SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR MONITORING PACKAGE OPENING AND PERSONALIZING USER ENGAGEMENT

Abstract

A system and method for real-time tracking, monitoring, and engagement of users with regard to opening of packaged goods and personalization of user engagement through the use of encoded labels and a cloud-based platform is disclosed. The system and method can be used for event monitoring and in particular for medical therapy management. Medication adherence can be reported in real-time and personalized notices and reminders can be sent to users to remind them to take medication as prescribed and link them to relevant resources.

Claims

1-10. (canceled)

11. A method for real-time tracking, monitoring, and engagement of users with regard to opening of packaged goods and personalization of user engagement through the use of encoded labels and a cloud-based platform, comprising: providing an encoded label, wherein the encoded label comprises encoded information sufficient to identify contents of a packaged good, a user of the contents of the packaged good or a combination of contents of the packaged good and the user; thereafter receiving the encoded information from the encoded label, wherein the encoded information is transmitted by a smart device; comparing the received encoded information to predetermined parameters that have been stored in a database; determining if the received encoded information deviates from one or more of the predetermined parameters that have been stored in the database; determining if any action should be taken depending on the deviation of the received encoded information from one or more of the predetermined parameters that have been stored in the database; thereafter taking one or more actions depending on the deviation of the received encoded information if it is determined that action should be taken; and recording the received encoded information and the one or more actions taken, if any, in the database, wherein the recorded received encoded information and the one or more actions taken are made accessible to a provider, wherein the provider comprises a provider of medication, wherein the encoded information comprises a recommended dosing regimen of a prescription medication, wherein the predetermined parameters comprise the recommended dosing regimen of the prescription medication, wherein the action that is taken if the received encoded information deviates from the predetermined parameters comprises one or more communications sent to the user, wherein the one or more communications comprise push notifications, alerts, SMS text messages, email, mail, telephone call, chatbot, fax, letter or in-person visit, wherein the encoded label comprises an encoded NFC label, an encoded RFID label, an encoded QR code label, an encoded Bluetooth™ label, an encoded BLE label, or an encoded acoustic label, wherein the acoustic encoded label comprises sound generation when the package bearing the acoustic encoded label is opened.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the acoustic encoded label comprises voice signals given when the package bearing the acoustic encoded label is opened.

13-17. (canceled)

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The invention will be more readily understood from the following detailed description of the various aspects of the invention taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings in which:

[0029] FIGS. 1A-1I depict a variety of packaging and exemplary placement of encoded labels according to various embodiments of the invention.

[0030] FIG. 2 depicts a schematic of a platform suitable for use according to one embodiment of the invention comprising a database and programmable processor; a label encoding interface; a user portal; an admin/provider portal; a plurality of algorithms; and a communications portal.

[0031] FIGS. 3A-3F depict schematics of the database and programmable processor; the label encoding interface; the user portal; the admin/provider portal; the plurality of algorithms; and the communications portal according to the embodiment of the invention shown in FIG. 2.

[0032] FIG. 4 depicts a flow scheme of the execution of exemplary algorithms resident in the database of the platform that can be executed by the database and programmable processor.

[0033] FIG. 5 depicts a flow scheme of exemplary actions that may be taken upon confirmation of activation of an encoded label recorded on a user profile according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0034] FIGS. 6A-6F depict activation schematics of various encoded labels as used according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0035] FIG. 7 depicts a flow scheme of the method according to one embodiment of the invention.

[0036] FIGS. 8A-8I depict mock-up screens depicting the platform as viewed through an app resident on a smartphone of a user of the platform according to one embodiment of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0037] The invention comprises one or more encoded labels that are activated at the time that a user opens a packaged good. A packaged good may comprise any type of goods including but not limited to medications, health and wellness supply, consumables, food, beverage, etc., and may be in any form including but not limited to bottles, blister packs, calendar packs, plastic bags, boxes, tubes, syringes, etc. In one embodiment, an encoded label may be placed directly on the good. Activation occurs according to the type of encoded label that is on the packaged good. Encoded labels may be passive or active.

[0038] A passive encoded label operates without a power supply of its own and has information encoded on the label that can be read by a smart device. Some passive encoded labels can be powered if an active device comes into range through electromagnetic induction of a current in an integrated circuit on the passive device. In one embodiment, the passive encoded label generates power from low-level energy harvesting sources such as solar, RF, and thermal gradients. Passive encoded labels that can be activated when a smart device is within range that are suitable for use in the invention comprise Near Field Communication (NFC) and Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID). A packaged good with an NFC label may be activated by tapping an NFC-enabled device in the proximity of the NFC label. A packaged good with a passive RFID label may be activated when an RFID reader is brought into proximity of the RFID label. The encoded label may comprise Bluetooth Low-Energy™ or BLE™. In this embodiment, a BLE™ encoded label may be placed on a packaged good, with or without a shielded sticker. In the case where the shielded sticker is added on top of the label, the user can remove the shielded sticker, exposing the BLE™ label, which label can then be activated by electromagnetic induction such as NFC and RFID, or it may harvest energy from surrounding electromagnetic waves to produce a signal and communicate with a reader. In one embodiment, where the shielded sticker is not included, the BLE™ label can record physical properties of the packaged goods or its environment, including rotation, weight, movement, temperature, moisture, and light.

[0039] Other passive encoded labels that can be used in the invention comprise Quick Response (QR) codes which are matrix barcodes that are machine-readable optical labels and that contain information about the item to which the QR code is attached. Such encoded labels are not capable of activating and transmitting information and are “read-only.”

[0040] An active encoded label can transmit information to a smart device without the need for external power because a power source such as a battery is incorporated into the encoded label. In one embodiment, Bluetooth™ active devices may be used as the encoded label. The Bluetooth™ enabled label may be placed on the packaged good and shielded by a sticker. The user can remove the sticker, exposing the Bluetooth™ label, which the label can then be read by a Bluetooth™ reader.

[0041] Acoustics may be used as either a physical label or voice recognition signature by capturing and recording an acoustic signal that can be paired with a smart listening device such as a smartphone, Echo™ or Alexa™. The acoustic signal may be created by for example the tearing of an encoded label off a packaged good, cap opening, or a verbal command.

[0042] In most cases, activation of the encoded label occurs when a smart device reads encoded information from the encoded label, which encoded information is transmitted by the smart device to a cloud-based platform. Encoded label information contains information that can be used to identify the contents of the packaged good and also to identify the user of the system to whom the packaged good was sent. The smart device can also transmit non-encoded information that it determines at the time of activation of the encoded label. Such non-encoded information may comprise date, time, geolocation of package opening/use, as well as other physical properties of the packaged good or its surroundings (weight, rotation, opening, temperature, light, moisture, etc.).

[0043] In one embodiment, placement of the encoded label on the packaged goods will not obstruct any important governing information and instructions. In one embodiment, the encoded labels are covered with a shield (e.g., metallic aluminum shield) to block any signals that would cause unintentional activation/recording of events. The shield can be removed either by peeling or tearing to expose the encoded label and allow activation. In one embodiment, the encoded labels are coded for different or additional purposes beyond recording an event, such as directly linking the user to different features or components of the platform (including but not limited to data view, educational material, surveys, incentives, and communication with their provider).

[0044] The invention further comprises a platform comprising a database and programmable processor, a label encoding interface, a user portal, an admin/provider portal, a communication link and a memory. In one embodiment, the platform comprises a downloadable software program resident on a personal computer, or that may be accessed as software-as-a-service and resident on a server. The platform may also be accessible through an app resident on a smart device. The platform may further provide educational information in the nature of blogs, videos and articles. The platform may allow users to post information. In one embodiment, the platform configures data and information to be synced with the user's authorized apps and/or devices. The platform can also be customized to be embedded within other platforms and/or portals. In one embodiment, the platform is resident on a single server. In one embodiment, the platform is resident on a plurality of servers.

[0045] The label encoding interface allows authorized providers/users to prepare encoded labels to be attached to a packaged good, create or modify a provider profile, create or modify a user profile, add or modify specific goods associated with a user profile, define or modify criteria/thresholds for smart alerts, or send a key and/or links to users and providers for activating their profile. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by the label encoding interface by encoding a label with a unique identifier, such as a serial number, which associates specific encoded labels with specific packaged goods and/or specific users.

[0046] Encoded labels can be attached to the packaged good by a variety of providers such as the manufacturer of the goods in the package or service providers who send the packaged good to a user. In one embodiment, the encoded label is attached to the packaged good by the user.

[0047] Encoded labels can be prepared by various parties. Encoded labels can be prepared by the same entity which attaches the encoded label to the packaged good, or by a different entity which provides the encoded label to an entity which attaches the encoded label to the packaged good. The encoded labels can be assigned to a packaged good substantially at the time they are attached to the packaged good or at a different time point. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by a manufacturer before delivering the goods or packaged goods to a separate entity for shipment to a user. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by the package manufacturer before delivering the goods or packaged goods to a separate entity for packaging and/or shipment to a user, such as a service provider, who then attaches the encoded labels to the packaged good. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by a user who provides the encoded label to a manufacturer. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by a user who provides the encoded labels to a service provider. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by a user upon receipt of a packaged good. In one embodiment, encoded labels are attached to the packaged goods by the user upon receipt of the packaged goods. In one embodiment, encoded labels are prepared by a manufacturer who manufactures a good or a service provider who sends a packaged good to a user, and the user attaches the encoded label to the packaged good.

[0048] The invention further comprises a plurality of users, each user having an account stored in the memory of the platform and storing user information. The users are the consumers of the goods in the packages. The user portal allows users who are external of the platform to sign up for an account on the platform and store information on the platform for use in connection with the system and method of the invention. Users can activate a profile with a unique key provided to them by the platform administrator. User information may include username, password, personal information, preferences, types of goods purchased, recommended frequency of use of the purchased goods if any, providers of goods, etc. The platform may be programmed to sync with the user's apps and devices. Users for example may store personalized reminders of appointments and schedules of events and goods refill dates. The user may also store additional data such as health measures, attitudes, lifestyle and other experiences. These additional data may be linked to specific events. The user may generate a calendar that displays these data.

[0049] In one embodiment, the system and method may provide incentives to users who achieve goals as set forth in the user account. Such incentives may include but are not limited to cash rewards, coupons, rebates, gift cards, discounts, merchandise, memberships, motivational messages or downloadable files and games.

[0050] In one embodiment, the user portal and its features will be available in different languages for the user to set his or her preference. In one embodiment, users can add specific authorized contacts to their profile so that the contacts can access, view, and monitor data and information collected. In one embodiment, users can verify authenticity of the packaged good upon activation of the label.

[0051] The invention further comprises a plurality of providers who are external of the platform, each provider having an account stored in the memory of the platform and storing provider information. Providers provide packaged goods to users directly or indirectly. In one embodiment, a provider is a manufacturer of a good, who provides the packaged goods to a user via a distributor, wholesaler or a retailer. In one embodiment, a provider is the distributor, wholesaler or retailer who provides the packaged good to a user. In the healthcare setting, providers can be any professional recommending, prescribing, or authorizing the use of medications or the platform—including clinical or managed care physicians, nurse practitioners, physician assistants, pharmacists, nurses, and case managers. The admin/provider portal allows providers of packaged goods to sign up for an account on the platform and store information on the platform for use in connection with the system and method of the invention. Providers can activate a profile with a unique key provided to them by the platform administrator. Providers can access, view and monitor user information from users that use their packaged goods. Such information can be viewed at a user-level or an aggregate-level of all users and can be filtered by various parameters, including but not limited to date, time and event. Providers can for example search for specific events and can communicate with users through the platform by sending notifications and alerts to users who deviate from expected or predefined thresholds or outcomes based on usage of the provider's packaged goods. Providers may also use other methods to communicate with users, such as cell phones or email addresses, to communicate through SMS or email. In one embodiment, communication with the user requires user consent.

[0052] The platform further comprises a plurality of algorithms that are run by the database and programmable processor and that may activate certain actions based on information received from the smart device of a user.

[0053] The invention further comprises predetermined instructions associated with the various users. In one embodiment, the predetermined instructions are determined by one or more of the various providers. The predetermined instructions may be executed based upon information received (or not received) from an activated encoded label. For example, a provider may provide instructions in association with a user account relating to a specific encoded label based upon receipt of information that the encoded label was activated, presumably by the user. If the time of activation falls within a predetermined parameter, such as a certain time range, no instruction may be provided, or an instruction may be provided, including but not limited to take no action, to provide positive reinforcement or to link users to relevant resources. However, if the activation exceeds a predetermined threshold from the predetermined parameter, such as the time of activation exceeds a predetermined threshold for deviation from the predetermined parameter by falling outside of the certain time range, a message may be automatically sent by the platform through the communications link to the user, for example reminding the user of the next time to open the packaged good and activate the encoded label to consume the packaged goods. In one embodiment, where the packaged good is a medication, the message may instruct the user that it is time to consume the packaged goods. (e.g., take medication). Similarly, failure to receive information within a certain time range may be interpreted as meaning that the encoded label was not activated because the packaged good was not opened and a message may be automatically sent by the platform through the communications link to the user, for example reminding the user to open the packaged good and activate the encoded label to consume the goods. In one embodiment, where the packaged good is a medication, the message may instruct the user that it is time to consume the packaged goods. Reminders to users may be sent by various methods, including but not limited to in-App alerts, push notifications, SMS text messages, email, mail, phone call, chatbot, fax, letters, and visits. The algorithms can escalate the degree of outreach to the user depending on the variation of the user's behavior from predefined thresholds and frequency of how often these thresholds are crossed.

[0054] In one embodiment, machine learning analytics and predictive modeling are applied to identify user characteristics and behaviors predictive of certain data and outcomes, giving insights to providers on how to personalize user engagement for proactive outreach and communication. For example, in the context of medication adherence, the algorithms can proactively identify users who are more likely to be non-adherent and thus more likely to experience associated complications due to nonadherence, and help providers intervene prior to the onset of poor outcomes due to nonadherence.

[0055] In one embodiment, the app will have native compatibility with the encoded labels to automatically record an event when an encoded label is read by the smart device. If the encoded label is not read within the predefined range of time, the platform will recognize the lack of signal and launch a notification (such as SMS message, email, push notification, reminders, etc.) that will direct the user to the user interface to report event status or record the event. In one embodiment, the smart device transmits information read from an encoded label to the platform only when the app or software is open. In one embodiment, for example where the encoded label is an active encoded label, the smart device opens an app or software when information is read from the encoded label and transmits the information to the platform.

[0056] In one embodiment, the platform transmits user's data and information to a provider's existing electronic databases and/or records. In the context of healthcare, this can include electronic health records (EHRs).

[0057] The invention yet further comprises a plurality of user devices, each user device comprising an app or web-based software that is enabled to receive information from the encoded label on the packaged good. The type of enablement will depend on the type of encoded label. Examples of suitable smart devices include but are not limited to smartphones, tablets, notebooks and laptop computers.

[0058] Turning to the figures, FIGS. 1A-1I depict a variety of packaging 100i and exemplary placement of encoded labels 110i as used in the invention.

[0059] FIG. 2 depicts a schematic of a platform 200 according to one embodiment of the invention. Platform 200 comprises a database and programmable processor 210; a label encoding interface 220; a user portal 230; an admin/provider portal 240; a plurality of algorithms 250; and a communications portal 260.

[0060] FIGS. 3A-3F depict schematics of database and programmable processor 210; label encoding interface 220; user portal 230; admin/provider portal 240; plurality of algorithms 250; and communications portal 260 according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 3A, database and programmable processor 210 is API-enabled and encrypted according to one embodiment of the invention. In FIG. 3B, label encoding interface 220 can be accessed by users and providers; links users and providers; encodes smart labels to each unique user; modifies a user's schedule; set and/or modify triggers for execution of algorithms; set and/or modify thresholds for determination of non-adherence; and provide an administration center where settings for platform 200 can be set. In FIG. 3C, user portal 230 allows users to set a user profile; set alerts and notifications; set scheduled events; collect and view data; sync apps and devices with platform 200; view rewards and incentives provided by platform 200; access education and resources; and allows access through a web-based or mobile app. In FIG. 3D, a plurality of algorithms 250 comprise routines and/or programs that are executable by database and programmable processor 210 that calculate thresholds for users; scan user data; trigger communications outreach to users; and determine various parameters based on user data by use of smart logic, AI, or machine learning. In FIG. 3E, admin/provider portal 240 allows providers to view user data; sort and filter user data; review alerts triggered by user data; set alerts for users; and set preferences. In FIG. 3F, communications portal 260 allows providers and users to send and receive communications including but not limited to SMS, in-app alerts, notifications and reminders; email, postal or private mail, faxes and telephone calls using the Plain Old Telephone Service (POTS); and set up provider visits.

[0061] FIG. 4 depicts a flow scheme of the execution of exemplary algorithms 250 resident in database and programmable processor 210 of platform 200 that can be executed by database and programmable processor 210. At 400, a plurality of algorithms 250 can be executed based upon user actions that are detected through label activation, portal engagement or any combination of label activation and portal engagement. At 410, providers access user data including but not limited to date, time and place of packaged goods use; physical and ambient data of packaged goods use; use patterns and behaviors of user; barriers and motivators of use of the user; survey data of the user; data synced from user's apps and devices; and other demographic and regional data that may or may not be personally identifiable. At 420, algorithms 250 identify deviance from expected outcomes and user consumption behavior based on user data and determine if the deviance from the predetermined parameter exceeds the predetermined threshold. At 430, providers input expected thresholds based on recommendations for goods use and expected outcomes for various users. At 440, user outcomes are predicted using Al/machine learning. At 450, data relating to thresholds for individual users are monitored. At 460, communications and outreach to individual users are instigated if certain thresholds are triggered. At 470, the types of outreach may take the form of one or more communications, including but not limited to alerts and notifications sent through communications portal 260; Al-powered chatbots (conversation interfaces) and customer support; reinforcement of messaging; on demand education; SMS text messages, email, postal or private mail and phone calls using the POTS: providing links to available programs and resources; physical or virtual visits by providers; and connection with other support.

[0062] FIG. 5 depicts a flow scheme of exemplary actions that may be taken upon confirmation of an event recorded on a user profile according to one embodiment of the invention. A scheduled time is set for a certain event at 600. At 510, a reminder of the event is sent to the user. At 520, the platform 200 determines if the event occurred in accordance with the scheduled time. If yes, at 530, occurrence of the event is acknowledged and at 540 occurrence of the event is recorded in the user profile. If no, the user is sent another reminder at 510. The missed event is recorded in the user profile at 550 and at 560 a provider undertakes personal outreach to the user.

[0063] FIGS. 6A-6F depict activation schematics of various encoded labels as used according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 6A depicts activation of an encoded label with NFC. At 600A, an encoded NFC label is attached to or embedded in a package good. At 610A, the encoded NFC label is read by an NFC reader or an NFC-enabled device by the user. At 620A, information read from the encoded NFC label indicating event confirmation is transmitted to platform 200. At 630A, event confirmation is stored in the user profile. FIG. 6B depicts activation of an encoded label with a QR code. At 600B, an encoded QR code label is attached to or embedded in a packaged good. At 610B, the encoded QR code label is scanned by a QR code reader or a QR code-enabled device of the user. At 620B, information indicating event confirmation is transmitted to platform 200. At 630B, event confirmation is stored in the user profile. FIG. 6C depicts activation of an encoded label with Bluetooth™. At 600C, an encoded Bluetooth™ label is attached to or embedded in a packaged good. At 610C, package use and/or movement/rotation/weight of the packaged good is recorded by a Bluetooth™ reader or Bluetooth™-enabled smart device. At 620C, the encoded Bluetooth™ label transmits the physical parameter data to a Bluetooth™ reader or a Bluetooth™-enabled device by the user. At 630C, information read from the encoded Bluetooth™ label indicating event confirmation is transmitted to platform 200. At 640C, event confirmation is stored in the user profile. FIG. 6D depicts two methods of activation of an encoded label with acoustic label. In the first method, at 600D, an encoded acoustic label is attached to or embedded in a packaged good. At 610D, a shield is placed over the encoded acoustic label. At 620D, the user removes the shield which sound triggers an acoustic signal. Other suitable acoustic signals include but are not limited to the sound created by the opening of a bottle cap or the sound created by the tearing open of a package. In the second method, at 630D an acoustic key code label package is attached to or embedded in a packaged good. At 640D, the user speaks the key code. For both methods, at 650D the acoustic signal is captured by a smart listening device. At 660D, information detected by the smart listening device indicating event confirmation is transmitted to platform 200. At 670D, event confirmation is stored in the user profile. FIG. 6E depicts activation of an encoded label with an RFID chip. At 600E, an encoded RFID chip label is attached to or embedded in a packaged good. At 610E, a shield is placed over the encoded RFID chip label. At 620E, the shield is removed to expose the encoded RFID chip label. At 630E, the encoded RFID chip label is scanned by an RFID reader or a RFID reader-enabled device by the user. At 640E, information read from the encoded RFID chip label indicating event confirmation is transmitted to platform 200 or alternatively is stored in an RFID application on the user's device. At 650E, event confirmation is stored in the user profile. 6F depicts activation of an encoded label with shielded Bluetooth™ or BLE™. At 600F, an encoded Bluetooth™ or BLE™ label is attached to or embedded in a packaged good. At 610F, a shield is placed over the encoded Bluetooth™ or BLE™ label. At 620F, the shield is removed to expose the encoded Bluetooth™ or BLE™ label. At 630F, the encoded Bluetooth™ or BLE™ label is scanned by a Bluetooth™ reader or a Bluetooth™ reader-enabled device by the user. At 640F, information read from the encoded Bluetooth™ or BLE™ label indicating event confirmation is transmitted to platform. 200. At 650F, event confirmation is stored in the user profile.

[0064] FIG. 7 depicts a flow scheme of the method according to one embodiment of the invention. At 700, an encoded label is embedded in or placed on a packaged good by a provider who obtained the encoded label from platform 200. At 710, a scheduled or recommended time for use of the packaged good is determined. At 720, a reminder is sent to a user of the packaged good to activate the label, thus indicating opening of the packaged goods. At 730, the user opens the packaged goods, indicating usage of the contents of the packaged goods. At 740, event activation is detected by the encoded label. At 750, event activation is recorded. At 760, data regarding event activation are recorded in a user profile in the platform.

[0065] FIGS. 8A-8I depict mock-up screens depicting platform 200 as viewed through an app resident on a smartphone of a user of the platform according to one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 8A depicts a Welcome screen or Home page of the platform. FIG. 8B depicts user information as stored in the user profile. FIG. 8C depicts confirmation of a successful event activation. FIG. 8D depicts reminders of upcoming events. FIG. 8E depicts requests for user input regarding events. FIG. 8F depicts a questionnaire to gather data regarding user use of the goods in the package. FIG. 8G depicts gathered data in graph form. FIGS. 8H and 8I depict rewards awarded to the user.

[0066] The foregoing description of various embodiments of the invention has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed and, obviously, many modifications and variations are possible. While the invention has been described in terms of medication adherence, the invention is not limited to such a purpose.

[0067] Modifications and variations that may be apparent to a person skilled in the art are intended to be included within the scope of the invention as defined by the accompanying claims.