Electronic Privilege Card Creation via Optical Scanning and Validation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for obtaining an electronic representation of a physical privilege card lack convenience features such as easy communication methods, efficient barcode handling, and automated validation, especially for existing cards, and do not allow for obtaining eCards via text messaging or reducing the number of digits needed for identification entry.
Innovation Solution
A method involving issue validation and use validation for creating an electronic version of a privilege card, which includes receiving validation information, determining the electronic version's issuance, and generating a barcode optimized for mobile device displays, with the ability to create an eCard via text message or web interface, and incorporating use validation checks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If consumers manually fill out forms to create eCards from physical cards, then eCards can be obtained, but the process is time-consuming and inconvenient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses optical copying technology to automatically capture card information from physical cards through image recognition and barcode scanning, eliminating the need for manual form filling. The system creates digital copies of physical cards by scanning their visual information and converting it into electronic card data structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical data entry processes with automated optical scanning and image recognition systems. Barcode scanners and camera-based recognition systems automatically extract card information, substituting the manual typing and form-filling process with automated optical-mechanical systems.
2Adaptability or versatility
If standard barcodes are used on eCards, then they can be displayed on mobile devices, but they may not be readable by barcode readers due to display optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies different quality standards to different parts of the card display. The barcode portion is rendered with precise, scanner-optimized characteristics (high contrast, standard dimensions), while other portions of the card can be stylized for visual appeal. This local differentiation ensures barcode readability is not compromised by overall design optimization.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts barcode parameters such as size, contrast, and positioning based on the specific mobile device display characteristics and scanner requirements. The barcode generation process modifies parameters like module width, height, and spacing to ensure optimal readability while adapting to different screen resolutions and densities.
3Reliability
If full card numbers are required for eCard registration, then validation is accurate, but user input burden increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts only the essential validation-critical portions of card information rather than requiring complete card numbers. By identifying and extracting specific key segments (such as account numbers or unique identifiers) that are sufficient for validation purposes, the system reduces input requirements while maintaining validation reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses multi-functional recognition algorithms that can validate cards using different input formats and methods. Whether through partial number entry, barcode scanning, or image recognition, the validation system adapts to multiple input types, allowing accurate validation with minimal user input across different scenarios.
Data Source
AI summary
Techniques for making electronic cards that can be displayed on a mobile phone. The techniques permit making an electronic card based on an arbitrary SMS message and making an electronic card (eCard) that corresponds to a pre-existing non-electronic privilege card such as a loyalty card. In the latter case, the system on which the card is being made obtains information about the user and the issuer and uses the information to determine whether to issue the eCard and also to make use validity information which is associated with the card and is used to determine the validity of the card as it is used.