Unfoldable OLED Panels for Visually-Impaired Card Reading
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Solution Overview
Problem
Visually-impaired individuals face difficulties in quickly and accurately reading credit or debit card information, especially in sub-optimal environmental conditions, which complicates transactions involving interpersonal communication.
Innovation Solution
A smart card reader and display device equipped with OLED panels, a wireless chip, and a software chip, including a battery for powering the components, which enables contact and contactless communication with EMV-technology-equipped smart cards, and features adjustable backlighting and contrast for improved readability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a visually-impaired user attempts to read credit card information in sub-optimal environmental conditions, then the reading accuracy deteriorates, but the user still needs to complete the transaction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a smart card reader as an intermediary device between the credit card and the visually-impaired user. The reader captures the card information through its camera, processes it, and presents it in an accessible format (audio output or large display), thereby mediating the interaction and eliminating the direct need for the user to visually read the card in poor conditions
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the mechanical/visual process of reading with optical and electronic systems. The reader uses a camera to optically capture card information, converts it to digital data through image processing, and then outputs it through electronic displays or audio systems, substituting the visual-mechanical reading process with automated optical-electronic systems
2Productivity
If a visually-impaired user manually retrieves and reads credit card information, then the transaction process time increases, but the user must still provide accurate card details
Solution Approach 1:
The smart card reader performs preliminary actions by automatically capturing and storing card information in advance. When a transaction is needed, the reader quickly retrieves the pre-captured information rather than requiring real-time manual reading, thereby saving time during the actual transaction process
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service by allowing the credit card information to be automatically captured and processed by the reader without requiring the user's manual intervention for reading. The user simply places the card in the reader, and the device autonomously completes the information extraction and presentation
3Speed
If credit card information is transferred electronically, then transaction speed improves, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The smart card reader acts as a secure intermediary that captures card information locally through optical means rather than requiring electronic transmission of sensitive data. The reader processes the information on-device and can transmit only necessary transaction data, reducing security risks while maintaining speed
Solution Approach 2:
The reader creates a visual copy of the card information through its camera rather than requiring electronic copying or transmission of the actual card data. This optical copying method allows the information to be captured and processed without creating vulnerable electronic copies of sensitive card details
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
Enables visually-impaired users to easily and accurately read smart card information in various conditions, enhancing transaction efficiency and accessibility.
Implementation Method 1
The battery may also be used to inductively power the smart card.
Implementation Method 2
Each of the panels may include an array of organic light emitting diodes ('OLEDs') forming one or more pixels.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for displaying information printed on a contactless smart card is provided. The method may include using a wireless chip to enable communication with the contactless smart card. The method may further include displaying the information on a plurality of panels. Each of the panels may include an array of organic light emitting diodes (“OLEDs”). Each of the panels may be coupled to at least one other panel. The method may further include coordinating the transfer of the information from the contactless smart card to the wireless chip using a software chip. The software chip may include a non-transitory memory and a processor. The method may yet further include powering, either directly or indirectly, the plurality of panels, the software chip and the contactless smart card, said powering using a battery.