AU2019100962A4 - Terminal and station delivery system and method - Google Patents

Abstract

Abstract A server for processing a method for contracting logistics services, the method comprising: generating an advertisement comprising a request having a data set; uploading the request to a server of the system; retrieving a first list of users and generating a second list of users from the first list of users, the second list of users matching at least a portion of the data set of the request; the second list of users being rendered for display on an Advertiser device; selecting a user from the second list of users to complete the request; and wherein when the selected user agrees to complete the request, a payment is made to a trust account to be released when the user completes the request, and wherein the request data set is associated with a transit schedule and is dynamically updated based on delays of the transit schedule. C) N a -C cD(D tor 0 < ;o En 0 m a z m0. .<0 X Z) ( (a(Do0 0 0-) m a CD

Description

2019100962 28 Aug 2019

TERMINAL AND STATION DELIVERY SYSTEM AND METHOD TECHNICAL FIELD [0001] The present invention relates to a system for delivery of goods at a transit location. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a system and/or method for delivering goods to a requester of said goods, in which delivery includes passing through a transit terminal and/or transit station.

BACKGROUND [0002] Postal services are generally the most common methods for sending and receiving goods between two parties. Postal services generally require a first person, a sender, packaging goods and paying a fee for an intermediary person or system to deliver goods to a recipient. The sender may receive a tracking number for packages sent via this method which can then be used to update the sender with regards to package location or with regards to tracking delivery status. These methods generally require a sender to attend a postal drop location, or a postal service area. Often, these locations are out of the way for a sender, and may be impractical to attend during business hours.

[0003] Packages may also be picked up by the postal service at a predetermined location, however they will generally only follow basic instructions, or deliver the item to a location which can then be signed by a person at said location. Without express or expedited shipping, this may take a significant amount of time and there may also be the risk that the package is lost in transit. As such, there may be a need to improve currently used methods of package delivery.

[0004] It is common that many passengers boarding planes realise that they have forgotten something important at home and require the item at their destination, this may force a passenger to return home, or more likely since there is not enough time remaining before the flight. As such, the passenger may be forced to purchase the forgotten item at their destination, which can be a lengthy detour, particularly for business trips or for short holidays. As such, there is a need to expedite obtaining the forgotten items of a passenger.

-22019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0005] Frequently, passengers boarding aeroplanes are over luggage limits, and therefore must purchase additional luggage space or luggage weight to accommodate the additional items in their luggage. Purchasing additional luggage space at the airport is generally costly, and each additional kilogram or pound is relatively expensive when compared to the cost of additional luggage purchase in advance of a flight. As such, many passengers may be charged additional fees, or lose some of their luggage.

[0006] Further, if passengers have forgotten goods which are of high importance, such as medication, there is a risk that they may need their medication before being able to attend a pharmacy or other suitable dispensary due to layovers or flight lengths. This may cause a passenger to abandon a flight, which may be prohibitively expensive.

[0007] In view of the above, there may be a need for an improved method to receive items at a transit location.

[0008] Any discussion of the prior art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such prior art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

SUMMARY [0009] PROBLEMS TO BE SOLVED [0010] It may be advantageous to provide for an improved method for delivering items.

[0011] It may be advantageous to provide for a system which can arrange delivery of goods or services during transit.

[0012] It may be advantageous to provide for a system which can facilitate reduction of passenger fees for flights.

[0013] It may be advantageous to provide for a system which can contact a Helper or Courier to assist with a flight or other trip.

-32019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0014] It may be advantageous to provide for a system which can allow passengers of flights to communicate to service requests of other passengers.

[0015] It may be advantageous to provide for a system which can more cost effectively take goods between locations.

[0016] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0017] MEANS FOR SOLVING THE PROBLEM [0018] A first aspect of the present invention may relate to a server for processing a method for contracting logistics services. The method comprising generating an advertisement comprising a request having a data set and uploading the request to a server of the system. Said server retrieving a first list of users and generating a second list of users from the first list of users, the second list of users matching at least a portion of the data set of the request. The second list of users being rendered for display on an advertiser device. Selecting a user from the second list of users to complete the request; and wherein when the selected user agrees to complete the request, a payment is made to a trust account to be released when the user completes the request, and wherein the request data set is associated with a transit schedule and is dynamically updated based on delays of the transit schedule.

[0019] Preferably, the transit schedule may be a flight schedule. Preferably, the request data set may comprise at least one of; a time; a location, a GPS coordinate, a payment amount, a flight time, a user name, an email address, a contact number, a hyperlink, at least one instruction, and product details. Preferably, users rendered on the display may be users includes users available to complete the request. Preferably, an estimated completion time of the request may be generated with respect to transit schedule of the selected user and the GPS coordinates of the selected user. Preferably, the payment may be released to the selected user when the request is completed. Preferably, a verification may be provided to the system of the completion of a request before the payment is

-42019100962 28 Aug 2019 released to the selected user. Preferably, the verification may be confirmed by the Advertiser before the payment is released. Preferably, the selected user may record evidence of the request being completed at predetermined stages.

[0020] In a another aspect the present invention may relate to a process for terminal deliveries, the process comprising the steps of; an Advertiser logging into a system via a server and the Advertiser generating a request including at least one delivery data set which is recorded by the server. The system generating a list of potential couriers able to comply with the at least one delivery data set. Establishing a direct message between the advertiser and at least one courier. Direct messaging the courier with delivery details, and confirming the delivery price between each of the Advertiser and the Courier. The Advertiser providing a payment including the delivery price to the system. The Courier receiving the goods at a predetermined location. The courier taking the goods through at least one ticketed gate or security gate; and wherein when the Courier is at the delivery location, the courier verifies that the goods are at the delivery location and requests that the Advertiser provide a confirmation of completion of the request to release the payment to the Courier.

[0021] Preferably, the process may further include capturing a photograph of the goods and uploading said photograph via the direct message to be recorded with the system. Preferably, the confirmation of completion may use a cryptographic verification uploaded to the system. Preferably, the predetermined location may be at a transit terminal. Preferably, the payment further may comprise a service fee for using the system. Preferably, the payment may be released to the Courier when the request is completed. Preferably, a verification may be required by at least one of the Advertiser and the Courier before the request is recorded as completed by the system.

[0022] In the context of the present invention, the words “comprise”, “comprising” and the like are to be construed in their inclusive, as opposed to their exclusive, sense, that is in the sense of “including, but not limited to”.

-52019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0023] The invention is to be interpreted with reference to the at least one of the technical problems described or affiliated with the background art. The present aims to solve or ameliorate at least one of the technical problems and this may result in one or more advantageous effects as defined by this specification and described in detail with reference to the preferred embodiments of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES [0024] Figure 1 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process of the system;

[0025] Figure 2 illustrates a flowchart of an embodiment of a process in which a first user can locate and commission a second user for a task;

[0026] Figure 3 illustrates an embodiment of a network for the system; and [0027] Figure 4 illustrates an embodiment of the system with clients and third parties accessing the system.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [0028] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings and non-limiting examples.

[0029] The system of the present disclosure may primarily be used by passengers going on a trip. Typically passengers may have available storage capacity in their luggage, or may be able to purchase goods, which may be duty free or from a foreign location, which are not available to a person who has not gone on a trip, or cannot carry the goods themselves. As such, there may be a need for persons on a trip to assist carrying goods, or purchasing goods and then delivering the goods to a requestor of said goods. In addition, there may be a need to hire an escort or guide who can assist a passenger of a flight to arrive at a destination.

-62019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0030] A requestor of a good or service may be referred to herein as an “Advertiser”. An Advertiser may be any person enrolled with the system who is to request a good and/or service from another user of the system. A courier, passenger or other interested party may be referred to herein as a “Helper” and may be commissioned by the Advertiser to purchase goods, carry goods, complete tasks or otherwise complete a request of the Advertiser. Both the Advertiser and the Helper are considered to be users of the system 1.

[0031] Advertisers may post a request via an application or internet portal for passengers arriving or departing from a travel location to view. The passengers (potential Helpers) may be able to view the request listings posted by Advertisers and select a request that they wish to view. Upon viewing the request, the Advertisers may be contacted by the Helpers to agree upon terms, payment and delivery location.

[0032] The Advertiser can be any person enrolled in the system requesting services and/or goods. The Advertiser may be a passenger of a flight or other transportation means, or may be a person at a location requiring an item from a foreign destination.

[0033] A Helper can be any person enrolled in the system servicing requests for services or goods from Advertisers. The Helper may be a passenger of a flight or other transportation means, and may acquire goods for an Advertiser, or may be a person capable of completing a service request, such as being a courier or escort for a predetermined person. Escort services may require the Helper to walk another passenger between terminals or gates to ensure that connections for transport are met and that they arrive at their destination in a timely manner.

[0034] The system allows for uploading of information from at least one of the Advertiser and the Helper. The information may be uploaded into at least one predetermined field which can assist forming a connection or direct message link between the Advertiser and at least one Helper. The at least one predetermined field may include a flight time, a flight number, a transit number, a transit time, a terminal number, an identification number, a user name, a name, a flight itinerary, a transit itinerary, or any

-72019100962 28 Aug 2019 other predetermined information. Both the Helper and the Advertiser may enter similar fields of information, and be able to view persons nearby which may be seeking services or goods.

[0035] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a flowchart of an embodiment of the system process. This embodiment is a high level flowchart of the steps for an Advertiser finding a Helper and then having a requested task completed by, or with, the Helper. In a first step, the Advertiser inputs information 10 in relation to the goods or services required by the Advertiser. A number of fields may be provided for the user to enter information in relation to an Advertiser name, a travel date, a destination, an arrival time, a departure time, a departure location, an available location prior to departure, goods requested, services requested, or any other predetermined information.

[0036] Based on the input details, a search 20 for applicable Helpers is made, and a list of said applicable Helpers can be generated by the search. A list of Helpers can then be displayed to an Advertiser 30 via a display screen of the Advertiser user device. Each Helper may be associated with a rating or other details which is generated from feedback from other Advertisers, or from other Helpers. It will be appreciated that the Advertiser may also be listed as a Helper if there are tasks that the Advertiser can complete.

[0037] At least one Helper can be selected by the Advertiser to message 40 and offer the request. Alternatively, any Advertiser request may be selected by a Helper if they believe that they can complete the task, and a message from the Helper can be sent to the Advertiser. The request can be rejected by the Helper or accepted by the Helper. If the request is rejected, the Helper may be cut off from communicating with the Advertiser. However, in at least one embodiment, the Helper may be able to re-establish communication with the Advertiser if they become available for the Advertiser’s request.

[0038] Messages between the Advertiser and the Helper can establish payment amounts, and specifics of the request; such as the goods to be collected, the collection location and times to meet. Although, any messages may be sent to describe the requested task. It will be appreciated that images may also be sent in the communications which can be

-82019100962 28 Aug 2019 used to clarify the correct goods for purchase if the Advertiser elects to issue images. Additionally, images of confirmation of acquiring the goods may be sent via the messaging portion of the system 1.

[0039] If the Helper accepts the request, the agreed upon moneys for the requested task can be held in escrow until the completion of the request. Payments may be made when confirmation of a fee is issued to the system, and the Advertiser’s payment method can be charged and the fees held in a trust account 50. Fees for the services may be based on a predetermined fee structure or negotiated by the parties. Any fees agreed upon may incur a percentage fee or a fixed fee commission for the application provider. For example, if a Helper agrees to accept ten dollars for providing goods, the Advertiser may be required to pay ten dollars in addition to any commission fees or services fees of the application. It will be appreciated that if the fees cannot be paid by the Advertiser, then the Helper will be issued a notification that the fees have not been paid, or the Helper will be able to see via the application that the fees have not been paid, and therefore should not complete the task or request. It will be appreciated that steps 40 and 50 may be swapped such that a payment is made to the system in advance of a direct message being provided.

[0040] Once funds are collected by the system, the system notifies the Helper and the Helper can begin to complete the request. Completion of the request must be by the agreed upon time or other specifics of the agreement between the Advertiser and the Helper. When the request is completed, at least one of the Advertiser and the Helper can confirm that the request has been completed 60. After the request has been completed and confirmed, the payment can be released 70 to the Helper.

[0041] Evidence may be uploaded by the Helper at predetermined periods or predetermined milestones of the request. This may allow for a log of events to be recorded with each request and thereby provide proof that the request is being completed. For example, a user may upload an image of the goods being purchased and/or a receipt of the goods purchased. In another example, the Helper may take a photograph with a person being escorted when they take their seats on a plane, or other transportation

-92019100962 28 Aug 2019 vehicle. Any predetermined milestone may be set by the Advertiser, and the Helper may be prompted to comply with the milestones to complete the request.

[0042] However, if the request is not completed, the funds can be returned to the Advertiser. Non-completion of a request can occur for a number of reasons which may be outside of the control of the Helper. For example, if a flight is delayed, the Helper may not be able to complete the request as agreed upon, and therefore the Helper may require an additional Helper to assist with task completion. The system may be adapted to commission an additional Helper if possible to ensure that the transaction of goods or the completion of a request is achieved if possible.

[0043] Optionally, both the Advertiser and the Helper are required to confirm that the request or task has been complete such that there is double confirmation. Users may rate the other user based on their experience, which may be used for other users to see and determine whether hiring a particular user is appropriate. Any desired rating system or methods may be used with at least one embodiment of the system.

[0044] Optionally, at least one of the Advertiser and the Helper can request to complete a task via the application on their respective user device. If completion is requested, a QR code, a unique code, a key or any other cryptographic verification can be generated to be subsequently verified by another user device associated with the Advertiser. In the case of a QR code, the user electing to complete the task may select to complete the task wherein a QR code can be displayed on the user device and the second user can capture the QR code via a camera device or other suitable means to confirm that the task is complete. Any predetermined verification method may be used such that both users ma confirm the request or task as being complete, and thereby releasing funds for the Helper. Optionally, tips can be issued by the Advertiser if they desire. In addition, discounts with regards to partial completion of tasks may be issued, or if the goods delivered are incorrect or damaged.

[0045] In the event of a Helper being an escort, the Advertiser may allow access to a temporary Advertiser profile or other subset Advertiser profile which can be used by the

-102019100962 28 Aug 2019 person being escorted to confirm that they have arrived at their destination. The temporary Advertiser profile or subset Advertiser profile may allow for capture of a verification, or may be required to generate the verification to be verified by the Helper that the task is complete. Alternatively, if the escort arrives at a destination, GPS coordinates may be used to verify that both the Helper and the escorted person are at the predetermined location together, which may also trigger a confirmation that the escort request has been completed.

[0046] Referring to Figure 2, there is illustrated flowchart of a user pathway 100 for requesting goods/services using an embodiment of the system 1.

[0047] The system 1 may be accessible via an online portal and/or via an application with Internet or network access. The application may be installed on a portable device, such as a mobile phone, cell phone, smart phone, notebook computer, laptop computer, tablet computer, tablet, palm pilot, or other predetermined portable device which may have applications installed.

[0048] A user of the system 1 may be either an Advertiser and/or a Helper. The Advertiser may list details for a request by starting the application 102 and opening the user interface 104. The user interface may have at least one list of predetermined desired categories to display to the Advertiser 106. The categories may include the type of goods being requested, the service being requested, or other common requests. The desired category can be selected 108. Alternatively, the application may allow a custom category to be selected or input to more clearly define the type of goods or service being requested. Details for the request can be entered 110 to describe the goods and/or services required by the Advertiser.

[0049] The Advertiser may then be prompted to register with the system 112 if the Advertiser is not yet registered. Registration may be via any common user registration means, and preferably requires an email and/or phone number confirmation of identity. After registration, the Advertiser can submit the request for the goods and/or services

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114. Each request may be associated with a time limit, a destination limit, an age restriction or any other classifier which may be used to limit the eligible Helpers.

[0050] The details may also be used to generate a list of passengers or Helpers which may be suitable for the Advertiser request 116. If there are no matches, a message indicating that there are no suitable matches 118 and the process may be ended or terminated 120. Ending the process may return the Advertiser to the categories page 106 or a homepage of the application. If there are no suitable matches and the process ends, Helpers which have similar, but not exact, desired attributes may be shown to the Advertiser or the Advertiser may be prompted to expand their search results, which may result in Helpers who may be able to complete the request with some variance in the details entered for said request. For example, the Advertiser may have entered details which specify that they would like goods to be delivered to them in an airport between the times of 2pm to 3pm on a predetermined date. If no Helper is available in the specified time period, other Helpers which may be available near to the specified time period may be able to complete the task, and may delay leaving an airport to assist the Advertiser or may arrive earlier to assist an Advertiser. As such, at least one of the Advertiser and the Helper may be able to alter their arrival or departure times to complete the task of the Advertiser. Additional funds, or a surcharge may be required or requested from the Advertiser for the alteration of a time as a form of compensation.

[0051] If there is a Helper which meets the Advertiser request details or meets the details in the expanded search, the Helpers can be shown to the Advertiser. If there is an acceptable for use, the Advertiser may select the Helper (or Helpers) from the list 122.

[0052] A courier or Helper is selected 124 and the Advertiser may be able to establish a direct message to the Helper to notify them that they are interested in contracting their services. Alternatively, the system 1 may issue a notification that the Helper is suitable for a request nearby, and add the request to an open requests list. The Helper or other users of the system 1 may be able to view open requests, and contact the Advertisers.

-122019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0053] The Advertiser may associate a payment with the request 126, and pay the payment to the system 1 to be held for a potential Helper. For example, a Helper may be desired for a request which the Advertiser is willing to pay the Helper $20. The Advertiser can then have a predetermined payment method charged to cover the fees and indeed ensure that the payment offered can be made. The Payment gateway 128 can be opened when the Advertiser wishes to make a payment for a request.

[0054] A notification or message to Helper(s) can be sent when payment is made 130. Alternatively, the payment can be made after a Helper agrees to assist the Advertiser with a request. A private message 132 between the Advertiser and the Helper can be established via the application, such that both parties can negotiate the terms of the agreement.

[0055] Once an agreement has been reached, the Helper can be issued with the request to confirm whether they wish to complete the request. The first Helper to respond with a confirmation may be assigned the requested task. It will be appreciated that a counter offer by a Helper may be issued is they believe that a task is worth more money, or an alternate instruction for a task is requested. For example, if the Advertiser has requested that the Helper escort a person to the taxi rank to arrive at the city, the Helper may instead provide an alternate option which they believe is better, or escort the Helper only to the exit of the terminal as they have a connecting flight.

[0056] If the Helper does not wish to complete the request, the Helper can reject the request 136, and the system may investigate why the Helper or Helpers have rejected the request 138. If no Helper is willing to take the request, the payment is returned to the Advertiser 140 (if a payment has been made) and the process can end 120. At this time the Advertiser may issue a further request for services or goods if they desire. It will be appreciated that multiple requests can be opened by an Advertiser at any time, provided that they have the funds to remunerate the Helpers.

[0057] Alternatively, if the Helper accepts the request 144 the payment is charged to the Advertiser for the request (if the funds have not yet been charged). The Helper completes

-132019100962 28 Aug 2019 the request and confirms that the goods are delivered 146 or that the task has been completed. The Helper may be prompted to provide evidence of the success of the request. Once the request is complete and/or verified as being completed, the payment is issued to the Helper 148 and the process is then ended 120.

[0058] Referring to Figure 3, there is shown a schematic 200 of the system 1. A requestor 202 (Advertiser) can communicate with the system via a laptop, mobile device or a computer. An application load balancer (see Figure 4) may serve as the single point of contact for clients such that traffic can be distributed across the system. The account associated with the Advertiser can be accessible via any suitable interface. Once logged into the system 210, a third party server 212 may host the session for the Advertiser to view the progress of a request. A user interface 214 may allow a user to navigate and find information and details in relation to requested tasks or messages.

[0059] A database of users may be accessed to confirm credentials of a user and allow for messaging between users of the system. Said database can be any predetermined database and includes preferably a non-volatile storage medium. A database-manager component may be used to control the underlying database instances using a service API. The service API is exposed to the end user, and permits users to perform maintenance and scaling operations on their database instances. In some embodiments, the database may be hosted on a cloud. If a cloud is used, the physical storage may be across multiple servers which allows the cloud to function effectively. Security protocols are used to protect data entered into the system from being accessed by unauthorised parties. The cloud storage may be hosted by an object storage service or may be locally hosted on servers.

[0060] Any desired cryptographic protection measures may be used to protect the login credentials of a user and protect the private messages between users of the system. A key system may be used for cryptographic protection in which the user has a key portion which can be provided to the server to verify the account credentials by hashing the key with a further key portion. If the hashing algorithm verifies that the keys are a matching pair, the user may have access to their account. Alternatively, more simple verification

-142019100962 28 Aug 2019 means may be used, such as email verification methods, or SMS verification methods. A user may also be prompted to enter an answer to a personal question which has been provided by the user at the time of signing up to the system.

[0061] In one embodiment, a Helper may be any person travelling from a first location to a second location in flight and is willing to assist others during travel, assist in carrying some luggage, medicines. Alternatively, the Helper may be a local to either a first location or a second location and can meet the Advertiser at local location to deliver goods or provide a service. For example, if the Advertiser is arriving at an airport in one state, and realises that they have forgotten a medication (or other good) which they require for a further flight, they may be able to contact a Helper to deliver the medication to the Advertiser when they arrive at the local location.

[0062] An Advertiser may be any person who has signed up to the system and posts at least one request. The request will be posted to predetermined users of the system, and more particularly, only relevant users of the system. Relevant users of a system may be other users which have a close proximity to an Advertiser currently, or will have a close proximity to an Advertiser in the future, or have common flights, or have common accommodation or travel plans. It will be appreciated that the times and locations of the Helper will be relevant to completion of the request, and therefore may be mandatory fields for entry. Alternatively, flight details may be used in place of the times and locations as times and locations can be retrieved from said flight details. Optionally, users may allow for third party applications to interact with the system 1 such that when third party applications become aware of an upcoming flight of a user, these details may be extracted by the system 1 from the third party application and used to indicate that they may be willing to act as a Helper. In this way, a user of the system can always have flight details and times uploaded to ensure that they do not miss an opportunity for using the system 1.

[0063] It will be appreciated that the system 1 will prompt the user to allow access to other applications installed, and which are installed in future, to allow for data to be transferred between the third party application and the system 1.

-152019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0064] A number of devices can be used to access the system 1, and more particularly any electronic device with access to Internet including, but not limited to; smart phones, cell phones, computers, laptops, notebooks, tablets, smart TVs or any other device adapted to virtualise data on a screen.

[0065] At least a portion of the system 1 may be hosted on a cloud based server or a logical server which is built, hosted and/or delivered through a cloud computing platform over the internet. A user interface layer may be viewed by a user via the application, which can be fitted to a predetermined device size or format. For example, common application formats may include z<95™, Android™, Windows™ formats, Mac™ formats, website formats, or common Internet Protocol formats such as JavaScript, Java, Python, PHP, Ruby, C++ or any other predetermined language.

[0066] Business logic modules allow for the generation of lists such as search results. The logic may be derived from SQL databases, or Non-SQL databases in communication with a relational database management system (RDBMS).

[0067] . API and/or business logic is stored on a server of the system 1 and is applied during the use of the application. Business modules of the system 1 utilise the APIs and/or the business logic to generate notifications, search results, recommendations and locations. Generation of notifications may be based on flight times (including flight delays) or other transport updates. Further, rescheduling and rerouting may also be notified to both the Advertiser and/or the Helper such that there clear information regarding expected times is always present. If there are undue delays for at least one party, alternative delivery methods may be provided by at least one of the Advertiser, the Helper or the system 1. For example, if the Advertiser is late landing and the Helper is required to leave the airport, a deposit location may be provided for the Helper to leave the goods for the Advertiser. A deposit location may be a safety deposit box, a locker, a holding facility, or any other safe place to temporarily leave items. The Helper can then photograph the goods in the location, and provide instructions for the Advertiser to collect the goods. If a Helper leaves the goods in a safe location, they can request that the request be complete when the goods are collected. At the time of collection, the

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Advertiser can confirm that the task is complete. It will be appreciated that a printed QR code or any other verification method may be provided on the packaging of the goods which can be scanned by the Advertiser to confirm the goods have been delivered.

[0068] If one party prompts the other party to complete the request, and the request is rejected, the system 1 may log the rejection of the request and the GPS coordinates of the rejection.

[0069] In another embodiment, the system 1 may prompt the completion of the task is the Advertiser and the Helper are at a predetermined GPS coordinate, or near thereto, which may indicate that the trip has concluded and therefore the Helper has completed the Advertiser request. If the system prompts the Advertiser and/or the Helper to complete the request, at least one of the parties may confirm the request. If a request is confirmed, a time period is provided for the other party to accept or reject the completion request. If no input is provided to the system 1, the request will be determined to be completed and payments will be released to the Helper.

[0070] Database: first database layer for storing user details and information and a second database layer which is restricted to authorised persons, such as staff and technical support.

[0071] API application programming interface a set of functions and procedures that allow the creation of applications which access the features or data of an operating system, application, or other service.

[0072] A payment portal or third party payment gateway may be used to allow a user to associate a payment method, such as a credit card or online payment methods such as PayPal™, Stripe™, direct debit, credit card or any other payment method. A payment method will be required for an Advertiser to be able to make requests via the application. It will be appreciated that the payment gateway may be adapted to convert currencies into the Helper’s preferred payment currency to be held in the trust account.

-172019100962 28 Aug 2019 [0073] Referring to Figure 4, there is shown another embodiment of the system 1 which allows for a third party 424 to access at least a portion of data stored by the system which is generated at least in part by users of the system 1. Third parties may include social media platforms, advertisers or other interested third parties. Marketing materials may be provided by third parties for display via the application, or data associated with the users may be provided to third parties. For example, if an Advertiser requests alcohol from a Helper, third parties may be able to provide targeted advertisements in relation to alcohol (depending on jurisdictional location and regulations). As such, more targeted Advertisements may be generated by the requests of the Advertiser or by comments in messages between users.

[0074] Users may interact with the system via a web browser 402, iOS client 404, Android™ client 406, or any other API integrated client 408. HTTPS requests to access the system can be distributed by an application load balancer 412. The application load balancer 412 may then allow data to be transferred to and from the server 414, which may be a cloud server 414 or local server. The cloud server may host API services 416 which can be used to interact with a web application 420. The web application 420 may also receive and transmit data to and from file storages 422 and database storages 418. Data may be temporarily stored, for example session data, or may be stored longer term, such as client credentials or other client (user) data. Data may be stored in the database storage 418 and/or the file storage 422. It will be appreciated that at least one layer of encryption is provided between the web application 420 and the database storage 418 and/or the file storage 422.

[0075] Third parties may be allowed to access at least a portion of the data from the database storage 418 and/or the file storage 422 for “5zg Data’’’ purposes, or advertising purposes, for example.

[0076] In another embodiment, the Helper can advertise that they have space in their inventory (luggage) and can carry additional items for others, and interested users may contact the Helper to use their remaining inventory space. In this embodiment, the

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Helper is also the Advertiser and a further user will be a requestor for the offered service or goods.

[0077] In one example, the system may be used to hire a travel companion (Helper). The travel companion may be a person with the same, or similar airport travel plans as the Advertiser. As the travel companion will be travelling from the same departure terminal to an arrival terminal with the Advertiser, the Advertiser can be escorted to the correct terminals to ensure that they arrive safely. Arranging an escort for an elderly person can also be of particular importance for a number of cultures.

[0078] In another example, the delivery of alcohol can be facilitated by a Helper. The Helper will need to be of a legal age to purchase and deliver alcohol to another person who is also of age. In this example, each of the Advertiser and the Helper will need to verify their age. Verification of age may be completed at sign up for the system, or age may be verified when the user elects to purchase or deliver goods which are age restricted, such as alcohol or tobacco.

[0079] In a further example, the Advertiser may wish to purchase products which are location specific for delivery. Products which are location specific may be only located in a single location, such as fresh buffalo mozzarella which may expire or degrade in quality if not delivered in a predetermined time period. As such, having a Helper acquire the products specific to a location can ensure that goods arrive before an expiry or degradation time.

[0080] Persons travelling to an international jurisdiction may not be able to speak the native language, and therefore may request a translator to assist with immigration, customs and luggage pickup and may assist with navigating the Advertiser to a hotel or other desired destination at the arrival location.

[0081] Other services may be offered by the system, such as premium options which can include the use of diplomatic bags, expedited services, private transit vehicles or any

-192019100962 28 Aug 2019 other premium service which can accelerate the speed in which items arrive at a desired location.

[0082] There are a number of uses for the system 1 which can assist passengers of a flight, cruise or other trip. Non-exhaustive and non-limiting examples of uses of the system 1 are provided below.

[0083] Prescription Medication Delivery Example [0084] Advertiser uploads request for mediation with information, flexible dates or month or a fixed date. A search is conducted on a server to list Helpers available to complete the task. Once the Helper list is displayed, the Advertiser can select a Helper to complete the task and proceed to make a payment and provide any necessary documents for the prescription or other medication. The payment is provided to the trust account. However, during payment process the purchase of medication amount is credited to the Helper account for purchase of items. A private message application can be established between the Advertiser and Helper via the application of the system 1. Information can be exchanged on the private messenger and the Helper can then complete the request. Once the request is complete, the Advertiser can authorise the release of the funds.

[0085] It will be appreciated that prescribed medication should be purchased by the Helper only. This means the Advertiser will pay the funds on the application and the prescription is provided to the Helper on the private messaging application of the system 1. Authorising the Helper to purchase the medication and using the prescription may allow legal purchase and provision of prescription medication to an Advertiser without breaching restricted pharmaceutical regulations and laws.

[0086] Purchase of goods at Helper location or duty free location example.

[0087] Advertiser uploads request for goods with information, flexible dates or month or a fixed date. A search is conducted on a server to list Helpers available to complete the task. Once the Helper list is displayed, the Advertiser can select a Helper to complete the

-202019100962 28 Aug 2019 request for purchasing goods and proceed to make a payment for the goods and the services rendered by the Helper. A private message application can be established between the Advertiser and Helper via the application of the system 1. The payment for the Helper can then be provided to the trust account and funds for the goods are provided directly to the Helper for purchase of the goods. Information can be exchanged on the private messenger and the helper can then complete the request. Once the request is complete, the Advertiser can authorise the release of the funds.

[0088] Duty free items can be purchased by the Helper at the duty free location and then provided to the Advertiser. Alternatively, the Advertiser may purchase the goods and the Helper can carry the goods through customs or another predetermined gate such that no limits on imports are exceeded. If the Helper is to purchase the goods, an amount may be provided to purchase the goods, and any remaining funds after the transaction can be transferred back to the Advertiser. The receipt(s) may be captured and uploaded to the application to verify the price paid by the Helper and remaining funds can be returned. Once the delivery and remaining funds from the payment is credited back to the Advertiser then the payment to the Helper is released.

[0089] Transportation of Documents or Package Example.

[0090] Advertiser uploads request for transportation of documents or goods, the request comprising at least one request data set. A search is conducted by a server to list Helpers available to complete the task which match at least a portion of the data set. Once the Helper list is displayed, the Advertiser can select a Helper to complete the request for delivery of a package or documents. A private message application can be established between the Advertiser and Helper via the application of the system 1. The payment for the Helper can then be provided to the trust account. The Advertiser can then schedule a meeting location and time to meet the Helper and show the Helper any documents or contents of the package to confirm that the items are legally allowed to be transported. Contents of the package can be photographed by the Helper and uploaded to the application and associated with the request for a record. The package can then be sealed while the Helper watches to ensure that additional items are not included in the package

-212019100962 28 Aug 2019 before carrying the package. At least one photograph or recording can then be taken of the package and uploaded to the system and associated with the request history. Preferably, a photograph of Advertiser holding the package or envelope is taken by the Helper and uploaded on the private messenger such that there is evidence of the provider of the package. The Advertiser also preferably seals the package with a tamper evident tape or other tamper evident packaging.

[0091] The package can then be provided to the Helper and then the Advertiser takes a picture of the Helper along with the package and uploads the picture on the private messenger. This way the Helper is acknowledges that the package has been received and that no suspicious items are within the package, and that the package is now in the care of the Helper. The Helper can now complete the request, and once the request is complete the Advertiser can release the funds for the Helper.

[0092] This example is of particular use when the Advertiser is out of luggage space and the Helper is commissioned to take a portion of the luggage to avoid excess baggage fees which can be multiple times more expensive than commissioning a Helper to carry the goods. This example may also be useful if the Advertiser requires certainty that documents will make it to another jurisdiction, or are not out of sight and potentially lost by regular postal services. This method may also be faster than conventional postal services and therefore ay also allow for expedited shipping times at a cheaper rate.

[0093] Safehand of Electronics Example [0094] Advertiser uploads request for electronic goods and provides information, times, dates and or any other predetermined data for the request. The electronic goods may be custom ordered or may be stock electronics, such as a music player or notebook. A search of the user database is conducted and data is retrieved by the server and forwarded for display on a user device and is viewable via the application. The search results preferably include a list of Helpers which are available to complete the requested task of the Advertiser. Once the Helper list is displayed, the Advertiser can select a Helper to complete the request for purchasing goods and proceed to make a payment for the goods

-222019100962 28 Aug 2019 and the services rendered by the Helper. A private message application can be established between the Advertiser and Helper via the application of the system 1. The payment for the Helper can then be provided to the trust account and funds for the electronic goods are provided directly to the Helper for purchase of the electronic goods. Information can be exchanged on the private messenger and the helper can then complete the request.

[0095] The Helper can then purchase the item, on behalf of the Advertiser, on the Internet and direct the item to the Helper. Alternatively, the Advertiser finds the item on the Internet (online store) and pays for the item, and the Helper will pick up the item from the store or have the item directed to a Helper address. It will be appreciated that if the Helper is to purchase the item, the details of the item can be provided to the Helper, such as a product description, a hyperlink, a webpage address or other means for finding the correct item for sale.

[0096] When the package has been received by the Helper, the Helper can confirm receipt of the package via a private message through the application. Photographs or other confirmations can be used to record the receipt of the package with the system 1. If there is no receipt of the item, parcel tracking may be used to locate the item, or an investigation may be lodged via the system 1 or via the service responsible for the package delivery. When the Helper has delivered the package, or the package has been retrieved by third parties, the requested task can be completed and the funds can be issued to the Helper.

[0097] Having goods purchased by a local may be of particular advantage for items which are generally difficult, or not purchasable by a foreign credit card or foreign payment method. For example, Japanese products may only ship to local Japanese addresses, and therefore having a local receiver and/or purchaser may allow a foreigner to acquire goods that would generally be unavailable for purchase.

[0098] Further, having electronics purchased locally may be beneficial if there are batteries inside the electronics. Often goods with batteries must be provided with a safety

-232019100962 28 Aug 2019 datasheet to confirm that the goods are safe to be transported, and having a Helper carry the goods can be a more efficient method for obtaining electronics.

[0099] Once the request for the electronic goods is complete (i.e. the electronic goods have been delivered to an Advertiser or assigned Advertiser recipient), the Advertiser can authorise the release of the funds to the Helper.

[00100] The Helper may be required to photograph the goods or service if possible, such that there is a digital record stored by the system 1 of the goods being carried by the Helper for the Advertiser. This may assist with compliance of jurisdictional laws regarding carrying particular goods. For example, if the Advertiser were to ask for carrying of alcohol, the Helper age can be verified as being above a jurisdictional age requirement for possessing such items, and/or that alcohol was legal in said jurisdiction.

[00101] In one embodiment, the system 1 is used by travel agents (flight booking agents). At the time of completion of a travel transaction, the travel agent may prompt the user or provide details to the user regarding the system 1. The user may then download the application and the agent can assist the passenger with the application and whether they wish to use the services offered via the application.

[00102] In relation to new items (first-hand goods), all goods may be provided to the helper with tamper evident seals. This may allow the Helper to courier goods which are not for themselves to the Advertiser without risk of drug trafficking allegations and may prevent tampering of the product.

[00103] For example, Advertisers may purchase a new item online and this item will be delivered to the Helper address for collection. This means the advertiser should select the helper destination address for the item delivery. After this, the final destination of this item delivery will be completed by the helper. The goods can remain in the original shipping packaging, provided that the box or item is within a reasonable carryable size.

-242019100962 28 Aug 2019 [00104] In another example, the Advertiser may purchase an item online and selects the store which is close to helper address for a pick up. The Helper will pick up the item and deliver the item as per the Advertiser request to a destination location.

[00105] In yet a further example, the Advertiser may pay the total amount on the app or website (this includes helper fee, service fee and the item purchase price). Once the Helper receives the item purchase funds from the system 1, the item can be purchased by the Helper and delivered to the destination location. If the fads are released by the system 1, predetermined stores may be used to verify that the request is being completed with respect to the desired goods. Alternatively, the Helper may be allowed to photograph the goods for confirmation by the Advertiser before the funds are released. It will be appreciated that if the Advertiser cannot respond, a predetermined time period may elapse before the funds are released for the Helper to user for the purchase of goods. This may be the case if the Advertiser is on a flight, and the system may identify that the user is in transit and unlikely to respond, and therefore may authenticate and issue the funds to the Helper to purchase the goods. A photograph may be uploaded to the system 1 and OCR technology may also be used to match the uploaded image (photograph) of a product with the request details, and/or a “reverse image search” (comparative image search) may be used for a captured product image to confirm that the Helper is purchasing the requested goods before funds are released to allow purchase. It will be appreciated that the system may be adapted to undertake this process without human intervention or human involvement.

[00106] In relation to used items (second-hand goods) the goods any be couriered by any method as disclosed in this document. It will also be appreciated that this may be of particular use with respect to purchase or gifting of duty free items purchased byt eh Helper to provide to the Advertiser.

[00107] In yet another embodiment, the Advertiser may post a request, via the application or Internet portal, for passengers arriving or departing from a travel location to view. The server maybe able to make recommendations of Helpers who meet at least one data set of the request and therefore may be suitable to complete the request. The

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Advertiser may then elect a helper from the recommended Helpers who best suit their request. The Advertiser may then contact the Helper to agree upon terms of the request.

[00108] In one embodiment, the system 1 may relate to a server for processing a method for contracting logistics services. The method comprising generating an advertisement comprising a request having a data set and uploading the request to a server of the system. Said server retrieving a first list of users and generating a second list of users from the first list of users, the second list of users matching at least a portion of the data set of the request. The second list of users being rendered for display on an advertiser device. Selecting a user from the second list of users to complete the request; and wherein when the selected user agrees to complete the request, a payment is made to a trust account to be released when the user completes the request, and wherein the request data set is associated with a transit schedule and is dynamically updated based on delays of the transit schedule.

[00109] Preferably, the transit schedule may be a flight schedule. Preferably, the request data set may comprise at least one of; a time; a location, a GPS coordinate, a payment amount, a flight time, a user name, an email address, a contact number, a hyperlink, at least one instruction, and product details. Preferably, users rendered on the display may be users including users available to complete the request. Preferably, an estimated completion time of the request may be generated with respect to transit schedule of the selected user and the GPS coordinates of the selected user. Preferably, the payment may be released to the selected user when the request is completed. Preferably, a verification may be provided to the system of the completion of a request before the payment is released to the selected user. Preferably, the verification may be confirmed by the Advertiser before the payment is released. Preferably, the selected user may record evidence of the request being completed at predetermined stages.

[00110] In another embodiment, the system may relate to a process for terminal deliveries, the process comprising the steps of; an Advertiser logging into a system via a server and the Advertiser generating a request including at least one delivery data set which is recorded by the server. The system generating a list of potential couriers able to

-262019100962 28 Aug 2019 comply with the at least one delivery data set. Establishing a direct message between the advertiser and at least one courier. Direct messaging the courier with delivery details, and confirming the delivery price between each of the Advertiser and the Courier. The Advertiser providing a payment including the delivery price to the system. The Courier receiving the goods at a predetermined location. The courier taking the goods through at least one ticketed gate or security gate; and wherein when the Courier is at the delivery location, the courier verifies that the goods are at the delivery location and requests that the Advertiser provide a confirmation of completion of the request to release the payment to the Courier.

[00111] Preferably, the process may further include capturing a photograph of the goods and uploading said photograph via the direct message to be recorded with the system. Preferably, the confirmation of completion may use a cryptographic verification uploaded to the system. Preferably, the predetermined location may be at a transit terminal. Preferably, the payment further may comprise a service fee for using the system. Preferably, the payment may be released to the Courier when the request is completed. Preferably, a verification may be required by at least one of the Advertiser and the Courier before the request is recorded as completed by the system.

[00112] In yet another embodiment, it is preferred that the Helper has access to an area which is restricted, or gated, or must pass through security, such as airport customs or a ticketed location. It will be appreciated that access authorisation of the Helper may be verified by the system before allowing the Helper to be in contact with the Advertiser.

[00113] In one preferred embodiment, any parcel service within Australia or Overseas through the present system, each of the parcels or shopping items will be scanned by a Customs Broker 142 who engages with the present system to ensure the parcel is safe to carry by the Helper. Once the Customs Broker 142 scans the item or parcel, a seal may be placed by the system on the parcel with the date the item was scanned. Further, this parcel is then dispatched to the Helper, so he or she can carry the item to the receiver country or city to deliver the item.

2019100962 28 Aug 2019

-27[00114] The system of the present invention is also adapted to provide a list of shopping websites on the web interface, so the requester can also carry out online shopping through the web interface and post the items to the Helper through the Customs Broker 142.

[00115] In one embodiment, all online shopping item or any parcel assistance will be by default sent to Customs Broker 142 for security checks and then dispatched to the Helper for delivery of the item.

[00116] Although the invention has been described with reference to specific examples, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that the invention may be embodied in many other forms, in keeping with the broad principles and the spirit of the invention described herein.

[00117] The present invention and the described preferred embodiments specifically include at least one feature that is industrial applicable.

Claims (16)

1. A server for processing a method for contracting logistics services, the method comprising;

generating an advertisement comprising a request having a data set;

uploading the request to a server of the system;

said server retrieving a first list of users and generating a second list of users from the first list of users, the second list of users matching at least a portion of the data set of the request;

the second list of users being rendered for display on an Advertiser device;

selecting a user from the second list of users to complete the request; and wherein when the selected user agrees to complete the request, a payment is made to a trust account to be released when the user completes the request, and wherein the request data set is associated with a transit schedule and is dynamically updated based on delays of the transit schedule.

2. The server of claim 1, wherein the transit schedule is a flight schedule.

3. The server of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the request data set comprises at least one of; a time; a location, a GPS coordinate, a payment amount, a flight time, a user name, an email address, a contact number, a hyperlink, at least one instruction, and product details.

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4. The server of any one of the preceding claims, wherein users rendered on the display are users including users available to complete the request.

5. The server of any one of the preceding claims, wherein an estimated completion time of the request is generated with respect to transit schedule of the selected user and the GPS coordinates of the selected user.

6. The server of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the payment is released to the selected user when the request is completed.

7. The server of claim 6, wherein a verification is provided to the system of the completion of a request before the payment is released to the selected user.

8. The server of claim 7, wherein the verification is confirmed by the Advertiser before the payment is released.

9. The server of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the selected user records evidence of the request being completed at predetermined stages.

10. A process for terminal deliveries, the process comprising the steps of;

an Advertiser logging into a system via a server;

the Advertiser generating a request including at least one delivery data set which is recorded by the server;

-302019100962 28 Aug 2019 the system generating a list of potential couriers able to comply with the at least one delivery data set;

establishing a direct message between the Advertiser and at least one courier;

direct messaging the courier with delivery details confirming the delivery price between each of the Advertiser and the Courier;

the Advertiser providing a payment including the delivery price to the system;

the courier receiving the goods at a predetermined location;

the courier taking the goods through at least one ticketed gate or security gate; and wherein when the Courier is at the delivery location, the courier verifies that the goods are at the delivery location and requests that the Advertiser provide a confirmation of completion of the request to release the payment to the Courier.

11. The process as claimed in claim 10, wherein the process further includes capturing a photograph of the goods and uploading said photograph via the direct message to be recorded with the system.

12. The process as claimed in claim 10 or claim 11, wherein the confirmation of completion uses a cryptographic verification uploaded to the system.

13. The process as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 12, wherein the predetermined location is at a transit terminal.

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14. The process as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 13, wherein the payment further comprises a service fee for using the system.

15. The process as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein the payment is released to the Courier when the request is completed.

16. The process as claimed in any one of claims 10 to 14, wherein a verification is required by at least one of the Advertiser and the Courier before the request is recorded as completed by the system.