WO2022078537A1

WO2022078537A1 - Method for the computer-aided location of a terminal device

Info

Publication number: WO2022078537A1
Application number: PCT/DE2021/000166
Authority: WO
Inventors: Stefan Ernst UHL
Original assignee: Uhl Stefan Ernst
Priority date: 2020-10-12
Filing date: 2021-10-12
Publication date: 2022-04-21
Also published as: DE102020126703A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for the computer-aided location of a terminal device using a data processing device, to a computer system, a computer program and a computer program product for carrying out said method.

Description

Method for computer-assisted terminal search

description

What is described and claimed here according to the invention deals with a method for computer-assisted terminal search using a data processing device, a computer system, a computer program and a computer program product for implementing the method.

The number of mobile end devices, such as laptops, smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, is increasing steadily from year to year. The number is increasing both in the private and in the business sector. The more mobile devices are in circulation, the more are lost from time to time. It is always of great interest for the owners of the respective end devices to regain possession of their smartphones, tablets, etc., on the one hand because important data could be stored on these end devices and on the other hand because the end devices themselves are of great value. The problem is further exacerbated by the fact that more and more mobile devices are being used by companies for business purposes. Sensitive company data can be irretrievably lost if the mobile end device is lost.

In the event of a loss, it is of the greatest interest to the owner that the lost end device comes back into their possession. A finder who has found the end device must know who the owner is and where he can hand in the end device so that it can find its way back to the owner.

However, there is the problem that the terminal cannot easily be returned to its owner. The reason for this is, among other things, that the owner cannot always be identified,

CONFIRMATION COPY because e.g. B. the end device cannot be called because it is a tablet, laptop, camera, etc. or the end device is generally switched off or otherwise unavailable.

Smartphones and tablets currently have the option of reading out the location via remote location. However, on the one hand, location tracking must be activated in the mobile end device and, on the other hand, the respective mobile end device must have access to mobile Internet for data communication. In addition, the end device must be able to receive location signals, such as GPS, in order to be able to determine its location and communicate it via the mobile Internet. If the mobile end device is in a basement or underground car park, for example, remote location is often not possible because mobile internet and/or location signals cannot be received. If the battery of the mobile end device is exhausted or if the end device was switched off, remote location is also ruled out. The disadvantage here is that many factors such. B. the presence of a mobile data connection, a remote location of the mobile device impossible and not all mobile devices have the technical requirements to be located from a distance, because they do not have GPS, for example. A further disadvantage is that remote location of a mobile terminal usually requires a second mobile terminal that is equipped with the same operating system, since different operating systems of different mobile terminals are not designed to be compatible with one another.

An object of an embodiment according to the invention can therefore be a possibility to provide a lost terminal device and/or a lost object anytime and anywhere in a simple and uncomplicated manner and without relevant dependencies, such as e.g. B. the technical requirement for mobile data communication of the end device and/or object, i.e. to locate it across platforms and to enable the way back to its owner.

According to one aspect, the embodiment relates to an object according to the features of claim 1, at least according to a core idea. Furthermore, advantageous configurations can be found in the dependent claims.

According to claim 1, a method for computer-aided terminal search using a data processing device is referred to, which is connected to a database, the database having at least one data record with at least one data field at least the steps: Registering a user who is also the owner of at least one terminal device, the user creating a data record in the database via an input device that forms a communication link with the data processing device, which data record can be clearly assigned to the user and is stored in the database will; Registration of the at least one terminal device in the database via the input device by the user, in that a data field with at least one data field entry is then created and stored in the user's data record for each terminal device to be registered, the at least one data field entry being an identification cipher that can be uniquely assigned to the respective terminal device having; Creation of a machine-readable image for the at least one end device by the data processing device on the basis of the identification cipher that can be uniquely assigned to the end device, the creation taking place automatically or on request by the user; Saving the machine-readable image that has been created in the data field of the database, with the data field being assigned to the terminal device and/or transmission of the machine-readable image that has been created to the terminal device, with the machine-readable image that has been created being provided for the terminal device in such a way that the terminal device is set up and designed in such a way that that the machine-readable image can be displayed in a readable manner on the terminal device when the terminal device is locked and/or switched off.

This method advantageously enables the lost terminal device to be found quickly without the owner, who can also be referred to as the original owner of the mobile terminal device, having to rely solely on himself in the event of such a loss, e.g. revisit all the places last visited and look for the has to search for a lost end device, because a possible finder can easily identify the end device and its owner/holders and return the device, particularly with the machine-readable image that is displayed and readable even when the end device is locked and/or switched off.

It is also possible to program the image with further information, e.g. on the finder's reward or return instructions.

According to an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the terminal has a display device on which the machine-readable image can be displayed in a readable manner in the area of the display device, particularly when the terminal is in the locked state. An advantageous development can consist in embedding the machine-readable image in a background image for the terminal device and displaying it in a readable manner in the locked state in the area of the display device. The machine-readable image can then be part or all of a so-called lock screen of the display device when the terminal device is in the locked state.

The machine-readable image in the form of a QR code and/or barcode, for example, can be graphically embedded in a background image by the data processing device for the respective end device. For this purpose, the background image can be selected individually by the user and uploaded to the data processing device via the input device, e.g. via a web link, e-mail or via a mobile software application (APP). This background image with the embedded machine-readable image can be downloaded to the respective end device and set as the lock screen. The background image with the machine-readable image is visible even when the end device is locked. Does anyone find e.g. B. a device in the form of a smartphone with such a background image, this can read the machine-readable image without having to unlock the smartphone. It is also displayed to the finder when it is locked, so that he can read the machine-readable image with his own smartphone, for example.

Advantageously, the background images with the QR code and/or barcode can also be stored in the data field of the registered end device, with the QR code and/or barcode providing an internet link to the end device identification page with the uniquely assignable identification cipher, which is also in the internet link is included, encoded.

However, the machine-readable image can also or additionally be read into an ID window provided specifically for this and/or other purposes on a device, e.g. smart phone or laptop, via which the QR code and/or barcode can be read at any time and especially when the power is off of the device can be read.

It can also be advantageous if the machine-readable image can be displayed in a readable manner in a virtual display box or display frame that can be displayed on the terminal device in the area of the display device. Such display boxes, which can be so-called widgets, for example, can also be used for grouping prioritized software applications (apps) or part software applications or app content or the like and, as it were, also in be accessible in the locked state of the terminal or at least be accessible, for example, haptically or with gestures or the like in the locked state.

In addition, it can advantageously be provided according to the invention if a physical printout of the created machine-readable image, e.g. a QR code or identifier, which can be assigned to the terminal device, is generated with the terminal device in communication with a printing device.

The physical expression that can be applied to the end device is advantageously a label and/or a sticker. This can, for example, be applied to the back of the respective end device. In this way, the machine-readable image can be "displayed" even when the terminal device is switched off. This is particularly advantageous for terminal devices that do not have a display device for displaying such a machine-readable image or whose display device is not designed for this and even then offers the possibility of reading out the machine-readable image picture, if possible when the end device is switched off or damaged and the access options of the blocked status are no longer possible.

The method according to the invention can also have a method step by means of the options provided in each case, in which the identification of the end device after its loss includes scanning the machine-readable image, the image being displayed on the display device of the end device and/or as a physical printout on the end device is applied and wherein the image is captured using an external image capture and/or processing device that is able to read machine-readable images, wherein the external image capture and/or processing device transmits at least the uniquely assignable identification cipher of the end device to a graphic output the display unit of the external image acquisition and/or processing device;

An advantageous development of the method can also include the step of sending the clearly assignable identification cipher to the

data processing device and can also contain the step of comparing the uniquely assignable identification cipher with the database by the data processing device, whereby in a further advantageously further developing method step the owner of the scanned, lost terminal device is informed by the data processing device if the transmitted uniquely assignable identification cipher of the scanned terminal device matches with the one in the database stored uniquely assignable identification cipher, can be notified automatically

A new user is advantageously registered via a website and/or mobile application, with the website being provided either by the data processing device itself or an external server providing the website and forming a communication link with the data processing device. The user's input device used for this can also be referred to as an input and output device, since such an input device can be a computer, a laptop, a tablet or a smartphone or other input/output-capable devices.

The data record created by the user can also be seen as a user account, which can be accessed via the website and/or mobile application. The user can register his at least one terminal device in the data record. For this purpose, the user creates a new data field in his data record, with at least one identification cipher that can be clearly assigned to the end device to be registered being stored in the data field. Such an identification cipher can advantageously consist of letters and/or numbers or other characters. This includes both upper and lower case letters. Among other things, special characters are also conceivable as part of the identification cipher. The identification cipher is designed in such a way that it is unique and is only assigned once for a terminal. For example, with an identification cipher with eight digits using all digits as well as lower and upper case letters of the Latin alphabet, there are over 218 trillion possibilities for variation. For example, an identification cipher can be generated by the data processing device by randomly combining numbers and letters, with the probability of generating two identical identification ciphers practically approaching zero given a sufficiently large number of digits.

It is also conceivable that the data processing device stores all assigned identification ciphers centrally in the database and when registering a new terminal device, the database checks for duplication of the newly assigned identification cipher and, in the event of duplication, assigns a new identification cipher for the terminal device to be registered. Alternatively, the identification cipher last assigned by the data processing device can also be temporarily stored and, in the case of a new assignment of an identification cipher based on the identification cipher last assigned, by a specific one count up increment. Counting up does not only refer to numbers, but can also mean an alphabetical "counting up" with letters.

From this uniquely assignable identification cipher, the data processing device can advantageously generate a QR code and/or a barcode as a machine-readable image. Suitable QR/barcodes can be e.g. ID or 2D codes. After registering a new terminal device in his data record, the user can use the input device to cause the data processing device to generate a QR code and/or barcode. However, the machine-readable image can also be created automatically by or via the data processing device after a new terminal device has been registered in the data set.

In addition to the uniquely assignable identification cipher, the QR code and/or barcode can also contain an Internet address that leads to a website on which the end device found can be identified using the identification cipher. In addition, contact data can also be encoded with the QR code and/or barcode, with the help of which the finder is able to contact the owner of the end device found.

The external image capturing and/or processing device is, for example, a smartphone, which can scan QR codes and/or barcodes via its camera. When scanning, an Internet link with the uniquely assignable identification cipher is advantageously read out. With this Internet and/or hyperlink that has been read out, the finder is directed to a website on which the end device found can be identified using the identification cipher. In this case, the identification cipher is transmitted to the data processing device, which in turn carries out a comparison with the database. If there is a match with the database, the owner of the device found is automatically notified.

Furthermore, it is advantageous if the finder receives a message via the website called up by him to identify the end device that the owner has been notified.

In a particularly advantageous manner, the finder is also informed via the website he has called up how he can allow the owner to find the end device that has been found. For this purpose, the finder can automatically be shown a shipping label with which he can send the terminal device by post to e.g. B. can send the owner. A contact address or a telephone number for the owner and/or for a contact point specified by the owner can also be displayed to the finder will. The handover to the owner of the end device can be either anonymous or non-anonymous. It is also conceivable for the finder to register with the data processing facility with his data, so that the owner can access this contact information and get in touch with the finder. In addition, the data processing facility can offer the finder a payout option for a finder's reward previously determined by the owner via the website. For example, the finder can enter his account number in order to receive a corresponding finder's fee from the owner. The type of payment options is not limited. For example, a voucher or a check can also be sent to the finder.

In an advantageous embodiment of the method, in the case of automatic notification, the owner is sent an electronic notification that the lost terminal device has been found to a telephone number and/or fax number and/or e-mail address previously stored by him in the database. A postal address can also be specified. In the case of telephone notification or notification by e-mail and/or fax, it is advantageous for the owner to be informed promptly and/or directly that his/her lost device has been found. Instead of notifying the owner directly, a contact point previously stored in the database, such as his employer, can also be notified. When the message is sent, the data processing device can simultaneously display a selection of possible steps or options between which the owner can choose and which, when selected, causes the data processing device to automatically execute the selected option. For example, the data processing device can select the option "Send a delivery address for the device found to the finder" and transmit a delivery address for the device found previously stored by the owner in the database to the finder. The delivery address can also be e.g to act as a packing station.

In a further advantageous embodiment, a clearly assignable user ID is assigned to the data record when the user registers. This user ID can be designed like the uniquely assignable identification cipher for a terminal device registered in the database. It is also conceivable that the user ID is a uniquely assigned user name, an e-mail address or, for example, a customer number with a fixed number of digits that can be predetermined. Advantageously, the user can log in with his user ID via the input device Log in data processing direction, e.g. to add a new end device to your data record or

Create and save a user account in the form of a data field.

In a further advantageous embodiment of the method, physical specifications of the terminal device are stored in the data field when registering a terminal device in addition to the uniquely assignable identification cipher. Such specifications can be, for example, terminal device type, serial number, MAC address, IM El, screen size, screen resolution, etc., by means of which the terminal device can also be clearly identified.

In a further advantageous refinement of the method, the user must verify himself to the data processing device when registering in order to be able to add at least one data field to the data record generated. After registering the new user, the data processing device sends an e-mail to an e-mail address specified by the user during registration with an Internet link, with the registration of the new user being confirmed and verified by clicking on the Internet link. Through this two-stage method in the form of registration and subsequent verification, the data processing device ensures that the person who registers as a new user in the database is real. It is also conceivable that the verification is carried out using an identification process, with the user reporting to an independent third party with an official identification document, which, after successfully checking the user's personal details, will check his data record in the database via the data processing device as "verified". This can also include new digital authentication methods (e.g. "One Identity").

In a further advantageous embodiment of the method, when sending the uniquely assignable identification cipher to the data processing device, the location in the form of location data of the external image acquisition and/or processing device can also be sent to the data processing device. The latter can depend, among other things, on the settings of the image acquisition and/or processing device or the end device of the finder. With the location data, the position of the end device found is advantageously known and can be communicated to the user with the automatic notification. The location data used can be GPS data, for example, which are automatically read out by the external image capturing and/or processing device when the uniquely assignable identification cipher is sent to the data processing device. According to a further aspect, a further embodiment according to the invention relates to a computer system, the computer system being designed to carry out the method for computer-aided terminal search. The computer system has at least one data processing device that can be connected to at least one memory on which a database can be stored. Furthermore, the data processing device can be connected to a communication network. For example, an input device in the form of a z. B. computers, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc. via the communication network with the data processing device can be connected.

The computer system also advantageously has a server which is interposed between the communication network and the data processing device. This server advantageously has data in the form of a website that can be called up publicly via the communication network and can be used to communicate with the data processing device and the database. The data stored in the memory of the database can be created, changed and deleted via the website and the data processing device.

In addition, one aspect according to an embodiment of the invention relates to a computer program, the computer program being designed to execute the method for computer-assisted terminal search on a computer system designed for this purpose. The computer program causes a data processing device to form a communication connection in, for example, a communication network with a database, in which case a data record can be created, is created and/or can be created, which data record particularly represents or can represent the user, one or more data fields being created in the data record - or can be generated, whereby a terminal device of the user can be made representable or identifiable via the data field or fields; wherein a uniquely assignable identification cipher can be generated for the terminal device, which identification cipher can be stored and/or is stored in relation to the data field or fields; whereby a machine-readable image or symbol can be created and/or is created on the basis of the identification cipher that can be uniquely assigned to the end device, with the image or symbol being able to be created in particular by the data processing device automatically and/or when requested by the user, with the image being stored in the Data fields can be stored and/or the image is transmitted to the terminal device via the communications network, with the machine-readable image created being provided for the terminal device in such a way and the terminal device being designed and set up in such a way that the machine-readable image can be displayed on the terminal device in a readable manner when the terminal device is in a locked and/or switched-off state is.

If the end device is lost and the machine-readable image that can be displayed on the display device of the end device is scanned by an external image capture and/or processing device, such as a smartphone, this automatically transmits the clearly assignable identification cipher to the data processing device. The computer program also has at least the following steps: receipt of the uniquely assignable identification cipher by the data processing device; Comparison of the database with the uniquely assignable identification cipher and, in the event of a match, notification of the owner of the scanned, lost terminal by the data processing device.

Furthermore, one aspect according to an embodiment of the invention relates to a computer program product which has executable program code, the program code executing the method for computer-assisted terminal search when executed in a computer system. The computer program product is advantageously stored as a packed file and/or as a file directory on a data carrier. The data carrier is advantageously in the form of a semiconductor memory, magnetic memory and/or optical memory, such as a CD-ROM, and can be stored or installed in, for the computer system or as part of the computer system, in whole or in part, e.g. on a terminal device .

The explanations presented in this description for end devices, such as smartphones, tablets, etc., can also be applied to other objects. For example, bicycles, suitcases, instruments and other movable objects can be localized and found again with the invention described here.

Further features, advantages, effects and details result from the following description, in which at least one exemplary embodiment is described in detail, if appropriate with reference to one or more drawings. Described and/or illustrated features form the subject matter on their own or in any meaningful combination, possibly also independently of the claims, and in particular can also Be the subject of one or more separate applications. Identical, similar and/or functionally identical parts are provided with the same reference symbols.

Schematically show:

1 shows a flowchart of the method for computer-aided terminal search,

2 shows a general flow chart of the computer-assisted terminal search from the point at which the terminal is found by a finder,

3 shows a further flow chart of the method for computer-aided terminal search,

4 shows a machine-readable image,

5a shows a terminal with a displayed machine-readable image,

Fig. 5b a terminal with a displayed machine-readable image,

Fig. 5c a terminal with a displayed machine-readable image in a display box for

device applications,

6 shows a schematic drawing of a database for the registration of terminals,

7a shows a schematic drawing of the functional relationships between a number of terminals with a digital tag of a user, a number of external image acquisition and/or image processing devices of a finder and a computer system.

7b shows a schematic drawing of the operative relationships between a plurality of end devices with a user's physical tag, a plurality of external image acquisition and/or image processing devices of a finder and a computer system.

In the drawings, elements provided with the same reference numbers correspond essentially to one another, unless otherwise indicated. In addition, there is no need to show and describe components that are not essential to an understanding of those disclosed herein technical teaching are. In the following, the reference symbols are not repeated for all elements that have already been introduced and shown, provided that the elements themselves and their function have already been described or are known to a person skilled in the art.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic flow chart of the method for computer-aided terminal search, the flow direction being specified from top to bottom. The branches are to be read as and/or links.

First, a user registers in a database via an input device, which can be connected to a data processing device or forms a communication connection with it, for example via a software application of a terminal device, e.g. The database is connected to the data processing device in such a way that the data processing device can generate, store, read out and delete data in the database. With the registration of the user, the data processing device creates a data record in the database, which has a user identifier or a user ID that can be clearly assigned.

A so-called GUID can be created or assigned for the user in the same or in a further step. In this context, GUID stands for a globally unique recognition/identification, namely for a "Globally Unique Identifier" (GUID). This enables a unique, tamper-proof assignment to be made possible.

In the next step, the user registers a terminal device in the database using the input device via the data processing device in the data record assigned to him. In this case, the data processing device generates a uniquely assignable identification cipher, which is stored in the data field for the newly registered end device.

A machine-readable image is then created by the data processing device at least from the uniquely assignable identification cipher. An Internet link, which has the uniquely assignable identification cipher, is advantageously encoded as a machine-readable image in the form of a QR code and/or barcode as the machine-readable image.

The machine-readable image is now stored in the data field for the corresponding end device and/or it is transferred from the data processing device to the end device transmitted, it being sent via a communications network which connects the data processing device to the terminal device, and/or a physical printout of the machine-readable image is created using a printing device, with the printout being in the form of a sticker.

The registered terminal advantageously has this machine-readable image after the terminal has been registered and a machine-readable image has been created. It is arranged as a sticker, for example, on the back of the terminal device and/or it is displayed via a display device of the terminal device, for example when the display device is switched on.

If the end device is lost and found by a finder, the finder identifies the end device by scanning the machine-readable image by using an external image acquisition and/or processing device, such as a smartphone, to scan the machine-readable image. The image capturing and/or processing device decodes the machine-readable image into the internet link together with a uniquely assignable identification cipher, the internet link leading to a website on which the end device is reported as "found".

The clearly assignable identification cipher is sent to the website using the decoded machine-readable image. The uniquely assignable identification cipher is transmitted to the data processing device for further processing.

The data processing device compares the uniquely assignable identification cipher with the database in order to determine the original owner, referred to here as the user, of the end device found. All identification ciphers in the database are compared with the transmitted identification cipher. If there is a match, the user ID of the data record containing the data field with the matching, clearly assignable identification cipher is transmitted to the data processing device.

The user assigned to the transmitted user ID is automatically notified by the data processing device. The notification can be made electronically via a telephone number, by e-mail and/or by fax.

Advantageously, with the transmission of the uniquely assignable identification cipher, additional location data of the external image capturing and/or processing device of the Finders transmitted to the data processing device, so that the user is informed of the location of his found device with the automatic notification.

FIG. 2 shows a general, schematic flow chart of the computer-assisted terminal search from the point at which the terminal is found by a finder. In this case, the machine-readable image/character is designed as a QR code, which encodes an Internet address with a clearly assignable identification cipher of a registered end device. In this case, the internet address refers to a website of the intermediary.

The finder scans the QR code of the end device found, with the QR code being displayed on the display device of the end device and/or being arranged as a sticker on the end device, with an external image capturing and/or processing device such as a smartphone or tablet of the finder. The external image capturing and/or processing device directs the finder to the website of the intermediary or the intermediary data processor. The process is also referred to as re-routing to the intermediary website, whereby the clearly assignable identification cipher of the end device found is sent to the website. At the same time, the location data is read out by the external image capturing and/or processing device and transmitted to the website along with the clearly assignable identification cipher.

The return procedure is carried out below. The finder receives information via the website on how to return the device found. The return can be anonymous or non-anonymous. At the same time, the finder's fee is displayed via the website. The amount of the finder's reward is advantageously previously determined by the owner of the terminal and stored in the database in the data field corresponding to the terminal. The advantage of transmitting the amount of the finder's fee to the finder is that the finder is motivated to actually return the device to its original owner, i.e. the owner. It can be assumed that the return rate can be increased due to this financial incentive.

The return is made anonymously or not anonymously by the finder. The finder can send the found end device by post to an address provided to him by the website or hand it over to a place previously specified by the owner. Collection of the device found can also be arranged with the finder via the website. With the cost allocation, the provider of the website creates a cost calculation for the return of the device found to the owner and settles it with him. Postage costs, agency fees and/or the finder's fee for the device found are listed in the cost calculation.

If the found end device is successfully handed over by the finder, the finder's reward will be handed over. The finder's reward can be paid to the finder in various ways. It is conceivable that the finder's reward will be paid out in cash or electronically to an account specified by the finder.

At this point, the main part of the computer-assisted terminal search is complete, starting with a finder finding the terminal. Optionally, the finder is offered a registration as a new user in the database upon successful return of the device found to the owner. The registration takes place according to the known flow chart, as shown for example in FIG. 1 at the beginning, and is referred to as finder registration.

As a newly registered user, the finder advantageously receives an evaluation as a result of the successful return of a found end device. Optionally, the finder receives a rating from the owner. This step is also known as a finder rating.

FIG. 3 shows a further schematic flow chart of the method for computer-aided terminal search, with the flow chart essentially covering the method steps that have already been set out in FIG. Therefore, method steps that are already known are only mentioned briefly with reference to FIG.

At the beginning, the "user registration" takes place, which corresponds to the registration of a new user. This is followed by the "verification email" step. Here, the user is sent an email with an internet link for verification to an email address previously specified by the user during registration. The "confirmation of the user account" takes place when the user clicks on the internet link. With this step, the user is now verified and can register his end devices. This takes place through the step "registration of end device" which corresponds to the registration of at least one end device. With successful registration, a so-called "Order DT" takes place, whereby the user requests one or more digital tags (DT) in the form of one or more QR codes and/or barcodes from the data processing device for his registered end device. The digital tags can e.g in user-definable background images for be integrated into the end device. The digital tags are transmitted from the data processing device to the end device with the "Receive DT" step. With the "Order DT" step, the user deposits the digital tags on his registered end device, for example by storing the received digital tag or the received background image set it up manually with the digital tag as a background image and/or lock image on the end device, or the software application on the end device supports the user in doing so, or carries out the corresponding setup automatically. Furthermore, with the step "Confirmation of correctness DT" the user confirms via the data processing device that the digital tags have been set up on the respective registered end device and/or are active.

With the step "End device is lost", the situation is specified that the end device has been lost and the registered end device may be displayed/reported as lost by the user in the process. The next step refers to the scenario "End device is found", where a finder finds the device and sees the QR code on the lock screen. In the "Finder scans QR code" step, the finder scans the QR code displayed on the lock screen with their own smartphone, for example. They report the found end device as found via the Internet link encoded by the QR code with a clearly assignable identification cipher. This step takes place primarily via the central platform, which is hidden behind the Internet address. This essentially corresponds to the steps "identifying the terminal device by scanning the machine-readable image", "transmitting the uniquely assignable identification cipher" and "comparing the uniquely assignable identification cipher with the database" from FIG 1.

As a result, the user can, for example, receive information about the terminal device, which corresponds to the "automatic notification of the user" step from FIG , select yourself. In the last step - "Finder returns device" - the finder sends the found device back to the owner or sends it to him via the route selected by the finder.

FIG. 4 shows a machine-readable image in the form of a QR code. At least one uniquely assignable identification cipher including, for example, a user ID (GUID) of a registered terminal device is advantageously encoded with this QR code. This uniquely assignable identification cipher is particularly advantageously embedded in an Internet link, which refers a finder who scans this QR code directly to an Internet page on which the end device found can be reported. The QR code shown encodes the characters "Text" and is only intended to serve as an example for a so-called digital tag.

FIG. 5a shows a terminal with a displayed machine-readable image, here in the form of a digital tag with a QR code. This digital tag is displayed on the activated display device of a smartphone. The lock screen is shown, which can be seen on most smartphones immediately after switching on the display device. The digital tag is advantageously embedded on the wallpaper displayed on the lock screen. In this way, a finder can identify the owner of the end device by scanning the QR code without having to unlock the end device themselves.

Fig. 5b shows that in addition to the machine-readable image, e.g. the QR code, other information (DI) can also be displayed. In this regard, according to FIG. 5b, an indication of the amount of the finder's fee, namely fictitious €1000.00, is additionally given, which may increase the motivation of the finder to return the terminal device. The additional information is freely programmable and can, for example, contain instructions, technical or legal information regarding the return.

Fig. 5b shows in turn that the machine-readable image can be displayed and read on the screen, e.g. as a type of widget or "mini-application" in a variable-size display box (DB) and in its way, e.g. in size, shape and content As shown in Fig. 5b, the display box (DB) can therefore, for example, only display the machine-readable image or the image with reduced additional information (DI).

The display box (DB) can be integrated into the display device of the terminal (SP) in such a way that it can be read out together with the image (DT) even when the terminal (SP) is locked or inactive, or at least by swiping, for example. The machine-readable image (DT) can be arranged or integrated on the screen together with widgets or mini-applications (W1, W2, W3, W4) in or in other display boxes (DB', DB", DB'"). The widgets have different box sizes, which depend on the operating system of the end device.

In the present case, three different box sizes are shown in FIG. 5c, namely small display boxes W1, W2, a medium-sized display box W3 and a large display box W4.

FIG. 6 shows a schematic drawing of a database for registering terminals.

In the form shown, this database comprises a data record which has a unique assignable user ID in the form of a Globally Unique Identifier Main User (GUID MU). With this user ID, the data record (GUID MU) assigned to a user in the database can be addressed in order to create data fields for smartwatches (SW), smartphones (SP), tablets (TB), laptops (LT) and/or other devices (x ), such as B. digital cameras to create, save, change and / or delete. Several digital tags (DT) and/or physical tags (PT) can be stored in each data field (SW; SP; TB; LT; x). Depending on the total number n, the digital tags (DT) and/or physical tags (PT) are each provided with a counter variable 01, 02, 03, ... to n.

The storage of physical tags (PT) is optional and corresponds to the digital tag (DT) associated with the same counter variable.

FIG. 7a shows a schematic drawing of the functional relationships between a number of terminals (1) of a user, a number of external image acquisition and/or processing devices (2) of a finder and a computer system (3). The active relationships correspond to the method steps as already explained in FIG. 1, FIG. 2 and FIG.

The end devices (1) of the user or owner represent a possible selection of end devices. A smartwatch (SW), a smartphone (SP), a tablet (TB) and a laptop (LT) are shown here. The end devices (1) of the user all have a digital tag (DT) in the form of at least one QR code on their display devices. The double arrow between the end devices (1) of the user and the computer system (3) represents the operative relationship between these components, specifically the registration of a new user, verification of the new user, registration of at least one end device, transmission of a machine-readable image, here a digital tag ( DT), as well as, if necessary, receiving the automatic notification that an end device (1) of the user has been found. Correspondingly, the end devices with a physical tag (PT) on the back of the devices can be seen in FIG. 7b in the same constellation.

The computer system (3) has at least one data processing device that has access to a database on which terminals are stored with a uniquely assignable identification cipher. The computer system (3) advantageously forms a communication link to a communication network, such as. B. the Internet, from.

The external image acquisition and / or processing devices (2) are terminals of a

Finders, which are a smartphone (SP) and/or a tablet (TB) in the exemplary embodiment shown. The double arrow between the end devices (1) of the user and the external image acquisition and/or processing devices (2) of the finder represents the step "Identify the end device by scanning the machine-readable image", here at least one digital tag (DT) as it is described in detail in FIG.

The double arrow between the computer system (3) and external image acquisition and/or processing devices (2) indicates the communication between these components and essentially represents the step "transmission of the clearly assignable identification cipher" from FIG. 1 and "re-routing to the intermediary Website" from FIG. 2. Advantageously, the location data of the external image capturing and/or processing devices (2) are also transmitted to the computer system (3).

It should be understood that the foregoing detailed description and drawings, while representing certain exemplary embodiments of the invention, are intended for purposes of illustration only and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention. Various modifications of the configurations described are possible without departing from the scope of the following claims and their range of equivalence. In particular, features of the exemplary embodiments that are not mentioned in the claims also emerge from this description and the figures. Such features may also occur in combinations other than those specifically disclosed herein. Therefore, the fact that several such features are mentioned together in the same sentence or in some other type of textual context does not justify the conclusion that they can only occur in the specifically disclosed combination; instead, it is generally to be assumed that several such features can also be omitted or modified individually, provided this does not call into question the functionality of the invention.

Throughout the specification and claims, the term "a" is used as an indefinite article and does not limit the number of parts to one. Where "a" means "only one," it is apparent to those skilled in the art to be understood from the context or is disclosed unambiguously through the use of appropriate language such as "a single".

In this context, it should be noted that the terms "comprise", "have", "contain", "include" and "with" as used in this specification and the claims as well as their grammatical changes are intended as a non-exhaustive listing of features such as process steps, devices, areas, sizes and the like and in no way exclude the presence of other or additional features or groupings of other or additional features.

Reference List

1 end device of a user

2 external image acquisition and/or processing device of a finder

3 computer system

SW smart watch

SP smart phone

TB tablet

LT Laptop/Ultrabook x other device

GUID MU Global Unique Identifier Main User

DT Digital Day

PT Physical Day

DI Digital Information

DB display box

Wl, W2, Widgets

W3, W4

Claims

23

Claims Method for computer-assisted terminal search using a data processing device which is connected to a database, the database having at least one data record with at least one data field, comprising the following steps: a. Registering a user who is also the owner of at least one terminal device, the user generating a data record in the database via an input device which forms a communication link with the data processing device, which data record can be clearly assigned to the user and is stored in the database; b. Registration of the at least one terminal device in the database via the input device by the user, in that a data field with at least one data field entry is then created and stored in the user's data record for each terminal device to be registered, with the at least one data field entry being an identification cipher that can be uniquely assigned to the respective terminal device having; c. Creation of a machine-readable image for the at least one end device by the data processing device on the basis of the identification cipher that can be uniquely assigned to the end device, the creation taking place automatically or on request by the user; i.e. Saving the created machine-readable image in the data field of the database, the data field being assigned to the end device and/or

Transmission of the machine-readable image created to the terminal device, the machine-readable image created being provided for the terminal device in such a way and the terminal device being set up and designed in such a way that the machine-readable image can be displayed on the terminal device in a readable manner when the terminal device is in a locked and/or switched-off state. Method according to Claim 1, in which the machine-readable image is programmably provided with further information which can be read visually or by machine. Method according to Claim 1 or 2, in which the terminal device has a display device and the machine-readable image can be displayed in a readable manner in the area of the display device. Method according to Claim 3, in which the machine-readable image is embedded in a background image for the terminal device and is displayed in the blocked state in a readable manner in the area of the display device. Method according to Claim 3, in which the machine-readable image can be displayed in a display box on the terminal device in the area of the display device so that it can be read out. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises creating a physical printout that can be applied to the terminal device with at least the created machine-readable image by a printing device. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following further step: identifying the end device after its loss by scanning the machine-readable image, which is displayed on the display device of the end device and/or is applied as a physical printout on the end device, using an external image capture and/or processing device that is able to read out machine-readable images, the external image capture and/or processing device sending at least the uniquely assignable identification cipher of the end device to a graphical display unit of the external image capture and/or processing device spends Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following further step: transmission of the uniquely assignable identification cipher to the data processing device, Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following further step: matching the uniquely assignable identification cipher with the Database by the data processing device. Method according to one or more of the preceding claims, wherein the method comprises the following further step: automatic notification of the owner of the scanned, lost terminal device by the data processing device Correlation of the transmitted uniquely assignable identification cipher of the scanned end device with the uniquely assignable identification cipher stored in the database. 11. The method according to claim 10, wherein in the case of the automatic notification, the owner is sent an electronic notification about the finding of the lost terminal to a telephone number and/or fax number and/or e-mail address previously stored by him in the database. Method according to claim 1, wherein a uniquely assignable user ID is assigned to the data record when the user is registered. Method according to claim 1 or 12, wherein a globally unique identifier is created for the user in the registration step or in a further step. Method according to Claim 1, 12 or 13, wherein when registering a terminal device, physical specifications of the terminal device are stored in the data field in addition to the uniquely assignable identification cipher. Method according to claim 1 or 12 to 14, wherein the user has to verify himself to the data processing device when registering in order to be able to add at least one data field to the data record generated. Method according to claim 8, wherein when sending the uniquely assignable identification cipher to the data processing device, the location in the form of location data of the external image capturing and/or processing device is also sent to the data processing device. Computer system, wherein the computer system is designed to execute the method for computer-aided terminal search according to one or more of the preceding claims. Computer program, wherein the computer program is designed to execute, in particular, the method for computer-assisted terminal search according to one or more of claims 1 to 16, wherein the computer program includes a data processing device 26 causes a communication connection to be established with a database in a communications network, with a data record being able to be created, which data record particularly represents the user, with one or more data fields being able to be created or generated in the data set, with the data field or data fields representing a terminal device of the user - or is clearly identifiable, whereby a uniquely assignable identification cipher can be generated for the end device, which identification cipher can be stored and/or is stored in relation to the data field or fields, wherein a machine-readable image or character can be created on the basis of the identification cipher that can be uniquely assigned to the end device is, wherein the image or character can be created by the data processing device automatically and/or when requested by the user, wherein the image or character can be stored in the data field or fields and/or the image can be transmitted to the end device via the communication network is communicated, the machine-readable image created being provided for the terminal device in such a way and the terminal device being designed and set up in such a way that the machine-readable image can be displayed on the terminal device in a readable manner when the terminal device is in a locked and/or switched-off state. . Computer program product which has executable program code for executing the computer program according to claim 18, wherein the program code, when executed in a computer system according to claim 17, executes the method for computer-aided terminal search according to one or more of claims 1 to 16.