Mobile Reward Points Transfer via Near-Field Communication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing reward points programs lack a method for efficient peer-to-peer transfer of reward points between consumers, limiting their ability to collectively redeem rewards that require a higher point threshold than any individual consumer possesses.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method and system that enables mobile devices to detect and communicate with each other to initiate and execute reward point transfers between associated accounts, using near-field communication protocols and a rewards program computer system to validate and process these transfers.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If reward points are transferred between consumers manually through the rewards program system, then the ability to aggregate points for collective redemption is improved, but the time and complexity of the transfer process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical transfer processes with automatic electronic detection and transfer systems. Mobile devices automatically detect nearby devices with reward points accounts and execute transfers through NFC communication, eliminating the need for manual system navigation and point-by-point transfer operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-establishing the transfer framework and detection protocols before actual transfers are needed. Mobile devices are pre-configured with reward points account information and detection algorithms, enabling immediate transfer execution when devices are brought into proximity, thus reducing actual transfer time.
2Reliability
If a manual transfer process is used for reward points, then system reliability is maintained through centralized control, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by enabling mobile devices to autonomously detect, initiate, and execute reward points transfers without requiring manual intervention or complex user navigation. The devices automatically manage the transfer process while the rewards program system maintains centralized validation and recording, thus improving ease of operation while preserving system reliability.
3Productivity
If peer-to-peer transfer capability is added to the rewards program, then consumer productivity in earning rewards is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies universality by integrating reward points transfer functionality into existing mobile devices and rewards program infrastructure. The system leverages universally available components such as mobile device processors, communication interfaces, and existing account management systems, avoiding the need for specialized hardware or complex dedicated systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method for transferring reward points between mobile computing devices is implemented by a first mobile computing device. The method includes receiving a first reward points balance associated with a first reward points account, detecting a second mobile computing device associated with a second reward points account wherein the second reward points account has a second reward points balance, initiating a transfer request from the first mobile computing device to the second mobile computing device, and sending a transfer command to a rewards program computer system wherein the transfer command instructs the rewards program computer system to transfer the at least one reward point between the first reward points account and the second reward points account.