set is not available to the first server or not published yet when the machine-readable code's the first link is accessed for the first time.

[0058] The first code ID-processing step may comprise generating the user ID for the user. In other words, the user ID may be generated when a user associates a machine-readable code for the first time. The person skilled in the art will easily understand that "generating the user ID" may also include selecting a user ID from a list, e.g., of users who have in the past associated a machine-readable code with an item data link.

[0059] The item data link generation step may be performed before a beginning of the first code ID-processing step relating to the machine-readable code. This may for example be the case if the item data set is already available to the first server or even already published when the machine-readable code's the first link is accessed for the first time.

[0060] The item data link receiving step and / or the item data link generation step may comprise generating the user ID for the user.

[0061] The method may comprise, after associating the code ID with the item data link, accessing the item data link by means of the first end-user computer device. For example, the method may comprise outputting a listing of the item after associating the machine- readable code with the item data link relating to the listing of the item.

[0062] The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises sending item data to a requesting end-user computer device in response to a request redirected to the item data link, particularly in response to a request from the requesting end-user computer device, such as the second end-user computer device.

[0063] In other words, in response to a request corresponding to a first link comprising the code ID, the method may comprise redirecting the requesting device based on the item data link.

[0064] The item data may for example be a listing of the item in an online sales platform.

[0065] The method may comprise sending item data to a requesting end-user computer device in response to a request corresponding to the item data link, particularly from the requesting end-user computer device, such as the second end-user computer device. The item data may for example by the listing of the item.

[0066] The method may further comprise outputting the item data.

[0067] The method may comprise outputting the item data by means of the requesting enduser computer device, such as the second end-user computer device. In other words, the method may comprise retrieving the item data available by the item data link by means of the second end-user computer device.

[0068] The server may be a first server, as discussed above. Sending the item data may be performed by the second server.

[0069] The item data from the second server may outputted in a frame of a surrounding website, which surrounding website may be sent from the first server. The frame may be an iFrame.

[0070] The item data correspond to the item data set. For example, the item data may comprise at least some parts of the item data set. However, other parts of the item data set, such as history of maintenance, may not be outputted in an example.

[0071] The item data may be determined based on item data set. For example, instead of the maintenance data, a summary like "maintenance data available" may be outputted instead of the data itself.

[0072] The method may comprise receiving a message from the requesting end-user computer device and transmitting the message to the first end-user computer device.

[0073] Transmitting the message to the first end-user computer device may comprise transmitting the message from the requesting end-user computer device to the first server, and transmitting the message from the first server to the first end-user computer device.

[0074] The method may comprise determining the first end-user computer device to which the message is to be transmitted based on a code ID of a link corresponding to the second data generated by the second end-user computer device.

[0075] The method may comprise determining the first end-user computer device to which the message is to be sent based on the user ID with which the code ID is associated.

[0076] The method may further comprise transmitting a second message from the first enduser computer device to the second end-user computer device, particularly by means of the first server.

[0077] The method may comprise associating the second end-user computer device with a second user ID. Transmitting the second message may comprise determining the second end-user computer device based on the user ID associated with the second end-user computer device.

[0078] The first link may be configured to direct a user to the first server.

[0079] The first link may comprise a first section directing to the first server and a second section comprising the code ID.

[0080] The method may comprise a code generating step. The code generating step may comprise generating a plurality of code IDs. Each code ID may be unique.

[0081] The code generating step may further comprise generating a plurality of machine- readable codes, each machine-readable code encoding an indication of one of the unique code IDs.

[0082] As discussed above, the term "unique" is intended to refer to unique within the scope of the method, particularly within the scope of machine-readable codes comprising a link directing to the first server.

[0083] A plurality of machine-readable codes, such as at most four machine-readable codes, may encode an indication of a same code ID. This may be optionally advantageous if a plurality of machine-readable codes is placed on the item. E.g., in case of a vehicle, the machine-readable codes might be placed at several sides of the vehicle, such as at a rear side and a side towards a sidewalk.

[0084] The method may comprise generating the user ID only after the code generating step. In other words, the method may comprise printing the machine-readable codes before a user even requests them or enters item data, in contrast to an on-demand solution.

[0085] However, in another embodiment, the machine-readable code may also be generated on demand.

[0086] The machine-readable code may be a QR-code.

[0087] The machine-readable code, particularly each of the plurality of machine-readable codes, may be configured to be attached to an item.

[0088] The machine-readable code, particularly each of the plurality of machine-readable codes, may be a sticker.

[0089] The method may comprise performing the code generating step before receiving the item data set and / or before receiving the item data link.

[0090] The method may comprise attaching the machine-readable code, particularly each of the plurality of machine-readable codes, to a respective item.

[0091] The method may comprise attaching the plurality of machine-readable codes encoding the indication of the same code ID to a same item. As set out above, for example, the machine-readable codes encoding the indication of the same code ID may be attached to different sides of an item, such as a vehicle.

[0092] The method may comprise packaging the plurality of machine-readable codes in a plurality of separate packages. The packages may prevent machine-based reading of the respective code without opening the respective package.

[0093] For example, each packing may comprise one machine-readable code or a plurality of machine-readable codes that each encode the same code ID.

[0094] The packages may for example be suitable bags.

[0095] To prevent machine-based reading of the respective code, the packing may interfere with the scanning method.

[0096] In case of an optical code, the package may for example be at least partially nontransparent. In other words, the packaging may comprise at least an opaque portion.

[0097] In case of an RFID-code, the package may for example interfere with the readout.

[0098] The item may be at least one of a boat and a motor vehicle, such as a passenger car, a truck, a trailer, a motorcycle, a recreational vehicle, a commercial vehicle or an offroad vehicle.

[0099] Also disclosed are a system and a computer program product. Advantages and details discussed in the context of the method may respectively apply also in the context of the system as well as the computer program product.

[0100] In a second embodiment, a system is disclosed. The system comprises a first enduser computer device and a server. The system is configured for carrying out the method.

[0101] The system may further comprise a second end-user computer device.

[0102] The server may be a first server. The system may further comprise a second server.

[0103] The system may further comprise a pricing server.

[0104] The system may further comprise an item comprising a machine-readable code as discussed in the context of the method.

[0105] The first end-user computer device, particularly the first end-user computer device and the second end-user computer device, may be portable. Each of the first and the second end-user computer device may comprise a scanning component configured for generating data based on the machine-readable code.

[0106] For example, the scanning component of the first end-user computer device may be configured for generating the first data. In this example, the scanning component of the second end-user computer device may be configured for generating the second data.

[0107] The scanning component may for example be a camera, an R.FID-reader or an NFC- reader.

[0108] In a third embodiment, a computer program product is disclosed. The computer program product comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by a server, cause the server to perform the code ID-processing step.

[0109] The computer program product may further comprise instructions which, when the program is executed by the server, cause the server to perform the item data link generation step.[HO] The following embodiments also form part of the invention.Method embodiments[Ill] Below, embodiments of a method will be discussed. The method embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "M" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to the "method embodiments", these embodiments are meant.Ml. A method comprising receiving first data indicative of a machine-readable code, particularly by means of a first end-user computer device, wherein the machine-readable code encodes a first link, wherein the first link comprises an indication of a code ID, initiating a request corresponding to the first link, particularly by means of the first end-user computer device, a code ID-processing step, comprising processing the request, particularly by a server, and determining, particularly by the server, whether the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link, o if the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link, redirecting the request to the item data link, o otherwise, associating the code ID with an item data link.M2. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method comprises storing a plurality of code IDs corresponding to a plurality of machine-readable codes in a database, wherein in the code-ID processing step, determining whether the code ID is associated with an item data link comprises retrieving an entry of the database containing the code ID, and wherein further, in the code-ID processing step, associating a code ID with an item data link comprises storing an indication of the link with the corresponding code ID in the database.M3. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein in the code ID- processing step, redirecting the request to the item data link comprises retrieving the item data link from the database based on the code ID.M4. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein in the code ID-processing step, if the code ID of the first link is not associated with an item data link, yet, the code ID-processing step further comprises associating the code ID with a user ID.M5. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method further comprises receiving second data indicative of the machine-readable code by a second end-user computer device after associating the code ID with the item data link, and repeating the code-ID processing step for the code ID.M6. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises an item data link generation step, the item data link generation step comprising receiving an item data set relating to an item, storing the item data set relating to the item in an item database, generating, for each item data set in the item database, a corresponding item data link, particularly storing an indication of the item data link together with the item data set in the item database.M7. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the item data set comprises a registration number of the item, a serial number of an item, and / or an indication of a type, a year of manufacture and an equipment version of the vehicle.M8. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the item data set comprises an indication of an accumulated use of the item, such as a mileage.M9. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the method comprises receiving an item history comprising maintenance data and / or damage data from an item history server.MIO. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the method comprises receiving an item history comprising maintenance data and / or damage data from the first end-user computer device.Mil. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the item data link generation step comprises retrieving item image data from an image database based on the item data set, wherein the image data are representative of at least one picture of a similar item.M12. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the item data link generation step comprises receiving a price estimation, such as a price range and / or an estimated price, from a pricing server based on the item data set.M13. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the item data link generation step comprises associating the item data set with the user ID.M14. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6, wherein the method, particularly the item data link generation step, comprises receiving the image data, wherein the image data relate to the item.M15. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method, particularly the item data link generation step, comprises receiving the image data from the first end-user computer device.M16. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method, particularly the item data link generation step, comprises generating the image data by means of at least one camera component of the first end-user computer device.M17. The method according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the method, particularly the item data link generation step, comprises processing the image data by means of the first end-user computer device.M18. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M16, wherein the image data comprise timestamp data, particularly generated by the first enduser computer device.M19. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M14, wherein the image data correspond to a plurality of images of pre-determined elements of the item, such as an odometer of a vehicle, a cockpit of a vehicle, an outside of the vehicle and / or seats of the vehicle.M20. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises forwarding at least a part of the item data set to a second server, and publishing item data corresponding to the item data set by means of the second server.M21. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises an item data link receiving step, the item data link receiving step comprising receiving the item data link.M22. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the server is a first server, and wherein the item data link receiving step comprises redirecting a user to the second server and receiving the item data link from the second server.M23. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the item data link receiving step further comprises the first server receiving a token from the second server in response to the user of the first end-user computer device authenticating to the second server, andthe first server retrieving at least one or a plurality of item data link(s), particularly at least one or a plurality of item data link(s) and corresponding item data set(s), from the second server.M24. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the item data link receiving step further comprises outputting at least one or a plurality of indication(s) of the item data link(s), particularly of the item data link(s) and item data set(s), by means of the first end-user computer device and receiving a selection of one item data link from the user by means of the first end-user computer device.M25. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M21, wherein the item data link receiving step comprises associating the received item data link, particularly the received item data link and the token, with the user ID.M26. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of at least one of M6 and M21, wherein the method comprises performing the item data link generation step after a beginning of a first code ID-processing step relating to the machine- readable code.M27. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the first code ID- processing step comprises generating the user ID for the user.M28. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of at least one of M6 and M21 but the preceding two embodiments, wherein the item data link generation step is performed before a beginning of the first code ID-processing step relating to the machine-readable code.M29. The according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the item data link receiving step and / or the item data link generation step comprises generating the user ID for the user.M30. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M6 and / or M21, wherein the method comprises, after associating the code ID with the item data link, accessing the item data link by means of the first end-user computer device.M31. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises sending item data to a requesting end-user computer device in response to a request redirected to the item data link, particularly in response to a request from the requesting end-user computer device, such as the second end-user computer device.M32. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the method further comprises outputting the item data.M33. The method according to any of the two preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises outputting the item data by means of the requesting end-user computer device, such as the second end-user computer device.M34. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M31, wherein the server is a first server, and wherein sending the item data is performed by the second server, particularly wherein the item data from the second server are outputted in a frame of a surrounding website, which surrounding website is sent from the first server.M35. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M31, wherein the item data correspond to the item data set.M36. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M31, wherein the method comprises receiving a message from the requesting end-user computer device and transmitting the message to the first end-user computer device.M37. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein transmitting the message to the first end-user computer device comprises transmitting the message from the requesting end-user computer device to the first server, and transmitting the message from the first server to the first end-user computer device.M38. The method according to any of the two preceding embodiments, particularly with the features of M5, wherein the method comprises determining the first end-user computer device to which the message is to be transmitted based on a code ID of a link corresponding to the second data generated by the second end-user computer device.M39. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M36 and M4, wherein the method comprises determining the first end-user computer device to which the message is to be sent based on the user ID with which the code ID is associated.M40. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M36, wherein the method further comprises transmitting a second message from the first enduser computer device to the second end-user computer device, particularly by means of the first server.M41. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of at least one of M4 and M36, wherein the method comprises associating the second end-user computer device with a second user ID, and wherein transmitting the second message comprises determining the second end-user computer device based on the user ID associated with the second end-user computer device.M42. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first link is configured to direct the user to the first server.M43. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the first link comprises a first section directing to the first server and a second section comprising the code ID.M44. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the method comprises a code generating step, the code generating step comprising generating a plurality of code IDs, wherein each code ID is unique, and wherein the code generating step further comprises generating a plurality of machine-readable codes, each machine-readable code encoding an indication of one of the unique code IDs.M45. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein a plurality of machine- readable codes, such as at most four machine-readable codes, encode an indication of a same code ID.M46. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M44, particularly with the features of M27 and / or M29, wherein the method comprises generating the user ID only after the code generating step.M47. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, particularly with the features of M44, wherein the machine-readable code is a QR-code.M48. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, particularly with the features of M44, wherein the machine-readable code, particularly each of the plurality of machine-readable codes, is configured to be attached to an item.M49. The method according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the machine-readable code, particularly each of the plurality of machine-readable codes, is a sticker.M50. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, particularly with the features of M44, M21 and / or M6, wherein the method comprises performing the code generating step before receiving the item data set and / or before receiving the item data link.M51. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M48, wherein the method comprises attaching the machine-readable code, particularly each of the plurality of machine-readable codes, to a respective item.M52. The method according to the preceding embodiment and with the features of M45, wherein the method comprises attaching the plurality of machine-readable codes encoding the indication of the same code ID to a same item.M53. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments with the features of M50, wherein the method comprises packaging the plurality of machine-readable codes in aplurality of separate packages, the packages preventing machine-based reading of the respective code without opening the respective package.M54. The method according to any of the preceding embodiments, wherein the item is at least one of a boat and a motor vehicle, such as a passenger car, a truck, a trailer or a motorcycle.System embodiments

[0112] Below, embodiments of a system will be discussed. The system embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "S" followed by a number. Whenever reference is herein made to the "system embodiments", these embodiments are meant.51. A system, comprising a first end-user computer device and a server, wherein the system is configured for carrying out the method according to any of the method embodiments.52. The system according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the system further comprises a second end-user computer device, and wherein the system is configured for carrying out the method according to M5, M31 or any embodiment dependent thereon.53. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the server is a first server, and wherein the system further comprises a second server, and wherein the system is configured for carrying out the method according to M22, M34 or any method embodiment dependent thereon.54. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the system further comprises a pricing server, and wherein the system is configured for carrying out the method according to M12 or any method embodiment dependent thereon.55. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, wherein the system further comprises an item comprising a machine-readable code according to any of the method embodiments.56. The system according to any of the preceding system embodiments, particularly with the features of S2, wherein the first end-user computer device, particularly the first end user computer device and the second end-user computer device, are portable and each comprise a scanning component configured for generating data based on the machine- readable code.Computer program product embodiments

[0113] Below, embodiments of a computer program product will be discussed. These embodiments are abbreviated by the letter "C" followed by a number. Whenever referenceis herein made to the "computer program product embodiments", these embodiments are meant.Cl. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a server, cause the server to perform the code ID-processing step according to any of the method embodiments.C2. The computer program product according to the preceding embodiment, wherein the computer program product further comprises instructions which, when the program is executed by the server, cause the server to perform the item data link generation step according to M6 or any embodiment dependent thereon.

[0114] Exemplary features of the invention are further detailed in the figures and the below description of the figures.Brief description of the figuresFig. 1 shows components of a system and their interactionFig. 2 shows a machine-readable codeFig. 3 shows a first embodiment of a methodFig. 4 shows a second embodiment of the methodFig. 5 shows a third embodiment of the methodFig. 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the methodFig. 7 shows a sixth embodiment of the methodDetailed figure description

[0115] For the sake of clarity, some features may only be shown in some figures, and others may be omitted. However, also the omitted features may be present, and the shown and discussed features do not need to be present in all embodiments.

[0116] Fig. 1 shows an embodiment of a system. The system comprises a first item 18a and a second item 18b. In the example of Fig. 1, these items are vehicles. Each of the items comprises a machine-readable code 10a, 10b. In the example of Fig. 1, these machine-readable codes are QR.-codes. However, any other machine-readable optical code may also be suitable, e.g., a data matrix code. The machine-readable code does not need to be optical, but the machine-readable code may for example also be an NFC tag or an RFID-tag. The data encoded by the code are discussed with respect to Fig. 2.

[0117] The system further comprises a first end-user computer device 40, such as a smart phone, a smart watch or a laptop computer. In the example of Fig. 1, the first end-usercomputer device 40 is portable and comprises a camera configured to scan the machine- readable codes 10a, 10b. The first end-user computer device 40 is configured for generating first data 20, e.g., first scanned data. Generating the first data 20 in the example of Fig. 1 comprises generating image data corresponding to the machine-readable code 10b, and determining data encoded by means of the machine-readable code 10b.

[0118] The first end-user computer device 40 may be associated with a seller of the item. In Figs. 3-6, it may simply be referred to as "seller".

[0119] The first end-user computer device 40 may be configured for sending a request to the first server 42 based on data encoded by the machine-readable code 10b. In the example of Fig. 1, the machine-readable code 10b encodes a link, based on which the first end-user computer device 40 sends the request to the first server.

[0120] In response, the first server 42 performs a code ID-processing step and determines whether a code ID encoded by the machine-readable code 10b is already associated with an item data link. The item data link may be a link, e.g., to a site where data relating to the item are provided, such as a listing in an online platform for sales of said item, e.g., a car-sale website.

[0121] In the example of Fig. 1, the code 10b has not been associated with an item data link, yet, and is thus associated with an item data link. Via the first end-user computer device 40, the first server 42 receives data relating to the item 18b, such as an item data set 16b, and generates a corresponding item data link 14b.

[0122] Further, e.g., based on the item data set 16b, the first server 42 may receive pricing information, such as a price or a price range, for the item 18b from a pricing server 48. This may comprise intermediate steps, e.g., determining details of the item 18b based on the item data set 16b, such as equipment details or a licence plate number in case of a vehicle based on data received from the first end-user computer device 40.

[0123] Also, the first server 42 may be configured for data-exchange with a second server 46, which may for example publish item data. For example, upon authentication of a user via the first end-user computer device 40 with the second server 46, the first server 42 may receive a token to access item listings of the user from the second server 46.

[0124] Fig. 2 shows details of the machine-readable code 10b. In the example of Fig. 2, the machine-readable code 10b encodes a first link 11. The first link 11 may for example comprise an URL. However, the encoding may also be proprietary, the link thus for example being encoded as number that corresponds to a database-entry on the first server 42.

[0125] In the example of Fig. 2, the first link 11 comprises a server address 13, such as a general link to a website that is resolved so as to direct a user to the first server 42. Thefirst link 11 further comprises a code ID 12. The code ID 12 is configured for identifying the code. The code ID 12 may for example be a UUID, optionally advantageously allowing for unique identification of the machine-readable code 10 and / or making it hard for a malicious user to guess code IDs 12 of other machine-readable codes 10a based on the code ID of a first machine-readable code 10b, thus optionally advantageously providing for improved tamper-proofness of the method.

[0126] Fig. 3 shows two example embodiments of some method steps of a method. The steps relate to associating a machine-readable code 10c, in the case of Fig. 3 a QR-code on a sticker, with an item data link. Depending on whether item data are already available for access, either, the machine-readable code 10c is associated with an existing item data link, or an item data link is created and associated with the machine-readable code 10c.

[0127] In the embodiment shown in Fig. 3, creating the item data link may comprise creating a respective website or subpage or a website.

[0128] In the alternative, an item data link to an existing website or subpage may be created, determined and / or retrieved and associated with the machine-readable code 10c. Such an embodiment is shown in Fig. 4, where the item data are published by the second server 46 and the machine-readable code lOd is associated with a website or subpage provided by the second server 46.

[0129] A second user using a second end-user computer device 44, which may be referred to as "buyer" in the figures, scans the machine-readable code 10c, opens the link encoded by the QR-code and sends a corresponding request to the first server 42. The first server 42 determines that the machine-readable code 10c has already been associated with an item data link and redirects the request to the item data link.

[0130] Fig. 5 shows an embodiment of the method including accessing the machine- readable code lOe after it has been associated with an item data link. In the example of Fig. 5, the method comprises receiving an item data set relating to an item with which the machine-readable code lOe is associated (not shown), e.g., a vehicle to which a sticker with the code is attached. As an alternative, the item data set may already be available to the first server 42.

[0131] The method of Fig. 5 comprises as an option to retrieve price information from a pricing server 48 based on the item data.

[0132] Fig. 6 shows another exemplary embodiment of steps of the method. In particular, Fig. 6 shows the second end-user computer device 44 accessing the first link encoded by the machine-readable code lOf, which, in the example of Fig. 6, is a QR-code, and the corresponding code ID-processing step.

[0133] Upon sending a request corresponding to the first link encoded by the machine- readable code lOf, the first server 42 determines whether the code ID of the first link is already associated with an item data link. In the example of Fig. 6, the code ID is already associated with such an item data link. Thus, in the example of Fig. 6, the first server 42 retrieves an entry from the data corresponding to the code ID.

[0134] The person skilled in the art will easily understand that there are multiple options to specify that the code ID is not linked, yet, e.g., not having an entry corresponding to the code ID or having an entry corresponding to the code ID that specifies that the code ID is not associated with a specific item data link, but, e.g., the field may be empty, or may comprise a dummy item data link.

[0135] The person skilled in the art further easily understands that in the example of Fig. 6, the contrary is the case, and the entry corresponding to the code ID also comprises an item data link.

[0136] According to a first option shown in Fig. 6, the first server 42 stores an item data set relating to the item to which the machine-readable code lOf is attached. In the example of Fig. 6, the item data set comprises vehicle data. Based on the item data set, item data, such as the vehicle profile page, the first server provides, e.g., a subpage comprising the item data. The item data link does for example relate to such a subpage or comprises a parameter causing the first server 42 to send the item data. The item data are sent to the second end-user computer device 44.

[0137] According to a second option shown in Fig. 6, the first server 42 has received an item data link referring to the second server 46, which may be a third party server. The item data link referring to the second server 46 is for example stored in the database. In this case, the first server 42 retrieves the item data link and either redirects the request of the second end-user computer device 44 to the second server 46.

[0138] However, the first server 42 may also cause the second end-user computer device 44 to retrieve the item data. For example, the item data or subpage comprising the item data may be displayed in an integrated frame (iFrame) in a subpage that the first server 42 sends to the second end-user computer device 44. In this case, the integrated frame causes the second end-user computer device 44 to retrieve the item data from the second server 46 (not shown in Fig. 6).

[0139] Further, in the example of Fig. 6, the first server 42 enables message transmission from the second end-user computer device 44 to the first end-user computer device 40 and vice versa. The communication may be anonymous in the sense that the first end-user computer device 40 and the second end-user computer device 44 do not need to exposetheir addresses or, e.g., contact data or private data of the respective users, to each other, but only to the first server 42.

[0140] The first end-user computer device 40 receiving a first message may be determined by the first server 42 as being the device from which the machine-readable code lOf was associated with the item data link. This information is for example stored in the database. The second end-user device 44 specifies that the message should be delivered to the first end-user computer device 40 by scanning the machine-readable code lOf and accessing the link encoded therein, as discussed above.

[0141] The first and second end-user computer devices 40, 44 or their users may for example be associated with user IDs, allowing also for determining the second end-user computer device 44 to which a message is to be sent from the first end-user computer device 40 in response without exposing further details or private information of the users to each other. Thus, optionally advantageously, privacy and data security may be enhanced.

[0142] Fig. 7 shows another embodiment of the method, depending on whether an item data set corresponding to an item with which a machine-readable code is associated are already available at the first server 42.

[0143] The first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise one or more processing units configured to carry out computer instructions of a program (i.e. machine readable and executable instructions). The processing unit(s) may be singular or plural. For example, first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise at least one of CPU, GPU, DSP, APU, ASIC, ASIP or FPGA. The first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise memory components, such as, main memory (e.g. RAM), cache memory (e.g. SRAM) and / or secondary memory (e.g. HDD, SDD). The first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise volatile and / or non-volatile memory such an SDRAM, DRAM, SRAM, Flash Memory, MRAM, F-RAM, or P-RAM. The The first server, the second server, the first enduser computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise internal communication interfaces (e.g. busses) configured to facilitate electronic data exchange between components of these data processing systems, such as, the communication between the memory components and the processing components.

[0144] The first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise external communication interfaces configured to facilitate electronic data exchange among the first server, the second server,the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device and / or other data- processing systems.

[0145] For example, the first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise network interface card(s) that may be configured to connect the data processing system to a network, such as, to the Internet. The first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each be configured to transfer electronic data using a standardized communication protocol.

[0146] The first server and the second server may each be a centralized or distributed computing system.

[0147] The first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each comprise user interfaces, such as: output user interface, such as: o screens or monitors configured to display visual data (e.g. displaying graphical user interfaces of the questionnaire to the user), o speakers configured to communicate audio data (e.g. playing audio data to the user), input user interface, such as: o camera configured to capture visual data (e.g. capturing images and / or videos of the user), o microphone configured to capture audio data (e.g. recording audio from the user), o keyboard configured to allow the insertion of text and / or other keyboard commands (e.g. allowing the user to enter text data and / or other keyboard commands by having the user type on the keyboard) and / or o trackpad, mouse, touchscreen, joystick - configured to facilitate the navigation through different graphical user interfaces of the questionnaire.

[0148] To put it simply, the first server, the second server, the first end-user computer and the second end-user computer device may each be a processing unit configured to carry out instructions of a program. The first server and / or the second server may be a system-on-chip comprising processing units, memory components and busses.

[0149] The first end-user computer device and / or the second end-user computer device may each be a personal computer, a laptop, a pocket computer, a smartphone and / or a tablet computer.

[0150] The first server as well as the second server may each be a server, a server system, a portion of a cloud computing system and / or a system emulating a server, such as a server system with an appropriate software for running a virtual machine. The first enduser computer device and / or the second end-user computer device may each be a processing unit or a system-on-chip that may be interfaced with a personal computer, a laptop, a pocket computer, a smartphone, a tablet computer and / or user interfaces (such as the upper-mentioned user interfaces).

[0151] While in the above, a preferred embodiment has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, the skilled person will understand that this embodiment was provided for illustrative purpose only and should by no means be construed to limit the scope of the present invention, which is defined by the claims.

[0152] Whenever a relative term, such as "about", "substantially" or "approximately" is used in this specification, such a term should also be construed to also include the exact term. That is, e.g., "substantially straight" should be construed to also include "(exactly) straight".

[0153] Whenever steps were recited in the above or also in the appended claims, it should be noted that the order in which the steps are recited in this text may be accidental. That is, unless otherwise specified or unless clear to the skilled person, the order in which steps are recited may be accidental. That is, when the present document states, e.g., that a method comprises steps (A) and (B), this does not necessarily mean that step (A) precedes step (B), but it is also possible that step (A) is performed (at least partly) simultaneously with step (B) or that step (B) precedes step (A). Furthermore, when a step (X) is said to precede another step (Z), this does not imply that there is no step between steps (X) and (Z). That is, step (X) preceding step (Z) encompasses the situation that step (X) is performed directly before step (Z), but also the situation that (X) is performed before one or more steps (Yl), ..., followed by step (Z). Corresponding considerations apply when terms like "after" or "before" are used.Numbered reference signs10a, 10b, 10c, lOd, lOe machine-readable code11 first link12 code ID13 server address14b item data link16b item data set18a, 18b item20 first data 40 first end-user computer device42 (first) server44 second end-user computer device46 second server48 pricing server

Claims

Claims1. A method comprising receiving first data indicative of a machine-readable code, particularly by means of a first end-user computer device, wherein the machine-readable code encodes a first link, wherein the first link comprises an indication of a code ID, initiating a request corresponding to the first link, particularly by means of the first end-user computer device, a code ID-processing step, comprising processing the request, particularly by a server, and determining, particularly by the server, whether the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link, o if the code ID of the first link is associated with an item data link, redirecting the request to the item data link, o otherwise, associating the code ID with an item data link.

2. A system, comprising a first end-user computer device and a server, wherein the system is configured for carrying out the method to the preceding claim.

3. A computer program product comprising instructions which, when the program is executed by a server, cause the server to perform the code ID-processing step according to claim 1.

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