Digital fingerprinting

Abstract

The method includes the steps of providing a machine-readable identifier attached to an item of clothing, wherein each of a plurality of identification codes is disposed within a predetermined discrete area; receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification code of each of the predetermined discrete areas; retrieving a predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete areas; comparing the identification code of each of the predetermined discrete areas with the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete areas to determine whether each identification code in each predetermined discrete area matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete areas; and providing a service related to the item of clothing in response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete areas matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete areas.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - Reference to Related Applications This application claims the benefit and priority of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 945,639, filed on December 9, 2019, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 031,118, filed on May 28, 2020.

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to computerized systems and methods for providing services related to physical retail products. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for digitally fingerprinting physical retail products in order to provide services related to such products.

Background Art

[0003] Manufacturers of high - quality and sustainable footwear have long been troubled by the sale of counterfeit footwear, i.e., imitation products made for the purpose of deceiving purchasers into believing they are buying the genuine goods of the original manufacturer. Similar problems exist in the digital realm, where digital products are often the target of illegal sales and duplication. Such illegal / counterfeit production and / or digital duplication can damage the brand's value and / or exclusivity, negatively impact a company's profitability, and potentially damage the user's subjective perception of the product as "collectable".

[0004] Market participants and brand enthusiasts in a free market, when supply is limited, When manufactured in a sustainable manner, when manufactured in a particular location or by a particular method, and / or when there is excessive demand for the item, typically a higher value is assigned to the item. To minimize illegal sales, it is desirable to develop ways to verify product attributes such as manufacturing specifications and authenticity information. Therefore, it is also desirable to develop anti-counterfeiting technologies to identify counterfeits and prevent illegal sales. Specifically, it would be beneficial to develop anti-counterfeiting technologies that directly affect and / or control the nature and ultimate supply of physical retail products in this market.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present disclosure describes anti-counterfeiting technologies for tracking individual apparel (clothing) and shoes, such as collectible shoes, with minimal hardware. These anti-counterfeiting technologies are used to manufacture and authenticate unique articles of clothing, such as clothing and shoes, thereby preventing the sale of counterfeits.

[0006] In one aspect of the present disclosure, a method for providing a service related to a clothing item includes the step of providing a machine-readable identifier, which is attached to the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier indicating an attribute of the clothing item to which it is attached, the machine-readable identifier including a plurality of identification codes, each of the plurality of identification codes being disposed in a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; the step of receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification code of each of the predetermined discrete regions; the step of searching for a predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions; the step of comparing the identification code of each of the predetermined discrete regions with the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each identification code of each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; and the step of providing a service related to the clothing item in response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0007] The machine-readable identifier is a digital printed image on the clothing item, and the digital printed image includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions. The step of providing the service includes the step of determining that the clothing item is genuine in response to determining that each identification code of each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions. The step of providing the service includes the step of enabling access to a database, the database including attribute data related to the attributes of at least one product, at least one attribute of the at least one product being an attribute of the clothing item. The attribute data includes information about where the product was manufactured. The attribute data includes information about how the product was manufactured. The attribute data includes sustainability information related to the clothing item. The attribute data includes manufacturing specifications.

[0008] The clothing item can be a footwear product and includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. The predetermined discrete regions are a plurality of magnetic zones of the sole structure. The magnetic zones each include at least one selected from a plurality of natural magnetic particles and a plurality of magnetized particles. Each of the predetermined discrete regions has a respective magnetic flux density value, and the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the respective magnetic flux density value.

[0009] The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the respective magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions. The predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is a stored value. The stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions is compared with each magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each magnetic flux density value in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions.

[0010] The machine-readable identifier is a secret key of the wallet, and the secret key is set as a token uniquely registered on the blockchain.

[0011] The services related to the clothing item include enabling access to blockchain ledger entries, where the blockchain ledger entries include attributes of at least one product, the attributes of at least one product being the attributes of the clothing item, and the attributes of at least one product including: where the product was manufactured, how the product was manufactured, or attribute data related to one of the sustainability information regarding the clothing item.

[0012] In one aspect of the present disclosure, the clothing item includes a machine-readable identifier. The machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions. The machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification codes. Each of the plurality of identification codes is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier. Each of the plurality of identification codes in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches a remotely stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions to facilitate providing a service.

[0013] The service includes determining that the clothing item is genuine when each identification cipher of each predetermined discrete region matches the corresponding stored cipher for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0014] The clothing item can be a footwear product. The footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. The machine-readable identifier is a logo directly disposed on the upper, the logo is a digital printed image on the upper, and the logo includes conductive ink. The plurality of identification ciphers includes a plurality of colors. Each color has a color value. The color values are grouped into a plurality of predetermined value ranges, and encoding bits are associated with each of the respective predetermined value ranges of the predetermined value ranges.

[0015] The service includes enabling access to a database. The database includes attribute data related to the attributes of at least one product, and at least one attribute of the product is an attribute of the clothing item. The attribute data includes information about where the product was manufactured. The attribute data includes information about how the product was manufactured. The attribute data includes sustainability information related to the clothing item.

[0016] The clothing item is a footwear product. The footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. Each of the predetermined discrete regions is a magnetic zone on the sole structure. Each magnetic zone has a corresponding magnetic flux density value that matches the remotely stored magnetic flux density value for each of the respective magnetic zones to facilitate authentication of the footwear product.

[0017] In some aspects of the present disclosure, a method of authenticating a clothing item may include providing a machine-readable identifier. The machine-readable identifier may be attached to the clothing item. The machine-readable identifier may represent the authenticity of the clothing item to which it is attached. The machine-readable identifier may include a plurality of identification codes. Each of the plurality of identification codes may be disposed in a respective predetermined discrete area of a plurality of predetermined discrete areas of the machine-readable identifier. The method may further include receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification code of each of the predetermined discrete areas. The method may further include retrieving a predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete areas, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete areas. The method may further include comparing the identification code of each of the predetermined discrete areas with the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete areas to determine whether each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete areas matches the corresponding stored code for each of the predetermined discrete areas. The method may further include determining that the clothing item is authentic in response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete areas matches the corresponding stored code for each of the predetermined discrete areas.

[0018] The machine-readable identifier may be a digital printed image on the clothing item, and the digital printed image may include a plurality of predetermined discrete areas.

[0019] The machine-readable identifier can include a unique logo placed directly on the clothing item. The machine-readable identifier can be a barcode. The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions can include a plurality of encoding symbols. At least one of the plurality of encoding symbols can include a graphic, and the graphic can include at least one selected from a circle, a quadrilateral (square), and a triangle. The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions can have a grayscale color, and the grayscale color represents a binary number. The method can further include receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier, including continuously receiving image data from the machine-readable identifier using a camera of an interface device. The clothing item can be an article of apparel and / or an article of footwear. The article of footwear can include an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. The predetermined discrete regions can be a plurality of magnetic zones of the sole structure. The magnetic zones can include a plurality of natural magnetic particles and / or a plurality of magnetized particles. Each of the predetermined discrete regions can have a respective magnetic flux density value. The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions can be the respective magnetic flux density value, and the sensor can include a magnetometer.

[0020] The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions can be the respective magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions. The predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is a stored value. The stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions can be compared with the respective magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each magnetic flux density value in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions. The clothing item can include a location feature for locating each of the predetermined discrete regions within the clothing item.

[0021] The location-specific function can be a near field communication (NFC)-enabled device and / or a digital printed image. The clothing item can be a footwear product. The footwear product can include an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. A plurality of predetermined discrete regions can be disposed on the upper and / or the sole structure.

[0022] The machine-readable identifier can be a secret key of a wallet. The secret key can be set as a token uniquely registered on a blockchain. The clothing item functions as a wallet and embodies the secret key. The blockchain can be a private blockchain. The sensor can be configured to read the machine-readable identifier from the clothing item to unlock a digital collectible. The digital collectible can be associated with the blockchain.

[0023] The present disclosure also describes a clothing item. The clothing item includes a machine-readable identifier. The machine-readable identifier can include a plurality of predetermined discrete regions. The machine-readable identifier can include a plurality of identification codes. Each of the identification codes can be disposed in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier. Each of the identification codes in each of the predetermined discrete regions can match an encrypted code stored remotely for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions to facilitate authentication of the clothing item.

[0024] The clothing item can be a footwear product. The footwear product can include an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. The machine-readable identifier can be a logo digitally printed on the upper. The logo can be a digital printed image on the upper. The logo can include conductive ink. The plurality of identification codes can include a plurality of colors. Each color can have color values. The color values can be grouped into a plurality of predetermined value ranges. Encoding bits can be associated with each of the predetermined value ranges of the plurality of predetermined value ranges. At least one of the plurality of identification codes can be an encoding symbol.

[0025] The clothing item can be a clothing product. The clothing product can be a shirt. The shirt can include a main shirt body, a first sleeve attached to the main shirt body, and a second sleeve attached to the main shirt body. The machine-readable identifier can be disposed on the main shirt body. The machine-readable identifier can be a logo. The logo can include conductive ink. At least one of the plurality of identification codes can be a geometric shape. The geometric shape can be a triangle, a quadrilateral, and / or a circle.

[0026] The clothing item can be a footwear product. The footwear product can include an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper. Each of the predetermined discrete regions can be a magnetic zone on the sole structure. Each magnetic zone can have a corresponding magnetic flux density value that matches a magnet flux density value stored remotely for each of the respective magnetic zones to facilitate authentication of the footwear product. The sole structure can include an insole that is fully magnetized to prevent the growth of bacteria in the sole structure. Each of the magnetic zones can include a plurality of randomly dispersed magnetic particles. The magnetic zones can have different magnetic flux density values from each other.

[0027] The clothing item can further include a positioning function for positioning each of the predetermined discrete regions within the clothing item. The positioning function can be a near-field communication (NFC)-enabled device and / or a digital printed image.

[0028] The present disclosure also describes a method of manufacturing a clothing item. The method can include the step of disposing a machine-readable identifier on the clothing item. The machine-readable identifier can represent the authenticity of the clothing item. The machine-readable identifier can include a plurality of identification codes. Each of the identification codes can be disposed in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier. The method can further include the step of determining the content and characteristics of the plurality of identification codes within the machine-readable identifier.

[0029] This method may further include determining the size of the grid based on the content of the plurality of identification codes within the machine-readable identifier and the content of the features, and each square of the grid may be one of the predetermined discrete regions. In the present disclosure, the terms "predetermined discrete region" and "grid" are used interchangeably.

[0030] This method may further include inputting encoding parameters into a remote host system. The encoding parameters may include the manufacturing date, manufacturing ID, serial number, product style, color, and / or global trade item number (GTIN) of the clothing item.

[0031] This method may further include assigning a bit value to each of the plurality of identification codes. This method may further include assigning an electrical resistance value to each bit value. The step of assigning an electrical resistance value may include assigning an electrical resistance value to each of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions.

[0032] This method may further include generating an inkjet printing command based on the assigned electrical resistance values so as to print a machine-readable identifier on the clothing item.

[0033] The step of placing a machine-readable identifier on a clothing item may include the step of printing the machine-readable identifier based on an assigned electrical resistance value. The machine-readable identifier may be printed with a conductive ink having an electrical resistance value assigned to each of a plurality of discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier. The step of placing a machine-readable identifier on a clothing item may include the step of adding a magnetic material to a polymeric material used to mold a sole structure so as to form a magnetic zone within the sole structure. The magnetic zone may be a predetermined discrete region of the machine-readable identifier. The step of adding a magnetic material may include the step of adding naturally magnetic particles that are randomly dispersed to the polymeric material used to mold the sole structure. The step of adding a magnetic material may include the step of adding a magnetizable material to the polymeric material used to mold the sole structure.

[0034] This method may further include the step of magnetizing each of the magnetic zones. This method may further include the step of measuring a magnetic characteristic value of each of the magnetic zones and the step of storing the magnetic characteristic value of each of the magnetic zones in a remote host system.

[0035] The above summary is not intended to represent all embodiments or all aspects of the present disclosure. Rather, the foregoing summary merely provides an exemplification of some of the concepts and features described herein. The above features and advantages, as well as other features and attendant advantages of the present disclosure, will become readily apparent from the following detailed description of the illustrated examples and representative modes for carrying out the present disclosure when understood in connection with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. Further, the present disclosure clearly includes any and all combinations and sub-combinations of the elements and features shown above and below.

Brief Description of the Drawings

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[0051] The present disclosure is applicable to various modifications and alternative forms, and some representative embodiments are shown in the drawings by way of example and are described in detail herein. However, it should be understood that the novel aspects of the present disclosure are not limited to the specific forms shown in the drawings listed above. Rather, the present disclosure covers all modifications, equivalents, combinations, sub - combinations, substitutions, groupings, and alternatives within the scope of the present disclosure as encompassed by the appended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0052] The present disclosure describes a unique method of directly storing one or more digital identifiers within a footwear product or clothing. These identifiers can be used to provide services related to the product or for other purposes as may be desired. In some embodiments, multi-factor authentication techniques can be used with multiple embedded identifiers. For example, one encoded identifier can provide instructions regarding how or where a second encoded identifier can be extracted.

[0053] In the case of a footwear product, magnetic or selectively magnetizable particles can be embedded within a foam midsole or an outsole during the initial manufacture of the sole. Due to the nature of the molding process, it is highly likely that these particles can achieve a random distribution / dispersion throughout the foam. In one configuration, a magnetic profile, or discrete portions thereof, can function as one way to embed a registerable identifier. Similarly, other identifiers can be digitally printed or encoded in a design provided, for example, as a logo or graphic. In an example of footwear, an identifier encoded in a logo or graphic provided on the upper of the footwear product can indicate a specific region of the magnetic or magnetizable sole of the footwear product from which a second identifier code can be extracted.

[0054] When used in an authentication context, the identifier can include an encrypted code that can verify the authenticity of the product when run through an appropriate decryption algorithm. Alternatively, the identifier can be a unique identifier that is recorded in a private or public database at the time of manufacture. Subsequent authenticity checks can simply involve reading the identifier and referencing the database. To complicate the ability to spoof the authentication routine, it can be beneficial to embed the identifier within an essential component of the product, i.e., a component that cannot be easily removed or replaced without causing significant or irreversible damage to the product.

[0055] Authentication is one use of the present technology, but a second use may involve storing a unique code for other purposes (e.g., "cold storage"). For example, in one configuration, the embedded identifier may function as an unlock code, an electronic ticket / pass, or a secret cryptographic key to unlock digital collectibles, digital attributes, digital experiences, or to provide special functionality in an electronic application, or to provide early access to a product to be released later. For example, in one configuration, the embedded identifier may be an encrypted secret key or a unique code linked to an encrypted secret key that enables a user to obtain a cryptographically protected digital collectible (e.g., one registered in an immutable ledger as represented via blockchain technology). Examples of such cryptographically protected digital collectibles (e.g., "CryptoKicks") are described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 423,671, filed December 10, 2019, and issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,505,726 on December 10, 2019, and U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 707,720, filed December 9, 2019, and published as U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2020 / 0184547 on June 11, 2020, the entireties of which are incorporated by reference. In another embodiment, the embedded identifier may enable a user to obtain an attribute pack to modify the attributes of a cryptographically protected digital collectible or to provide an improvement to the unique abilities or a change to the appearance of a user-controllable character in a video game application.

[0056] Also, the present technology is assumed to be usable for providing services related to clothing items. For example, the embedded identifier may provide access to a token, a database entry, or other blockchain ledger entries having attributes of one or more products recorded thereon. For example, the product attributes may be attributes of a footwear product or a clothing product and may include data regarding where the product was made, how the product was made, features of the product, manufacturing specifications, and / or sustainability information regarding the product. As a non-limiting example, the sustainability information may include an indication that the product was made from certified organic materials or through environmentally friendly manufacturing methods (e.g., certified organic designations). Other uses may be further understood from the following disclosure.

[0057] The present disclosure can have many different forms of embodiments. Representative examples of the present disclosure are shown in the drawings, and it is understood that these representative examples are provided as illustrations of the disclosed principles and not as limitations of the broad aspects of the disclosure, and will be described in detail herein. In that regard, elements and limitations described in the sections of the summary, technical field, background, overview, and detailed description but not explicitly recited in the claims should not be incorporated into the claims, singly or collectively, by implication, inference, or otherwise.

[0058] For purposes of this detailed description, unless otherwise specifically denied, the singular form includes the plural form and vice versa. The terms "and" and "or" are to be construed as conjunctive and disjunctive. The terms "any" and "all" both mean "all". The terms "comprising", "having, comprising", "having", "including", etc. each mean "including but not limited to". Further, approximating terms such as "about", "substantially", "essentially", "nearly", etc. may be used herein, for example, in the sense of "at, near, almost", or "within 0 to 5%", or "within acceptable manufacturing tolerances", or any logical combination thereof. Finally, directional adjectives and adverbs such as front, rear, inner, outer, proximal, distal, vertical, horizontal, forward, backward, left, right, etc. may be with respect to the footwear product when worn on the user's foot and are operatively oriented, for example, with the ground engaging portion of the sole structure on a flat surface.

[0059] Next, referring to the drawings, like reference numerals indicate like features throughout the several views, and FIG. 1 shows a representative footwear product generally designated 10 and shown for illustrative purposes as a sneaker or “athletic shoe.” The illustrated footwear product 10, which is also referred to herein briefly as “footwear” or “shoe,” is merely an exemplary use with which the novel aspects and features of the present disclosure may be implemented. In one embodiment, the illustrated footwear product 10 may be, or may be similar to, a CryptoKick (i.e., a computer-generated digital representation of the footwear product 10 that is uniquely registered to an immutable cryptographic database such as a blockchain network). Similarly, implementations of this concept for digital shoes and cryptographic tokens for footwear are to be understood as representative implementations of the disclosed concept. Accordingly, it will be understood that aspects and features of the present disclosure may be utilized with other types of footwear and incorporated into logically related consumer products. As used herein, the terms “shoe, shoes” and “footwear” (including their permutations) may be used interchangeably and synonymously to refer to any suitable type of apparel worn on a human foot. Finally, the features shown in the drawings are not necessarily to scale and are provided for purely illustrative purposes. Accordingly, the specific dimensions and relative dimensions shown in the drawings should not be construed as limiting.

[0060] Figure 1 schematically shows a clothing item 9 such as a footwear product 10. The term "clothing item" refers to a covering designed to be worn on the body and includes, but is not limited to, shirts, pants, and shoes. The footwear product 10 can be collectible and is shown as a bipartite construction mainly composed of a foot receptacle upper 12 attached to the top of a lower sole structure 14. Only a single shoe 10 for the user's left foot is shown in Figure 1, but a mirrored, substantially identical counterpart for the user's right foot can be provided. As will be appreciated, the shape, size, material composition, and manufacturing method of the shoe 10 can vary, either individually or collectively, to be practically adapted for normal or non-conventional footwear applications.

[0061] Continuing to refer to Figure 1, the upper 12 is shown as having a shell-like, closed toe and heel shape for accommodating a human foot. The upper 12 of Figure 1 is generally defined by three adjacent sections, namely, a toe box 12A, a bump 12B, and a rear quarter 12C. The toe box 12A is shown as the rounded front tip of the upper 12 that extends from the distal phalanges to the proximal phalanges to cover and protect the user's toes. In contrast, the bump 12B is located behind the toe box 12A and is the arched central portion of the upper 12 that extends from the midfoot bones to the cuboid. As shown, the bump 12B also provides a series of lace eyelets 16 and a tongue 18. Located behind the bump 12B is the rear quarter 12C that extends from the transverse tarsal joint to the calcaneus and includes the rear portion of the upper 12. In the drawing, it is depicted as including three main segments, but the upper 12 may be manufactured as a single-piece structure or may be composed of any number of segments including a toe cap, a heel cap, an ankle cuff, an inner liner, etc. For sandal and slipper applications, the upper 12 can take a configuration with an open toe or an open heel, or can be replaced by a single strap or multiple interconnected straps.

[0062] The upper 12 portion of the footwear 10 can be manufactured from one or a combination of various materials such as fabrics, industrial foams, polymers, natural and synthetic leathers. Once cut to shape and size, the individual segments of the upper 12 can be joined to each other by stitching, adhesion, fastening, welding, or other means so as to form an internal cavity for comfortably receiving the foot. The individual material elements of the upper 12 can be selected and arranged with respect to the footwear 10, for example, to impart desired properties such as durability, air permeability, abrasion resistance, flexibility, appearance, and comfort. The ankle opening 19 of the rear quarter 12C of the upper 12 provides access to the interior of the shoe 10. A shoelace 20, strap, buckle, or other conventional mechanism can be used to vary the girth of the upper 12 to more securely hold the foot inside the shoe 10 and also to facilitate entry and removal of the foot from the upper 12. The shoelace 20 can be passed through eyelets 16 that are within or attached to the upper 12. The tongue 18 can extend between the lace 20 and the internal cavity of the upper 12.

[0063] The sole structure 14 is firmly fixed to the upper 12 such that the sole structure 14 extends between the upper 12 and the support surface on which the user stands. The sole structure 14 can be manufactured as a sandwich structure having a topmost insole 22, an intermediate midsole 24, and a bottommost outsole 26 or outsole surface. Alternative sole configurations can be manufactured with more or fewer than three layers. The insole 22 is partially located within the interior cavity of the footwear 10 and is shown as being operatively attached to the lower portion of the upper 12 such that the insole 22 abuts the surface of the sole of the foot. Below the insole 22 is a midsole 24 incorporating one or more materials or embedded elements that enhance the comfort, performance, and / or shock attenuation characteristics of the footwear 10. These elements and materials can include, individually or in any combination, polymeric foam materials such as polyurethane or ethyl vinyl acetate (EVA), filler materials, moderators, air-filled bladders, plates, lasting elements, or motion control members. The outsole 26 is disposed below the midsole 24 and defines part or all of the lowermost ground-engaging portion of the footwear 10. The outsole 26 can be formed from a natural or synthetic rubber material that provides a durable and abrasion-resistant surface for contacting the ground. Additionally, the outsole 26 can be contoured and textured to enhance the traction (i.e., friction) characteristics between the footwear 10 and the support surface thereunder. As a general matter, each element, panel, section, and material of the footwear product 10 shown in FIG. 1 can be separately drawn or defined in a digital cryptokick. Further, these attributes can be similarly reflected within the genetic code of a non-fungible token (NFT) as described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 423,671, issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,505,726 on December 10, 2019.

[0064] Continuing to refer to FIG. 1, the clothing item 9 includes a machine-readable identifier 7. As described above, the footwear product 10 can be the footwear product 10. The footwear product 10 includes a machine-readable identifier 7. An interface device 39 (FIG. 3) is configured to read the machine-readable identifier 7 to verify the authenticity of the clothing item 9. To do so, the interface device 39 includes a sensor 41 such as a camera. The sensor 41 is configured to scan the machine-readable identifier 7 to determine the authenticity of the clothing item 9. The interface device 39 can be referred to as a user device. In one aspect of the present disclosure, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be a unique logo such as the NIKE® Swoosh and / or a barcode. The machine-readable identifier 7 is directly attached to and / or digitally printed on the upper 12. For example, the identifier 7 can be integrally formed with the upper 12 of the footwear product 10. Thus, the upper 12 and the machine-readable identifier 7 form a one-piece structure to prevent the machine-readable identifier 7 from separating from the footwear product 10. The machine-readable identifier 7 can be used to authenticate the clothing item 9 as described above, but it is contemplated that the machine-readable identifier 7 can be additionally or alternatively used for other purposes. For example, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be used to unlock a digital collectible, to unlock a digital attribute package of a digital collectible, and / or as a blockchain key. When used in an authentication context, the identifier 7 can include an encrypted code that can verify the authenticity of the product 9 when executed through an appropriate spoofing algorithm. Alternatively, the identifier 7 can be a unique identifier recorded in a private or public database 60 (FIG. 4) during manufacturing. Subsequent authenticity checks can simply involve reading the identifier 7 and referring to the database 60. To complicate the ability to spoof the authentication routine, it can be beneficial to embed the identifier 7 in an essential component of the product 9, i.e., a component that cannot be easily removed or replaced without significant or irreversible damage to the product 9.

[0065] Referring to FIG. 2, the clothing item 9 can be a clothing product 11 (e.g., a shirt). The product of the clothing product 11 can be a long-sleeved workout shirt. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the clothing product 11 includes a main shirt body 13, a first sleeve 15, and a second sleeve 17. The first sleeve 15 and the second sleeve 17 are attached to the main shirt body 13. In some aspects of the present disclosure, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be a logo such as the NIKE® Swoosh, and / or a barcode. The machine-readable identifier 7 can be attached directly to the main shirt body 13. For example, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be formed integrally with the main shirt body 13. Thus, the clothing product 11 and the machine-readable identifier 7 form a one-piece structure to prevent the machine-readable identifier 7 from separating from the clothing product 11. However, it is contemplated that the machine-readable identifier 7 can be attached to the first sleeve 15 and / or the second sleeve 17.

[0066] FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary distributed computing system, generally designated 30. The distributed computing system 30 may include control logic for authenticating clothing item 9 using machine-readable identifier 7. Additionally, the distributed computing system 30 may include control logic for mining, intermingling, and exchanging products and authentic digital fingerprints. In the present disclosure, the term “product digital fingerprint” represents characteristics of content and means compact digital impressions extracted from clothing item 9 having sufficient detail to identify content variants upon comparison. The product digital fingerprint is extracted from the machine-readable identifier 7 of the clothing item 9 and includes content (content) having sufficient detail to identify content variants upon comparison. The distributed computing system 30 is additionally assumed to have associated blockchain control logic for mining, intermingling, and exchanging blockchain-enabled digital collectibles. User 5 communicates communicatively coupled to remote host system 34 and / or cloud computing system 36 via wireless communication network 38. Although a single user 5 communicating with a single host system 34 and a single cloud computing system 36 via the distributed computing system 30 is shown, it is envisioned that any number of users may communicate with any number of remote computing nodes suitably equipped to wirelessly exchange information and data.Wireless data exchange between user 5 and remote computing nodes on distributed computing system 30 can be performed directly, for example, through direct communication between host system 34, cloud computing system 36, and interface device 39 (e.g., the user's smartphone, smartwatch, or other suitable personal computing device), or indirectly, for example, with all communication between user 5 and other computing nodes being routed through host system 34. Only selected components of distributed computing system 30 are shown and are described in detail herein. Nevertheless, the systems and devices described herein can include, for example, a number of additional and alternative features, as well as other available hardware and well-known peripheral components, for performing the various methods and functions disclosed herein.

[0067] Continuing to refer to FIG. 3, host system 34 can be implemented as a high-speed server computing device or mainframe computer that can handle bulk data processing, resource planning, and transaction processing. For example, host system 34 can operate as middleware within a client-server interface to perform the necessary data exchange and communication with one or more "third party" servers to complete a particular transaction. On the other hand, cloud computing system 36 can operate as middleware for IoT (Internet of Things), WoT (Web of Things), Internet of Adaptive Apparel and Footwear (IoAAF), and / or M2M (Machine-to-machine) services, connecting various heterogeneous electronic devices to a service-oriented architecture (SOA) via a data network. As an example, cloud computing system 36 can be implemented as a middleware node to provide different functions for dynamically hosting heterogeneous devices, multiplexing data from each of these devices, and routing the data through reconfigurable processing logic for processing and transmission to one or more destination applications. Network 38 can be any available type of network, including a combination of a public distributed computing network (e.g., the Internet) and a secure private network (e.g., local area network, wide area network, virtual private network). Additionally, this can include wireless and wired transmission systems (e.g., satellite, cellular phone network, terrestrial network, etc.). Most, if not all, data transaction functions executed by user 5 can be performed via a wireless network, such as a wireless local area network (WLAN) or cellular data network.

[0068] As a decentralized platform, computing system 30 may operate as an open but encrypted peer-to-peer network in which asset transaction records known as "blocks" are linked via an encrypted hash function within a distributed immutable ledger of interconnected blocks, i.e., a "blockchain". Each block within the chain contains one or more digital asset transactions with corroboration information indicating the validity of each transaction evaluated by peer verification devices. The encrypted, decentralized computing architecture enables the authentication and verification of the identity of the assets being transacted while preventing the duplication of encrypted ( "encrypted") digital assets registered on the platform. In a blockchain, each node has a complete copy of the chain. Decentralized asset management may function by encrypting a proprietary asset file, splitting the encrypted code into small "nonsense" fragments, and sending these fragments to a number of different computing nodes on a decentralized computing network. The verified owner is provided with a private key indicating where the asset is within the network and how to reconstruct or "decrypt" the file. For use as a distributed ledger, individual blockchains are typically managed by a host administrator and distributed to multiple peers that collectively adhere to protocols for inter-node communication and block verification.

[0069] It should be understood that the disclosed systems and techniques provide many advantageous technical effects including the construction and storage of a digital asset blockchain that represents transactions between users of virtual collectibles associated with real-world products. The construction and storage of the digital asset blockchain enables networked computing devices to generate, verify, and process digital asset data quickly and efficiently, thereby improving the performance of individual computing devices. A distributed network of interconnected computing nodes can function as a "supercomputer" with access to many parallel processors, coordinating the allocation and reconstruction of various chunks of computation. By doing so, the network is more computationally efficient, faster, and less expensive than a centralized computing system or a single processing farm. Similarly, the distributed storage provides each individual computing node with an enormous storage capacity limited only by the number of peer devices and their cumulative available memory space.

[0070] Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an example of the functional structure of a distributed computing system 30 as shown in FIG. 2. As generally shown, a user 5 may operably interface with an interface device 39 (i.e., the interface device 39) that may include one or more of a smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, laptop computer, desktop computer, stand-alone video game console, smart footwear / apparel, or other similar Internet-enabled device. The interface device 39 may be operably configured to communicate with one or more of a database 60 (e.g., an authentic fingerprint database and / or a blockchain service / network, referred to herein as a blockchain), and / or a third-party integration service 66.

[0071] Generally, the database 60 may include at least one genuine digital fingerprint registered therein, which represents the content of the genuine clothing item 9 and / or the machine-readable identifier 7 of the encoded sole. The user 5 may own or communicate with a database 60 that includes genuine digital fingerprints each associated with a specific machine-readable identifier 7 to provide services (e.g., authentication) related to the clothing item 9 via the interface device 39. Each stored genuine digital fingerprint represents at least one of the machine-readable identifiers 7 (e.g., clothing product 11, footwear 10, etc.). Additionally, the database 60 may include at least one non-fungible token registered therein, including genomic information representing digital assets. The user 5 may own or be linked to a locker / wallet that includes a secret cryptographic key that enables the interface device 39 to read the encrypted data associated with the token via the interface device 39. This wallet may be a hot wallet connected to the Internet or a cold storage, which is an offline wallet used to store the secret cryptographic key. The machine-readable identifier 7 may be a secret key. This key further enables the user 5 to freely transfer the ownership of the token.

[0072] As described above, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be scanned to provide services related to the clothing item 9. For example, scanning the machine-readable identifier 7 can enable access to a database, such as a token, a database entry, or another blockchain ledger entry, having the attributes of one or more products recorded therein. In the present disclosure, the term "product attribute" means an attribute of the clothing item 9. Product attributes can include, but are not limited to, data regarding where the product was manufactured, how the product was manufactured, product features, manufacturing specifications, and / or sustainability information regarding the product. In other words, product attributes can include how the clothing item 9 was made, where the clothing item 9 was made, product features, manufacturing specifications regarding the clothing item 9, and / or sustainability information regarding how the clothing item 9 was made. As a non-limiting example, sustainability information can be an indication (e.g., an indication of having received organic certification) that the product was made of certified organic materials or through an environmentally friendly manufacturing method.

[0073] In one embodiment, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be a secret cryptographic key used to access one or more digital tokens stored in association with a unique public cryptographic key. The stored tokens can be, for example, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), such as tokens compliant with the Ethereum Request for Comments (ERC) 721 or ERC1155 protocols. The NFT can be uniquely created to represent a user's physical shoes on a distributed blockchain ledger. In this way, the NFT can be an authentication mechanism where the shoes themselves function as cold storage for their own authenticity verification key. In some embodiments, the NFT can also (or alternatively) represent a digital collectible that a user can freely trade when obtaining access to the original secret key included at the time of manufacture.

[0074] In another embodiment, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be a secret cryptographic key used to access one or more alternative tokens stored in relation to a unique public cryptographic key. Additionally, the public cryptographic key can also be digitally stored on the shoe in a machine-readable identifier 7, for example, the same or different from the one used to represent the secret cryptographic key. By including both the public and secret cryptographic keys, the footwear product in this example can be similar to a cold storage wallet where the owner can securely store cryptocurrencies such as BITCOIN (trademark). Thus, storing cryptocurrencies in this offline manner provides a certain level of security where access to the physical product is required to gain access to the cryptocurrency.

[0075] Referring to FIG. 4, the computing system 30 may further include a third-party integration service 66 that enables the use of a genuine digital fingerprint in different contexts or ways. The third-party integration service 66 can operate as an API on an application provided on the interface device 39 (i.e., the user device) or as a dedicated cloud-based service. In some embodiments, the third-party integration service 66 can enable the external use of a genuine fingerprint. Examples of such uses can include digital art work displays, physical print generation, manufacturing production, and the like.

[0076] As further shown in FIG. 4, in one configuration, the enterprise host system 68 can communicate with the database 60 for the purpose of providing / creating a new genuine digital fingerprint. Additionally, the host system 68 can provide one or more rules for constraining the way and style in which information from the database is represented in a visual / artistic form in the machine-readable identifier 7.

[0077] Referring to FIG. 5, the machine-readable identifier 7 includes a plurality of identification codes 44 within each respective predetermined discrete region 40. In the present disclosure, the plural term “predetermined discrete region” and the term “grid” are used interchangeably. Each of the identification codes 44 can include an encoding symbol, a grayscale color, and / or a geometric shape. The geometric shape can be a circle, a quadrilateral, and / or a triangle. To create the predetermined discrete region 40, the machine-readable identifier 7, the grid 40 is virtually placed on the machine-readable identifier 7 and its background 43 to maximize the number of identification codes 44 placed on the machine-readable identifier 7. When the grid 40 is used, all of the predetermined discrete regions 40 have exactly the same size to facilitate scanning the machine-readable identifier 7. Thus, each quadrilateral within the grid 40 is referred to herein as one of the predetermined discrete regions 40. Different combinations of the identification codes 44 can be used to fill a machine-readable genuine identifier 7. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined discrete region 40 does not include more than one machine-readable genuine identifier 7 to facilitate authentication of the clothing item 9. Further, each identification code 44 can be a geometric shape having a specific grayscale color. The machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo) can have a boundary 45 that identifies the region of interest including the identification code 44. The boundary 45 has a color opposite to the color of the background 43 to facilitate detection of the machine-readable identifier 7. For example, if the background 43 of the machine-readable identifier 7 is white, the boundary 45 of the machine-readable identifier 7 can be black to facilitate detection of the machine-readable identifier 7 by the sensor 41 (e.g., a camera). The color can be either a specific color at a discrete position (e.g., the color in one of the predetermined discrete regions 40) or the average color in the quadrilateral of the grid 40.

[0078] When the identification code 44 has a grayscale color, the grayscale color can be represented in binary (i.e., zero or one). The grayscale color closest to the color of the background 43 of the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo) can be represented by the binary zero. For example, if the color of the background 43 is black (i.e., has a grayscale value of 0), the grayscale color with a grayscale value between 0 and 0.99 represents the binary zero. The grayscale color with a grayscale value between 1 and 2 is reserved and not used. The grayscale color with a grayscale value greater than 2 represents the binary one. The above grayscale values and the associated binary numbers facilitate the detection of the machine-readable identifier 7 by the sensor 41 (e.g., a camera) of the interface device 39.

[0079] The identifier 7 can be digitally printed on the product 9 using conductive ink. To generate a conductive ink printing instruction, the binary number can be associated with the electrical resistance of the conductive ink used for each discrete position (e.g., a predetermined discrete area 40). For example, the binary zero can be associated with a conductive ink having an electrical resistance of less than 100 ohms. Thus, the conductive ink at a specific position of the product 9 designated by the binary zero should have an electrical resistance of less than 100 ohms. The reserved color (e.g., the grayscale color with a grayscale value between 1 and 2) can be associated with a conductive ink having an electrical resistance between 150 ohms and 300 ohms. Thus, the conductive ink at a specific position of the product 9 designated by the reserved color should have an electrical resistance between 150 ohms and 300 ohms. The binary one can be associated with a conductive ink having an electrical resistance greater than 300 ohms. Thus, the conductive ink at a specific position of the product 9 designated by the binary one should have an electrical resistance exceeding 300 ohms. Thus, the electrical resistance is used to determine which conductive ink is used to print each identification code 44 within the machine-readable identifier 7. The term "conductive ink" means an ink that produces a print that can conduct electricity. The conductive ink can be generated by the injection of graphite or other conductive materials contained in the ink.

[0080] In the above example, the identification code 44 has a grayscale color within the grayscale wheel, but it is contemplated that the identification code 44 may have a color within a red-green-blue color wheel / chart (i.e., an RGB color wheel / chart). The color of the background 43 of the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo) is used to determine the range of the grayscale or color wheel chart used to encode the bits. The RGB color wheel values can be represented as 8-bit values, 16-bit values, 24-bit values, or other suitable bit values. The color differences (in the grayscale or RGB color wheel) may not be distinguishable to the naked eye, but may be detectable by the sensor 41 (e.g., a camera) of the interface device 39. A designer may use the principle of color interaction pairing to create a pleasant fill in the machine-readable identifier 7.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 6, the identification code 44 may encode a symbol having an artistic design instead of (or in addition to) a basic geometric shape. For example, in the illustrated embodiment, the identification code 44 may in particular be a picture of a foot, an arrow, and a hollow diamond.

[0082] As a non-limiting example, identifier 7 can be printed with laser printed black ink. Instead of the visible patterned encoding as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, identifier 7 can be encoded with ink that is not visible in daylight (or when exposed to the camera's flash) until certain conditions are met. For example, identifier 7 can be printed with an invisible ink such as ultraviolet (UV) ink. In this way, a designer can visually design identifier 7 regardless of a particular visual shape or color. As defined herein, the term UV ink means an ink that is visible under an ultraviolet lamp. Alternatively or additionally, the ink forming identifier 7 can be photochromatic ink, mechanochromatic ink, thermochromatic ink, hydrochromatic ink, and / or UV visible.

[0083] Referring to FIG. 6A, identifier 7 can include 72 encoded bits to minimize the data that needs to be encoded. To identify and detect the uniqueness of the clothing item 9, the encoded bits can include encoded data regarding product style, product color(s), and data regarding cyclic redundancy check (CRC).

[0084] Identifier 7 may additionally include two regions (i.e., a first identification region 73 and a second identification region 75) for alignment and accurate grid sizing. The first identification region 73 may be disposed at the upper left of identifier 7, and the second identification region 75 may be disposed at the right end portion of identifier 7. By using this configuration, the designer has a region of a lot of dark matter 77 for conductive ink to facilitate the manufacture of identifier 7. The resistance of the conductive ink can be measured using only two probes at the edge of identifier 7. Specifically, to measure the resistance of the conductive ink, a first probe may be disposed at the upper left point 7A, and another probe may be disposed at the right end point 7B of identifier 7. Next, the resistance is measured across the upper left point 7A and the upper right point 7B of identifier 7 to confirm the uniqueness of the clothing item 9. However, it is conceivable that other layouts may be used to measure the resistance of the conductive ink. For example, the first identification region 73 may be located at the top of identifier 7, and the second identification region 75 may be located at the bottom of identifier 7. In another example, the first identification region 73 is disposed at the right end portion of identifier 7, and the second identification region 75 is disposed at the upper left of identifier 7. The resistance measurement value may represent a number that can be compared with the number stored in the database 60. A checksum function may be used to return a predetermined output value that is a function of the digits identified by the resistance measurement value. This predetermined output value obtained by the checksum function is compared with the value stored in the database 60 to determine whether the clothing item 9 is genuine. If the predetermined output value obtained by the checksum function matches the value stored in the database 60, the clothing item 9 is genuine.

[0085] An immutable cryptographic database, such as a blockchain network, can store data related to the style of a product, the color(s) of the product, the serial number of the clothing item 9, and the electrical resistance between the upper left point 7A and the right end point 7B of the identifier 7. The data embedded in the identifier 7 is compared with the data stored in the immutable cryptographic database to determine whether the clothing item 9 is genuine. If the data embedded in the identifier 7 matches the data stored in the immutable cryptographic database or another type of database, services related to the clothing item 9 are provided. For example, if the data embedded in the identifier 7 matches the data stored in the database, the clothing item is determined to be genuine. Additionally, or alternatively, if the data embedded in the identifier 7 matches the data stored in the database, access to the same or another database becomes possible. This database includes attribute data regarding at least one product attribute. Product attributes are attributes of the clothing item, such as where the product was made, how the product was made, and / or data regarding sustainability information about the product. As a non-limiting example, sustainability information may include an indication that the product was made from certified organic materials or through an environmentally friendly manufacturing method (e.g., an indication of receiving organic certification). Next, the interface device 39 can display the product attributes after accessing the database (e.g., a token, a database entry, or a blockchain ledger entry).

[0086] Figure 7 is a simplified flowchart of a method 100 for providing services related to a clothing item 9. This method 100 can also be referred to as a method for decoding a machine-readable identifier 7 of the clothing item 9. Before executing the method 100, one or more preliminary steps can be executed. For example, the user 5 can download and install an app 46 on an interface device 39. As described above, the interface device 39 can be a tablet, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, laptop computer, desktop computer, or other similar internet-enabled device. Anyway, the interface device 39 includes a processor or other suitable processing device for operating the app 46. As described above, the interface device 39 includes a sensor 41, such as a camera, configured to scan the machine-readable identifier 7 to determine the authenticity of the clothing item 9. In block 102, the app 46 can be downloaded from a third-party integration service 66. After downloading and installing the app 46 on the interface device 39, the method 100 can start at block 104.

[0087] In block 104, the user 5 instructs, via the app 46, the interface device 39 to display a transparent guide in the shape of the machine-readable identifier 7 to help highlight the area of interest. The transparent guide can be a black silhouette with a transparent fill and background. The silhouette has the shape of the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo) that helps guide the field of view of the sensor 41 (e.g., a camera), thereby enabling the user to scan the machine-readable identifier 7. Next, the method 100 proceeds to block 106.

[0088] In block 106, user 5 aims sensor 41 of interface device 39 at machine-readable identifier 7 of clothing item 9. User 5 aligns the transparent guide with machine-readable identifier 7 until machine-readable identifier 7 fits and fills the transparent guide. To do so, user 5 can zoom in until machine-readable identifier 7 fits within the transparent guide.

[0089] Returning to FIG. 7, FIG. 8 shows user 5 aiming sensor 41 of interface device 39 at footwear product 10. While sensor 41 is aimed at clothing item 9, app 46 displays an image of machine-readable identifier 7 superimposed on the transparent guide to assist user 5 in aligning machine-readable identifier 7 within the field of view of sensor 41.

[0090] Returning to block 106 in FIG. 7, app 46 can automatically detect when machine-readable identifier 7 fits within the transparent guide. To do so, app 46 can automatically detect when the boundary 45 of machine-readable identifier 7 aligns with the silhouette of the transparent guide. Detecting that boundary 45 of machine-readable identifier 7 is aligned with the silhouette of the transparent guide, method 100 proceeds to block 108.

[0091] In block 108, app 46 captures an image of the machine-readable identifier 7, e.g., a still image, and masks out the area of the captured image that is outside the machine-readable identifier 7 (i.e., the region of interest). Next, app 46 detects the identification code 44 in each of the predetermined discrete regions 40. For example, app 46 may detect the encoded bits represented as a range of grayscale values and / or RGB color values in each of the predetermined discrete regions 40. Next, app 46 retrieves the product digital fingerprint of the scanned clothing item 9 (e.g., clothing product 11 or footwear product 10). The product digital fingerprint represents, for example, the content of the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., the identification code 44) placed on the clothing item 9 that can be captured by a scanner. Thus, the digital fingerprint of the product may include the type, position, shape, and spacing of the identification code 44. Subsequently, app 46 compares the genuine digital fingerprint with the product digital fingerprint. The genuine digital fingerprint is stored on database 60 and includes the content that should be on the genuine clothing item 9 (e.g., data regarding the type, position, shape, and spacing of the identification code 44). Only if the genuine digital fingerprint matches the genuine digital fingerprint does app 46 determine that the clothing item 9 is genuine. In other words, if the content of the product digital fingerprint of the clothing item 9 is the same as the content of the genuine digital fingerprint stored in database 60, app 46 determines that the clothing item 9 is genuine. Next, app 46 instructs the interface device 39 to display a message indicating that the clothing item 9 is genuine.

[0092] Alternatively, or in addition, the app 46 provides services related to the clothing item 9, such as enabling access to a database, only if the genuine digital fingerprint matches the genuine digital fingerprint. This database can be a token, a database entry, or other blockchain ledger entry and contains attribute data related to the attributes of at least one product. The attributes of the product are attributes of the clothing item 9, such as where the product was made, how the product was made, and / or sustainability information regarding the product. By way of non-limiting example, the sustainability information can include an indication that the product was made from certified organic materials or through an environmentally friendly manufacturing method (e.g., an indication of certified organic substances). Next, the app 46 instructs the interface device 39 to display the attributes of the product after accessing the database.

[0093] FIG. 9 is a flowchart of a method 200 for manufacturing a clothing item 9 (e.g., a footwear product 10 or a clothing product 11). The method 200 starts at block 202 and can be executed by a remote host system 34 and / or a cloud computing system 36. To do so, the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36 can include a processor and a non-transitory machine-readable medium. In other words, the remote host system 34 or the cloud computing system 36 can be specially programmed to execute the method 200. After block 202, the method 200 proceeds to block 204. In block 204, the manufacturer determines the content and characteristics of the identification code 44 in the machine-readable identifier 7. The content of the identification code 44 can depend on the color of the clothing item 9 and whether the manufacturer is manufacturing the footwear product 10 or the clothing product 11. In particular, in block 204, the manufacturer or designer selects an encoding symbol, a color wheel (e.g., a grayscale color or an RGB color wheel), the color of the background 43 of the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo), a range of grayscale values and / or a range of color values within a predetermined value range, encoding bits associated with each predetermined value range, and an electrical resistance value associated with each encoding bit. After block 204, the method 200 proceeds to block 206.

[0094] In block 206, the manufacturer determines the size of the grid 40 (i.e., the grid size) based on the content and characteristics (i.e., the symbols of the identification code 44) in the machine-readable identifier 7. Once the grid size is selected, it is fixed. Also, in block 206, the manufacturer selects the spacing between each identification code 44 (e.g., the encoding symbol). The vertical and horizontal spacing between all adjacent identification codes 44 is the same to facilitate detection of the identification code 44 by the sensor 41. The method 200 then proceeds to block 208.

[0095] In block 208, encoding parameters are input into remote host system 34 and / or cloud computing system 36. The encoding parameters include, but are not limited to, the manufacturing date, manufacturing ID, serial number, product style, color(s), and Global Trade Item Number (GTIN) of the apparel item 9 (e.g., footwear product 10 or clothing product 11). Next, method 200 proceeds to block 210.

[0096] In block 210, remote host system 34 and / or cloud computing system 36 applies an encoding algorithm to determine an appropriate identification cipher 44 (e.g., encoding symbol and color) for each bit value. This step results in generating an array of symbols, electrical resistances, and colors. This array is called a data array. Also, in block 210, a checksum of this data array is calculated and encoded with at least the most significant bit (e.g., binary bit 1). Next, method 200 proceeds to block 212.

[0097] In block 212, an array of identification ciphers 44 (e.g., symbols, electrical resistance mapping of conductive ink, color of symbols, and mapping of symbols) is assembled. The array of identification ciphers 44 includes electrical resistance values for each predetermined discrete region. A boolean value of 1 is used for the most significant bit and the least significant bit to facilitate finding the identification cipher 44 (e.g., symbol) within the machine-readable identifier 7. In a grayscale array, the most significant bit is represented by black and the least significant bit is represented by white, and vice versa. Next, method 100 proceeds to block 214.

[0098] In block 214, the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36 generate an inkjet printing command based on the assigned electrical resistance value determined in block 212 to print the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo). The inkjet printing command includes the position, color, symbol, and electrical resistance of the conductive ink at each position of the conductive ink on the clothing item 9 (e.g., footwear 10 or clothing product 11). Next, the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36 print the machine-readable identifier 7 on the clothing item 9 according to the inkjet printing command. In particular, the machine-readable identifier 7 is printed with conductive ink having an electrical resistance value assigned to each of the plurality of discrete regions 40 of the machine-readable identifier 7. Next, the unique machine-readable identifier 7 can be used to track the clothing item 9 using minimal hardware (e.g., sensor 41). Thus, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be used to uniquely identify each clothing item 9 and track its history including purchaser information. Next, in block 216, method 200 ends.

[0099] Figure 10 is a flowchart of a detailed method 300 for providing services related to a clothing item 9 (e.g., a footwear product 10 or a clothing product 11). Method 300 starts at block 302. Next, method 300 proceeds to block 304. In block 304, the sensor 41 of the interface device 39 (e.g., a smartphone) continuously captures 2D image data from the clothing item 9. To do so, the user 5 activates the sensor 41 (e.g., a camera) of the interface device 39 via the app 46 to continuously capture and record an image of the clothing item in the non-transitory medium of the interface device 39 for further analysis. After block 304, method 300 proceeds to block 306.

[0100] In block 306, the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 helps to highlight the area of interest in response to activating the sensor 41 of the interface device 39 by displaying a transparent guide in the shape of the machine-readable identifier 7. In other words, the application 46 superimposes a transparent guide on the image of the area of interest (i.e., the machine-readable identifier 7 on the clothing item 9). The transparent guide can be a solid color silhouette (e.g., a color silhouette) with a transparent fill and background. The silhouette has the shape of the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo) that helps to guide the field of view of the sensor 41 (e.g., a camera), thereby enabling the user to scan the machine-readable identifier 7.

[0101] In block 308, the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 analyzes the 2D image data captured by the sensor 41. To do so, the user 5 points the sensor 41 of the interface device 39 at the machine-readable identifier 7 of the clothing item 9. The user 5 aligns the transparent guide with the machine-readable identifier 7 until the machine-readable identifier 7 fits within and fills the transparent guide. The user 5 can zoom in until the machine-readable identifier 7 fits within the transparent guide. The application 46 applies matching machine vision technology to find and isolate the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., a logo) in the 2D captured image data. Next, method 300 proceeds to block 310.

[0102] In block 310, the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 determines whether the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., logo) is detected on the clothing item 9. If the machine-readable identifier 7 cannot be detected on the clothing item 9, the method 300 proceeds to block 312. In block 312, the interface device 39 instructs the user 5, via the application, to zoom in until the machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., logo) appears and fits within a transparent guide (e.g., a silhouette having a transparent fill in the shape of the machine-readable identifier 7). After block 312, the method 300 returns to block 308. If the machine-readable identifier 7 is detected on the clothing item 9 in block 310, the method 300 proceeds from block 310 to block 314.

[0103] In block 314, the interface device 39 masks the remaining portion of the captured image that is outside the transparent guide. In other words, the interface device 39 masks the area of the captured image (i.e., the area of interest) that is outside the machine-readable identifier 7 and the designated background 43 of the machine-readable identifier 7. Next, the method 300 proceeds to block 316.

[0104] In block 316, depending on the background color of the machine-readable identifier 7 (i.e., the color of the background 43), the interface device 39 converts the 2D image to grayscale or uses a predetermined color chart for further processing. For example, if the color of the background 43 is white, the interface device 39 converts the 2D image captured by the sensor 41 to grayscale. On the other hand, if the color of the background 43 is a certain color (e.g., blue) on the RGB color wheel, the interface device 39 uses the RGB color wheel or chart for further processing. Next, the method 300 proceeds to block 318.

[0105] In block 318, interface device 39 iterates through a list of masks (i.e., predetermined stored cryptograms). The list of masks is a combination of standard and custom symbols required to detect each data bit represented by a range of colors in each predetermined discrete region 40 within machine-readable identifier 7. Next, method 300 proceeds to block 320.

[0106] In block 320, interface device 39 identifies the background color (i.e., background color 43) of machine-readable identifier 7 to determine a grayscale color or range of colors within the RGB color wheel that represents the binary 0 similar to the background color. Next, method 300 proceeds to block 322.

[0107] In block 322, interface device 39 recognizes a first group of bits (e.g., the binary 1 bit of FIG. 10). In other words, interface device 39 uses a predetermined uppermost range of grayscale color and / or RGB color to determine the data bit value of binary 1. Next, method 300 proceeds to block 324.

[0108] In block 324, interface device 39 assembles an array of bits having the most significant bit represented at the upper right corner of machine-readable identifier 7 (e.g., logo). Next, method 300 proceeds to block 326. As described above, machine-readable identifier 7 may include two regions (i.e., a first identification region 73 and a second identification region 75) for alignment and accurate grid sizing, as shown in FIG. 6A. The first identification region 73 may be disposed at the upper left of identifier 7, and the second identification region 75 may be disposed at the right end portion of identifier 7. The resistance of the conductive ink can be measured using only two probes at the ends of identifier 7. Specifically, to measure the resistance of the conductive ink, a first probe may be disposed at the upper left point 7A, and another probe may be disposed at the right end point 7B of identifier 7. Next, the resistance is measured across the upper left point 7A and the upper right point 7B of identifier 7 to confirm the uniqueness of the clothing item 9. The resistance measurement value between the upper left point 7A and the upper right point 7B can be represented by a number, and these numbers can be compared with the numbers stored in database 60. These numbers are assembled as an array of bits.

[0109] In block 326, interface device 39 uses the leftmost 8 bits as a checksum to verify the detected bit values. A checksum function can be used to return a predetermined output value that is a function of the digits identified by the resistance measurement value. Next, method 300 proceeds to block 328.

[0110] In block 328, interface device 39 verifies the checksum. To do so, the stored checksum generated in method 200 is compared with the checksum generated in block 326. If the checksum generated in block 326 is the same as the checksum generated in method 200, clothing item 9 is determined to be genuine.

[0111] Alternatively, or in addition, in block 328, if the checksum generated in block 326 is the same as the checksum generated by method 200, app 46 provides services related to clothing item 9, such as enabling access to a database. This database can be a token, a database entry, or other blockchain ledger entry and includes attribute data related to the attributes of at least one product. The attributes of the product are attributes of clothing item 9 such as where the product was made, how the product was made, manufacturing specifications, and / or data related to sustainability information regarding clothing item 9. By way of non-limiting example, the sustainability information can include an indication that the product was made from certified organic materials or through an environmentally friendly manufacturing method (e.g., an indication of certified organic substances). Next, app 46 instructs interface device 39 to display the attributes of the product after accessing the database. In the present disclosure, the services related to clothing item 9 can include the above-described authentication. One by one, method 300 then ends at block 332.

[0112] As an alternative embodiment, FIG. 11 shows that the article of clothing 9 can be a footwear product 10. In aspects of the present disclosure, the footwear product 10 includes an upper 12 and a sole structure 14 attached to the upper 12, as described above with respect to FIG. 1. The sole structure 14 includes an insole 22. As used herein, the term “insole” refers to the innermost piece material of the sole structure 14 that extends under the foot and supports the bottom of the foot. The entire insole 22 can be magnetized to prevent the growth of bacteria in the sole structure 14, thereby minimizing odors in the footwear product 10. However, the remaining portion of the sole structure 14 includes magnetic zones in a predetermined discrete region 40 that includes natural magnetic particles and / or magnetized particles. For example, as shown in FIG. 12, the entire sole structure 14 can be considered to be a machine-readable identifier 7 that includes a predetermined discrete region 40. Accordingly, the predetermined discrete region 40 can be referred to as a magnetic zone 47. In the illustrated embodiment, the predetermined discrete region 40 within the sole structure 14 is referred to as magnetic zones 47 (i.e., magnetic zones 47A, 47B, 47C, 47D, 47E, 47F, and 47G). The magnetic profile, or discrete portions thereof, can be formed by one or more magnetic zones 47 and can function as one way to embed a registerable identifier 7. Although seven magnetic zones 47 are shown, the sole structure 14 can be considered to include more or fewer magnetic zones 47 disposed across the longitudinal and / or transverse dimensions / regions of the sole structure 14. Each magnetic zone 47 can include magnetic particles randomly dispersed within the form of the sole structure 14, which allows a manufacturer to imprint a magnetic signature onto the sole structure 14. Each magnetic zone 47 can include one or more natural magnetic materials and / or magnetizable materials. Each magnetic zone 47 has magnetic properties (e.g., a magnetic flux density value). For example, the magnetic zones 47 can each have a different magnetic flux density value to make replication more difficult. Alternatively, at least some or all of the magnetic zones 47 can have the same magnetic flux density value. In this case, the magnetic properties (e.g., the magnetic flux density value) can be considered an identification code 44, and the magnetic zones 47 can be considered a predetermined discrete region 40.Each of the defined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47) has a specific magnetic flux density value (e.g., identifying the cipher 44).

[0113] The user 5 may use the interface device 39 to measure the magnetic characteristics (e.g., magnetic flux density value) of each magnetic zone 47. To do so, the sensor 41 can be a magnetometer or other sensor suitable for measuring magnetic characteristics such as the magnetic flux density value of each magnetic zone 47 of the sole structure 14. The sensor 41 can be part of the interface device 39, such as a dedicated scanner or other suitable device configured to measure the magnetic characteristics of the magnetic zone 47, such as the magnetic flux density value. The magnetic flux density value measured in each magnetic zone 47 is considered to be part of the digital fingerprint of the product. On the other hand, the magnetic flux density value stored on the database 60 is considered to be the genuine digital fingerprint.

[0114] Next, the digital fingerprint of the product is compared with the genuine digital fingerprint. In other words, the magnetic flux density values measured at each magnetic zone 47 are compared with the stored identification code (e.g., the stored magnetic characteristics such as the magnetic flux density values for each magnetic zone 47). If the digital fingerprint of the product matches the genuine digital fingerprint stored in the database 60, the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 displays a message that the clothing item 9 is genuine. In other words, if each measured magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47) matches the corresponding stored magnetic characteristics (e.g., magnetic flux density values) for each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47), the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 (e.g., smartphone) displays a message that the clothing item 9 is genuine. On the other hand, if the digital fingerprint of the product does not match the genuine digital fingerprint stored in the database 60, the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 displays a message that the clothing item 9 is not genuine. In other words, if each magnetic characteristic (e.g., magnetic flux density value) of each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47) does not match the corresponding stored magnetic characteristics (e.g., magnetic flux density values) for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47), the application 46 operating on the interface device 39 (e.g., smartphone) displays a message that the clothing item 9 is not genuine.

[0115] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a method 400 for manufacturing an article of clothing 9 (e.g., a footwear product 10) having a magnetic zone 47 for creating a true digital fingerprint. The method 400 begins at block 402. At block 402, a magnetizable material or a natural magnetic material, such as a ferromagnetic material, is added to the polymeric material used to form the sole structure 14. A suitable ferromagnetic material can be magnetite (Fe3O4). Natural magnetic particles or magnetizable particles may be added to the polymeric material used to make the sole structure 14. Specifically, magnetic or selectively magnetizable particles can be embedded within the foam or outsole during the initial manufacture of the sole structure 14. Due to the nature of the molding process, it is likely that these particles can achieve a random distribution and / or dispersion throughout the foam midsole and / or outsole. The natural magnetic particles can be randomly dispersed within the polymeric material used to make the sole structure 14, thereby making it difficult to replicate the machine-readable identifier 7. Alternatively, the magnetizable particles enable the manufacturer to generate a unique magnetic signature within the magnetic zone 47. Next, the method 400 proceeds to block 404.

[0116] At block 404, a magnetic material, such as a ferromagnetic material, is added to the compound used to create the insole 22. The magnetic material within the insole 22 inhibits the growth of bacteria and can be used as a second authentication factor. Next, the method 400 proceeds to block 406.

[0117] In block 406, using a fixture of appropriate size, each predetermined discrete region 40 (e.g., magnetic zone 47) of the clothing item 9 is magnetized. For example, only the magnetic zones 47A, 47B, 47C, 47D, 47E, 47F, and 47G within the sole structure 14 of the footwear product 10 are magnetized with random magnetic characteristic values. A magnetizer can be used to magnetize the magnetic zone 47. These magnetic zones 47 are spaced apart from each other to facilitate scanning by the sensor 41 of the interface device 39. This step is optional because the magnetic zones may comprise natural magnetic particles in block 402. Next, method 400 proceeds to block 408.

[0118] In block 408, the fixture is used to magnetize the entire insole 22 to help control the growth of bacteria in the clothing item 9 (e.g., footwear product 10). Block 406 is optional. Next, method 400 proceeds to block 410.

[0119] In block 410, a fixture of appropriate size is used to measure the magnetic characteristics (e.g., magnetic flux density value) of each magnetic zone 47 of the clothing item 9. A magnetometer such as a gaussmeter or a teslameter can be used to measure the magnetic characteristic values of each magnetic zone 47. The magnetic characteristics (e.g., magnetic flux density value) are stored in the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36. The stored magnetic values of the magnetic zones form a genuine digital fingerprint. The magnetic values stored for each magnetic zone 47 are associated with a unique serial number for the clothing item 9 (e.g., footwear product 10). This association is also stored in the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36. Method 400 can end in block 410.

[0120] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a method 500 for providing services related to a clothing item 9 that uses a magnetic zone 47. Before executing the method 500, several preliminary steps may be performed. For example, the stored serial number may be printed on the clothing item 9 and / or the package (e.g., box) of the clothing item 9. The stored serial number may be printed on the product box of the footwear 10. Further, when the clothing item 9 is sold to a purchaser, the purchaser's identification number may be stored in the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36. Also, the purchaser's identification number may be associated with the serial number of the clothing item. This association is stored in the remote host system 34 and / or the cloud computing system 36. Further, the user 5 may download and install the app 46 on the interface device 39 as shown in FIG. 8. As described above, the interface device 39 may be a tablet, smartphone, tablet computer, smartwatch, laptop computer, desktop computer, or other similar Internet-enabled device. Anyway, the interface device 39 includes a processor or other suitable processing device for operating the app 46. As described above, the interface device 39 may include a sensor 41 such as a magnetometer configured to measure the magnetic characteristics (magnetic flux density values) of each predetermined discrete region 40 (e.g., magnetic zone 47) of the sole structure 14 to determine the authenticity of the clothing item 9 (e.g., the footwear product 10). The app 46 may be downloaded from a third-party integrated service 66. After downloading and installing the app 46 on the interface device 39, the method 500 may be executed.

[0121] The method 500 starts at block 504. At block 504, the user 5 may select the clothing item 9 (on the app 46) and use the app 46 to verify the unique serial number, purchase date, and / or features of the clothing item 9. Next, the method 500 proceeds to block 506.

[0122] In block 506, the app 46 instructs the user 5 (e.g., the purchaser) to place and align the interface device 39 over each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., the magnetic zones 47). In response, the sensor 41 (e.g., a magnetometer) of the interface device 39 measures the magnetic properties (e.g., the magnetic flux density value) at each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 of the clothing item 9. After measuring and recording the magnetic property values of each of the predetermined discrete regions 40, the method 500 proceeds to block 508.

[0123] In block 508, the app 46 compares the measured magnetic property values (e.g., the magnetic flux density values) in each magnetic zone 47 with the stored identification code 44 (e.g., the stored magnetic property such as the magnetic flux density value) for each magnetic zone 47. The app 46 also compares the serial number on the package of the clothing item 8 with the serial number stored in the app. If each magnetic property value (e.g., the magnetic flux density value) in each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., the magnetic zones 47) matches the corresponding stored magnetic property value (e.g., the magnetic flux density value) for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., the magnet zones 47), and the serial number on the package matches the serial number stored in the app, the app 46 operating on the interface device 39 (e.g., a smartphone) displays a message that the clothing item 9 is genuine. One

[0124] Alternatively, or in addition, in block 508, after reading the machine-readable identifier 7, for each magnetic characteristic value (e.g., magnetic flux density value) in each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47), it is determined that each magnetic characteristic value in each of the respective predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnet zones 47) matches the corresponding stored magnetic characteristic value (e.g., magnetic flux density value) for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions 40, and the serial number on the package matches the serial number stored on the app 46. In response, the app 46 and / or the cloud-based system provides services related to the clothing item 9, such as enabling access to a database. This database can be a token, a database entry, or other blockchain ledger entry and includes attribute data related to the attributes of at least one product. The attributes of the product are attributes of the clothing item 9, such as data regarding where the product was made, how the product was made, manufacturing specifications, and / or sustainability information regarding the clothing item 9. By way of non-limiting example, the sustainability information can include an indication that the product was made through an authenticated organic material or an environmentally friendly manufacturing method (e.g., an indication of receiving organic certification). Next, the app 46 instructs the interface device 39 to display the attributes of the product after accessing the database. One

[0125] If some (but not all) of the magnetic characteristic values of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47) match the corresponding stored magnetic characteristic values for the respective predetermined discrete regions 40, the app 46 operating on the interface device 39 can display a message indicating how many regions match. If each magnetic characteristic (e.g., magnetic flux density value) in each of the predetermined discrete regions 40 (e.g., magnetic zones 47) does not match the corresponding stored magnetic characteristic (e.g., magnetic flux density value) for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions 40 or the serial number on the package does not match the serial number stored in the app, the app 46 operating on the interface device 39 (e.g., smartphone) displays a message that the clothing item 9 is not authentic and / or that the services described herein are not provided.

[0126] Manufacturing methods 200 and 400 can be combined to manufacture the clothing item 9, which requires a dual-factor authentication process to authenticate the clothing item 9. Thus, the dual-factor authentication process can be a combination of method 300 (FIG. 7) and method 500 (FIG. 14). In the case of the footwear product 10, the upper 12 and the sole structure 14 include a machine-readable identifier 7. Alternatively, or additionally, the dual-factor authentication process can include using a location function to locate a hidden machine-readable identifier 7. The location function can be one or more near-field communication (NFC)-enabled devices 49 (FIG. 12) disposed within the magnetic zone 47 of the clothing item 9. The NFC-enabled device 49 can be used to locate one or more magnetic zones 47. The location function can be a digital printed image (e.g., a logo) representing a machine-readable identifier, as shown in FIG. 7. For example, a machine-readable identifier 7 encoded in a logo or graphic provided on the upper 12 of the footwear product 10 can indicate a specific region of the magnetic or magnetizable sole structure 14 of the footwear product 10 from which a second identifier code can be extracted. Further, as described above with respect to FIGS. 7 and 8, the sensor 41 of the interface device 39 can be used to locate a digital printed image (e.g., a logo). Although a two-factor authentication process has been described, more than one machine-readable identifier 7 can be used as part of a multi-factor authentication technique. For example, one machine-readable identifier 7 can provide instructions on how or where a second encoded machine-readable identifier 7 can be extracted.

[0127] Authentication is one use of the present technology, but the machine-readable identifier 7 can also be used to store a unique code for other purposes. For example, in one configuration, the embedded identifier 7 can function as an unlock code to unlock digital collectibles, digital attributes, digital experiences, or provide special features in an electronic application, or early access to a product to be released later, an electronic ticket / pass, or a secret cryptographic key. For example, in one configuration, the embedded identifier 7 can be a unique code linked to a cryptographic key or a secret cryptographic key that enables a user to obtain a cryptographically protected digital collectible (e.g., one registered in an immutable ledger as represented by blockchain technology). An example of such a cryptographically protected digital collectible (e.g., "CryptoKicks") is described in U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 423,671, issued as U.S. Patent No. 10,505,726 on December 10, 2019. In other words, the machine-readable identifier 7 can be a blockchain private key, and the garment 9 can function as a wallet for the private key. The private key is set as a token uniquely registered on the blockchain. The blockchain may be a private chain that operates only on a specific company's computer, rather than a public chain. The sensor 41 can be used in an event (e.g., a sports event) to decode the machine-readable identifier 7 to unlock a digital collectible. The digital collectible can further be secured to the blockchain. In another embodiment, the embedded identifier 7 can enable a user to obtain an attribute pack to modify the attributes of a cryptographically protected digital collectible or provide a unique ability improvement or change to the appearance of a user-controllable character in a video game application.

[0128] Aspects of the present disclosure may, in some embodiments, be implemented via a computer-executable program of instructions, such as a program module, generally referred to as a software application or application program, executed by any of the controllers or variations of the controller described herein. Software may, by way of non-limiting example, include routines, programs, objects, components, and data structures that perform particular tasks or implement particular data types. Software may form an interface that enables a computer to react according to input sources. Software may also cooperate with other code segments to initiate various tasks in response to received data in relation to the source of the received data. Software may be stored on any of a variety of memory media, such as a CD-ROM, magnetic disk, bubble memory, and semiconductor memory (e.g., various types of RAM or ROM).

[0129] Furthermore, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in various computer system and computer network configurations, including multiprocessor systems, microprocessor-based or programmable consumer electronics, minicomputers, mainframe computers, and the like. Additionally, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in a distributed computing environment where tasks are performed by resident and remote processing devices linked through a communication network. In a distributed computing environment, program modules may be located in both local and remote computer storage media including memory storage devices. Accordingly, aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in association with various hardware, software, or combinations thereof in a computer system or other processing system.

[0130] Any of the methods described herein may include machine-readable instructions for execution by (a) a processor, (b) a controller, and / or (c) any other suitable processing device. Any algorithm, software, control logic, protocol, or method disclosed herein may be embodied as software stored on a tangible medium such as, for example, flash memory, a CD-ROM, a floppy disk, a hard drive, a digital versatile disk (DVD), or other memory device. The entire algorithm, control logic, protocol, or method, and / or portions thereof may alternatively be executed by a device other than a controller and / or may be embodied in firmware or dedicated hardware using available methods (e.g., implemented by application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable logic devices (FPLDs), discrete logic, etc.). Further, although a particular algorithm is described with reference to the flowcharts shown herein, many other methods for implementing exemplary machine-readable instructions may alternatively be used.

[0131] Aspects of the present disclosure have been described in detail with reference to the illustrated embodiments, but those skilled in the art will recognize that many modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the exact structures and compositions disclosed herein, and all modifications, changes, and variations apparent from the foregoing description are within the scope of the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims. Further, this concept clearly encompasses any and all combinations and sub-combinations of the preceding elements and features. Additional features may be reflected in the following clauses:

[0132] Clause 1. A method for authenticating a clothing item, comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier attached to the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier representing the authenticity of the attached clothing item, the machine-readable identifier including a plurality of identification codes, each of the plurality of identification codes being disposed within a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions; searching for a predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions; comparing the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions with the corresponding stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; and determining that the clothing item is authentic in response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0133] Clause 2. The method of Clause 1, wherein the machine-readable identifier is a digital printed image on the clothing item, the digital printed image including the plurality of predetermined discrete regions.

[0134] Clause 3. The method of Clause 1 or 2, wherein the machine-readable identifier includes a unique logo disposed directly on the clothing item.

[0135] Clause 4. The method of Clause 1 or 2, wherein the machine-readable identifier is a barcode.

[0136] Clause 5. The method of Clause 1 or 2, wherein the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions includes a plurality of encoding symbols.

[0137] Clause 6. The method according to Clauses 1 to 5, wherein at least one of the plurality of encoding symbols includes a graphic shape, and the graphic shape includes at least one selected from a circle, a square, and a triangle.

[0138] Clause 7. The method according to Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions has a grayscale color, and the grayscale color represents a binary number.

[0139] Clause 8. The method according to Clauses 1 to 6, wherein the step of receiving the scanned image of the machine-readable identifier includes the step of continuously receiving image data from the machine-readable identifier. The clothing item is at least one selected from clothing products and footwear products.

[0140] Clause 9. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, and the predetermined discrete region is a plurality of magnetic zones of the sole structure. The method according to Clauses 1 to 8.

[0141] Clause 10. The method according to Clauses 1 to 9, wherein the magnetic zone includes at least one selected from a plurality of natural magnetic particles and a plurality of magnetized particles.

[0142] Clause 11. The method according to Clauses 1 to 10, wherein each of the predetermined discrete regions has a respective magnetic flux density value, and the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the respective magnetic flux density value.

[0143] Clause 12. The method according to Clauses 1 to 11, wherein the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the value of the magnetic flux density of each of the predetermined discrete regions, the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is a stored value, and the stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions is compared with the magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each magnetic flux density value in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored value for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0144] Clause 13. The clothing item is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 12, including a positioning function for identifying the location of each of the predetermined discrete regions within the clothing item.

[0145] Clause 14. The positioning function is at least one selected from a near-field communication (NFC)-enabled device and a digital printed image, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 13.

[0146] Clause 15. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, and the plurality of predetermined discrete regions are arranged in at least one selected from the upper and the sole structure, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 14.

[0147] Clause 16. The machine-readable identifier is the private key of the wallet, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 15.

[0148] Clause 17. The private key is set as a token uniquely registered on the blockchain, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 16.

[0149] Clause 18. The clothing item functions as a wallet and embodies the private key, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 17.

[0150] Clause 19. The blockchain is a private blockchain, and is the method of Clauses 1 to 18.

[0151] Clause 20. The sensor reads the machine-readable identifier to obtain the machine-readable identifier from the clothing item in order to unlock the digital collectible, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 19.

[0152] Clause 21. The digital collectible is associated with the blockchain, and is any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 20.

[0153] Clause 22. Further including the step of enabling access to the blockchain ledger entry in response to determining that the clothing item is genuine, wherein the blockchain ledger entry includes attributes of at least one product, the attributes of the at least one product are attributes of the clothing item, and the attributes of the at least one product include data related to where the product was made, how the product was made, or one of the sustainability information regarding the clothing item, according to any of the methods of Clauses 1 to 21.

[0154] Clause 23. A clothing item having a machine-readable identifier; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification codes; each of the plurality of identification codes is arranged in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; each of the plurality of identification codes in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches an encryption stored remotely for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions to facilitate authentication of the clothing item.

[0155] Clause 24. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, and the machine-readable identifier is the logo on the upper, for the clothing item of Clause 23.

[0156] Clause 25. The logo is a digital printed image on the upper, the logo includes conductive ink, the plurality of identification codes include a plurality of colors, each color has a color value, the color values are grouped into a plurality of predetermined value ranges, and encoding bits are associated with each of the respective predetermined value ranges of the predetermined value ranges, for the clothing item of either Clause 23 or 24.

[0157] Clause 26. At least one of the plurality of identification codes is an encoding symbol, for the clothing item of any of Clauses 23 to 25.

[0158] Clause 27. The clothing item is a clothing product, the clothing product is a shirt, the shirt includes a main shirt body, a first sleeve attached to the main shirt body, and a second sleeve attached to the main shirt body, the machine-readable identifier is disposed on the main shirt body, the machine-readable identifier is a logo, the logo includes conductive ink, at least one of the plurality of identification codes is a geometric shape, and the geometric shape is at least one selected from a triangle, a quadrilateral, and a circle, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 26.

[0159] Clause 28. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, each of the predetermined discrete regions is a magnetic zone on the sole structure, and each of the magnetic zones has a corresponding magnetic flux density value that matches a remotely stored magnetic flux density value for each of the respective magnetic zones to facilitate authentication of the footwear product, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 27.

[0160] Clause 29. The sole structure includes an insole that is fully magnetized to prevent the growth of bacteria in the sole structure, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 28.

[0161] Clause 30. Each of the magnetic zones includes a plurality of randomly dispersed magnetic particles, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 29.

[0162] Clause 31. The magnetic zones have different magnetic flux density values from each other, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 30.

[0163] Clause 32. The clothing item further has a positioning function for positioning each of the predetermined discrete regions within the clothing item, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 31.

[0164] Clause 33. The positioning function is at least one selected from a near field communication (NFC)-compatible device and a digital printed image, the clothing item according to any one of Clauses 23 to 32.

[0165] Article 34. A method for manufacturing a clothing item, comprising the step of placing a machine-readable identifier on the clothing item, wherein the machine-readable identifier represents the authenticity of the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification codes, and each of the plurality of identification codes is arranged in a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier.

[0166] Article 35. The method of Article 34, further comprising the step of determining the content and characteristics of the plurality of identification codes within the machine-readable identifier.

[0167] Article 36. The method according to any one of Articles 34 to 35, further comprising the step of determining the size of a grid based on the content of the plurality of identification codes and the content of the characteristics within the machine-readable identifier, wherein each square of the grid is one of the predetermined discrete regions.

[0168] Article 37. The method according to any one of Articles 34 to 36, further comprising the step of inputting encoding parameters into a remote host system, wherein the encoding parameters include the manufacturing date, manufacturing ID, serial number, product style, color, and global trade item number (GTIN) of the clothing item.

[0169] Article 38. The method according to any one of Articles 34 to 37, further comprising the step of assigning a bit value to each of the plurality of identification codes.

[0170] Article 39. The method according to any one of Articles 34 to 38, further comprising the step of assigning an electrical resistance value to each of the bit values, and the step of assigning the electrical resistance value includes the step of assigning the electrical resistance value to each of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions.

[0171] Article 40. The method according to any one of Articles 34 to 39, further comprising the step of generating an inkjet printing command based on the assigned electrical resistance value so as to print the machine-readable identifier on the clothing item.

[0172] Clause 41. The step of disposing the machine-readable identifier on the clothing item includes printing the machine-readable identifier based on the assigned electrical resistance value, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 40.

[0173] Clause 42. The machine-readable identifier is printed with a conductive ink having the electrical resistance value assigned to each of the plurality of discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 41.

[0174] Clause 43. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product has an upper and a sole structure coupled to the upper, and the step of disposing the machine-readable identifier on the clothing item includes adding a magnetic material to a polymer material used to mold the sole structure so as to form a magnetic zone within the sole structure, the magnetic zone being the predetermined discrete region of the machine-readable identifier, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 42.

[0175] Clause 44. The step of adding the magnetic material includes adding natural magnetic particles that are randomly dispersed in the polymer material used to mold the sole structure, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 43.

[0176] Clause 45. The step of adding the magnetic material includes adding a magnetizable material to the polymer material used to mold the sole structure, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 44.

[0177] Clause 46. The method further includes the step of magnetizing each of the magnetic zones, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 45.

[0178] Clause 47. The method further includes the step of measuring a magnetic characteristic value of each of the magnetic zones and the step of storing the magnetic characteristic value of each of the magnetic zones in a remote host system, by any of the methods of Clauses 34 to 46.

[0179] Article 48. A method for providing a service related to a clothing item, the method comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier, the machine-readable identifier being attached to the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier representing an attribute of the attached clothing item, the machine-readable identifier including a plurality of identification codes, each of the plurality of identification codes being disposed within a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions; searching for a predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions; comparing the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions with the corresponding stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; and providing the service related to the clothing item in response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0180] Article 49. The method of Article 48, wherein the machine-readable identifier is a digital printed image on the clothing item, and the digital printed image includes the plurality of predetermined discrete regions.

[0181] Article 50. The method of Article 48 or 49, wherein the step of providing the service includes determining that the clothing item is genuine in response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0182] Article 51. The method according to any one of Articles 48 to 50, wherein the step of providing the service includes enabling access to a database, the database including attribute data related to attributes of at least one product, the attributes of the at least one product being the attributes of the clothing item.

[0183] Article 52. The attribute data is in any of the methods of Articles 48 to 51 and includes information on where the product was made.

[0184] Article 53. The attribute data is in any of the methods of Articles 48 to 52 and includes information on how the product was made.

[0185] Article 54. The attribute data is in any of the methods of Articles 48 to 53 and includes sustainability information regarding the clothing item.

[0186] Article 55. The attribute data is in any of the methods of Articles 48 to 54 and includes manufacturing specifications.

[0187] Article 56. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, the predetermined discrete regions are a plurality of magnetic zones of the sole structure, the magnetic zones include at least one selected from a plurality of natural magnetic particles and a plurality of magnetized particles, each of the predetermined discrete regions has a respective magnetic flux density value, and the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the respective magnetic flux density value, in any of the methods of Articles 48 to 55.

[0188] Article 57. The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions, the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is a stored value, and the stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions is compared with the magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each magnetic flux density value in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored value for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions, in any of the methods of Articles 48 to 56.

[0189] Article 58. The machine-readable identifier is the private key of the wallet, and the private key is set as a token uniquely registered on the blockchain by any of the methods of Articles 48 to 57.

[0190] Article 59. The service related to the clothing item includes enabling access to a blockchain ledger entry, the blockchain ledger entry includes attributes of at least one product, the at least one product attribute is an attribute of the clothing item, and the at least one product attribute includes: where the product was made, how the product was made, or attribute data related to one of the sustainability information regarding the clothing item, by any of the methods of Articles 48 to 58.

[0191] Article 60. A clothing item having a machine-readable identifier. The machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions. The machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification codes. Each of the plurality of identification codes is arranged in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier. Each of the plurality of identification codes in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches an encrypted code stored remotely for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions to facilitate providing a service.

[0192] Article 61. The service of the clothing item of Article 60 includes determining that the clothing item is genuine when each identification code in each predetermined discrete region matches the corresponding stored encrypted code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions.

[0193] Article 62. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, the machine-readable identifier is a logo directly disposed on the upper, the logo is a digital printed image on the upper, the logo includes conductive ink, the plurality of identification codes includes a plurality of colors, each color has a color value, the color values are grouped into a plurality of predetermined value ranges, and encoding bits are associated with respective predetermined value ranges of the predetermined value ranges, the clothing item of Article 60 or 61.

[0194] Article 63. The service includes enabling access to a database, the database includes attribute data related to attributes of at least one product, and the at least one product attribute is an attribute of the clothing item, the clothing item of any one of Articles 60 to 63.

[0195] Article 64. The attribute data includes information regarding where the product was made, the clothing item of any one of Articles 60 to 63.

[0196] Article 65. The attribute data includes information regarding how the product was made, the clothing item of any one of Articles 60 to 64.

[0197] Article 66. The attribute data includes sustainability information regarding the clothing item, the clothing item of any one of Articles 60 to 65.

[0198] Article 67. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, each of the predetermined discrete regions is a magnetic zone on the sole structure, and each magnetic zone has a corresponding magnetic flux density value that matches a remotely stored magnetic flux density value for each of the respective magnetic zones to facilitate authentication of the footwear product, the clothing item of any one of Articles 60 to 65.

[0199] Article 68. A method for providing a service related to clothing, comprising the steps of providing an identifier on the clothing, receiving a scan of the identifier from a user, extracting an encryption from the received scan, the encryption uniquely identifying the clothing, determining one or more attributes of the clothing from the extracted encryption, and displaying the one or more determined attributes to the user, the one or more attributes including at least one of authenticity, manufacturing history, or ownership history.

[0200] Article 69. The step of providing the identifier on the clothing includes the step of providing a unique graphical design on the outer surface of the clothing, the clothing being a footwear product, the footwear product including an upper and a sole structure, the sole structure being coupled to the upper, and the step of receiving a scan of the identifier from the user includes the step of receiving a scan of the unique graphical design. The method according to Article 68.

[0201] Article 70. The scan is an electromagnetic scan, and the unique graphical design includes conductive ink. The method according to either Article 68 or 69.

[0202] Article 71. The clothing is a footwear product, the footwear product including an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, the step of providing the identifier on the clothing includes the step of providing a unique magnetic signature within the form of the sole structure, and the step of receiving a scan of the identifier from the user includes the step of receiving a scan of the magnetic signature from the user. The method according to any one of Articles 68 to 70.

[0203] Clause 72. The step of providing the identifier on the clothing item is: the step of providing a unique graphical design on the outer surface of the clothing item, wherein the clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure, and the sole structure is coupled to the upper structure; the step of providing a unique magnetic signature within the form of the sole structure; The step of receiving a scan of the identifier from the user includes: the step of receiving a scan of the unique graphical design from the user; the step of receiving a scan of the unique magnetic signature from the user; The step of extracting the cipher from the received scan includes: the step of extracting the cipher from the scan of the unique graphical design, wherein the cipher is a first cipher; the step of extracting a second cipher from the scan of the magnetic signature; the step of determining the authenticity of the footwear product via the first cipher and the second cipher; the step of returning a display of the authenticity to the user; The method according to any one of Clauses 68 to 71, including.

Claims

1. A method for providing a service related to a clothing item, comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier on an outer surface of the clothing item, wherein the machine-readable identifier is a logo; receiving a scan of the machine-readable identifier from a user; extracting an encryption key from the received scan, wherein the encryption key uniquely identifies the clothing item; determining one or more attributes of the clothing item from the extracted encryption key; displaying the determined one or more attributes to the user, wherein the one or more attributes include at least one of authenticity, manufacturing history, or ownership history; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification encryption keys; each of the plurality of identification encryption keys is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; the clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, the machine-readable identifier is disposed directly on an outer surface of the upper, the logo is a digital printed image on the outer surface of the upper, the logo includes conductive ink, the plurality of identification encryption keys include a plurality of colors, each color has a color value, the color values are grouped into a plurality of predetermined value ranges, and encoding bits are associated with respective ones of the predetermined value ranges; A method.

2. The step of providing the machine-readable identifier on the outer surface of the clothing item includes providing a unique graphical design within the logo. The step of receiving the scan of the machine-readable identifier from the user includes receiving a scan of the unique graphical design. The method according to claim 1.

3. The unique graphical design includes conductive ink. The scan is an electrical or electromagnetic scan of the conductive ink. The method according to claim 2.

4. A method for providing a service related to a clothing item, comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier on an outer surface of the clothing item, wherein the machine-readable identifier is a logo; receiving a scan of the machine-readable identifier from a user; A step of extracting an encryption from the received scan, where the encryption uniquely identifies the clothing item; A step of determining one or more attributes of the clothing item from the extracted encryption; A step of displaying the determined one or more attributes to the user, where the one or more attributes include at least one of authenticity, manufacturing history, or ownership history; The clothing item is a footwear product having an upper and a sole structure; The step of providing the machine-readable identifier on the outer surface of the clothing item includes the step of providing a unique magnetic signature within the form of the sole structure; The step of receiving the scan of the machine-readable identifier from the user includes the step of receiving a scan of the magnetic signature from the user; Method. **Claim 5** A method of providing a service related to a clothing item, comprising: A step of providing a machine-readable identifier on the outer surface of the clothing item, where the machine-readable identifier is a logo; A step of receiving a scan of the machine-readable identifier from the user; A step of extracting an encryption from the received scan, where the encryption uniquely identifies the clothing item; A step of determining one or more attributes of the clothing item from the extracted encryption; A step of displaying the determined one or more attributes to the user, where the one or more attributes include at least one of authenticity, manufacturing history, or ownership history; The clothing item is a footwear product having an upper and a sole structure; The step of providing the machine-readable identifier on the outer surface of the clothing item includes: A step of providing a unique graphical design on the outer surface of the upper of the footwear product; A step of providing a unique magnetic signature within the form of the sole structure; The step of receiving the scan of the machine-readable identifier from the user includes: A step of receiving a first scan of the unique graphical design from the user; A step of receiving a second scan of the unique magnetic signature from the user; The step of extracting the encryption from the received scan includes: A step of extracting a first encryption from the first scan of the unique graphical design; extracting a second cipher from the second scan of the magnetic signature; and The method further comprises: determining the authenticity of the footwear product via the first cipher and the second cipher; and returning a display of the authenticity to the user; A method.

6. The step of determining the one or more attributes of the clothing item from the extracted cipher includes searching for the one or more attributes from a database or a distributed blockchain ledger. The method according to claim 1.

7. A method of providing a service related to a clothing item, comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier on an outer surface of the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier being a logo, the machine-readable identifier representing an attribute of the attached clothing item, the machine-readable identifier including a plurality of identification ciphers, each of the plurality of identification ciphers being disposed within a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions; searching for a predetermined stored cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions; comparing the identification cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions with the corresponding stored cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each identification cipher in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored cipher for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; providing the service related to the clothing item in response to determining that each identification cipher in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored cipher for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; The machine-readable identifier is a digital printed image on the outer surface of the clothing item, the digital printed image including the plurality of predetermined discrete regions, The step of providing the service includes enabling access to a database, the database including attribute data related to attributes of at least one product, the at least one product attribute being an attribute of the clothing item. A method.

8. The step of providing the service includes determining that the clothing item is genuine in response to determining that each identification cipher in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored cipher for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions. The method according to claim 7.

9. The attribute data includes information regarding where or how the product was made. The method according to claim 7.

10. The attribute data includes sustainability information regarding the clothing item. The method according to claim 7.

11. The attribute data includes manufacturing specifications. The method according to claim 7.

12. A method of providing a service related to a clothing item, comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier on an outer surface of the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier being a logo, the machine-readable identifier representing an attribute of the attached clothing item, the machine-readable identifier including a plurality of identification ciphers, each of the plurality of identification ciphers being disposed within a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions; searching for a predetermined stored cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions; comparing the identification cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions with the corresponding stored cipher for each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether the identification cipher in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored cipher for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; providing the service related to the clothing item in response to determining that the identification cipher in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored cipher for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, the predetermined discrete region is a plurality of magnetic zones of the sole structure, the magnetic zone includes at least one selected from a plurality of natural magnetic particles and a plurality of magnetized particles, each of the predetermined discrete regions has a respective magnetic flux density value, and the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the respective magnetic flux density value. Method.

13. The identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is the magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions, the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions is a stored value, and the stored value for each of the predetermined discrete regions is compared with the magnetic flux density value of each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each magnetic flux density value in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored value for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions. The method according to claim 12.

14. The machine-readable identifier is a private key of a blockchain, and the private key is set as a token uniquely registered in the blockchain. The method according to claim 7.

15. A method of providing a service related to a clothing item, comprising: providing a machine-readable identifier on an outer surface of the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier being a logo, the machine-readable identifier representing an attribute of the attached clothing item, the machine-readable identifier including a plurality of identification codes, each of the plurality of identification codes being arranged within a respective predetermined discrete region of a plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; receiving a scanned image of the machine-readable identifier to detect the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions; searching for a predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions, each corresponding to one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions; comparing the identification code for each of the predetermined discrete regions with the predetermined stored code for each of the predetermined discrete regions to determine whether each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions; In response to determining that each identification code in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions, providing the service associated with the clothing item; The service associated with the clothing item includes enabling access to a blockchain ledger entry, the blockchain ledger entry includes attributes of at least one product, the at least one product attribute is an attribute of the clothing item, and the at least one product attribute includes: where the product was made, how the product was made, or attribute data related to one of the sustainability information regarding the clothing item. Method. **Claim 16** A clothing item, having a machine-readable identifier provided on an outer surface of the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier being a logo; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification codes; each of the plurality of identification codes is disposed in a respective one of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; each of the plurality of identification codes in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches an encrypted code stored remotely for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions to facilitate providing a service; the clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, the machine-readable identifier is disposed directly on an outer surface of the upper, the logo is a digital printed image on the outer surface of the upper, the logo includes conductive ink, the plurality of identification codes include a plurality of colors, each color has a color value, the color values are grouped into a plurality of predetermined value ranges, and encoding bits are associated with each of the predetermined value ranges of the predetermined value ranges. Clothing item. **Claim 17** The service includes determining that the clothing item is authentic if each identification code in each predetermined discrete region matches the corresponding stored code for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions. The clothing item according to claim 16. **Claim 18** A clothing item, having a machine-readable identifier provided on an outer surface of the clothing item, the machine-readable identifier being a logo; the machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of predetermined discrete regions; The machine-readable identifier includes a plurality of identification codes; Each of the plurality of identification codes is arranged in a respective predetermined discrete region of the plurality of predetermined discrete regions of the machine-readable identifier; Each of the plurality of identification codes in each of the predetermined discrete regions matches an encryption stored remotely for each of the respective predetermined discrete regions in order to facilitate providing a service; The service includes enabling access to a database, the database includes attribute data related to the attributes of at least one product, and the at least one product attribute is an attribute of the clothing item; Clothing item.

19. The attribute data includes information regarding where the product was made; The clothing item according to claim 18.

20. The attribute data includes information regarding how the product was made; The clothing item according to claim 18.

21. The attribute data includes sustainability information regarding the clothing item; The clothing item according to claim 18.

22. The clothing item is a footwear product, the footwear product includes an upper and a sole structure attached to the upper, each of the predetermined discrete regions is a magnetic zone on the sole structure, and each magnetic zone has a corresponding magnetic flux density value that matches the magnetic flux density value stored remotely for each of the respective magnetic zones in order to facilitate authentication of the footwear product; The clothing item according to claim 21.

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