Dynamic Transaction Workflow Using Encoded Image Data
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current transaction processing systems are cumbersome and lack the ability to customize transaction workflows and data requirements on a transaction-by-transaction basis, particularly in the mobile payment space, failing to leverage advanced features of mobile devices and graphical interfaces to enhance the consumer shopping experience.
Innovation Solution
A transaction system that coordinates processing between consumers and merchants using optical machine readable images, receiving transaction information, accessing profile data to determine transaction types, and sending workflow instructions to consumer devices, allowing for customized input and output data to generate and complete transactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If current statically configured transaction processing systems are used, then system simplicity is maintained, but the ability to customize transaction workflows and data requirements on a transaction-by-transaction basis is lost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by transitioning from static to dynamic transaction processing configurations. The system enables dynamic selection of workflow instructions based on transaction types, allowing the transaction processing system to adapt its behavior dynamically rather than being fixed in advance. This resolves the contradiction by introducing adaptability through dynamic configuration while managing complexity through structured decision-making frameworks.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the transaction processing system into distinct components: transaction type identification module, workflow instruction selection module, and customized processing execution module. This segmentation allows each component to handle specific aspects of customization independently, making the overall system more adaptable without proportionally increasing complexity. The segmentation enables modular customization where each segment can be optimized separately.
2Ease of operation
If barcodes are used only for static product information lookup, then system simplicity is maintained, but the customer shopping experience is not enhanced with advanced mobile device features
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by enabling barcodes to serve multiple functions beyond simple product lookup. The barcode can trigger different transaction workflows, access customized merchant interfaces, initiate payment processes, and leverage mobile device capabilities such as camera, speaker, and processor. This multi-functionality enhances customer experience by providing versatile interactions while managing system complexity through unified processing architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary processing layer between the barcode scanning and the various functional responses. This intermediary module receives the barcode data, determines the appropriate transaction type, selects the corresponding workflow instructions, and coordinates the execution. This intermediary approach allows the system to handle diverse customer experience requirements through a single unified interface, enhancing ease of operation while managing complexity centrally.
3Adaptability or versatility
If transaction processing is customized on a transaction-by-transaction basis, then transaction-specific requirements are met, but processing time and system complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-defining multiple transaction workflow instructions and types before actual transactions occur. The system maintains a database of pre-configured workflows that can be quickly selected and executed based on transaction type identification. This eliminates the need for real-time complex decision-making and customization from scratch, reducing processing time while still enabling transaction-specific customization through pre-prepared options.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by allowing the system to switch between different workflow instructions based on transaction type parameters. Instead of building custom processing logic from scratch for each transaction, the system changes key parameters such as workflow sequence, data collection requirements, and verification procedures based on the identified transaction type. This parameter-based approach enables rapid customization without proportional increases in processing time.
Data Source
AI summary
The system includes receiving transaction information of the transaction including merchant identification information, consumer identification information and a transaction identifier associated with a barcode. The system also accesses a database of profile data using the merchant identification information to determine a transaction type of the transaction. The system also sends output data via the communications network by using workflow instructions associated with the transaction type, the output data for consumption by a consumer device of the consumer. The system also receives input data from the consumer device and includes the input data with the transaction information to generate a transaction request. The system can also send the transaction request via the communications network to a merchant interface of the merchant to complete the transaction with the merchant.