Dynamic Electronic Labeling for Product Packaging
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current product packaging labels are static, unable to convey all desired information and are not easily customizable, limiting their ability to target specific consumer groups or reflect changes such as price promotions, and lack connectivity to networks for dynamic information sharing.
Innovation Solution
A product packaging system that includes a token with a power source and wireless transmitter, paired with a mobile device capable of detecting and analyzing signals to generate and send messages, allowing for customizable information sharing, including marketing communications and reminders, via wireless communication protocols.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static printed labels are used on product containers, then manufacturing cost is low and production is simple, but the label cannot be easily customized or changed to target specific consumers or reflect product changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies the dynamics principle by transitioning from static printed labels to dynamic electronic labels. The label system includes a display device that can be programmed to show different information (promotions, product details, targeting messages) without physical changes to the container. This allows the label to adapt its content dynamically based on consumer segments, product changes, or marketing campaigns while maintaining the same physical hardware infrastructure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies parameter changes by enabling the label system to change its operational parameters (displayed information, messaging content, promotional details) through software updates rather than physical relabeling. The electronic label can modify its parameters to target different consumer groups or reflect product changes by simply updating the displayed data, eliminating the need for costly physical label replacement.
2Reliability
If the entire message on the label is replaced to reflect changes, then the information accuracy is updated, but the manufacturing cost and time increase due to complete relabeling requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The dynamic electronic label system allows for rapid information updates without physical intervention. When product information changes or new promotions are announced, the label can be updated electronically in real-time or near real-time, maintaining information accuracy while avoiding the time-consuming process of complete relabeling. This dynamic update capability ensures reliability is maintained without sacrificing productivity.
3Loss of information
If printed labels are used on product containers, then the label structure is simple, but it cannot provide unlimited information or connect to networks for dynamic information sharing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by designing the label system to perform multiple functions beyond simple information display. The electronic label can provide detailed product information, promotional messages, consumer engagement content, and network connectivity features. It serves as a multi-functional interface that combines information delivery, consumer interaction, and network communication capabilities within a single integrated system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies the intermediary principle by introducing a wireless communication interface as a mediator between the product container and the broader information network. This intermediary component enables the label to connect to networks (WiFi, Bluetooth, mobile networks) and access unlimited information sources, while the physical label structure remains relatively simple. The wireless interface acts as the bridge that connects the physical product to the digital information ecosystem.
4Adaptability or versatility
If network connectivity is added to product containers, then dynamic information sharing and customization are enabled, but the cost and complexity of the system increase
Solution Approach 1:
The wireless communication interface serves as an intermediary that enables network connectivity without requiring complex integrated systems. Rather than building comprehensive communication infrastructure within the container itself, the system uses a relatively simple wireless interface as a mediator to connect to existing network infrastructure. This approach enables adaptability and network connectivity while keeping the added complexity to a minimum.
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies self-service by leveraging the mobile device's existing computational power, storage capacity, and network connectivity capabilities. Instead of requiring the product container to provide complex processing or extensive communication functions, the container system leverages the mobile device's own resources to handle information processing, display, and network communication. This self-service approach enables advanced functionality without proportionally increasing container complexity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables dynamic, cost-effective communication with consumers, providing unlimited information before and after purchase, enhancing user engagement and product promotion through customizable and network-connected packaging.
Implementation Method 1
a wireless transmitter... a wireless receiver that is operable to detect a signal emitted by the wireless transmitter
Data Source
AI summary
A system for communicating a message in response to placement of a product proximate to a mobile electronic device. The system includes a product package comprising a token that includes a power source and a wireless transmitter, and a mobile electronic device. The mobile electronic device includes a processor, a computer-readable memory, a wireless receiver that is operable to detect a signal emitted by the wireless transmitter of the product package, and a transmitter. The processor is configured to detect the signal, analyze the signal and extract token information from the signal, retrieve user information for a user who is associated with the mobile electronic device, generate a message that corresponds to the extracted information, and cause the transmitter of the mobile electronic device to send the message via a wireless communication protocol.