Electronic Value Certificate Delivery via Mobile OTA Provisioning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for acquiring and using coupons or promotions rely on physical, tangible paper certificates, which are prone to loss, damage, or theft, and lack efficiency in the delivery process.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for selecting and delivering electronic value certificates using a mobile device, where users can choose and receive electronic coupons or promotions via a mobile device, utilizing NFC-enabled or non-NFC enabled devices, and over-the-air provisioning, allowing secure and efficient transfer and redemption at point-of-sale terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical paper coupons are used, then the coupon can be easily distributed and understood, but the coupon is prone to loss, damage, or theft
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical paper coupons with electronic copies stored on mobile devices. The electronic value certificate is a digital reproduction of the traditional paper coupon, maintaining all functional properties while eliminating physical vulnerabilities. The certificate includes the same promotional value, barcode, and redemption mechanisms but exists in an immutable digital format that cannot be physically lost, damaged, or stolen in the traditional sense.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes the mechanical/physical coupon system with an electronic/digital system. Instead of relying on physical paper that can be handled, folded, and damaged, the system uses electronic data storage and wireless communication protocols to deliver and present coupon information. The mobile device's screen and processor replace the physical paper medium, while wireless interfaces replace physical hand-to-hand transmission.
2Productivity
If manual coupon cutting and presentation is used, then the process is simple and requires no technology, but the process is time-consuming and inefficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary actions by automatically delivering the electronic value certificate to the mobile device before the consumer needs to use it. The system pre-processes the coupon information, formats it for mobile display, and stores it in the device's memory or secure element, eliminating the need for last-minute cutting or printing activities. The certificate is ready for immediate presentation at the point of sale.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by enabling consumers to automatically receive and manage their own coupons through mobile devices. The system allows users to select, store, and present coupons without requiring manual intervention from store staff or physical handling. The mobile device automatically displays the certificate when needed, and the point-of-sale system automatically validates it, reducing human labor and increasing transaction speed.
3Loss of information
If physical coupons are distributed, then the distribution method is straightforward and universal, but the coupons can be misplaced or stolen due to their tangible nature
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a mobile device as an intermediary between the coupon issuer and the consumer. Instead of direct physical handoff that can result in loss or theft, the mobile device serves as a secure digital wallet that stores and manages the electronic value certificate. The device acts as a trusted intermediary that protects the coupon information through encryption and secure storage mechanisms while enabling convenient access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent fundamentally changes the physical state parameter of the coupon from tangible to intangible. By transforming the coupon from a physical object with mass and volume to digital data with zero physical form, the system eliminates the risks associated with physical handling. The certificate exists as electromagnetic information that can be instantly replicated, stored, and transmitted without degradation or loss.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for selecting and delivering an electronic value certificate to a mobile device are disclosed. According to one aspect, the method includes utilizing a certificate selection device to generate electronic certificate selection information and providing the electronic certificate selection information and associated recipient data to a merchant server. From the merchant server, electronic value certificate data derived from the certificate selection information is received. The method also includes establishing a communications link with a mobile device corresponding to the recipient data. The electronic value certificate data is provisioned on the mobile device over the communications link via over the air (OTA) communications.