Digital Camera Check Deposit via Image Warping
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing systems for electronic check presentment face challenges when depositors lack access to scanners or the necessary communication equipment, hindering the ability to deposit checks or other negotiable instruments digitally.
Innovation Solution
The use of a digital camera to capture images of negotiable instruments, which can then be processed and transmitted for deposit, along with methods to correct sub-optimal images through techniques like image warping and OCR, enabling deposit transactions even without traditional scanning equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a scanner is used to capture check images, then image quality is improved, but device availability and ease of operation deteriorate because users may not have scanners available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the scanner (original imaging device) with a digital camera (copy/im substitute). The digital camera captures images of negotiable instruments and transmits them electronically, providing the same functional outcome (digital image capture for deposit) through a different, more accessible device that users already possess.
Solution Approach 2:
The digital camera serves multiple functions: it captures images of negotiable instruments, can be used by various users across different locations, and integrates with existing communication systems. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for specialized scanning equipment while achieving the same deposit functionality.
2Difficulty of detecting and measuring
If specialized scanning equipment is required, then image capture capability is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation worsen
Solution Approach 1:
The patent substitutes specialized scanning equipment with a common digital camera. The camera captures images of negotiable instruments and transmits them electronically, achieving the same functional outcome through a simpler, more widely available device that users already possess.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a digital camera, which is a consumer-grade device that is generally less expensive and more accessible than specialized scanning equipment. The camera may be a disposable or temporary solution for users who need to deposit checks but lack permanent scanning infrastructure.
3Productivity
If physical checks are transported to clearinghouses, then check clearing is accomplished, but time consumption and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical system of physical check transportation with an electronic imaging and transmission system. Digital cameras capture check images, which are then transmitted electronically to clearinghouses, eliminating the need for physical transport and significantly reducing clearing time and costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates digital copies of physical checks using digital cameras. These image copies are transmitted electronically through communication networks to clearinghouses, replacing the need to transport original physical checks and enabling faster, more efficient processing.
Data Source
AI summary
To deposit a negotiable instrument electronically, a digital image may be used. Systems and methods are described herein that facilitate the use of a digital camera to provide the digital image. A user may capture an image of a negotiable instrument to create a digital image. The digital image may be compressed and saved as a digital image file. The user may then transmit the digital image file to a financial institution, such as a bank, to deposit funds drawn from the account of the negotiable instrument into the user's account. A financial institution may receive digital image files created by a digital camera from account holders and process a deposit request using the digital image file.