Active Tags with Configurable Actions for Network Objects

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing network-based tag systems rely on passive tags that only provide identification and categorization, lacking the ability to perform actions or provide additional functionality beyond simple classification.

Innovation Solution

The development of active tags that allow users to create, modify, and configure tags with associated actions, enabling them to perform specific tasks when selected, such as searching or navigating, and allowing users to copy and modify existing tags for broader application.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If passive tags are used for object classification and searching, then the system is simple and easy to operate, but the functionality is limited and cannot perform additional actions

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetag functionalityVSAvoidtag system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms single-function passive tags into multi-functional active tags that can perform classification, searching, and various actions (e.g., launching applications, playing media, performing calculations). This universal tag approach resolves the contradiction by enabling one tag system to serve multiple purposes without requiring separate systems for each function.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces configuration parameters to tags, allowing them to change from static passive descriptors to dynamic active elements with executable instructions. By adding parameters such as action types, target objects, and conditional logic, the tag system gains versatility while maintaining a familiar interface that users can operate without complex programming knowledge.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Ease of operation

If passive tags are used for information categorization, then the implementation is straightforward, but user interaction and engagement are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetag creation easeVSAvoiduser interaction effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables tags to automatically perform actions without requiring users to manually execute separate commands. When a user creates an active tag with embedded instructions, the tag autonomously carries out tasks such as searching for related content, launching applications, or performing calculations upon user selection, thereby enhancing interaction effectiveness while keeping the interface simple.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent allows users to pre-configure complex actions and logic within tags during creation. By preparing the action sequences, conditions, and parameters in advance, the system enables users to interact with simple tag interfaces while the pre-configured tags handle complex operations reliably in the background.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

3Adaptability or versatility

If active tags with configuration information are implemented, then tag functionality and action capability are enhanced, but the system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvetag action capabilityVSAvoidtag configuration ease
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent allows users to copy existing active tags and their embedded configuration information, including action logic and parameters. This copying mechanism enables users to leverage pre-configured complex tags without having to recreate or understand the underlying configuration, thereby maintaining ease of operation while providing access to sophisticated tag capabilities.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

Solution Approach 2:

Instead of requiring users to program complex tag behaviors from scratch, the patent inverts the approach by providing pre-configured action templates and logic that users can select and customize. This reversal simplifies the user experience while maintaining the powerful action capabilities of active tags.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Data Source

PatentUS7548914B2System and method for providing active tags
Publication Date: 2009.06.16 AMAZON TECH INC
  • US7548914B2 patent drawing
  • US7548914B2 patent drawing
  • US7548914B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A computer-implemented data processing system includes tag logic for permitting a user to create an active tag. The active tag is associated with an object and includes configuration information that defines an action to be performed upon selection of the active tag. The configuration information is accessible by another user. The system also includes a user interface in communication with the tag logic for displaying the active tag.