Proximity Label Induction for Secure Self-Service Drop-Off
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Solution Overview
Problem
Individuals or entities lacking the means to generate computer-readable labels for item distribution may face challenges in shipping items, especially when they do not have access to printing capabilities or wish to avoid waiting in lines at distribution facilities.
Innovation Solution
A self-service induction system utilizing an induction application that facilitates label generation and distribution network integration, enabling label creation and verification through a distribution server, with features like proximity detection and authorized induction receptacles to ensure secure and efficient item induction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If individuals use traditional label generation methods at distribution facilities, then they can obtain physical labels for item distribution, but they must wait in lines and visit physical locations which reduces convenience and increases time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables individuals to generate and print their own shipping labels through a mobile application without needing to visit distribution facilities or wait in lines. Users can complete the entire label generation process independently on their own devices, transforming a service that requires facility staff assistance into a self-service capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical process of visiting physical distribution facilities with automated electronic systems. The mobile application uses camera-based object recognition to automatically capture item details, generate labels, and enable printing, substituting the manual, facility-based mechanical process with an automated digital workflow.
2Ease of operation
If individuals generate labels without distribution network verification, then they gain flexibility and convenience, but the reliability and accuracy of item induction into the distribution network may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where the mobile application captures images of the item, uses object recognition to verify item details, and allows users to review and confirm the generated label information before printing. This feedback loop ensures accuracy while maintaining the flexibility of home-based label generation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary verification of item details through camera-based object recognition before the user finalizes and prints the label. This preliminary action ensures that the label information is accurate and matches the physical item, maintaining reliability while enabling flexible home-based generation.
3Ease of operation
If the system uses camera-based object recognition for label generation, then the ease of use increases, but the device complexity and processing requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses camera-based object recognition as an intermediary between the physical item and the label generation process. The camera captures visual information about the item, and software algorithms automatically extract relevant details, serving as a mediator that simplifies user input while managing the complexity of item description internally.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods, and devices of the present disclosure describe a self-service labeled induction of an item into a distribution network using an induction application. In some embodiments, an induction application may be downloaded on a third party device of a sender, such as a mobile phone. In other embodiments, the induction application may run on devices internal to systems of the item distributor. An induction application may use geolocation functionality or proximity sensors to make a determination regarding the authenticity of an item submitted for self-service drop off at an authorized receptacle of the distributor. An induction application may further communicate with other devices, kiosks, and stations having functionality to create or generate labels corresponding encrypted machine-readable identifiers for the labels, thus allowing for the transfer of incomplete label transactions between the induction application and other authorized devices.