Smart photographic print and album

Abstract

To provide a smart photographic print which introduces a novel approach into a printed photographic medium, makes a large number of interactive functions available by using a built-in short-range radio communication (NFC) chip, and thereby corresponds to the needs, an album, and a using method of the same.SOLUTION: A user taps a printed photograph with a smartphone or other smart device, by a built-in NFC chip incorporated in a printing photograph, a magnet and a canvas, and can access various functions such as displaying, sharing, storing, and editing of a photograph and a video. The printed photograph, magnet and canvas are uniquely identified by each serial number, and become important elements for making an interactive function and a feature effective.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates generally to the field of printed photographs, photo albums, and related smart products. More specifically, the present invention introduces a novel concept of incorporating Near Field Communication (NFC) chips into printed photographs, magnets, and canvases to enable interactivity, transforming traditional photographic media into a dynamic, interactive experience. (This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 63 / 563,776, filed March 11, 2024.) [Background technology]

[0002] While traditional print photos are static representations of memories, there is a growing demand for innovative solutions that increase user engagement and interaction with print photos, magnets, canvases, etc. This invention aims to address this need by introducing a groundbreaking approach to printed photo media, leveraging embedded NFC chip technology to enable a host of interactive features. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0003] [Figure 1] Three different examples of photo prints with embedded NFC / RFID chips, each made from a different material. Figure 1A shows a magnet with an embedded NFC / RFID chip. Figure 1B shows photo paper with an embedded NFC / RFID chip. Figure 1C shows canvas vinyl with an embedded NFC / RFID chip. [Figure 2] 2A and 2B are diagrams of the front and back of a smart photo print. FIG. 2A shows the front of a smart photo print. FIG. 2B shows the back of a smart photo print. [Figure 3]1 is a flowchart showing the step-by-step process of launching a digital album associated with Smart Photo Print and accessing its contents using a smartphone. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0004] All accompanying figures are for the purpose of illustrating selected versions of the present invention and are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention.

[0005] This invention brings about a revolutionary paradigm shift in the realm of printed photos, magnets and canvases by incorporating an embedded NFC chip into traditional media, where each printed photo, magnet or canvas is uniquely identified by a serial number, a key element to enable interactive functions and features.

[0006] The core innovation of this invention lies in going beyond the limitations of traditional still image printing by seamlessly embedding an NFC chip into traditional photographic media. Whether printing on standard photo paper, banner-type material, canvas or fabric, the embedded NFC chip technology revolutionizes the way users interact with and experience print media.

[0007] Referring to Figure 1, a visual representation illustrates the versatility of the invention across various media, highlighting its adaptability to various user preferences and applications. Figure 1A illustrates one embodiment of the invention in which an NFC chip is embedded in a magnet. Figure 1B illustrates one embodiment of the invention in which an NFC chip is embedded in photo paper. Figure 1C illustrates one embodiment of the invention in which an NFC chip is embedded in canvas vinyl.

[0008] Referring to Figure 2, the front view (Figure 2A) shows a visual representation of the printed photo, illustrating the seamless integration of the NFC / RFID chip within the material. The back view (Figure 2B) shows the unique serial number assigned to each smart photo print, which serves as a key identifier to activate the digital album associated with the print.

[0009] As shown in FIG. 3, the digital album of the present invention associated with smart photo prints is activated and accessed using a smartphone as follows: 1. Clicking on the server link: This process begins with the user visiting the specified server link or online platform. 2. Activate Serial Number: Upon accessing the server link, users activate the unique serial number assigned to their smart photo print, which serves as a key identifier to link the print to its corresponding digital album. 3. Upload, save, and share photos: After activating the serial number, users can upload photos to their digital albums, customize their content, and save their changes. Furthermore, users can share their digital albums with other users, allowing for seamless collaboration and interaction. 4. Tap your smartphone to view your photo gallery: After completing the activation process and uploading the desired content, users can tap their smartphone to the NFC / RFID chip embedded in the smart photo print. This action establishes a connection between the print and their smartphone, allowing users to instantly access and view the photo gallery associated with the print.

[0010] The main components of the present invention include: ● Media Materials: The present invention may include NFC chips embedded in a variety of physical photo media, including but not limited to photo paper, banner-type material, canvas, or fabric. ● Embedded NFC chip: NFC chips are strategically embedded within the media to enable interactive functionality. ● Serial Number: A serial number or other identifier will be uniquely assigned to each print, magnet, or canvas for activation and identification purposes. ● Application independence: The present invention operates without the need for a dedicated application, ensuring broad accessibility and usability.

[0011] During the manufacturing process, NFC chips are precisely embedded or attached to the photo print, magnet or canvas, and each item is assigned a unique serial number for identification and activation purposes. The invention represents the fusion of traditional print media with cutting-edge NFC technology, providing users with an unparalleled interactive experience across a variety of smart products.

[0012] (NFC technology integration) The placement of the NFC chip within the media is adaptable, allowing for flexible integration methods such as photo prints, magnets, canvases, etc. Whether the NFC chip is placed on the top, center or back of the media material, it ensures seamless interaction with the user's NFC-enabled device.

[0013] The diversity in NFC chip placement accommodates the diverse characteristics and designs of different media types, ensuring compatibility across a variety of formats and applications.

[0014] The invention encompasses all photo prints, magnets, and canvases with embedded NFC chips, regardless of the media material or design, embedding method, or material type. This comprehensive approach demonstrates the patent's comprehensive coverage and applicability across smart products.

[0015] (Serial number and activation mechanism) Serial numbers are a key element in activating and identifying printed photographs, magnets, and canvases. While serial numbers have traditionally been associated with alphanumeric combinations, they can encompass a wide range of registration identifiers, including PINs, passwords, and alphanumeric strings.

[0016] The activation process is streamlined and user-friendly, ensuring seamless access to the interactive features of photo media. The invention covers a wide range of registration mechanisms, including those that are independent of dedicated applications.

[0017] (Application independent behavior) One of the features of this invention is its application-agnostic operation, allowing users to interact with the print media without the need for a specific app, ensuring accessibility and usability across devices and platforms, improving the overall user experience.

[0018] While the system can operate autonomously without an application, the invention also supports enhanced functionality when integrated with a dedicated app. This dual-mode operation provides users with flexibility and choice, catering to diverse preferences and usage scenarios across smart products.

[0019] (Enhanced User Experience and Customization) The interactive interface of this invention goes beyond basic tap functionality and offers users a variety of customization options, including printed photos, magnets, canvases, etc. Users can enhance their media by adding metadata such as event dates, titles, taglines, and the ability to toggle between different viewing modes.

[0020] Additionally, the system facilitates media sharing through 2D barcodes linked to digital albums, enabling seamless digital integration across platforms. Users have full control over their privacy settings, allowing them to designate media as public or private and delete media if desired.

[0021] (Conclusion) This invention marks a major advancement in the fields of print media and smart products, bridging the gap between traditional print media and interactive digital experiences. The innovative integration of embedded NFC chip technology allows users to interact with their memories in a dynamic and engaging way, redefining the concept of photo prints, magnets and canvases.

[0022] Although the present invention has been described in relation to its preferred embodiments, it should be understood that many other possible modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. Physical photographic prints, including but not limited to printed photographs, photo magnets, and photo canvases; an integrated NFC chip embedded in the photo print to allow a user to interact with the NFC chip; Serial number or other unique identifier Smart photo prints and albums.

2. The built-in NFC chip allows users to tap Smart Photo Print with devices, including smartphones, to activate Smart Photo Print's smart features. The smart photo print and album of claim 1.

3. The smart features include viewing, sharing, saving, and editing digital photo or video collections via an NFC chip and a serial number or other unique identifier. The smart photo print and album of claim 2.

4. The smart features are accessible via a web browser or a dedicated application. The smart photo print and album of claim 1.

5. Instructions for accessing the specified server link or online platform; Steps to link printed photos with their corresponding digital albums by entering a serial number or unique identifier; Steps to upload photos or videos to save, share, edit, and customize; and contacting a mobile phone or other smart device with the NFC chip and accessing and viewing the uploaded photos or videos associated with the smart photo print via an internet browser or dedicated application.

10. A method for utilizing the smart photo print and album of claim 1.

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