Coded Package Messages for Content Discovery
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Solution Overview
Problem
The lack of information about package contents in generic delivery boxes can lead to surprises or unwanted behavior, as recipients often receive unmarked packages that may spoil gifts or cause privacy concerns.
Innovation Solution
A system where a coded message, such as a QR code or RFID tag, is included on the package that can be decrypted by the recipient using a token or key, allowing them to access information about the package contents without opening it, using a mobile device after authentication.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If generic brown boxes or envelopes are used for package delivery, then cost is reduced and privacy is maintained, but information about package contents is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary coded message system (QR code, RFID tag, or other machine-readable code) that mediates between the generic package exterior and the detailed contents information. The code serves as a mediator that can be scanned or read by a recipient's device to reveal package contents without physically opening the package or using complex visible markings on the package itself.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy or representation of the package contents information in the form of a coded message. Instead of displaying actual contents on the package, the system creates a coded representation that can be decoded by the recipient's device, providing information about contents without requiring physical inspection of the package.
2Loss of information
If coded messages are included on packages, then information about contents is provided, but device complexity and authentication requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables self-service by allowing the recipient to autonomously access package contents information using their own mobile device and authentication credentials. The recipient independently scans the code on the package, provides authentication through their device, and receives the contents information without requiring assistance from the sender or package handler.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes in the form of different code types (QR code, RFID tag, barcode) and different authentication methods (password, biometric, account verification) to adapt the system to various security requirements and device capabilities, making the solution flexible and broadly applicable.
3Adaptability or versatility
If personalized messages are provided for multiple recipients, then customization is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the messaging system by creating separate personalized messages for different recipients, each associated with their own authentication credentials. The system divides the package information into multiple recipient-specific views, allowing each person to receive customized content information tailored to their relationship with the sender and the package contents.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal coded message system that can serve multiple functions: providing contents information to different recipients, maintaining security through authentication, enabling personalized messaging, and working across different device types and platforms. The same basic code structure on the package can serve multiple recipients with different access levels.
Data Source
AI summary
This disclosure is directed at least in part to providing coded messages associated with unopened delivered packages. The coded messages may help recipients determine information about the contents of packages without opening the packages, and thereby help prevent spoiling surprises (e.g., holiday gifts, etc.) or otherwise preventing other unwanted behavior. In some embodiments, the coded messages may be decrypted or otherwise received by an authorized recipient of the package.