Visual Identifier System for Regulatory Disclosure in Short Messaging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for disclosing associations and disseminating instructions in short-form messaging, such as SMS and microblogs, face challenges due to character length limitations, lack of clear identification, and inability to include necessary disclosures or additional information, which are not adequately addressed by existing solutions that rely on generic links or text-based approaches.

Innovation Solution

A standardized coding system and framework that uses coded URLs and visual identifiers to clearly convey disclosures and instructions, allowing for human and machine readability, enabling tracking and monitoring of compliance, and linking to additional information or processes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Loss of time

If text-based short form messaging is used, then communication brevity is achieved, but clarity of disclosure and completeness of information deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemessage lengthVSAvoiddisclosure completeness
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSLoss of information

Solution Approach 1:

The patent segments information into two parts: a concise visual identifier (icon/badge) that fits within character limits, and expanded disclosure content that is separately displayed when users interact with the identifier. This allows the message to remain brief while the complete disclosure information remains accessible.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent transitions from purely text-based disclosure to a multi-dimensional approach combining visual icons/badges with text. The visual element provides immediate recognition within character constraints, while additional dimensions (hover states, click expansions, separate disclosure sections) provide complete information when needed.

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

2Loss of time

If generic links are used for additional information, then space efficiency is improved, but clarity of identification and user understanding deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecharacter usageVSAvoidcontent identification
Core Design Contradiction:
Loss of timeVSDifficulty of detecting and measuring

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses visual identifiers such as colored icons, badges, or symbols that change or highlight to indicate the nature of the associated content. These visual elements provide immediate identification of content type (e.g., disclosure, instruction, additional information) without requiring users to read or click generic links.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #32Color changes

Solution Approach 2:

The patent introduces visual identifiers as intermediaries between the message content and the additional information. These identifiers act as clear, recognizable pointers that mediate the connection, making the purpose of the link immediately apparent while still maintaining space efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentUS11847659B2Method and system for indicating and documenting associations, disclosures and instructions using visually identifiable description
Publication Date: 2023.12.19 CMP LY
  • US11847659B2 patent drawing
  • US11847659B2 patent drawing
  • US11847659B2 patent drawing

AI summary

Methods and system for a unique coding framework used to create, manage and track instructions for documentation and dissemination of instructions, indicate a particular association or activate a given process. In one example, the present disclosure relates to the online publishing of documentation to demonstrate relationships of parties and compliance with regulatory and other requirements. The present disclosure uses URL hyperlinks, badges, watermarks, icons and visual displays that are representative of a given function and that may be identified by reference of unique coding structure. The present disclosure relates to the publishing and display of relevant visual codes or images for viewing by members of the public, (human readable) as well as machines. The present disclosure enables the tracking and measurement of uses of coded representations in public or private channels. Structured hyperlink codes allow brief messages to be sent in shortened form to instruct or deliver messages or processes.