On-Vehicle Merchandising Kit QR Code Management

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Solution Overview

Problem

Retailers face challenges in managing a large number of QR codes for inventory items, particularly in on-vehicle merchandising, as existing systems lack efficiency in updating and managing information associated with these codes, especially in dynamic environments like auto dealerships where inventory changes frequently.

Innovation Solution

A system and method for creating an on-vehicle merchandising kit that includes a sheet with print-compatible material featuring a QR code, mobile link information, and vehicle-specific details, allowing for easy retrieval of information through QR code scanning or text messaging, with the ability to update attributes and manage groups of tags for promotional purposes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If traditional manual management methods are used for QR codes, then information accuracy can be maintained, but time consumption and labor effort increase significantly

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQR code management efficiencyVSAvoidTime for updating and managing QR code information
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system enables self-service through automated QR code generation and information retrieval. The QR codes automatically link to vehicle inventory data, eliminating manual information entry and updating processes. Users can independently access and update vehicle information through the digital platform without requiring manual intervention for each QR code modification.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces manual mechanical processes with digital automation. Instead of physically creating and updating QR codes and their associated information manually, the system uses automated digital generation and linking mechanisms. The computer-generated QR codes automatically connect to inventory databases, substituting manual data entry and code creation with automated digital processes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Ease of operation

If individual QR codes are managed separately, then information accuracy is maintained, but the complexity of management increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveQR code management simplicityVSAvoidSystem complexity for managing multiple QR codes
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system merges individual QR code management into a unified digital platform. Multiple QR codes are managed collectively through a central system that automatically generates and links them to inventory data. This consolidation allows batch operations and centralized control, reducing the operational complexity of managing numerous individual codes while maintaining information accuracy through systematic digital tracking.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent implements a universal management system that handles multiple QR codes and various inventory operations through a single platform. The system provides multi-functional capabilities including QR code generation, information retrieval, updating, and batch management operations. This universal approach simplifies operations by providing consistent interfaces and processes for managing diverse inventory items across multiple locations and categories.

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

3Loss of information

If detailed information is provided for each vehicle, then customer information needs are met, but the amount of information to manage increases

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveCompleteness of vehicle informationVSAvoidInformation management complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of informationVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system transitions from managing detailed information in a flat, manual structure to organizing it in hierarchical digital dimensions. Vehicle information is structured across multiple levels including vehicle identifiers, specifications, inventory status, and promotional data. This dimensional organization allows efficient retrieval and management of comprehensive information through structured digital categories and databases, reducing management complexity while maintaining information completeness.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces digital databases and information systems as intermediaries between the detailed vehicle information and the QR codes. Instead of directly managing all detailed information for each QR code, the system uses intermediate digital layers including inventory databases, information retrieval systems, and automated linking mechanisms. These intermediaries organize, store, and manage comprehensive vehicle information systematically, reducing the direct management burden while ensuring complete information availability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS9754293B1System and method for on-vehicle merchandising
Publication Date: 2017.09.05 SHOPSENTRIC INC
  • US9754293B1 patent drawing
  • US9754293B1 patent drawing
  • US9754293B1 patent drawing

AI summary

A system and method for on-vehicle merchandising is disclosed. Embodiments of the present invention combine vehicle specific information and standard detailed information about a vehicle and render multiple decals on a printed sheet for the vehicle, which forms an on-vehicle merchandising kit. The decals include pertinent information, such as price, and vehicle options. Mobile linked data, such as quick response codes, URLs, and text keywords are also included in the kit.