Smart Masks with Embedded QR Codes for Contactless Payments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for conducting face-to-face commerce, such as payment transactions, often require physical contact, which poses a risk of spreading bacteria and viruses, and existing digital solutions like facial recognition are impractical due to the use of masks.
Innovation Solution
Smart masks equipped with embedded electronic devices, such as QR codes or NFC technology, allow for contactless interaction with payment devices by enabling data exchange through embedded quick response codes or other communication methods, facilitating transactions while maintaining social distancing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical contact methods (credit card terminals, fingerprint readers) are used for commerce transactions, then transaction completion is achieved, but the risk of bacteria and virus transmission increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical contact-based payment systems (inserting cards, touching fingerprint sensors) with optical scanning systems. The smart mask incorporates QR codes or other machine-readable codes that can be scanned by payment terminals without physical contact, substituting the mechanical interaction with an optical field-based interaction that eliminates direct touch between the user and the payment device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary element - the machine-readable code embedded in the smart mask - that mediates the payment transaction. Instead of direct contact between the user's biometric data and the payment terminal, the code serves as an intermediary carrier of payment information that can be read remotely, breaking the direct physical contact chain while still enabling authentication and transaction completion.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If facial recognition technology is used for contactless identification, then physical contact is avoided, but the technology becomes impractical when masks cover people's faces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a copy of the user's identification data in the form of a machine-readable code (QR code, barcode, or other optical pattern) that is embedded in the smart mask. This code serves as a portable, mask-compatible replica of payment and identification information that can be read by external scanners, replacing the need for direct facial recognition while maintaining the ability to verify user identity without exposing facial features.
3Ease of manufacture
If digital wallets linked to scanning devices are used for payments, then paper and coin currency is eliminated, but physical interaction with card terminals and verification devices is still required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical insertion and swiping actions required by traditional card terminals with an optical scanning mechanism. The smart mask with embedded codes can be presented to the payment terminal without being inserted or swiped through slots, eliminating the need for hand-to-device contact while maintaining digital wallet functionality for contactless transactions.
Data Source
AI summary
Masks having embedded electronic devices to allows for contactless payment for goods and services in an appropriate socially distanced manner.