Handheld Device Product Information Filtering

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing product communication methods, such as printed packaging and signage, are limited by size, format, and inability to be dynamically updated, providing only one-time information that cannot be changed or tailored to individual user preferences.

Innovation Solution

A handheld device system that generates a digital characterization of a product identifier image, filters and displays relevant product information based on a user profile, allowing for dynamic and interactive communication of product information through various formats like text, graphics, and video.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of information

If printed information is used on product packaging, then communication with potential purchasers is enabled, but the communication is limited by packaging size and surface area

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct information completenessVSAvoidpackaging surface area
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSArea of stationary object

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from two-dimensional printed packaging to multi-dimensional digital information delivery through mobile devices. The system uses a product identifier on packaging to trigger access to extensive product information stored in remote databases, effectively adding spatial and informational dimensions beyond the physical packaging constraints.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces a mobile device as an intermediary between the product packaging and the user. The mobile device captures the product identifier, retrieves information from remote databases, and displays filtered product information, serving as a mediator that overcomes the limitations of direct printed communication on packaging.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

2Adaptability or versatility

If printed information is used on product packaging, then product communication is achieved, but the information cannot be changed or updated without discarding packaging

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation update capabilityVSAvoidpackaging waste
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSLoss of substance

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transforms static printed information into dynamic, updatable digital content. The system allows real-time updates to product information in remote databases without requiring changes to physical packaging, enabling flexible adaptation of product communications while maintaining existing packaging materials.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates digital copies of product information that can be updated independently of physical packaging. Instead of reprinting packaging materials to update information, the system generates and distributes updated digital copies through mobile devices, eliminating the need to discard packaging for information updates.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #26Copying

3Adaptability or versatility

If printed information is used on product packaging, then communication occurs at point of purchase, but the information is fixed and cannot be tailored to individual user preferences

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinformation personalizationVSAvoidsystem complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements feedback mechanisms where user profiles and preferences are captured, stored, and used to filter and personalize product information. The system continuously learns from user interactions and adjusts information delivery based on individual preferences, purchase history, and behavioral patterns, enabling personalized communications.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The patent creates a universal system that handles multiple functions: capturing product identifiers, retrieving information from databases, filtering based on user profiles, personalizing content, and displaying information. This multi-functional platform serves diverse user needs through a single integrated system rather than multiple separate solutions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Loss of information

If package inserts and instruction manuals are sealed within product packaging, then product information is provided, but the information is not available to potential purchasers

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveproduct information accessibilityVSAvoidinformation access convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables preliminary access to product information before purchase by allowing potential purchasers to scan product identifiers on displayed items and retrieve information digitally. This preliminary action provides access to product details, specifications, and reviews before the actual purchase decision is made, eliminating the need to open packaging to access information.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Data Source

PatentUS8146799B2Product information systems and methods
Publication Date: 2012.04.03 GENERAL MILLS INC
  • US8146799B2 patent drawing
  • US8146799B2 patent drawing
  • US8146799B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Embodiments provide product information to a person viewing a product by capturing a product identifier image associated with the product, determining a product identifier from the image, and retrieving product information from a product database using the product identifier. In some cases the product information is filtered prior to display using a profile that includes criteria set by the user. Embodiments provide product information via a handheld computing device, which in some cases can be a mobile phone or other such device that also includes a camera for capturing product identifier images.