GB2499610A

GB2499610A - Time limited webpages accessed via barcodes

Info

Publication number: GB2499610A
Application number: GB1203004.5A
Authority: GB
Inventors: Elizabeth Kate Watts; Anthony James Olsen
Original assignee: Individual
Current assignee: Individual
Priority date: 2012-02-22
Filing date: 2012-02-22
Publication date: 2013-08-28
Also published as: GB201203004D0

Abstract

A communication system comprising an object having a plurality of individual codes, such as QR barcodes, displayed thereon and an Internet-based website, wherein the codes are capable of being read using a device, the codes being adapted so that when they are read by such a device, displays a predetermined Internet-based Target Webpage, and wherein the codes and/or webpage can be active for a limited period of time after which they may become inaccessible.

Description

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A Communication System

Field of the Invention

This invention relates to a communication system.

Background to the Invention

A significant proportion of people enjoy counting down to a particular date of an event. Notable examples of events to which people countdown include Christmas with the use of Advent calendars, sporting events (using wall charts) and weddings using traditional calendars and marking off the months/weeks/days to go. Such countdown products make the user feel more involved with the event, especially when they are rewarded for their interest, for example, with chocolates in Advent calendars. Clearly, for a wedding, daily chocolates are not always preferable. In the case of some countdown products, a user may get bored of waiting for the event because there is little or no interaction between the user and the event. This leaves the user feeling less involved with the event or enjoying the build up to an event less than they otherwise could.

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Summary of the Invention

The present invention is directed to a communication system comprising an object having plurality of individual codes displayed thereon and an internet-based website, wherein the codes are capable of being read using a device, the codes being adapted so that when they are read by such a device, the device displays a predetermined Internet-based Target Webpage.

Advantageously, at least one code and/or the Targeted Webpage is active for a limited period of time after which it becomes inaccessible.

The Targeted Webpage is a predetermined Internet URL.

The system engages a user in the forthcoming event and makes it more interactive and more exciting, thereby improving their enjoyment of the occasion. By making a user feel more involved with an event, the revenue streams to the organiser can be increased, thereby being beneficial to the event organiser. Additionally, where the occasion is an emotional event, such as a wedding, the user may feel more excited and connected to the event by interacting with the countdown, thereby making the overall event more special to them.

The codes may be visual codes, alphanumeric codes, which may be read using character recognition software or the like, or other codes.

The device may be in the form of a desktop computer having a webcam attached thereto or integrated therein. However, it is preferable that the device is a portable device, such as a smartphone, a computer tablet or similar.

The Target Webpage may comprise a time-to-live (also referred to as 'TTL') and may display an offer, a game, information on the subject and/or an interactive experience for the user relating to the event. Where the Target Webpage presents an offer to a user, the offer may be in the form of a printable coupon, an electronic coupon that can be displayed on a portable electronic device, a code for use online or in-store, or a link to a website.

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Alternatively, the Target Webpage may contain promotional material and/or incentives or a betting page to allow for specific bets in relation to the event. Where, for example, the event is a religious occasion, the Target Webpage may provide the history and meaning of that event.

The system can be used to increase web traffic to a website over a known period of time and allows for offline branding via the object having codes thereon, increased e-commerce and increased m-commerce traffic. Additionally, the system reduces the reliance on non-target specific e-mail spam, thereby reducing cost and customer annoyance.

The system increases the interaction between the user and an event, thereby increasing interest and excitement. Additionally, lengthy data entry of typing in web addresses is eliminated at the same time as rewarding a customer for getting involved and excited. The object bearing the codes can be branded according to the event and any sponsor(s) thereof.

Advantageously, the sequence in which the codes are intended to be activated is indicated on the object, and the time for which the Target Webpage associated with that code is active corresponds to the start time of the relevant code, and, preferably, the Target Webpage become inactive upon the intended start time of the subsequent code in the sequence. By starting the code at a known time after the object has been distributed, the contents of the Target Webpage can be amended up to the time the code becomes active, or live. This can be particularly advantageous when unforeseen last minute changes are necessary. The provider can create their own promotions, thereby allowing a person to tailor a package as a gift for a friend. For example, as a birthday or anniversary present, a person can tailor a package of gifts and/or experiences that the recipient of a coded object can enjoy.

It is preferable that the last code of the series corresponds to a particular time and/or date with respect to an event. This may be the start of an event or a point during an event, such as a final in a sporting event or a headline act at a music event. With the codes embedded

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in a countdown package, customers are prompted to access the code on a specific date or event time (hourly, daily, weekly, monthly and the like) via their device.

In one embodiment, the system is in the form of a count down system leading up to an event. In such an embodiment, the last code of the count down system may become 'live' at the time of, or just before, the start of the event itself. It may be desirable to activate the code on the day before the event starts.

Alternatively, the system is in the form of a count down system from start of an event to its finish. This may be preferable where the event occurs over an extended period, for example a week or a month, as many sporting events do.

Preferably, the code is a matrix barcode, and more, preferably, the code is a QR, "Quick Response", code. Although various matrix, or 2-dimensional, bar codes exist, QR codes are capable of presenting a large amount of readable data in a simple format. Whilst it is envisaged that 1-dimensional codes could be used in the present invention, portable devices, such as smartphones and computer tablets, are more readily adapted to read 2-dimensional codes, especially QR codes.

Advantageously, the code is initially hidden and can be subsequently revealed. The code may be hidden from sight by using a door, or window, that can be opened and/or detached so that the user can open the door and view the code inside, either on the body of the object or on the rear face of the door. This provides the opportunity to use the system on traditional chocolate Advent calendars. Alternatively, or additionally, the code may be hidden by an opaque substance, preferably a latex-based material, and the opaque substance can be scratched off but is resistant to normal wear and abrasion.

The invention extends to an object comprising a plurality of individual matrix bar codes capable of being read by a portable device positioned on its surface and an indication as to the order the codes are intended to be read is provided.

It is preferable that the object is selected from a group comprising: a countdown calendar; a wall chart; a retail loyalty card; product packaging; an event programme; an event

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ticket; a calendar; a model and a diary. The object may be 2-dimensional or 3-dimensional and may be in the form of a relatively low cost object, such as a card, poster or calendar, or a higher cost object such as a model. It may be a model that the user constructs and only by completing the model will the user have the codes in the correct order.

Advantageously, the matrix bar code is initially hidden and the user must first uncover it prior to it being available for reading with a portable device.

The code may be in addition to a gift and/or tangible item within the object.

It is envisaged that the system may be used for any event or occasion, especially those in relation to: sports; birthdays; anniversaries; religious occasions, including weddings, baptisms, bar mitzvah, etc.; social gatherings; festivals; music events; and retail promotional periods.

The present invention allows one to create a branded event driven package that allows the customer to mark time in the lead up to an event that gets them more involved in the experience, and also allows for the creation of a tangible connection between the brand and the event.

The system may work in parallel with an existing loyalty scheme. Additionally, the present invention may add an enhanced tier level to an existing loyalty scheme, giving additional or premium levels of reward, which can be customised to particular customer segments.

Brief Description of the Drawing

An embodiment of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, and with reference to the accompanying drawing, in which:

Figure 1 is an object in accordance with the present invention.

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments

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Figures 1 shows a wedding countdown card 10, which may be provided by a commercial wedding organiser /promoter to a person planning a wedding, comprising a cardboard backing 12 on which twelve QR codes 14 are positioned. The QR codes are then covered with a square of 'scratch-off latex coating 16 and a number 18 is printed on each latex square. A reference code 20 is printed in the bottom corner of the card 10.

When the date of the wedding is set, the card reference code 20 is entered into a website along with the date of the wedding and the intended location. Each of the twelve codes corresponds to a month in the lead up to the wedding date.

If, for example, the wedding date is 25 June, the card 10 becomes active on 25 June of the year before. On 25 June of the year before, the square 16 numbered "12" is scratched off and the QR code 14a scanned using a portable device such as a smartphone. The smartphone then redirects the user to a webpage of the linked website. The webpage associated with the square 16 labelled "12" is the first of 13 pages associated with the registered card 10. The other 12 pages are inactive at this point. The first associated webpage may provide a list of informative details that might require organisation in the forthcoming year, such as venue booking, flowers, hairdresser, caterer, etc. Additionally, the webpage displays one or more offers from a supplier local to the intended wedding location.

On 25 July, eleven months before the wedding, the square 16 numbered "11" may be scratched off revealing a further code 14b. This code links to a second webpage which may contain links to offers on treats for the bride and/or others and/or may display further information in relation to other things to be considered for the wedding. The first webpage may be kept active until the date of the wedding. Alternatively, the information may be reproduced and displayed on the second webpage, at which point the first webpage expires and is no longer accessible. When the third QR code is activated after it becomes 'live' on 25 August, the page linked to the second code may expire and become inaccessible.

Further examples of the present invention are outlined below:

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Example 1

An advent calendar is provided with twenty-four QR codes one on the inside of each of twenty-four openable windows. Christmas offers are provided in relation to presents and/or food and drink. The offers may be provided by various local businesses or may be provided by a single supplier such as a supermarket. The webpages expire at the end of each day from the start of December, although they may be kept 'alive' until 25 December. Depending on the time zones involved, it may be desirable to have the webpages active for a period beyond a single day, for example 36 hours. Games, photos, music and/or electronic downloads may be provided in addition to, or in place of the Christmas offers. All issued calendars may have the same series of QR codes, thereby requiring twenty-four webpages that are accessed in turn by all involved, rather than running custom webpages for each user.

Example 2

A card is provided to existing loyalty card holders at a pharmacist store, the card having a sequence of thirty QR codes printed on the surface, each covered by a latex coating that can be 'scratched' off. The latex coatings are each provided with a number from a sequence progressing from 1 to 30 printed on its outer surface. The numbers corresponding to a day in a 30-day Summer sale of the pharmacist with offers on sun-cream at the start of the promotion and photo-processing/printing at the latter end of the promotion.

Example 3

A three-dimension model of the Olympic Rings is provided with 16 openable doors, each corresponding to a day in the Olympic Games calendar. One or more of the official sponsors of the Olympic Games may be assigned one or more door and link their product or services to the QR code contained therein. Alternatively, opportunities to partake in a particular Olympic sport may be linked to the code. This may be applicable to both the Summer and Winter Olympic games.

Example 4

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A poster is provided with 32 QR codes printed thereon, each one corresponding to a day in the football World Cup. Offers on football related equipment may be provided under each code, each offer being available for a limited time. Alternatively, a football related game or song may be linked to the code.

Example 5

A calendar is distributed in a national newspaper to capture the lead up to a football World Cup. The calendar has eight QR codes, one every two weeks for a total of 14 weeks. The customer has the opportunity to win tickets at the start of the QR codes and as travel arrangements become more difficult to arrange at short-notice, promotional offers are provided for discounts on food and drink and football related merchandise. The QR codes link to coupons sent to the user's smartphone.

Example 6

A ticket to a music festival is provided with matrix bar codes printed on the back. The ticket holder scans the first code and enters a PIN code, which may have been set up on purchasing the tickets, to access a webpage. The webpage may provide at least one offer for a venue at the music festival, or may link to free downloads of bands playing that, or the previous, day. At the end of the day, or festival, the webpages become inactive and can no longer be accessed.

Example 7

A customer loyalty card is provided with a predetermined number of codes thereon. The customer scans the QR code on their loyalty card in accordance with having fulfilled certain obligations, for example four purchases, and enters a randomly generated code provided by the store on to the webpage reached from the QR code, this in turn actives a webpage for 48 hours before it becomes inactive. The webpage may provide an offer on an item commonly purchased by the customer which may be used then or requested an used at a later date. When the customer reaches six purchases they scan the next code and enter a further generated code, repeating the process until the card is complete.

Example 8

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A card is provided to customers of a particular brand in advance of the launch of a new range or product. The cards may be physically sent to each customer on the database, or sent electronically and printed out by the user. As the launch of the new product approaches, codes are activated to assist with building interest in the new product through online videos and articles. Additionally, the final code links the customer to an offer to receive a percentage discount off the new product on launch day.

Example 9

A loyalty card is given to customers of a supermarket in November to increase Christmas spending. The "12 Days of Christmas" entitles the customer to promotions during the festive season with QR codes taking the customer to a different offer each day, at which point they can enter their telephone number and receive coupons at their telephone in the form of text or picture messages. The coupon can be used for grocery items in a sequence with more perishable items offered closer to Christmas day. Additionally, the loyalty card shows the offers on it next to, or around, the appropriate QR code so that the customer knows what will be offered and can plan accordingly.

Although less desirable, the object itself may be an electrical device such as an electronic calendar or smartphone and a scanner on a separate device is used to scan the code. In such a situation, the system may comprise an electronic application that can be installed on the electronic device.

Where the object has doors to be opened, a chocolate may be contained behind the door, wherein the chocolate comprises white and dark, or milk, chocolate in the form of a matrix bar code.

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Claims

1. A communication system comprising an object having a plurality of individual codes displayed thereon and an internet-based website, wherein the codes are capable of being read using a device, the codes being adapted so that when they are read by such a device, the device displays to a predetermined Internet-based Target Webpage.

2. A communication system according to claim 1, wherein at least one code and/or the Target Webpage is active for a limited period of time after which it becomes inaccessible.

3. A communication system according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the sequence in which the codes are intended to be activated is indicated on the object, and the time for which the Target Webpage connected to that code is active corresponds to the start time of the relevant code.

4. A communication system according to claim 3, wherein the Target Webpage becomes inactive upon the intended start time of the subsequent code in the sequence.

5. A communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the last code of the series corresponds to a particular time with respect to an event.

6. A communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system is in the form of a count down system leading up to an event.

7. A communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the system is in the form of a count down system from start of an event to its finish.

8. A communication system according to any preceding claim, wherein the code is a matrix barcode.

9. A communication system according to claim 8, wherein the code is a QR code.

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10. A communication system according to any preceding claim, wherein the code is initially hidden and can be subsequently revealed.

11. An object comprising a plurality of individual matrix bar codes capable of being read by a portable device positioned on its surface and an indication as to the order the codes are intended to be read is provided.

12. An object according to claim 11, wherein the object is selected from a group comprising: a countdown calendar; a wall chart; a retail loyalty card; an event programme; a calendar; and a diary.

13. An object according to claim 11 or claim 12, wherein the matrix bar code is initially hidden and the user must first uncover it prior to it being available for reading with a device.

14. A communication system substantially as described herein with reference to and/or as illustrated in any appropriate combination of the accompanying text and/or drawings.

15. An object, for use with a communication system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, substantially as described herein with reference to and/or as illustrated in any appropriate combination of the accompanying text and/or drawing.