Universal Product Registration via OCR Label Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Consumers face difficulties in registering their products with manufacturers due to the lack of an easy and hassle-free method, leading to a significant number of unregistered products, which can result in missed recall and maintenance information, with existing methods being cumbersome and inconsistent across manufacturers.
Innovation Solution
A system that captures product information from a label using image recognition, including manufacturer name, model number, and serial number, and validates it through comparison with preexisting databases, allowing for centralized registration and storage, with optional features like grid line setting, contrast adjustment, and human review for accuracy confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manufacturers use traditional paper cards or manual registration methods, then consumers can register products, but the process becomes cumbersome and time-consuming for consumers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual paper-based registration with an automated optical character recognition (OCR) system using mobile device cameras. The system captures product label images and automatically extracts registration information through image processing and pattern recognition algorithms, eliminating the need for manual data entry and significantly reducing registration time and effort
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables consumers to self-register products independently by simply photographing the product label with their mobile device. The automated processing system handles information extraction, validation, and database submission without requiring consumer interaction with customer service representatives or manual form completion, making the process truly self-service oriented
2Adaptability or versatility
If manufacturers create separate registration websites for each product line, then product-specific information can be captured, but consumers face inconsistency and complexity across multiple platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal registration system that uses a single mobile application interface to handle multiple product types and manufacturers. The system employs a standardized OCR-based information extraction process that adapts to different label formats and product categories, providing consistent user experience across diverse product lines while maintaining the ability to capture product-specific registration data
Solution Approach 2:
The system segments the registration process into distinct functional modules: image capture, optical character recognition, data validation, and database submission. This modular architecture allows the system to handle various product types through a unified interface while maintaining flexibility for product-specific requirements, reducing overall system complexity
3Measurement precision
If consumers manually fill out registration forms, then accurate information can be entered, but most consumers fail to complete registration due to the hassle
Solution Approach 1:
The system replaces manual form filling with automated optical character recognition technology. The OCR engine extracts text directly from product labels captured by the mobile device camera, automatically populating registration fields with high accuracy. This eliminates transcription errors and significantly reduces the effort required, thereby increasing completion rates while maintaining data accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates an exact digital copy of the product label information through image capture and optical character recognition. By copying the text directly from the physical label to the digital registration form, the system ensures accuracy while eliminating the manual typing process, making registration both accurate and convenient
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This system simplifies product registration, increases manufacturer communication with consumers, and provides a centralized location for managing product information, ensuring timely recall notifications and maintenance alerts, while reducing the burden on consumers and manufacturers.
Implementation Method 1
capturing an image of the product label using a camera
Implementation Method 2
obtaining a set of predetermined information from the product label of the consumer product, the predetermined information including the 1) manufacturer name, 2) model number, and 3) serial number and/or production date, the predetermined information obtained by means of image recognition from the product label image
Data Source
AI summary
A system for capturing a product tag image, extracting product information, and validating information. The extracted information is then utilized to populate a universal (brand independent) product registration database. To incentivize end users to register their new and in service products, entry is simplified by the use of an application on a smartphone, tablet or personal computer. A user downloads an application and enters their information then takes at least one picture/scan/image of the product label(s) that contain: 1) manufacturer name (and/or brand name), 2) model number, 3) serial number; and 4) date of production. Said information is extracted by Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and then validated before entering said database.