Dynamic Product Information Delivery via Writable RFID Tags
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current point of sale (POS) systems use static barcodes that cannot provide comprehensive and dynamic product information in real-time, as they are applied uniformly across all products and do not account for specific product variations, transaction details, or consumer information.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that allows sellers to assign or modify product references at the point of sale or delivery using writable devices like RFID tags, enabling dynamic information delivery based on individual product characteristics, transaction circumstances, and consumer details, while maintaining traceability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If static barcodes are used in POS systems, then product information can be provided to consumers, but the information is the same for every purchaser and cannot be dynamically updated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from static barcodes to dynamic RFID tags that can store and update product information in real-time. The RFID system allows the same physical tag to provide different information to different consumers based on their preferences, purchase history, and product specifics, making the information delivery adaptive rather than fixed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the information parameters delivered to consumers by modifying what data is associated with each product identifier. Instead of a single static barcode pointing to one set of information, the RFID system can dynamically select and deliver different information sets (nutrition facts, origin story, sustainability data, etc.) based on consumer preferences and product attributes.
2Loss of information
If barcodes are applied at the point of production to every product instance, then all products can be tracked, but the content delivered is static and cannot provide comprehensive information at the point of sale
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-loads comprehensive product information into the RFID tags at the point of production, including multiple data sets that can be selectively delivered later. This preliminary action ensures all possible information is available in advance, eliminating the need for real-time information gathering at the point of sale.
Solution Approach 2:
The RFID tag acts as an intermediary between the product and the consumer, storing multiple layers of information that can be selectively accessed. The system mediates between the static product and the dynamic information needs of different consumers by intelligently selecting which information to deliver based on consumer profiles and product attributes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If re-labeling or re-tagging merchandise is done to provide dynamic information, then comprehensive product information can be provided, but it is not feasible at the point of sale or delivery
Solution Approach 1:
The RFID tag is designed as a universal, multi-functional device that can serve both as a permanent product identifier and as a dynamic information storage medium. The same tag that is applied at production can be rewritten and reconfigured at the point of sale without requiring physical replacement, combining the permanence of a fixed tag with the flexibility of updateable content.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical process of physically re-labeling or re-tagging products with an electronic rewriting process. Instead of removing and applying new labels at the point of sale, the RFID tag's memory can be electronically updated, eliminating the need for manual intervention and making dynamic information updates feasible in real-time.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention generally relates to systems and methods for providing product information. The present invention implements a system for defining product variations and assigning references to them at the point of sale or delivery. The present invention is unique in allowing a seller to assign or modify a reference associated with such a bar code or similar device at the point of sale or delivery, thereby changing the information delivered to the buyer based on details about the specific unit sold, the circumstances of the transaction, or the identity of the buyer.