MXPA00007008A - Transaction apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

A transaction apparatus (10) includes a multifunction card (12) and a portable terminal (14). The multifunction card includes a programmable memory (18) and a magnetic stripe (16) thereon. The programmable memory on the card is used to store indicia corresponding to account data which is input to the memory by reading with the terminal magnetic stripe data from a plurality of conventional magnetic stripe cards. The programmable memory further includes data representative of cash value as well as instructions, prompt messages and icons presented in conducting transactions. A user is enabled to operate the apparatus to select one of the accounts stored in memory, and to write account data corresponding to the selected account to the magnetic stripe of the card. The user is also enabled to use the apparatus to enter visible indicia such as bar codes and to selectively reproduce the bar codes on the display of the apparatus. The apparatus is also selectively operative to transfer funds between accounts of the user and data representative of cash value stored on the card.

Description

TRANSACTION APPARATUS TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates to devices for carrying out financial transactions. Specifically, this invention relates to a transaction apparatus and a system which allows a single card with a programmable memory to be used as a substitute for a plurality of conventional credit cards, identification cards, benefit cards and other objects. which include clues such as a bar code or magnetic indicia.

ANTECEDENTS OF ART The most common type of credit and debit cards currently in use are magnetic-type cards. The standardized format used for such cards includes indicia on the front side of the card. Such indicia identify the card owner, an account number, a type of card, a card issuer, an expiration date as well as possibly other information. Such indicia are presented as highlighted letters and numbers which can be used to make an impression on a multi-part charcoal form or a carbonless form. The back of such cards has a magnetic strip held thereon. The magnetic strip includes several indications d information. This information includes magnetic indicia representative of the information found on the front of the card as well as other information that is used in the transaction processing electronically. Magnetic type cards are commonly used for credit card types such as MasterCard®, VISA®, Discover®, America Express®, Dinner's Club® and others.

Many people also carry debit cards which allow them to access money in their checking and savings accounts using automated banking machines. Such debit cards also work as credit cards. Most of the debit cards in use today are magnetic strip cards similar in format to credit cards.

Due to the convenience of using credit and debit cards most people carry several such cards in their wallet. Due to the financial incentives associated with the issuance and support of credit cards, many users are offered cards by different banks, clubs, fraternal organizations and marketing organizations. As a result it is not uncommon for people to have several different MasterCard® and VISA® accounts. This gives consumers the opportunity to take advantage of prizes such as frequent flyer miles, rebates offered by cardholders. Having several different credit cards also allows consumers to take advantage of the credit limits on all their cards. Even though having many credit cards debit cards is a benefit for consumers it also requires that they carry several cards. This exposes consumers to higher risk if their wallet or purse that includes all their credit and debit cards is lost or stolen.

Most individuals also carry a number of other objects or cards that include clues that can be read by the machine. These often include, for example, a health insurance card which indicates that a person is a member of a particular insurance plan group. Such cards are often magnetic strip cards similar to credit cards. Alternatively, such health insurance cards may include bar code signs or other visible signs which may be read by an explorer. Such health insurance cards include both magnetic and visible signs. People who are members of a health insurance plan can identify themselves and their account to medical providers by showing their card which can be read or scanned by the appropriate devices.

People also commonly carry other types of cards with visible or magnetic cues. These may include for example library cards, identification or access cards, employee identification cards, student identification cards, driver's license cards, professional license cards and other types of card type objects. The magnetic signs visible on these cards are usually read when presented by the cardholder to identify the person as an authorized user of services or facilities.

Another type of card which has been developed is the stored value card commonly referred to as the "smart card". The stored value cards are similar to the credit and debit cards in construction and in the sense that they include a front side which has identified indications which can be transferred to a multi-part carbon or carbonless form. Tale cards also commonly include a magnetic strip that includes magnetic indicia which allow the card to work like any other credit or debit card. The stored value cards also include a programmable memory mounted on the card. Such programmable memory stores data representative of the cash value. The value on the stored value card can be used as money by the bearer to buy goods or services. Valuation data stored on the card are also frequently encoded or stored using schemes to avoid fraud or being violated.

The stored value cards, the debit and credit cards, require the customer to interact with the stationary device to use the card. For example, in the case of credit cards, the credit is obtained when the customer presents his card to a merchant The merchant (unless they manually process the transaction) uses a point of sale terminal d electronic funds transfer to charge an amount to the customer's account and credit the merchant account. Similarly, the use of the debit card requires the user to present his card to an automated banking machine such as an ATM machine. The automatic exchange machine operates to add or subtract amounts from the user account when the funds are deposited or when they are received by the user. Similarly, stored value cards are used in connection with a certain stationary device such as automated bank machine electronic funds or funds transfer terminal which has the special capabilities to handle the particular type of stored value card used. The terminal modifies the value information stored in the memory on the card to reflect the vision or subtraction of the value represented on it when the transactions are carried out.

Having to use the device ends up stationary to take transactions out and frequently inconvenient. Most merchants only accept certain types of credit cards to locate an ATM machine that accepts the debit card d a financial institution of the person can be difficult. Frequently the use of a "foreign" card in another ATM machine of another bank results in a significant service charge. It is also difficult to find a merchant or an ATM machine that can process the stored value cards.

There is therefore a need for an apparatus and method that can reduce the number of credit, debit and other cards or card type objects that a person carries out while obtaining the benefit of carrying such cards and cards. objects individually.

There is still a need for an apparatus and method which changes the character of the indicia on a card so as to give a single card the ability to be used as a substitute for any one of a plurality of credit, debit or other cards. .

Finally, there is a need for an apparatus and method for carrying out transactions using a stored value card that does not require a user to interact with the stationary terminal device such as the automated banking machine, the electronic cash register or an end of electronic funds transfer.

DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the present invention to provide a novel transaction apparatus.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus which allows the user to employ a single card which can be changed to carry out transactions using a plurality of user accounts.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus which can be used instead of a plurality of credit, debit and other cards and objects.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus that selectively exhibits visible clues reproduced from a card or object, whose visible clues can be read by individuals or with a machine.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus which can transfer a value to or from a stored value card without the use of a stationary terminal device.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus that is compact, portable, and lightweight.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus that can be configured in a manner which conforms to the shape of a conventional purse of a wallet and which can carry out the functions thereof as well as the functions, associated with carrying out transactions.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus that authorizes operation based on the physical characteristic of an authorized user.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus which includes a rechargeable power supply.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a transaction apparatus that is economical to produce and easy to operate.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for storing data about a plurality of accounts maintained by a user in a single memory carried on a card.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for accessing data corresponding to a plurality of accounts from the memory on a single card and selectively transferring such data to a magnetic strip or to a visual display in relation to the card.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for selectively suppressing and selectively writing indicia corresponding to any one of a plurality of selected beads on the magnetic strip of a single card.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a method for transferring values between a plurality of accounts and the memory of a stored value card without using a stationary terminal device.

The additional objects of the present invention will become apparent in the following better modes for carrying out the invention and in the appended claims.

The above objects are achieved in a preferred embodiment of the invention with an apparatus which includes a card which is of a type which includes a magnetic strip held thereon. The magnetic strip may be of a conventional configuration and is capable of having registered or written magnetic indicia thereon. The card also includes a programmable memory which is held on the card. The programmable memory preferably includes data representative of a plurality of accounts that the user has, such as several credit card accounts, debit card accounts, and other accounts.

The device also includes a portable terminal. The portable terminal is preferably small enough to be portable easily. The terminal can be incorporated into a wallet, purse or other. The portable terminal is releasably engageable with the card and includes a memory reading device which is operative to read the account data from the memory on the card. The portable terminal also includes an input device which allows the user to select data from the memory of the card corresponding to any of the plurality of the user's accounts. The portable terminal preferably further includes a magnetic writing device which allows the user to write the magnetic indicia corresponding to a selected account in the programmable memory for the magnetic strip on the card. This allows the user to use the card in the place of the dedicated credit card for this particular account. The portable terminal further preferably includes a magnetic flip erase device that allows the user to erase the indicia from the magnetic strip so that the user can subsequently write the data corresponding to a different account on the magnetic strip when desired.

The memory of the card also preferably includes data representative of a stored amount. the amount represents a monetary value that the user can use as a substitute for money. The portable terminal device preferably includes a communication device which allows the user to make the transfers between the accounts for which the data is kept in the memory and the monetary amount stored in the card. In addition, the monetary amount stored in the card can be transferred using the stationary terminals such as the ATM machines and the point of sale terminals that have stored value card capabilities.

The card memory also preferably includes data representative of the visual cues which enter a plurality of cards or other objects associated with the user. Visible signs may include, for example, bar code signs representative of a user account with a group health insurance plan. Alternatively, such visible signs may include a bar code or other indicia device associated with a student identification, employee access card, driver's license or other types of objects. Visible signs may also include a reproduction of the user's signature or other identifying characteristics. The portable terminal preferably includes an exhibit on which the visible visible signs can be reproduced in response to inputs in an input device. This allows visible clues to be readable with a machine from the merchandiser, which serves as a substitute for scanning the card or other object which is no longer required to be carried out. The card memory may also include data representative of the icons or other graphics as well as representative data of instructions which are used by a processor in the portable terminal to carry out the transactions.

In some embodiments, the portable terminal may also include object reading devices such as a magnetic strip reader and a barcode scanner. Such devices are used to read the magnetic indicia of the original card and the debit cards in order to transfer such information so that it can be stored in the programmable memory of the card used in connection with the invention. Similarly, the object reader in the form of a scanner can read visible clues such as the bar code from an object so that such clues can be stored in the memory on the card Preferably the input device of the terminal is used to enter designators which are stored in a correlated relationship with the data which correspond the various types of magnetic strips and bar codes. The memory on the card can also include data representative of an access code as well as instructions to minimize the risk that an unauthorized user can gain access to the data stored in the memory., the card memory may also include data associated in a unique way with the user such as fingerprint data or other biometric data. The termination preferably includes a reader to read such data to make sure that the user is the person authorized to use the card.

The preferred form of the invention allows a user to carry out a single card which the user can use instead of a plurality of cards or other objects which the user would otherwise require to carry with them. The invention also allows a user to transfer account between a stored value card and his various accounts if he has to use a stationary terminal such as a point of sale terminal or an automatic banking machine.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Figure 1 is a top plan view of an embodiment of the transaction apparatus of the present invention that includes a multi-function card and a portable terminal.

Figure 2 is an isometric view of a portable terminal of the type shown in Figure 1.

Figure 3 is an isometric view of the portable terminal shown in Figure 2 in combination with a portfolio structure.

Figure 4 is a schematic view of the components of the portable terminal as well as of a system through which the portable terminal communicates.

Figures 5-14 are views of exemplary function selection screens through which a user can select functions to be executed using the transaction apparatus.

Figures 15-24 are examples of screen displayed on the portable terminal and associated with the flow to add a new type of card to the programmable memory on the multi-function card.

Figures 25-31 are a series of screens displayed on the programmable terminal and associated with the logic to suppress a card from the programmable memory on the multi-function card.

Figures 32-42 are screens displayed on the portable terminal and associated with the logical flow for writing selected card information on the magnetic strip d of the multi-function card.

Figures 43-52 are screens displayed on the portable terminal and associated with the logical flow for adding a bar code to the programmable memory on the multi-function card.

Figures 53-56 are screens displayed by the programmable terminal and associated with the logical flow to display a bar code corresponding to the stored information on the programmable memory of the multiple function card.

Figures 57-61 are screens displayed on a portable terminal and associated with the logical flow to suppress a bar code of the programmable memory on the multi-function card.

Figures 62 and 63 are screens displayed on a portable terminal and associated with the logical flow to verify the stored cash value represented by the data stored in the programmable memory on the multi-function card.

Figures 64-74 are screens displayed on the portable terminal and associated with the logical flow to transfer the effective value to the programmable memory on the multi-function card.

Figures 75-88 are screens displayed on the portable terminal and associated with the logical flow to transfer the value of the programmable memory on the multi-function card to a selected user account.

Figures 89-95 are displays displayed on the portable terminal and associated with logical flow to ensure that a user is authorized to use the terminal.

BEST MODES TO CARRY OUT THE INVENTION Referring now to the drawings particularly to Figure 1 there is shown a transaction apparatus of a preferred embodiment of the present invention generally indicated by the number 10. The apparatus includes a multi-function card 12 and a portable terminal 14. The portable terminal and the card of multiple functions are releasably engageable in a manner that will be discussed later to allow the carrying out of a plurality of functions and transactions.

The multi-function card 12 preferably has the dimensional configuration of conventional credit and debit cards. This includes a magnetic strip 16 on a rear face thereof. The magnetic strip is able to contain magnetic signs similar to the magnetic strips on the debit cards, credit and similar conventional. Like the strips of such cards, the magnetic strip 16 is also preferably capable of having the magnetic indicia thereon erased with a deletion head or a similar device and that new indicia may be recorded or new indications written thereon.

The multi-function card 12 preferably also includes a programmable memory 18 held thereon. The programmable memory 18 includes a plurality of electrical or other contacts which are accessible on the front of the card. In the preferred embodiment, the card and the programmable memory are a type and configuration as commercially available from a number of suppliers including Diebold, Incorporated, the assignee of the present invention. The contacts 20 and the magnetic strip 16 are placed in the predetermined locations on the card to allow the card to be used with a variety of devices. Of course, in other embodiments of the invention, the unconventional configurations and orientations of the magnetic strip and the programmable memory that make contact can be used.

As explained below, the multi-function card 12 is designed to be used as a substitute for a plurality of various types of credit, debit and other cards. However, in embodiments of the invention, the card 12 may include information on the front or back face thereof to identify the particular user to whom the card belongs, a card issuer as well as other data. In some embodiments, the front side of the card may include highlighted numbers and letters corresponding to a particular credit card account and from which an impression may be made on a carbon or carbonless form. For example, the information on the face of the card may correspond to the user of the MasterCard®, VISA®, American Express®, Discovery®, Novus® Diner's Club®, or other card. This allows the multi-function card to be used as the user's regular credit card when purchasing goods or services and establishments that do manual processing of credit card transactions. Of course while it is in the conventional incorporation discussed the indicia of the credit card can be included on the front of the card of multiple functions, in other incorporations the special indicia can be presented on the card.

The portable terminal 14 includes a display 2 on the front face thereof. In a preferred form of the invention, the display 22 is an LCD-type display or other suitable display that can be used to display words, graphics and other visible signs in a manner that is explained below. The portable terminal 14 further includes an input device that can be used to enter information by a user. In the embodiment shown, the input device includes a manual input device which consists of a plurality of buttons, these buttons include a roll-up button 24 and a roll-down button 26. These buttons wind up and roll down 24 and 26 which may be referred to hereafter as "button up" and "button down" respectively, are pressured by a user to selectively display articles on the display.

The input device of the invention further includes a meter button 28. The meter button is used in a manner that will be explained later to initiate the execution of a function corresponding to the information displayed on the display 22. Terminal 14 also it includes an on / off button 30. The button 30 is preferably used in the last way explained to initiate a transaction or to signify the termination of a transaction and to shut down the terminal. It should be understood that the input device composed of the manual input buttons 24, 26, 28 and 30 are exemplary only and that other embodiments of the invention can incorporate other arrangements of the manual or other input device type.

As shown in Figure 2, the terminal portable 14 further includes a slot 32. Slot 32 preferably extends through the terminal body and is dimensioned to allow the multi-function card 12 to pass therethrough. One form of the portable terminal includes an external object reading device 34 positioned on the outside of the terminal body. In one form of the invention the external object reading device is a bar code reader which allows to read the bar code of the cards and other objects so that the information corresponding to such visible signs can be read and stored. in the memory of the multi-function card.

The components which comprise an embodiment of the portable terminal 14 are indicated schematically in Figure 4. The terminal 14 includes a processor 36 which is in operative connection with other components of the portable terminal. The processor 36 is also in connection with a memory 38. The memory 38 can be a volatile or non-volatile memory which is capable of retaining and retrieving data which is received from or delivered to the processor 36.

The processor 36 is in operative connection with other components within the portable terminal 14. These components are schematically represented in Figure 4 and are indicative of the apparatus and software components operatively connected to the processor. These components include the display component 40. The display component 40 includes the display 22 as well as other software devices and devices which allow the display to provide visual outputs in response to the processor 36. A manual input component 42 corresponds to a display device. manual input in which the described form of the terminal includes the buttons 24, 26, 28 and 30. The component 42 includes the software program and apparatus which allows the communication of the inputs from the user through the buttons to the processor so that the processor can carry out the functions of the portable termination in response to this.

The portable terminal 14 further includes a magnetic strip reading and writing component 44. In the preferred form of the invention this component includes magnetic heads which are selectively operated to read the magnetic indicia of a card strip as well as to write the magnetic signs in it. It will be understood that while component 44 shows these functions as combined, it actually represents two separate functions.

These are the functions of reading magnetic indicia from a card and writing magnetic indicia on a card strip. These functions can be separated into other additions. Component 44 includes the necessary apparatus and software interconnections to processor 36 to carry out these functions in a manner discussed below.

A magnetic strip erasing component 46 is further schematically indicated as part of the portable terminal of Figure 4. This magnetic strip erasing component includes a erasing head or other comparable device as well as apparatus and software devices which can be used to selectively erase or otherwise clean the magnetic indicia from the magnetic strip of the multi-function card. In some embodiments of the invention the magnetic strip erasing component may be combined with the components which operate to read writing indicia on the magnetic strip of the cards. In the preferred form of the invention, the heads operating to read, write and erase the signs of the magnetic strip of the credit cards are placed inside the terminal 14 and adjacent to the slot 32. This allows them to be carried out the functions of reading, writing and erasing a card by passing it manually through it. It should be understood, however, that in other embodiments other methods for reading, writing and deleting the magnetic strip data may be provided.

As shown in Figure 4, the portable terminal 14 further includes a card memory read / write component 48. The component 48 serves to read and write data in the programmable memory 18 on the multi-function card 12. In the embodiment displayed the memory read and write functions are combined. However, it should be understood that these are separate functions and can be carried out through separate arrangements of the apparatus and the software. The component 48 also includes electrical contacts which are located on one side of the slot 32 in the portable terminal. These electrical contacts are configured to engage the contacts 20 which allow communication with the programmable memory 18 of the multi-function card 12. The component 48 also includes the apparatus and software devices required to read the data from and write data to the programmable memory on the card.

The portable terminal 14 in the embodiment shown includes a browser component 50. The browser component 50 includes the bar code scanner 34 or a similar device for reading the visible indications of an object. The component 50 further includes the apparatus and software devices necessary to communicate with the processor 36 and the other components of the portable terminal. It should be understood that even when the incorporation of the portable terminal shown includes the object reading devices for reading indicia from the magnetic strip, the visual cues and the indicia stored in the programmable memory of the cards, other embodiments of the invention may include other types of object reading devices. Similarly, other types of object reading devices may be included depending on the particular uses made of the portable terminal.

For example, in some embodiments, scanner 50 may be a suitable scanner to explore read written cues. This may include the signature of an authorized user. The representative data of such firm can be entered and produced with the explorer device can be stored in the programmable memory of the card. The signature may then be reproduced on the merchandiser may be transmitted to a remote location for purposes of identification of the authorized user or the authenticity of a transaction.

The alternate embodiments of the invention may include a biometric reading component 47. The biometric reader component may include the apparatus and software components that may be used to perceive a feature of a user which uniquely identifies the person as a user. authorized user. In some embodiments, the biometric reader component 47 may include a fingerprint reading device. Alternatively, the reader may include an audio input device which may be used to identify a user by voice. Alternatively, visual readers to identify unique visible features, or a combination of user identification features can be used. The programmable memory of the card preferably includes data representative of the identifying biometric characteristics of the user or authorized users. This stored data is used to allow the authorized user of the card to operate the terminal with the card while others avoid such operation.

The terminal 14 in the embodiment shown includes the communications component 52. The communications component 52 may include a modem or other communication devices that are selectively operative under the control of the processor to communicate with other systems and devices located outside and preferably remote from the portable terminal. In some embodiments, the communications component 52 may include a connector for communicating through a network 54 to a computer or similar device at a remote location, indicated schematically 56. A connection to the remote location is preferably selected based on an address which it is used by the communications component 52 to selectively communicate with the desired remote location.

In one form of the invention, the communications component includes a wireless type modem. In such embodiment network 54 includes a cellular telephone network which allows communication to a transaction network. This is done through computers located in one or more addresses which are accessed through a telephone number which serves as the address. Alternatively, the communications component 52 can communicate through a conventional telephone access port which includes a telephone connector on the body of the portable terminal. In other embodiments, the communications network 54 may include intra-network communications or public networks such as the Internet, which selectively enable communication by the portable terminal with selected nodes in the network. In such additions, the addresses to which the portable terminal communicates are the addresses of the network nodes which can suitably receive transaction messages.

As shown in Figure 4 the portable terminal includes a power source schematically indicated with e number 58. The power source 58 can include any suitable source of power for the components in the portable termination. Suitable power sources can include rechargeable or non-rechargeable batteries or connectors to external power sources such as the cigarette lighter of a vehicle. The power source 58 may also include a renewable energy source, such as a solar panel 60 which may be used to provide energy from the sun or other available visible light source.

As seen in Figure 3 the portable terminal 14 can be integrated in a carrier 62 which can take the form of a portfolio such as that shown in Figure 3 Alternatively the carrier can be of a type which carried out other functions such as those of a purse, a personal digital assistant, a notebook computer, a spokesperson, a cell phone or other component worn by a user. As demonstrated by the carrier 62 shown in FIG. 3, the portable terminal 14 can be integrated into a wallet-type device which includes spaces for containing the multi-function card as well as other credit cards and identification cards. The ported also includes spaces to carry money, keys and other items in a conventional wallet fashion. In similar form, the carrier 62 may include a support device for the solar panel 60 as well as other component features which may be desired by a user. The small size and portability of the terminal 14 of the preferred embodiment allows it to be integrated into any of a plurality of ported type devices while still allowing such devices to carry out their traditional and / or non-traditional functions. .

In a preferred form of the invention, the portable termination 14 operates to perform a plurality of functions. These functions are carried out based on the instructions which can be included in whole or in part in the programmable memory 18 of the multi-function card 12. The processor 36 of the portable terminal 14 performs the instruction steps in response to the inputs provided by the user of the portable terminal and the card. In the embodiments of the invention, the memory 38 in relation to the portable terminal may also include certain programmed instructions which are permanently stored there so as to facilitate certain operations of the terminal. The programmable memory on the card also preferably includes the representative data of the accounts, of the indicia, of the access codes, of the monetary values, of the graphs, of the location data and of other information which is used in the operation of the device.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the functions which are enabled to be carried out include adding a new card to the memory. This is achieved by reading the information from a magnetic strip of a dedicated card existing with the portable terminal and storing it in the programmable memory of the multi-function card. This information can be retrieved later and the magnetic indicia can be written on the magnetic strip of the multi-function card.

Another function performed in an embodiment of the invention is that of selectively suppressing the card data from the memory on the card. This can be done for example when a user no longer wishes to use the multiple function card as a substitute for the dedicated card.

Another function of an embodiment of the invention is that of writing the indicia stored in the memory of the magnetic strip card on the magnetic strip of the multi-function card or perhaps another magnetic strip card Another function which is carried out in the embodiments of the invention is that of adding visual cues such as a bar code to the memory of the multi-function card. In a similar way, another function is to suppress a bar code or other visual indications stored in the memory of the card. An additional function is to display one of the selected visual cues such as the bar code or a user signature which is stored in the memory of the card.

Other functions of the incorporations of the invention are to carry out financial transactions without the need to use a stationary terminal. Such functions include verifying the equivalent value of cash stored in the memory of the multi-function card. Another transaction is to transfer a value stored in the memory of the multi-function card to another account. The transfer of funds from an account to the programmable memory on a multi-function card so that it can be used as an equivalent of cash from it is an additional transaction which can be carried out by the incorporations of the invention.

The various functions which can carry out the described embodiments of the transaction apparatus and the logic associated therewith will now be explained with reference to Figures 5-95 which describe the transaction steps carried out by a user in the execution of the various functions. In the form of the invention described, the programmable memory 18 on the card includes data representative of messages. When the multi-function card 12 is nded in the terminal so that the contacts 20 on it can be read by the connectors of the card memory read / write component 48, the stored instructions which include the messages and the logic associated can be read. The processor 36 then operates the display component 40 to selectively display the messages on the display 22 of the terminal 14.

In a preferred form of the invention, security measures are provided to ensure that only a suitable authorized user is enabled to operate the system. This can be achieved by requiring a user to enter an access code which is known only by these before the terminal functions can be accessed. This access code can be programmed into the programmable memory 18 using a separate terminal device. Alternate provisions can be made to run a software program which enables the user to select his or her access code the first time the multi-function card is used in connection with the portable terminal. This program can be stored in the memory of the terminal or on the card. In alternate additions the card contains biometric data related to authorized users. The biometric data of a user is an input through the biometric reader 47. For example, when the reader 47 includes a fingerprint reader a user may place a predetermined finger on one side of the reader. If the input data corresponds to the authorized user, the terminal can be operated. In some user additions you can explore a single fingerprint to gain access. The particular finger selected may be one chosen by and known only to the user. In other embodiments it may be necessary to read in a selected order a plurality of traces of one or both hands. This can increase the level of security.

A form of the logical flow associated with the assurance that an authorized user uses the apparatus of the invention is demonstrated with reference to Figures 89-95.

When starting the operation of the terminal the user is first required to place the multi function card 12 in the slot 32 of the portable terminal 14. The card is preferably inserted into the slot in a manner which enables the electrical connectors associated with a component 48 to engage the contacts 20 on the card. The slot corresponds closely to the width of the card and serves as a guide to place the card when it is passed through it. A spring loaded finger or other releasable stop can be placed adjacent the slot to stop the card at the proper depth inside the terminal to engage the contacts. The user preferably knows how to insert the card into the slot in order to achieve this connection based on the experience. Alternatively, instructions printed on the face of the card and / or the terminal can instruct the user how to insert the card. The memory 38 in terminal 14 may also include representative data of warnings which are displayed on the screen 22 which instruct the user how to properly insert the multifunction card.

For the purposes of this example, the sign on the process for a user preferably begins with the display screen 100 shown in Figure 89. The screen 100 is a blank screen which indicates that the terminal is off. When the user presses the on / off button 30 a screen 102 shown in figure 90 is displayed. Screen 102 preferably includes a notice which instructs the user to enter his access code.

The entry of the user's personal access code is shown in Figures 91-94. By entering the access code of the embodiment shown, the user starts with a screen 104 shown in figure 91. The screen 104 includes seven spaces in which the user can put alphabetic or numeric characters which constitute the access code. Pressing the up button 24 when the screen 104 is displayed begins a winding process in the first space for entry of the access code. This causes the screen to change the first space of a blank space to the letter "a". This is shown in Figure 92 and is represented by a screen 106. Pressing the up button 24 again (or continuing its oppression) changes the first character to the letter "b" as indicated by a screen 108 in Figure 93 The user can move to subsequent letters by repeatedly holding or pushing the button above, thereby developing through the alphabet and / or numerical values until the first desired character of the access code is displayed in the first space. Of course the user can roll back by pushing the button down. In this example the letter "b" is the first character of the user's access code and the user indicates this fact by pressing the input button 28 as indicated schematically in figure 93 After the first character is entered the user selects the second character of the access code in a similar manner. This is done again by selectively pressing the up and down buttons 24 and 26 until the desired numeric alphabetic character is displayed in the second space. Once the desired character is displayed in the second space the user presses the entry button 28 to move to the next character. This is represented by the screen 110 in figure 94. In the embodiment shown, the user can enter up to seven characters as the access code. However in the preferred embodiment the user may not require the seven characters and may simply choose to leave certain characters as targets in the displayed embodiment the user's access code is the five-letter word "broom" and the two final characters are simply left in white. After the user indicates this by pressing the meter button 28 to leave the blanks for the last two characters, a grid 112 shown in FIG. 95 is displayed.

On screen 112 the user is given the option to either change their access code or proceed to a main menu. The user can select the option to change the access code by pressing the button above 24. This will take the user through a series of avis screens to enter a new access code. This series of warning screens can take the user through appropriate steps according to the instructions stored in the memory on the card or in the terminal as to enter a new code. And alternate embodiments of the invention may be used as a biometric identifier as an access code. In this system the user will be driven through the display 40 to enter the biometric identification data for the reading biometrics 47. For example, if the biometric reader is a fingerprint reader, the user must be encouraged to put the finger on it. )% they have preselccionado to the side of the reader. The reader 47 will read the fingerprint and produce the appropriate signals to compare the input data with the data stored on the card. Yes the input data correspond to an authorized user, the user is authorized to further operate the terminal. The user can be given the option to change the biometric data, such as adding data for another authorized user, or to change the finger used to provide the data of fingerprint in the access process to use a sequence of fingerprints to gain access.

Alternate additions can use other processes and criteria to access card data.

Once the user has gained adequate access to it, he can be given the option to change the access code or other signs about the procedures. For the purposes of this example, however, the user chooses the option to display a main menu which is selected by pressing the down button 26 as indicated schematically in Figure 95.

The warning messages in Figures 5-13 represent a main menu that shows the various transactions that can be carried out with the device. Figure 5 shows a screen 64 which includes a warning which asks a user if he wishes to add a new card to the memory on the multifunctional card. In the embodiment shown the fact that additional options are available by winding up or winding down as indicated by the dual pointed arrow adjacent to the displayed text. By pressing the button up 26 as indicated schematically, the user can move the screen 66 shown in figure 6. This screen indicates the availability of the selection of the transaction to delete a card from memory. Pressing the button below makes the display of the terminal provide the screen 68 shown in Figure 7. This screen provides a warning corresponding to the transaction in which the data stored in the programmable memory of the multi-function card is written in a magnetic strip.

The rolling with the down button 26 of the screen 68 causes the screen 70 in figure 8 to be displayed. The screen 70 includes a message corresponding to a transaction the barcode is added to the programmable memory of the multi-function card. Figure 9 describes a screen 72 which can be displayed by coiling with the button down from the screen 70. The screen 70 corresponds to suppressing the bar code of the memory on the multi-function card. The screen 74 shown in Figure 10 includes a notice to the user which allows the selection of a transaction in which the bar code stored in the memory can be displayed.

Figure 11 shows a screen 76 which includes a notice which corresponds to a transaction in which a user can verify the cash value represented by the data stored on the programmable memory of the card. Such data corresponds to a cash value which allows the multi-function card to be used in a manner identical to cash. From figure 11 a user can scroll to a screen 78 shown in figure 12 which prompts the user to select an available transaction in which the value can be transferred from the value stored on the multifunctional card. Figure 13 shows a screen 80 with a notice which enables the user to select a transaction in which the value will be transferred to the memory of the multi-function card.

In the preferred form of the invention, the warnings on the main menu screens allow the return to the previous screens to be rolled back either by pushing the buttons up or down. As shown in Fig. 13, by pressing the button below the screen 80 the user causes the first screen 64 to be displayed again. Of course, the user can move up and down by pressing the buttons 26 and 24 which allows them to select any of the transactions available in the main menu. For the purposes of a first example if a user wishes to add a new card to the memory, this can manually press the meter button 28 of the input device as shown schematically in FIG. 14. Pressing the meter button 28 of the screen 64 causes the processor 36 to start executing the instructions stored in the programmable memory of the device. the card and / or memory 38 of the terminal to add a new card into the memory.

This routine begins as indicated schematically in Figure 15 with the screen 64. Figure 15 is identical to Figure 14. The screen is repeated there for the object of clarity. In response to a user pressing the entry button 28 a screen 80 of the type shown in Figure 16 is presented. This screen includes a screen warning that prompts the user to identify the type of card that will be added. The memory on the multi-function card or the terminal preferably includes data representative of icons of main card types. These may include, for example, icons representative of the logos for MasterCard®, VISA®, American Express®, Novus®, Discovery® and / or other common types of cards which a user is feasible to use. On screen 80 a MasterCard® logo is displayed by way of example, with an arrow indicating that other selections are available by pressing the button below 26.

By pressing the button below the screen 80, the screen 82 shown in Figure 17 is displayed. This notice screen includes the VISA® designator and the logo and allows the user to indicate that the card to be added is a VISA® card. The arrows adjacent to the VISA® logo displayed on the screen point both up and down and indicate to the user that they can press up or down the buttons to display other types of cards. For the purposes of this example, it will be presumed that the card that the user wishes to add to the memory is a VISA® card. To indicate this, the user presses the entry button 28 as indicated in figure 17.

In the operation of the embodiment described to the user, it is now required to insert a card identifier to distinguish the particular type of VISA® that is to be added to the memory. This is done through a screen 84 which prompts a user to enter a plurality of alphabetic or numeric characters which serve as a designator to identify the particular card. As shown in Figure 18, the described interconnection allows a user to select alphabet letters to identify this particular type of card. For example, by pressing and holding the buttons up and down the user enables the roll through the letters of the alphabet until they find the first letter of the designator they want to put. When the letter is displayed, they can enter it as the first letter of the designator by pressing the enter button 28. They can then move to the next letter of the designator by selecting it with the up and down buttons. When a space is desired to be placed, the user can leave the blank space which is preferably included as the initial option. In the case of screen 84 the designator is a BP VISA which may be a VISA® card designator provided by British Petroleum. Once the user entered their desired designator any spaces left can be simply left blank by repeatedly pressing the meter button 28. After all the spaces are filled in, the input to the designator is completed.

The screen 86 shown in Figure 19 indicates the entry of an alternate designator. On this screen, the input designator is "KÉY_BANK_ATM". This may indicate, for example, that the card which is being entered is the debit card which corresponds to the user's account in the Key Bank. It should be understood that the particular designator used is purely at the discretion of the user and that the user is free to use highly descriptive terminology or a secret code which is known only by these to identify the various cards. In the preferred form of the invention, sufficient security is provided to access the memory on the multi-function card that the user is enabled to use the descriptive terminology as a designator if he wishes to do so.

Once the designator has been entered, the instructions read from the memory on the card or in the terminal cause the screen 88 to be displayed in FIG. 20 to be displayed on the display 22. The screen 88 includes a warning message for removing the stored value card from the contact with the portable terminal 14. Once the terminal senses that the stored value card has been removed by disengaging the contacts thereon with the portable terminal, a screen 90 shown in the figure 21 is displayed. Screen 90 includes a notice for the user to pass his original BP VISA card through the terminal. laptop. As shown in the preferred form of the invention, the exhibitor further visually instructs the user on how to pass the original card through the terminal so that it is properly read by the magnetic reading reading device. In response to screen 90 a user preferably passes his or her original card through slot 32 in the portable terminal. Upon sensing the proper reading of the magnetic strip on the card, the screen 92 shown in Figure 22 is displayed. The screen 92 indicates to the user that the strip has been properly read and that the multi-function card must now be inserted face-up again.

It should be understood that stored instructions may include provisions for an out-of-time routine. In the event that the user fails to proceed to the next step at any point in the transaction, the timeout routine returns the terminal to the main menu or to a shutdown condition. Such a timeout routine or fault routine may be accompanied by appropriate user warnings to inform the user why the terminal has proceeded to shut down or return to the main menu.

If from screen 92 the user reinserts the multi-function card in slot 32, the next logical flow moves to display a screen 94 shown in figure 23. Screen 94 alerts the user if he wishes to add the BP card VISA to the memory of the multi-function card. As shown in Figure 94, the screen includes the fault response which is "yes" with an arrow adjacent to it which indicates to the user that it can be changed to a different one of the fault response by pressing the button down 26. In this example, the user wishes to add the card to the memory of the multi-function card in which case the meter button 28 is pressed while the screen 94 is displayed. This results in the screen 96 shown in Figure 24 being displayed, which indicates that the function has been carried out successfully. The user can press button 30 once to turn off the terminal or twice to return to the main menu.

The logic associated with the suppress information in relation to a card from the memory of the multi-function card is now demonstrated with reference to Figures 25-31. This process begins with a screen 98. The screen 98 corresponds to the screen 66 shown in figure 6 of the main menu. To choose this operation, the user presses the input button 28 as indicated schematically in figure 25. This causes the screen 114 shown in figure 26 to be displayed.

The screen 114 notifies a user to select which of the cards that are stored in the programmable memory on the card is to be deleted. The cards are referred through the designated designators which have been previously entered by the user. Screen 114 displays the first of these cards which has the designator "KEY_BANK_ATM". The arrows next to the designator indicate that the user can select other cards by pressing the up or down button. As shown in Figure 26, the user presses the down button 26 which causes the merchandiser to move to a screen 116 shown in Figure 27. The display 116 exhibits the following card designator which "MBNA_MC" which the user has previously entered to designate the MBNA MasterCard. Assuming that the user wishes to select this card as the card that is to be deleted, this presses the meter button 28 as indicated schematically in figure 27. Pressing the meter button of the screen 116 causes a confirmation screen 118 shown in figure 28 to be displayed. This screen prompts the user to confirm that they want to delete this card. An arrow displayed near the failure option which is "yes" notifies a user that he can change to another option by pressing the button below.

On the screen 118 shown in Fig. 28 if the user presses the meter button 28 as indicated schematically there, the terminal then displays the screen 120 shown in Fig. 29 in which the terminal takes an indication that the card has been suppressed.

Alternatively, if from the screen 118 shown in Figure 28 the user presses the down button 26 as indicated schematically in Figure 30, a screen 122 will be shown as in Figure 21 as shown. Screen 122 shows that the selected card will not be deleted and pressing the enter button 28 from this screen will return the terminal to the main menu. Alternatively on the screen 122 pressing the button above 24 returns to the screen 118. It will be appreciated that the stored program instructions will allow the user to correct errors that have been made in the course of operating the input devices on the terminal.

The execution of the steps which allows the apparatus of the invention to configure the multi-function card so that it can be used as a substitute for any one of a plurality of original magnetic strip credit debit cards, will now be explained reference to figures 32-42. The logic executed to carry out this function begins with a screen 124. The screen 124 is identical to the screen 68 of the main menu. As shown schematically with reference to Figure 32, pressing the meter button 28 from the screen 124 causes a screen 126 shown in Figure 33 to be displayed. The screen 126 includes a prompt asking the user to identify the card in the memory whose identification mark is to be transferred to the magnetic strip of the multi-function card. The user is enabled to scroll through the designers for the cards stored in the memori by pushing the buttons 24 and 26.

As indicated by a screen 128 in Figure 34 the user selects the card data stored in the correlated relationship with the "BP VISA" designator in the multi-function card memorization by rolling with the buttons until this designer is displayed and then press the enter button 28.

In response to the selection of the particular card in the memory, the indications corresponding to the magnetic indicia on the "BP VISA" card which have been stored in the memory of the multi-function card are transferred to the memory 38 of the terminal . Similarly, the instructions that the processor will need to execute to complete the steps of writing the magnetic indicia on the multi-function card are temporarily transferred to the memory of the terminal so that the data can be completed with the memory of the multi-function card unhooked from the terminal.

Once the necessary information has been loaded into the terminal memory a screen 130 shown in Figure 35 is displayed. The screen 130 includes a warning instructing the user to remove the multiple function card from the contact with the portable terminal. Upon perceiving and disengaging the multiple function card the screen 13 shown in figure 36 is presented by the portable terminal. Screen 132 includes a warning for the user to pass the stored value card through a slot 32 in the terminal. The notice preferably includes instructions on the orientation of the card and the magnetic strip. This is done in such a way that any signs that have previously been recorded on the magnetic strip of the multi-function card are erased.

In response to the screen 132 the user preferably passes the multi-function card through the portable terminal so that the magnetic strip passes through an area of the slot in connection with an erase head which cleans the magnetic strip. Upon sensing that the card has been passed through the terminal, a screen 134 shown in Figure 37 is displayed by the portable terminal. Perception can be done with the spring loaded finger in the slot or with another suitable card or strip sensor device in the slot.

The terminal then further operates under the control of the processor and the instructions stored in its memory 38 to display the screen 136 shown in FIG. 38. The screen 136 includes a notice which includes an instruction for the user to now pass the multi-function card through the slot 32 in a different orientation so that the magnetic indicia correspond to the selected BP VISA card and can be described on the magnetic strip of the multi-function card. It should be noted that in the embodiment shown, the orientation of the card to erase the strip and to write indicia on the strip are different. This is done because a different head is used to erase as opposed to reading and writing. In alternate additions a single head can perform both erase and write functions or alternatively the multiple heads can be aligned in the slot so that the card is passed in the same manner to perform both erase, read and write functions. to write.

The preferred form of the invention includes the appropriate sensors and instructions so that the multi-function card is inserted incorrectly, the screen such as the screen 138 shown in Figure 39 is displayed. This can be done based on the sensor finger sensed by the card but the magnetic head does not perceive the strip which indicates an improper card orientation, or otherwise. This screen is displayed so that if the user begins to insert the card improperly there are notices to make a correction. Removal of the card may return the terminal to the screen 136 or may abort the sequence of instructions such as by displaying the screen 140 shown in FIG. 42.

However, if the card has been passed through the portable terminal properly a screen 142 shown in Figure 40 is presented. This screen indicates that the indications corresponding to the magnetic indicia on the original BP VISA card have been written on the magnetic strip on the multi-function card. From the screen 142 the terminal then moves to display a screen 144 shown in Figure 41 indicating that the transaction is completed and the user can turn off the portable terminal by pressing the on / off button 30.

If for any reason an error has been perceived in carrying out the transaction, a screen 140 shown in FIG. 42 preferably appears. The user can then select either the option to retry the transaction to write the material on the card by pressing the arrow up or it can be abandoned by pressing the down arrow which will return the terminal to the main menu. Alternatively in a preferred embodiment of the invention pressing the on / off button 30 of the screen 140 is also a suitable way to terminal the transaction.

Assuming that the selected card data has been written on the magnetic strip on the multiple function card 12, the user can now take the card from multiple functions and present it to any standard transaction terminal which accepts that type of magnetic card. . For example, if a user wishes to load those services into his BP VISA account, he can present the card to a merchant who passes the strip through a point of vent terminal, an electronic cash register or another appropriate terminal. This will result in the BP VISA account being charged for those goods or services. Similarly, if a user wishes to obtain cash from an automatic teller machine and upload it to his BP VISA account, he can present the multifunction card to an ATM machine. The ATM machine can be operated in the usual way as one would operate it using the original BP VISA card.

The multi-function card can be configured to include the user's signature in a space on one side of the card. This would allow a merchant to accept the card to compare the user's signature on a transaction receipt with the signature on the card. Alternatively, or in addition, a reproduction of the user's signature may be stored in the memory of the card. The user can display a reproduction of his signature on the terminal screen so that a merchant can verify the signature. Alternatively, the signature data may be transmitted through a communications device such as an infrared modem or transmitter, or other reading device from the terminal in the merchant system, so that the merchant may store the electronic signature data from the terminal with the transaction data.

In alternate methods of operation, the merchant may use an electronic signature capture system for transaction receipts. In such a system, the merchant's computer system may include software to compare the signals generated by the user's actual signature on an electronic signature pad with the signature data stored on the card. Such comparisons will provide an indication where the signature data does not correspond to a sufficient degree which may suggest that the user of the card is not the authorized user.

After completing a transaction the user can choose to leave the magnetic strip data for the selected cards on the strip. Alternatively, the user may choose to change the magnetic strip to a different card. For example, if the multi-function card has data recorded on the front corresponding to a particular card, the user may choose to return the magnetic strip indicia to correspond with the indicia engraved on the front of the card. Alternatively, the user can choose to completely erase the data from the magnetic strip as it can be done by returning the multi-function card to the terminal and repeating the steps associated with writing the data of the card in the magnetic pull through point. in the steps where the magnetic indicia are erased from the magnetic strip. The user can then exit the routine by pressing the d on / off button leaving the card with a blank strip. E incorporations where there is no recorded information on the front of the multi-function card users can find this advantageous since the multi-function card is not of an absolute value such as a credit or debit card unless the code access has been properly entered.

The apparatus of the present invention can be used to selectively record and display indicia such as the bar code. These functions are represented graphically and the logical flow associated with them is explained with reference to figures 43-61.

Figure 43 shows a screen 146. The screen 146 is identical to the screen 70 shown in the figure 8 of the main menu. To select this function, a user presses the enter button 28 from the main menu as s schematically indicated in figure 43. From the screen 14 a screen 148 is presented as shown in figure 44. The screen 148 warns a user to enter the identification d bar code or a designator corresponding to a code d bars that will be read from an object. This is done in a manner similar to the entry of the designators for the credit or debit card or to enter the access code. The user scrolls through the numeric alphabetic characters by pressing the up and down buttons 24 and 26 as represented by the screens 150 and 15 shown in figures 45 and 46, respectively, until a desired character is displayed in a desired position. When the desired character is reached, the meter button 28 is pressed at which point the user moves to the next character.

For the purposes of this example, it is presumed that the user will scan a barcode of a medical benefits identification card which the user has chosen as designating it "BLUE_CROSS IDENTIFICATION". This is represented in figure 47 by screen 154. The user indicates that the designator has been completed by pressing the enter button 28 a sufficient number of times to override any remaining spaces in the space entry available for characters.

Once the terminal is informed that the complete identification has been entered, the logical flow operates to display the warning displayed on the screen 156 and in Figure 48. This prompt instructs a user to scan the bar code outside the object such like the Blu Cross® ID card. The process also operates to initiate operation of browser component 50. The user then brings his identification card in proximity to the scanning device 34 on the portable terminal box and the processor operates in response to the stored instructions to capture the code data. of bars on the card. When the bar code data has been captured, the display 158 shown in FIG. 49 is displayed. As previously discussed, if the bar code can not be read or if it is not read in a sufficient time, the instructions may include provisions for returning the terminal to the screen 146 or providing a screen such as the screen 160 shown in the figure 52 in which the user is given the option of either giving up or re-processing the barcode scan.

Assuming that the bar code is read properly as indicated by the screen 158, the terminal then displays the screen 162 shown in Figure 50 which notifies a user if he wishes to add this bar code to the memory on the card of multiple functions. As is the case with the previous warnings, the failure value is "yes", but the user is enabled to change the fault to a "no" by pressing the button 26. For the purposes of this example, s will presume that the user You want to add the bar code for your medical ID card to the memory which is done by pressing the button 28 in response to the screen 162. In response to the user pressing the button to enter the screen 164 shown in the Figure 51 is displayed. The user can now turn off the terminal by pressing the button 30 It should be understood that while the type d visual cues added to the memory on the multi-function card in the above example is a bar code associated with a medical plan, other types of bar codes may be added. For example, the multiple function card may be used to store representative data of a claw code associated with a driver's license, a student identification card, an employee access card, a library card, or any other type of card. Barcode. In addition, the system can be configured to read and store other types of visual cues which are capable of being read, stored and reproduced.

When the user wishes to use the end to display one of the bar codes or other indicia stored in the memory he can do this from a screen 166 shown in figure 53. The screen 66 and identical to the screen 74 in the main menu . To proceed with the display of a selected bar code the user presses the enter button 28 as indicated schematically.

In response to the user selecting and displaying the bar code routine from the main menu, the terminal continues to display a screen 168 shown in figure 54. Screen 168 asks the user to identify the bar code that he wishes to use for exhibit it The user is enabled to select designators for the various bar codes stored in the memory of the multi function card. This is done by using the d up and down buttons on the terminal device.

Assuming for the purposes of this example that the user wishes to display the identification of the medical device, the designators for the various code signs stored bars are rolled by pressing the buttons until the medical identification designator is displayed. is represented by the screen 170 in Fig. 55. In response to pressing the meter button 28 is a processor and operated to recover the data corresponding to the code d bars in the memory and to display a reproduction of the barcode on the terminal. This is represented by a display 172 in Figure 56. The displayed display of bar code can be scanned from the display 22 of the portable terminal using the scanner or a similar bar code reading device which is schematically represented by the explorer 174 in figure 56. Thus, the user can identify himself to a medical provider as a participant in his medical plan and the user can enter the identifying information in the conventional manner using the same explorer that is used to explore a regular identification card. When the scanning process is finished, the user can discontinue the bar code display by pressing the on / off button 30.

The bar code which has previously been stored in the memory associated with the multi-function card can also be selectively erased therefrom. This can be done, for example, when a regular user card is replaced so that a new bar code or other visual cues are associated with it. Alternatively, a user may simply wish to discontinue the use of a particular card. This can happen, for example, in relation to a library card which the user has been using in a city where he had previously resided. Once the user changes, there is no use of that library. Similarly, a user can delete their driver license data when the driver moves to another state and obtains a new license.

The suppression of the memory barcode is represented by the logical flow associated with Figures 57-61. The screen 176 corresponds to the screen 72 in the main menu and includes a warning which allows a user to select the logic which operates to suppress a bar code from the memory. The user selects this transaction by pressing the enter button 28. A screen 178 is then displayed which asks a user to identify the bar code that he wishes to delete from the memory. The user selects the bar code by pressing the up and down buttons 24 and 26. As shown in Figure 59 the user selects a card which has the associated designator "CARD_CLE_LIB" stored in association with it in the memory of the multi-function card. This is represented by a screen 180. Pressing the meter button 30 with the bar code designator displayed causes a screen 182 shown in figure 60 to be displayed. The screen 182 asks the user if he wishes in fact to delete that particular bar code. The user is enabled to change the fault placement by pressing the button below. As shown schematically in Fig. 60, presuming that the user wishes to delete that particular bar code from the memory this presses the meter button 28. This causes a screen 184 shown in Fig. 61 to be displayed on the portable terminal. This screen includes the message notice to indicate that the barcode has been deleted. The user can then exit the routine by pressing the on / off button 30.

It should be understood that while the incorporation described operates to store and reproduce the visible signs that correspond to the bar code, other embodiments of the invention may produce other forms of visual cues. This may include visual cues that are intended to be read by machines for identification purposes as well as clues intended to be read by the human eye. Any form of indicia that can be read, stored in the memory of the multi-function card and displayed on the portable terminal is intended to be encompassed by the present invention. As previously discussed, the signature of a user is an additional example of a visual cue that can be stored and reproduced selectively. Such indications may be transmitted by the terminal to a remote system and may be used to verify the authenticity of a transaction or for other purposes.

The preferred form of the present invention also operates as a stored value card system and a transaction apparatus which operates at a stored value equivalent to a cash value in the memory of the multi-function card, as well as the value of transfer between the card and several accounts. The programmable memory 18 on the multi-function card 12 may include there any one of a number of different proprietary or public schemes for storing information representative of the cash value. This value storage method must be compatible with other terminals which can read the memory and transfer data representative of the value to or from memory while also operating to transfer funds between user accounts and suppliers of goods, services or cash. .

It should be understood that the multi-function card of the present invention can store a value in a several forms of proprietary schemes. For example, the card can have a stored cash value and associated with a Mondex® scheme. This can have a different cash value stored and associated with a VISA® CASH scheme. The card may also have storage data representative of cash values in any of one of several other schemes. Although the present invention will be described with respect to a card in which a representative value of the cash is stored thereon with respect to a single scheme, it should be understood that multiple schemes may be used. Furthermore, in the following description in which quantities can be transferred between the user's accounts, it is within the scope of the invention to transfer amounts between a proprietary scheme of value stored in the programmable memory of the card to another proprietary scheme stored within of the card. Such transfers can be made in a manner similar to transfers between accounts which are carried out by the terminal as described hereinafter, although it should be understood that in such situations additional steps are carried out by the processor in a terminal. portable to decrease and increase the various amounts of value stored in the memory of the card.

To facilitate accounting for such transactions, it will be desirable for the mobile terminal to connect to several remote locations that provide electronic transaction systems and networks that ensure that funds are properly accounted for. For example, the communication will be carried out with several remote systems to ensure that the indications are provided of which a user has transferred cash values on his card from one stored value card scheme to another.

One of the common functions that a user will execute in relation to the apparatus of the invention is to verify the stored value representative of cash that is stored on the programmable memory of the multi-function card. This is represented by the logical flow described with reference to Figure 62 and Figure 63. Figure 62 shows a screen 186. Screen 186 corresponds to screen 76 of the main menu. Screen 186 alerts the user if he wishes to verify the stored value balance on his multi-function card. To do this, the user presses the meter button 28. In response to the user selecting this item from the main menu, the memory of the card is read and the processor 36 causes a screen 188 shown in figure 63 to be displayed on l portable terminal. This screen indicates to the user the current cash value stored on the card. If the multi function card includes stored value schemes for several different programs, the intermediate screens may be provided to warn the user to select one of the various stored value schemes which are used on the card. As shown in Figure 63 when a user has finished displaying the amount of stored value it can exit by pressing the on / off button 30.

The transfer of funds to the memory of the stored value card is represented by FIGS. 64-74. FIG. 64 shows a screen 190. Screen 19 corresponds to screen 80 in FIG. 13 of the main menu. which includes a transfer value for your stored value card (which is the multifunctional card) by pressing the enter 2 button when the display 190 is displayed.

To transfer the representative value of the cash value in the memory of the multi-function card, a source of the money to be transferred is identified. This is done by the processor operating in response to the instructions stored on the card to display a screen 192 shown in Fig. 65. Screen 192 warns a user to identify the source of the money that is to be added to the memory of the user. the card. The user is then enabled to select the source by pressing the up and down buttons which causes the various sources of available funds to be selected. Such sources can include money stored in value schemes stored in the memory of the card itself. In the case of screen 192 if the user indicates that he wants the background source to be a BP VISA card, this is indicated by pressing the meter button 28 when this card designator is displayed.

After the source of the funds is designated, a screen 194 shown in Figure 66 is displayed. This screen warns the user to enter the amount of money that will be added to the card. This is done by the user entering a numerical quantity in a manner similar to the way in which access codes and designators have been previously entered. However, in the preferred form of the invention only numbers can be entered in this step. The user enters the numerical values by rolling to the desired numerical value and then pressing the meter button 28. This causes the logic program to move to the next value. After all the value characters have been entered as represented by the screen 196 in Figure 67 the user is warned through a screen 198 shown in figure 68 of whether he wishes to add the amount entered to his stored value card. As shown on screen 198, the value of fail is "yes" however the user can change this to a "not by pressing the down button." For the purposes of this example it will be presumed that the user wishes to add the amount and this is indicated by pressing the mete button 28.

In response to the user indicating that he wishes to add the quantity to the data representative of the value in the memory of the multi-function card, the processor operates in response to the stored instructions in the memory of the card to make contact with the card. appropriate remote location to obtain funds from the BP VISA account to indicate that the amount has been transferred to the user's stored value card. In one form of the invention this was achieved by the processor causing the communications component 52 to dial the remote location. This is done by using the appropriate address to make the connection which is preferably stored in the memory of the card. In this case, the address can be a telephone number. In alternate forms of the invention, the address using the communication component to make contact with the appropriate location may be a node or a TCP / IP address in a computer system such as a private intranet system or a public system such as the Internet. The particular approach depends on the nature of the system in which the portable terminal 1 is intended to operate.

The portable terminal exchanges messages with the remote location and the computer system there, which operates to load the user's account with the funds that has been transferred as a cash value on the stored value card. Alternatively, the terminal can communicate with a number of locations to indicate both the load to the user's account as well as to track the accounting entries, so that these are recorded that the user now has available funds in his particular stored value scheme. Several transaction messages are transferred between one or more remote locations and the portable terminal to achieve the transfer of funds. These messages may be in an ISO 8583 format or appropriate variants thereof or other proprietary message formats of suitable types such as to achieve the transfer of funds and a record thereof.

In a preferred embodiment even when the remote terminal is connecting to the address a display 200 shown in Fig. 69 is presented on the remote terminal display. By exchanging the remote terminal messages with the remote locations to transfer the funds after the connection has been made, the exhibitor of the remote terminal may display the screen 202 shown in FIG. 70 to indicate that the transaction is going forward.

If the transaction is successfully completed, the remote terminal exhibits a screen 204 shown in Figure 71 to indicate that a transaction has been approved. The logic then moves to cause a screen 206 to be displayed. The screen 206 which is shown in Figure 72 is operative to show the user the new value balance stored in the multi-function card.

If for some reason the terminal is unable to make the connections to the remote location, either because they are unable to make a connection or due to some other malfunction, a screen 208 shown in FIG. 73 may be displayed. It notifies a user to select if he wants to re-treat the transaction or if he wishes to give up. Similarly, the user may decide to turn off the terminal by pressing the on / off button 30. Alternatively, the user's request to transfer funds may be denied by the remote location such as because it would put the user above its limit of credit. In In such circumstances, the instructions stored in the multi-function card are received from the remote location, causing a screen 210 shown in FIG. 74 to be displayed in the terminal. This screen shows the user that the transaction was denied and that his card balance remains in the previous amount. Of course the user is free to try the transaction again using a different source of funds, or alternatively to transfer the funds from a different stored value scheme into the memory of the card.

The preferred form of the invention also allows transferring the value of the stored value card to one of the user's accounts. This may include, for example, a checking or savings account that the user maintains with a financial institution. Alternatively, this may include transferring the value from a value scheme stored in the card to another value scheme stored in the card.

The transfer value from the stored value card is started in a preferred embodiment of the invention from a screen 212 shown in Figure 75. The screen 212 corresponds to a screen 78 in the main menu. Pressing the enter button on this screen causes the processor to execute several instructions on the multi-function card associated with that transaction.

In executing the transfer from the card, the user is immediately notified through a screen 214 shown in figure 76 to identify a destination of the funds. This is done by the user using the up and down buttons to select one of the available destinations. In this case the user has selected the account associated with the designator "KEY_BANK_ATM". The selection is made by pressing the meter button 28.

As shown in figure 77, the user must immediately enter an amount that will be transferred from the memory of the stored value card to the assigned amount. The user must enter an amount which is warned through a screen 216. The entry of a quantity is achieved in the manner previously described by using the up and down buttons and the meter button. In this case of this example the user deposits an amount to transfer 200 dollars as indicated by the screen 218 in figure 78.

In response to the user entering the transfer amount the terminal then operates to display a screen 220 shown in Figure 79 in which the user is asked if he confirms that he wishes to make the transfer to the particular account. In these situations in which the user obtains funds from financial institutions or other sources where they may have multiple accounts, the user can be notified through additional screens to select particular accounts that can be maintained in the institutions which are sources of the funds. This was demonstrated in figures 80 and 81. For example on the screen 222 the user is first notified of the state of whether he wishes to transfer the funds savings. By pressing the button below the user can have the screen 224 displayed which then asks if he wants to transfer the funds to the check account. For the purposes of this example, it will be presumed that the user wishes to transfer the funds to the checking account that he selects by pressing the button 28 as shown in figure 81.

When the user is transferring funds to or from a debit card account, the personal identification number uniquely associated with the user's account is required to enter to gain access. The nature of the account that the user has identified as the destination or source of the funds, is generally indicative that a personal identification number is required for access to it. The instructions stored in the memory of the card or in the memory of the terminal may cause screens to be displayed associated with the entry of a personal identification number and / or the selection of several accounts when the particular accounts are selected.

In the present example because the bank account requires the entry of a personal identification number as being used as the destination of the funds, the stored instructions cause a screen 226 shown in figure 82 to be displayed. The screen 226 warns the user to enter a personal identification number. The personal identification number is entered by the user either by alphabetic or numeric characters in the manner previously described to put the designators and numerical values in the remote terminal. Once the user has completed the entry of his personal identification number as indicated by screen 228 in figure 83, he is presented with a notice that he is asked to confirm the entry of the personal identification number. Confirming the entry in response to this notice is done by pressing the entry button 28. In additions where the biometric reader is used, the biometric data can be used in addition to or instead of the personal identification number to identify the user in a remote system. Alternatively, a user's personal identification number can be stored on the card. If the user has first identified himself with an access code or biometric data to operate the terminal with the card, the security level can be considered already sufficient so that the personal identification number can be recalled from the memory and sent to the terminal. Alternatively, the user may be required to enter the biometric data and in response to the appropriate biometric input the personal identification number is retrieved from the card memory and output by the terminal.

After the data required to carry out a transaction has been entered, the user is asked if he wants the transaction to continue. As shown in figure 84, a screen 230 is presented which warns the user to confirm that he wants the transaction to go ahead. Confirmation is presented by pressing the enter button. In response to this the remote terminal contacts the appropriate computer address to transfer the funds to the designated account. While this is being done the screens 232 and 235 shown in Figures 85 and 86 are displayed. As previously discussed contact through a telephone system or through a computer network to the appropriate address.

If the transaction is completed successfully the instructions cause the screen 236 shown in Figure 87 to be displayed. In the preferred form of the invention the instructions may cause the display of the display 237 which shows the user the amount of value remaining on the card.

Although several communication methods between the remote terminal and the remote locations can be used, in a preferred embodiment of the invention it is desirable that the communication device includes a wireless modem. The wireless modem allows communication over a cell phone network. Proper coding is provided to increase security. This allows a user to transfer funds between the multi-function card and its various accounts from a convenient place where the user is. This can be particularly advantageous when the user finds that he is in need of cash and does not have an automated teller machine or an easily available telephone line. The user is able to charge the cash value on the multi-function card so that he can complete his transactions. her while the invention has been described as being used to make value transactions stored on the card to various user accounts, the forms of the invention may also be used to transfer funds from a user's stored value card to the card. of stored value of another user. This allows users to carry out the equivalent of cash transactions using the stored value cards. In such circumstances the terminal will make contact with the appropriate remote locations to record funds transfers for accounting purposes if necessary. Alternatively, if sufficient security is provided, the electronic information corresponding to the cash value can be considered sufficient so that a cash account value is not required to remain in the external system.

The alternate forms of the present invention can also be used in various ways. For example, the system of the present invention allows a user to authorize the creation of a duplicate card or debit cards which can be provided to trusted friends or a family member on a temporary basis. This will allow talented individuals to have access to user funds when necessary. This may be appropriate when members of the family are traveling and are separated from the primary card user.

As will be appreciated, the preferred form of the present invention allows a user to continue the use of a large number of credit cards, debit cards and various other forms of cards and objects that have clues as to whether to carry those cards in their possession. person. As a result the user is trained to keep such cards in the home or in another safe place where they are less likely to be lost or stolen. hermore, the preferred form of the present invention is highly flexible in configuration and can accommodate a number of different types of transactions depending on the instructions stored in the memory of the multi-function card and / or the portable terminal. As a result the apparatus and method of the present invention is high and easily adaptable to carry out the different types of transactions or additional of either financial or otherwise.

Therefore, the new transaction apparatus and the method of the present invention achieve the above stated objectives, eliminate the difficulties encountered in the use of the above devices and in the systems, solve problems and achieve the desirable results described herein.

In the above description certain terms have been used for brevity, clarity and understanding. However, unnecessary limitations of the same should not be implicated because such terms are used for descriptive purposes and are intended to be widely considered. In addition, the descriptions and illustrations given herein are by way of examples and the invention is not limited to the exact details shown and described.

In the following claims any described feature is a means to perform a function should be considered as encompassed by any means capable of carrying out the recited function known to those skilled in the art and not be limited to the particular means shown in previous description as carrying out the recited function or the merely equivalent means for the same.

Having described the characteristics, discoveries and principles of the invention, the manner in which it is constructed, operated and utilized and the advantages the useful results achieved; The new and useful structures, devices, elements, arrangements, parts, combinations, systems, equipment, operations, methods and relationships are set forth in the appended claims.

Claims (37)

R E I V I N D I C A C I O N S

1. An apparatus comprising: a card including a programmable memory and a magnetic strip held therein, wherein the memory includes account data corresponding to a plurality of accounts; a portable terminal that can be freely contacted with the card, the terminal includes an operating memory collecting device for reading the memory account data, the portable terminal further includes an input device that operates to select memory data that correspond to one of the plurality of accounts and a magnetic writing device operative to write indicia corresponding to the selected account data on the magnetic strip of the card.

2. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that the portable terminal further includes a device for reading objects selectively operated to read the indications of an object on one side of the terminal and a memory writing device, wherein the The memory writing device operates to write data corresponding to the indications read from the object in the card memory.

3. The apparatus as claimed in clause 2 characterized in that the object reading device d includes a magnetic strip reader.

4. The apparatus as claimed in clause 2 characterized in that the object reading device d includes a bar code reader.

5. The apparatus as claimed in clause 2 characterized in that the portable terminal includes an input designator device, the inputting device designator operates selectively to insert an object designator, and wherein the object writing device and operative for writing data corresponding to both the object designator and the indicia in the card memory.

6. The apparatus as claimed in clause 5 characterized in that the data correspond to the object designator and the object indicia are stored in a correlated relation in the memory of the card.

7. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that the portable terminal includes a magnetic erasing device, wherein the magnetic erasing device is selectively operated to erase the indications on the magnetic strip of the card.

8. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that the memory of the card includes data corresponding to an access code and wherein the access code is enabled to be entered through the terminal input device and in where the terminal operates in response to the entry of the access code to allow the memory reading device to read the account data.

9. The apparatus as claimed in clause 8 characterized in that the access code includes biometric data and the input device includes a biometric reader device.

10. The apparatus as claimed in clause 2 characterized in that the memory includes data corresponding to an access code and wherein the terminal operates in response to the entry of the access code through the input device to allow the device to memory write writing data corresponding to the reading of clues from the object of the card memory.

11. The apparatus as claimed in clause 4 characterized in that the portable terminal includes a display device, and wherein the memory of the card includes stored data corresponding to at least a bar code read by the bar code reader , and where the merchandiser operates in response to the input device to reproduce on the merchandiser the bar code corresponding to the bar code stored in the memory.

12. The apparatus as claimed in clause 11 characterized in that the card memory includes data corresponding to a plurality of bar codes, and wherein the input device of the terminal operates to select data corresponding to one of the second plurality of bar codes, and wherein the merchandiser operates in response to the input device inputs to reproduce the selected bar code on the merchandiser.

13. The apparatus as claimed in clause 11 characterized in that it further comprises a scanning device, wherein the scanning device operates to read the plurality of bar codes from a plurality of objects and wherein the terminal operates in response to the input device to selectively reproduce the barcode on the merchandiser.

14. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that the card memory also includes data representative of the monetary value, and wherein the terminal's memory reader device operates to read the value data and the memory reader device operates to write the value data in the memory, and further comprises a communications device in operative connection with the terminal and in which the input device has been selectively operated to select the data corresponding to a designated of said accounts, and where the communications device is operated to provide operational messages to deduct an amount of funds from a designated account the writing device operates in response to the messages to write data in the memory representative of a new prime value, the first new value corresponds to the sum of value and quantity.

15. The apparatus as claimed in clause 14 characterized in that the terminal is further operative in response to the input device to select a second designated amount, and wherein the communications device operates to give operational messages to add a second amount of funds to the second quantity and the writing device is operated in response to the messages for writing representative data of a second new value for the memory, wherein the second new value corresponds to the first new value deduced by the second quantity.

16. The apparatus as claimed in clause 2 characterized in that the writing device operates in response to the input device to selectively delete account data from the card memory.

17. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that the terminal also includes a processor in operative connection with the memory reader device, the magnetic reading device and the input device and wherein the memory of the card includes instruction and wherein the memory reading device operates to read the instructions of the card in response to the input device d and wherein the processor operates in response to a memory reading device that reads the instructions for operating the magnetic writing device to write the indications that correspond to the selected account on the magnetic card of the card.

18. The apparatus as claimed in clause 17 characterized in that the terminal includes one displayed in operative connection with the processor and wherein the instructions on the card include data representative of at least one message message adapted to instruct a user in operation of the terminal and wherein the processor operates in response to the input device to cause the display to reproduce the warning message.

19. The apparatus as claimed in clause 18 characterized in that the data stored in the memory include data representative of icons, wherein the icons are reproduced with the warning messages on the display.

20. The apparatus as claimed in clause 14 characterized in that the card memory also includes data representative of an address, wherein the reading device of the terminal operates to read the address and the terminal is operative to make the device Communications is communicated to a place that corresponds to that address.

21. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that the portable terminal includes an exhibiting device, and wherein the card memory includes stored data corresponding to at least one signature and wherein the display operates in response to the device. entry to reproduce on the display the signature that corresponds to the signature stored in the memory.

22. The apparatus as claimed in clause 1 characterized in that it also comprises a source of solar powered power in operative connection with the terminal device.

23. A method comprising the steps of: store information corresponding to a plurality of accounts in a memory supported on a card selecting with the input device on a portable terminal operatively connected to the card memory, one of the accounts; Y write with the terminal, signs that correspond to a selected account on a magnetic strip held on the card.

24. The method as claimed in clause 23 characterized in that before the step of writing it also comprises the step of erasing previous signs recorded on the magnetic strip of the card with a deletion device.

25. The method as claimed in clause 23 characterized in that the storage step comprises: reading indicia of a magnetic strip of an object by moving the object in relation to a reading device on the terminal; and also write data corresponding to the read indications of the object for the memory on the card with a memory writing device in the terminal.

26. The method as claimed in clause 25 characterized in that in addition to the step of writing comprises the step of putting a designator with an input device in the terminal, so the designator corresponds to the object read, where the step of writing Data corresponding to the designator is written in the memory on the card.

27. The method as claimed in clause 23 further characterized because it comprises: read with a barcode reader operatively connected to the terminal, a bar code on an object; also write in the memory on the card with a writing device data corresponding to the bar code read from the object; Y displaying a reproduction of the bar code read on the terminal's inhibitor in response to an input to the input device.

28. The method as claimed in clause 27 further characterized in that it comprises the step d scanning the displayed reproduction of the bar code from the merchandiser with a scanning device.

29. The method as claimed in clause 27 characterized in that it comprises, before the additional writing pass, the additional step of inserting a designator with the input device in the terminal, so that the designator corresponds to the bar code read, in where the additional writing step the data written in the memo includes representative data of the designator and before the step d display further comprises the step of selecting with the input device data corresponding to the designator, e where the step of displaying the code of bars corresponds to the designator is displayed.

30. The method as claimed in clause 23 characterized in that the storage step further includes storing representative data of an access code in the card memory, and before the selecting step it also comprises the steps of inserting with the device. entering some input code data, and comparing the input code data with the access code, wherein the selecting step is not executed when the input code data and the access code do not have a predetermined relationship.

31. The method as claimed in clause 23 further characterized because it comprises: read a signature written with a reading device operatively connected to the terminal; also write in the memory on the card co a writing device data corresponding to the written signature; Y displaying a reproduction of the signature written on a device of the terminal in response to an input device input.

32 A method comprising the steps of: storing information corresponding to at least one account and to at least a quantity of value on a memory held on a card; select with an input device on a portable terminal, data corresponding to an account; enter with the input device a transfer account that is to be transferred between the account and the amount of value on the card; communicate messages through communication devices operatively connected to the terminal, the messages being operative to either subtract or add the amount transferred from or to the account; Y modify the amount of value with the terminal device in response to the messages to either add the transfer amount to the amount of value when the transfer amount was deducted from the account or to deduct the transfer amount from the amount of value when the transfer amount was added to the account.

33. The method as claimed in clause 32 characterized in that it comprises the storage step includes storing representative data of at least one address, wherein in the communication step the communication device communicates messages to a place corresponding to the address.

34. The method as claimed in clause 32, characterized in that the storage step includes reading indicia of a magnetic strip of a card with a terminal device and storing data corresponding to the account indications in the memory on the card.

35. The method as claimed in clause 32, characterized in that before the metering step it also comprises the step of designating with the input device whether the transfer amount is to be deducted from or added to the account, and adding or deducting respectively of the amount of value, wherein the communication and modification steps are carried out to transfer the transfer amount according to the input to the input device in the designation step.

36. The method as claimed in clause 32 characterized in that the storage step further includes storing programmed instructions in the card memory, wherein the instructions are executed in the communication step by the terminal device.

37. The method as claimed in clause 32 further characterized because it comprises before the entry step the steps of: designate a type of function with the input device; Y in response to the input of the function device in the designation step forgetting the entry, communication and modification steps and instead of this also comprises the step of writing magnetic indicia on a magnetic strip held on the card with a sustained writing device on the terminal, the magnetic signs corresponding to the selected account. R E U M E N A transaction apparatus that includes a multi-function card and a portable terminal. The multi-function card includes a programmable memory and a magnetic strip on it. The programmable strip on the card is used to store indicia corresponding to account data which is entered into the memory by reading with the magnetic strip data terminal from a plurality of conventional magnetic strip cards. The programmable memory also includes data representative of the cash value as well as instructions, warning messages and icons presented in the conduct of transactions. A user is enabled to operate the apparatus to select one of the accounts stored in the memory and to write the account data corresponding to the selected amount for the magnetic strip of the card. The user is also enabled to use the apparatus to put visible signs such as bar codes and to selectively reproduce the bar codes on the apparatus display. The apparatus also operates selectively to transfer funds between user accounts and data representative of the cash value stored on the card.