U.S. patent application number 12/339041 was filed with the patent office on 2009-06-25 for advanced dynamic credit cards.
This patent application is currently assigned to Dynamics Inc.. Invention is credited to Jeffrey D. Mullen.
Application Number | 20090159696 12/339041 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 40787420 |
Filed Date | 2009-06-25 |
United States Patent
Application |
20090159696 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Mullen; Jeffrey D. |
June 25, 2009 |
ADVANCED DYNAMIC CREDIT CARDS
Abstract
A credit card is provided that may include a credit card number,
where at least a portion of the credit card number changes
periodically. A magnetic emulator and/or magnetic stripe encoder
may be provided to communicate at least a portion of the
information needed to complete a credit card transaction to a
credit card reader. For example, a magnetic emulator may be
provided about a magnetic stripe so that the magnetic emulator
communicates the information that changes and the magnetic stripe
communicates the information that does not change. In doing so, the
amount of power used by a credit card may be reduced with respect
to a credit card that communicates, for example, all of the
information with a magnetic emulator.
Inventors: |
Mullen; Jeffrey D.;
(Pittsburgh, PA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
JEFFREY D. MULLEN
731 SOUTH NEGLEY, APT. 2
PITTSBURGH
PA
15232
US
|
Assignee: |
Dynamics Inc.
Pittsburgh
PA
|
Family ID: |
40787420 |
Appl. No.: |
12/339041 |
Filed: |
December 19, 2008 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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61016491 |
Dec 24, 2007 |
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61026846 |
Feb 7, 2008 |
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61027807 |
Feb 11, 2008 |
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61081003 |
Jul 15, 2008 |
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61086239 |
Aug 5, 2008 |
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61090423 |
Aug 20, 2008 |
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61097401 |
Sep 16, 2008 |
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61112766 |
Nov 9, 2008 |
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61117186 |
Nov 23, 2008 |
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61119366 |
Dec 2, 2008 |
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61120813 |
Dec 8, 2008 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
235/493 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06K 19/0704 20130101;
G06T 2207/30004 20130101; G07F 7/0806 20130101; G06K 19/07
20130101; G06Q 30/0241 20130101; G06Q 20/341 20130101; G06K 19/0702
20130101; G06K 19/07773 20130101; G06Q 20/352 20130101; G06K
19/0725 20130101; A61B 5/02 20130101; G06K 19/07749 20130101; A61B
5/02042 20130101; G06T 2207/10024 20130101; G06K 2209/05 20130101;
G06K 19/0775 20130101; G06K 7/0004 20130101; G06K 19/0723 20130101;
G06Q 20/401 20130101; G06K 19/06187 20130101; G06K 19/06206
20130101; G06K 19/083 20130101; G06Q 20/18 20130101; G06K 9/32
20130101; G06K 19/07345 20130101; G06K 9/3233 20130101; G06K
19/07766 20130101; G06Q 30/0641 20130101; G06Q 20/385 20130101;
G06Q 20/20 20130101; G06K 19/07705 20130101; G06K 19/07769
20130101; G06Q 20/34 20130101; G06Q 20/3415 20130101; G06K 7/084
20130101; G06K 19/07703 20130101; G06K 7/10297 20130101; G06Q
30/0222 20130101; G06Q 30/0277 20130101; G07F 7/1008 20130101; G06F
3/0488 20130101; G06K 19/07707 20130101; G06K 7/087 20130101; G06K
19/07709 20130101; G06T 7/62 20170101 |
Class at
Publication: |
235/493 |
International
Class: |
G06K 19/06 20060101
G06K019/06 |
Claims
1. A card comprising: a display; a magnetic stripe, wherein said
magnetic stripe is operable of communicating first information to a
magnetic stripe card reader; and a magnetic emulator about said
magnetic stripe, wherein said magnetic emulator is operable of
communicating second information to said magnetic stripe card
reader.
2. A card comprising: a display; a button; a magnetic stripe,
wherein said magnetic stripe is operable of communicating first
information to a magnetic stripe card reader; a dynamic magnetic
communications device about said magnetic stripe, wherein said
magnetic emulator is operable of communicating second information
to said magnetic stripe card reader; and a processor for receiving
a first signal from a button and providing a second signal to a
display and a third signal to a dynamic magnetic communications
device reader.
3. The card of claim 2, wherein said first information includes a
dynamic payment number and a dynamic code.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional
Patent Application Nos. 61/016,491 filed on Dec. 24, 2007 (Docket
No. JDM/019 PROV), 61/026,846 filed on Feb. 7, 2008 (Docket No.
JDM/019PROV2), 61/027,807 filed on Feb. 11, 2008 (Docket. No.
JDM/020 PROV), 61/081,003 filed on Jul. 15, 2008 (Docket No. D/005
PROV), 61/086,239 filed on Aug. 5, 2008 (Docket No. D/006 PROV),
61/090,423 filed on Aug. 20, 2008 (Docket No. D/007 PROV),
61/097,401 filed Sep. 16, 2008 (Docket No. D/008 PROV), 61/112,766
filed on Nov. 9, 2008 (Docket No. D/009 PROV), 61/117,186 filed on
Nov. 23, 2008 (D/010 PROV), 61/119,366 filed on Dec. 2, 2008
(Docket No. D/011 PROV), and 61/120,813 filed on Dec. 8, 2008, all
of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their
entirety.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] This invention relates to payment cards such as credit
cards.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0003] A card is provided with a dynamic number. For example, a
payment card, such as credit card, is provided with a dynamic
payment card number, such as a dynamic credit card number. A
dynamic credit card number may, for example, change based on time
or use.
[0004] A portion of a dynamic credit card number may be static.
Accordingly, for example, the credit card number may change but
particular digits of the dynamic credit card number may remain
constant. For example, a dynamic credit card number may be provided
such that the beginning one or more digits (e.g., first six digits)
are static.
[0005] As such, the beginning one or more digits of a number may be
representative of the type of card (e.g., a dynamic credit card) as
well as other information. Such information may include, for
example, routing information such that at least some of the digits
of a number may be communicated to remote servers according to the
static routing information.
[0006] For example, the beginning digit of numerous dynamic credit
cards may have the same static one or more digits (e.g., beginning
digits). For example, the beginning digits of an American Express
dynamic credit card may take the form of "399." The first digit
(e.g., "3") may be representative of the card manufacturer (e.g.,
"American Express"). The second and third digits (e.g., "99") may
be representative of the type of card (e.g., a dynamic credit
card).
[0007] A magnetic emulator may be provided on a card (e.g., a
credit or debit card). Such a magnetic emulator may include one or
more wires that are able to produce an electromagnetic field that
is operable to be read by, for example, a magnetic stripe reader.
The magnetic emulator may be provided about a magnetic stripe and
may be utilized to produce an electromagnetic field such that, for
example, a magnetic stripe reader may seamlessly read a portion of
the magnetic stripe, then read fields generated from the magnetic
emulator, then read another portion of the magnetic stripe. In
doing so, for example, only particular information related to an
account (e.g., all or a portion of a credit card number) may be
communicated via a magnetic emulator and, as such, may be operable
to be changed.
[0008] A magnetic emulator may be placed adjacent to a magnetic
stripe such that the first data read by a magnetic stripe data is
provided by the magnetic emulator. Similarly, numerous magnetic
emulators may be provided about one or more magnetic stripes. For
example, a magnetic emulator may be provided at different locations
on different tracks of a magnetic stripe. Magnetic emulators may
share, for example, similar control circuitry. Magnetic emulators
may communicate data directly to a read-head of a card reader
without the presence of a magnetic medium. A card may be provided
with one or more emulators and without a magnetic stripe.
[0009] A magnetic encoder may be provided, for example, to change
the state of magnetic filaments located on a magnetic stripe such
that information may be changed. A magnetic encoder may write
information on a magnetic material configured for that magnetic
encoder. Accordingly, for example, a card (e.g., a security card)
may be provided with a magnetic stripe having one set of attributes
(e.g., one coercivity) and another magnetic stripe, configured for
use with a magnetic encoder, having a different set of attributes
(e.g., a different coercivity).
[0010] An identification name may be printed on the front of a card
(e.g., a credit, debit, or security card). This name may be unique.
Accordingly, for example, no two credit cards may be fabricated
that utilize the same identification name. For example, instead of
providing a card with an identification name of "Christopher
Mullen," that card may include an identification name of
"Christopher-Mullen-201." As such, a user on a website may utilize
the identification name in a field representative of "name on
card"/"name of account holder." Such an identification name may
also be communicated to a magnetic stripe reader via a magnetic
stripe or magnetic emulator located on a credit card.
[0011] A batch of credit card numbers may be partitioned such that,
for example, two users having the same name may not, for example,
have a dynamic credit card associated with the same particular
partition. For example, suppose the first three numbers of a
dynamic credit card number are static (e.g. "391"). The first digit
(e.g., "3") may be representative of a credit card manufacturer
(e.g., "American Express."). The second digit (e.g., "9") may be
representative of the type of credit card (e.g., a dynamic credit
card). The third digit (e.g., "1") may be representative of the
partition. Accordingly, a credit card verification process may be
able to recognize a partition. Using this scheme, for example, ten
partitions may be provided (e.g., "390-399"). As such, ten people
using the exact same name may be provided with a dynamic credit
card that utilizes this scheme and each could be provided with a
different partition.
[0012] More than one display may be utilized on a card, such as an
identification card or credit card. A single controller (e.g., a
processor) and a clock may be utilized to drive such displays.
Similarly, each display may be provided with its own controller and
clock. The clock may supply timing signals to such controllers.
Accordingly, each controller may be provided with a different type
of coding. For example, one controller may utilize one coding
scheme and another controller may utilize another coding scheme. As
such a dynamic number, such as a dynamic credit card number, may be
provided by one or more displays run by different coding schemes.
If one coding scheme is compromised by a thief, such an additional
coding scheme would provide additional security. Similarly, a
single controller may provide multiple coding schemes to different
portions of a dynamic number (e.g., a dynamic credit or debit card
number).
[0013] A dynamic number may change periodically. A dynamic number
may change based on a time period. This time period may be
displayed on a display. For example, the time period may be a
portion of a dynamic number. Accordingly, a transmitted dynamic
number may include the information as to what time period, or time
periods, the dynamic number is associated with.
[0014] A dynamic code may be provided. A dynamic code may be
provided on its own display or on a display providing other
information (e.g., dynamic card number). Such a dynamic code may
be, for example, a dynamic security code. Accordingly, for example,
a dynamic security code may be utilized with a dynamic card number
to authorize a payment transaction. Such a dynamic code may also be
communicated through a magnetic emulator or encoder. Alternatively,
for example, one dynamic code may be communicated visually (e.g.,
for online transactions) and a different dynamic code may be
communicated magnetically (e.g., for in-store transactions). Such
codes may change based on time or use. One or more buttons may be
provided to change a particular dynamic number or all dynamic
numbers. For example, a button may be utilized to change a dynamic
card number and a different button may be utilized to change a
dynamic security code for online use. A single button may be
provided, for example, that changes all dynamic numbers (e.g., a
card number provided on a display, an online security code provided
on the same or a different display, and an in-store code
communicated magnetically to a magnetic stripe reader). An in-store
code and an online security code may be, for example, the same
code. Different tracks of data may, for example, have different
security codes.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0015] The principles and advantages of the present invention can
be more clearly understood from the following detailed description
considered in conjunction with the following drawings, in which the
same reference numerals denote the same structural elements
throughout, and in which:
[0016] FIG. 1 is an illustration of cards constructed in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
[0017] FIG. 2 is an illustration of cards constructed in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
[0018] FIG. 3 is an illustration of cards constructed in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
[0019] FIG. 4 is an illustration of cards constructed in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 5 is an illustration of cards constructed in accordance
with the principles of the present invention;
[0021] FIG. 6 is an illustration of a card constructed in
accordance with the principles of the present invention;
[0022] FIG. 7 is an illustration of a card constructed in
accordance with the principles of the present invention; and
[0023] FIG. 8 is an illustration of a personal electronic device
constructed in accordance with the principles of the present
invention
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0024] FIG. 1 shows card 100 that may include a display that
displays dynamic credit card number 110, time period 120, and time
until change information 130.
[0025] Identification information 140 may also be included on card
100. Identification information 140 may be permanently provided on
card 100 or may be displayed on a display (e.g., the display that
displays dynamic credit card number 110). For example,
identification information 140 may be printed onto card 100 or
embossed on card 100.
[0026] Dynamic credit card number 110 may be changed periodically.
Additionally, a number may be changed right after a user enters a
number into an online checkout process--but before that online
checkout process completes. Accordingly, a particular number of
dynamic credit card number 110 may, for example, be valid during
time period 120 in which the particular number was generated.
Dynamic numbers may, or may not, be repeated. The numbers that are
valid for a particular period of time may be, for example, a
numbers generated in adjacent time slots (e.g., the time slot or
time slots before and after the generation of the displayed
number).
[0027] A display may be bi-stable or non bi-stable. A bi-stable
display may consume electrical energy to change the information
displayed on the bi-stable display but may not consume electrical
energy to maintain the display of that information. A non bi-stable
display may consume electrical energy to both change and maintain
information on the non bi-stable display. A display driving circuit
may be provided, for example, for a bi-stable display (or a non
bi-stable display). Such a display driving circuit may step-up a
supply voltage (e.g., 1-5 volts) to a larger voltage (e.g., 6-15
volts) such that a bi-stable display may change displayed
information. A controller (e.g., a processor) may be utilized to
control such a display driving circuit.
[0028] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a particular
number may be verified by a verification system (e.g., a credit
card verification server) during a time period not associated with
the particular number. In such instances, for example, the
particular number may be transmitted along with the time period in
which the particular number was generated. Accordingly, the
particular number may be verified as being generated during the
time period by the verification server. In instances of fraud, the
cost of fraud may be transferred to the entity that provided the
particular number and time period. In this manner, the liability
for fraud may be transmitted to the entity that stores the
particular number and time period for later use. In doing so,
entities may be encouraged to, for example, only transmit current
dynamic credit card numbers. The cost of fraud may be transferred,
for example, to the association or bank that issued the card.
[0029] A website may include, for example, a text box that would
allow a user to provide timing information 120. A different coding
scheme may also be associated with each, or with a group of,
different time periods. A credit card verification system may
include a timing circuit that is in sync with a timing circuit on
card 100 such that both the verification system and card 100 are
aware of the current time period of card 100. A time period may be,
for example, on the order of minutes, hours, or days. For example,
a time period may be approximately 36 hours in duration.
[0030] Time until change information 130 may be provided on a
display and may be representative of the amount of time remaining
before number 110 changes.
[0031] Identification information 140 may be provided on card 100.
Identification information 140 may be provided such that each card
100 has different identification information 140. Accordingly, even
though to users may have the same name, each user may have
different identification information 140. In doing so, a user may
enter in identification information 140 on a text box at an online
store and a verification system may, for example, be able to
identify a particular user based on identification information 140.
A number may include one or more digits representative of
information that may be utilized in an identification process. For
example, two digits may be representative of a partition. Users
having the same name may be assigned different partitions.
Accordingly, the name on a card may be associated with the name of
a person. People with the same name may have the same
identification information. However, such people with the same name
may be recognized by having different identification digits. Two
identification digits in a credit card number may allow for 100
partitions. Similarly, identification information may be provided
in a dynamic credit card number. The digits for identification may
change location each period or particular groups of periods as well
as may be coded differently each period or particular groups of
periods. Identification digits may be static (e.g., printed on a
credit card or statically displayed so the digits do not change).
In printing a static number of a card, for example, the amount of
power needed to display a credit card number may be reduced.
[0032] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate, for example,
that at least the first six digits of payment card number may
remain static and may be utilized to route at least the rest of the
payment card number to the appropriate verification network.
Portions of remaining digits may remain static and may be utilized
for identification while other remaining digits may be dynamic.
[0033] Card 150 may be provided and may include a display that
includes a dynamic number with portion 160 that corresponds to a
credit card number and portion 170 that corresponds to a time
period. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that other
portions may be provided in such a number or that a particular
portion may include particular information. For example, user
identification information may be utilized as part of portion 160.
Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a static number may
be permanently provided on a card (e.g., via printing or
embossing). Alternatively, for example, a display may display a
particular digit or digits time the display displays a card number.
Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a display may be
configured to display numerical data or alphanumerical data. A
display may also be configured to display other indicia (e.g., the
image of a battery and its remaining life).
[0034] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that portions 160
and 170 may take the form of a credit card number (e.g., a fifteen
digit number that is transmitted as a credit card number to a
credit card verification server). Additionally, any digit or digits
of a dynamic credit card number may be static. For example, at
least the first digit may be static. In doing so, for example, a
credit card verification system may be able to identify a credit
card number as being a dynamic credit card number.
[0035] A credit card number with three digits allocated for a time
period associated with the generated number may, for example, be
sufficient to provide enough time periods for a card's life. For
example, suppose a time period is associated with a day. Three
digits would provide for 1000 days of operation. As a card may be
provided with a magnetic emulator or magnetic stripe encoder,
additional information may be transmitted to a card verification
system. For example, user identification information and time
period information not embodied as a credit card number may be
transmitted to a remote credit card verification system via a local
magnetic stripe reader.
[0036] FIG. 2 shows card 200 that includes a credit card number
having static portion 210, displayed portion 220, and displayed
portion 230. Static portion 123 may be utilized such that a credit
card verification system is able to recognize that a credit card
number is a dynamic credit card such as an American Express dynamic
credit card. Portion 220 may be dynamic and may periodically
change. In doing so, the amount of fraud associated with card
number theft may be reduced. Portion 230 may be representative of a
time period for portion 220. Accordingly, identification of a
number being a dynamic card number, a time stamp, and a dynamic
number may all be transmitted as a 15-digit credit card number.
Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a payment card
number may have different lengths. For example, a payment card
number may be 19 digits in length or 16 digits in length. Persons
skilled in the art will appreciate that a time period, for example,
does not have to be transmitted. Systems may, for example, assume
that a card is synchronized to a verification server. Similarly,
transmission of a time stamp may be optional. As such, for example,
a time stamp may be transmitted when one-click shopping is utilized
by a particular online store, but a time stamp may not be needed,
for example, when a purchase is made and a credit card number is
entered for immediate processing.
[0037] Card 250 includes a number, which may be utilized as a
credit card number, which includes portion 260 and 270. Portion 260
may include, for example digits that may be representative of the
type of number displayed (e.g., a dynamic credit card number).
Portion 260 may also include a dynamic number that may be utilized
by a credit card processing system to a make a purchase on credit.
Portion 270 may, for example, include digits associated with a time
period for a dynamic credit card number. Portions 260 and 270 may
be coded by different coding procedures. Accordingly, if the
integrity of one procedure is compromised, a dynamic credit card
may still provide security if, for example, the integrity of the
other coding procedure is still intact.
[0038] FIG. 3 shows credit card 300 may include structure 310 which
may be, for example, a dynamic magnetic communications device such
as a magnetic stripe encoder or a magnetic emulator. A magnetic
stripe encoder may, for example, erase and re-write information to
a magnetic stripe. A magnetic emulator may, for example, generate
electromagnetic fields that are able to be read by a magnetic
stripe reader.
[0039] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a button may
be included that may provide a variety of capabilities. For
example, a button, when pressed, may cause a magnetic stripe
encoder to write a number (e.g., the credit card number generated
at the time the button is pressed) to the magnetic stripe. This
number may also be displayed on a display. As per another example,
a button, while pressed, may cause a magnetic emulator to turn ON
and emulate fields. A magnetic emulator or encoder may comprise a
number of wires. A current may be flowed through the wires at
particular strengths and polarities to generate fields capable of,
for example, writing to a magnetic stripe or being read by a
magnetic stripe reader.
[0040] Card 350 may include magnetic stripe portions 360 and 380 as
well as magnetic encoder or emulator 370. Persons skilled in the
art will appreciate that only a particular portion of information
that needs to be transmitted may need to change. Accordingly, a
dynamic encoder or emulator does not, for example, need to be
utilized to emulate or encode all of the transmitted information.
An encoder and/or emulator may be utilized, for example, to
communicate a dynamic credit card number or a portion of a dynamic
credit card number to a credit card reader. Similarly, an encoder
and/or emulator may be utilized, for example to communicate a time
period, dynamic feedback (e.g., whether the battery is LOW or the
card has been breached by a thief), or identification
information.
[0041] A rechargeable battery may be provided such that, for
example, the card may be inserted into a device capable of
recharging the rechargeable battery.
[0042] A magnetic credit card stripe may have multiple tracks. One
or more magnetic encoders and/or emulators may be utilized to
communicate information on one or more (e.g., all) tracks). Persons
skilled in the art will appreciate that different tracks may be
provided with a different bit density (e.g., bits-per-inch).
Accordingly, the spacing of wires on emulators/encoders may be
different depending on the type of track the emulator/encoder is
attempting to emulate/encode.
[0043] An encoder and/or emulator may be placed adjacent to a
magnetic stripe or underneath a magnetic stripe. For example, a
particular portion of a particular track may be cut-out from a
multiple track magnetic stripe and an emulator may be placed in
this cut-out portion on a card. A magnetic encoder and/or emulator
may be placed, for example, before a magnetic stripe, after a
magnetic stripe, or with a magnetic stripe.
[0044] FIG. 4 shows card 400 that may include magnetic stripe 410,
magnetic emulator 420, magnetic emulator 430, and magnetic emulator
440. Magnetic emulators 420, 430, and 440 may, for example, be
utilized to emulate similar information, but on different tracks of
a multiple track magnetic stripe. Similarly, magnetic emulators
420, 430, and 440 may be placed on different horizontal portions of
their respective tracks so that each emulator provides similar
information on each track. For example, suppose that a middle track
includes a higher bit density then exterior tracks (e.g., in a
three-track embodiment). Then, for example, magnetic emulator 430
may be located in a different location then emulators 420 and 440.
Similarly, the two exterior tracks in a three-track magnetic stripe
may be have a higher bit density then a middle track. Additionally,
for example, different tracks may have data formatted in different
ways. Accordingly, similar information on each track may be located
in different areas due to formatting.
[0045] The exterior tracks in a three-track configuration (e.g.,
tracks 1 and 3) may, for example, be provided at 210 bits per inch.
The middle track in such a configuration (e.g., track 2) may be
provided at 75 bits per inch. Persons skilled in the art will
appreciate that, for example, a magnetic stripe encoder may be
utilized instead of a magnetic emulator. Magnetic stripe encoders
may, for example, be placed under a portion of a magnetic stripe.
Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a payment card may
be provided with any number of tracks. For example, a payment card
may be provided with two tracks (e.g., tracks 1 and 2). Different
tracks may include similar data (e.g., card numbers) as well as
different data. For example, one track (e.g., track 1, which may be
the track closest to the bottom of the card) may include name
information while another track (e.g., track 2, which may be
located above track 1).
[0046] Card 450 may include magnetic stripe 460 and magnetic
encoder and/or emulator 470. Magnetic stripe 460 may have three
tracks of data. As such, card 450 may include multiple tracks
(e.g., three) and magnetic encoder and/or emulator 470 may, for
example, form a portion of one of these tracks. The rest of the
tracks may, for example, be provided as a magnetic stripe without a
magnetic encoder/emulator. A single track may include, for example,
any number of magnetic emulators and/or magnetic encoders.
[0047] For example, a single track may include a magnetic emulator
(or encoder) at the beginning and end of a track such that the
middle of the track is provided by a magnetic stripe. Similarly, a
single track may include a magnetic emulator (or encoder) at, for
example, just the beginning of a track. Similarly still, a single
track may include a magnetic emulator (or encoder) at, for example,
just the end of a track. A magnetic encoder or emulator located at
an end of a magnetic stripe may, for example, communicate a string
of a particular bit (e.g., zeros) to aid a magnetic reader's
reading of magnetic stripe information. A magnetic stripe reader
may be configured to, for example, determine the rate at which bits
are being communicated by looking at a string of zeros provided on
a card before, and after, payment card information. Persons skilled
in the art will appreciate that a card may provide magnetic stripe
information either in a forward configuration or backwards
configuration. For example, a magnetic emulator, or encoder, may
provide payment information in reverse order. Accordingly, a
payment number may be communicated in payment information from its
least significant digit to its most significant digit instead of
from, for example, its most significant digit to its least
significant digit. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that
magnetic stripe data may, for example, be provided as characters.
Numerical data may be, accordingly, described in such magnetic
stripe data as characters. In such instances, for example, a
particular character of data may be utilized to just describe
numerical data. Routing servers may, for example, look for such
numerical data. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that
additional states may be provided in characters that are not used.
Such additional states may be utilized to communicate, for example,
additional information while still communicating numerical data.
For example, a character that includes twenty or more states may be
utilized to describe a digit as well as an extra bit of data. The
first and eleventh character may correspond, for example, to the
same digit (e.g., "0"). However, for example, the selection of the
first and eleventh states may be utilized to transmit additional
information. Such additional information may be, for example, a
piece of the timing information or information indicative of a
coding scheme used. Accordingly, a remote server (e.g., a routing
or verification server) may be able to extract both digit
information as well as additional information for a character
associated with a digit under a particular data structure (e.g., an
American Express credit card number format) and communicate these
pieces of data to another server or different servers. The
inclusion of additional data may be provided, for example, for any
character of a data structure that has a number of states greater
than the number of states used to describe its corresponding
information under that structure. Different tracks of data may
include, for example, different types of characters that utilize a
different number of states. For example, a track (e.g., track 1)
may include 7-bit characters while a different track (e.g., track
2) may include 5-bit characters. Characters as well as tracks of
data may include, for example parity bits as well as different
types of sentinels (e.g., start and end sentinels). A track of data
may be provided with a character for a Longitudal Redundancy Check
(LRC). A processor may encrypt, for example, entire tracks of data
based on time or use. A processor may encrypt, for example, one or
all tracks of data provided on a card.
[0048] FIG. 5 shows card 500 that includes display 510. Display 510
may, for example, be located near the top of a card 500. Display
510 may also be, for example, provided in the middle of the top of
card 500 or off-set from the middle of card 500 (e.g., either left
or right of the middle). In doing so, for example, the amount of
space beneath the display may be maximized. Accordingly, the size
of particular components may be increased. For example, a battery
may be placed beneath display 510 and the location of a display at
the top of card 500 may allow for a battery of increased size. By
increasing the size of a battery, the life of card 500, without a
recharge, may be increased. One or more batteries may be utilized
in card 500.
[0049] Card 550 may include display 570 and 580 that may provide
part of a credit card number. Static information 560 may also be
utilized as part of that credit card number. Displays 570 and 580
may each be operated by a different microprocessor. Each of
displays 570 and 580 may operate under different coding procedures
(provided by the different processors). A single processor may be
utilized to provide the different coding procedures. Displays 570
and 580, and the associated processors, may be clocked by a single
clock and may be powered by a single battery. Persons skilled in
the art will appreciate that any number of processors, clocks, or
any other structure may be utilized in card 550. Displays 570 and
580 may, for example, be located near the top of card 550.
[0050] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that any
information utilized in any type of payment transaction (e.g.,
credit card transaction) may be displayed on a display and
communicated to a reader via an emulator or encoder. For example, a
user's zip code may be provided on a dynamic credit card on a
display as a dynamic number that changes with time. This zip code
may be representative of, for example, a time stamp. In this
manner, for example, a user may communicate a time stamp to a
credit card verification system by entering in the dynamic time
stamp into a text box located on the payment stage of an online
store.
[0051] Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that a
fifteen digit number may be sufficient to provide a large amount of
data. For example, a first portion of digits may identify a credit
card as a dynamic credit card (e.g., digits 1 and 2). A second
portion may identify a user (e.g., digits 3-9). A third portion may
be representative of a security code that changes with respect to
time (e.g., digits 10-13). A fourth portion may be representative
of a time-stamp (e.g., digits 14 and 15). Any portion (e.g., the
first portion and second portion) may be static and, as such, may
be printed on a credit card. A time stamp may, for example, cycle
through and restart at 0. Accordingly, for example, a two digit
time stamp may start at 00, end at 99, and then restart at 00. If
such a time stamp changes every day, the chances that a time-stamp
is not synchronized with a server may be relatively low. Persons
skilled in the art will appreciate that environmental
characteristics such as temperature may affect the operation of a
clock and may introduce delay. Accordingly, the time stamp may be
utilized, for example, to confirm that the credit card is in
synchronization with a verification system.
[0052] FIG. 6 shows card 600 that may include, for example, one or
more IC chips 630 (e.g., EMV chips), RFID antennas 620, processors
640, displays 650, dynamic magnetic communications devices 610
(e.g., magnetic encoders and/or magnetic emulators), batteries 660,
and buttons 651 and 652. Additionally circuitry 698 may be provided
and may include, for example, one or more oscillators or additional
circuitry. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that button
651 may, for example, be utilized by a user to select one
encryption algorithm for a number displayed on display 650 while
button 652 may be utilized by a user to select a different
encryption algorithm. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate
that the components of card 600 may be provided on either surface
of a card (e.g., a front or rear surface of the card) or inside of
a card. A logo (e.g., of a card issuer) and logo may be provided on
either surface of a card.
[0053] A button, such as button 651, may be utilized, for example,
to display a number. Such a number may be, for example, encrypted
from a secure number based on time or use. For example, one-time
use numbers (e.g., a payment number or code) may be retrieved from
a list of numbers on memory each time button 651 is pressed and
displayed on display 650. A processor may only go through each
number once on a list. A registration process may be provided in
which a user may be requested to enter in a sequence of numbers
such that a remote server may validate the card and learn where in
a sequence of a list a card currently resides. Numbers may be
repeated on a list or may only occur once on a list. All of the
numbers available by the length of the number may be utilized by
the list or only a portion of the numbers available by the length
of the number may be provided by the list. A secret number may be
encrypted on a card and a verification server may also have
knowledge of this secret number. Accordingly, the remote server may
perform the same encryption function as the card on the secret
number and verify that the resultant encrypted number is the same
as the resultant encrypted number on a card. Alternatively, for
example, the remote server may decrypt the received encrypted
number to determine the authenticity of the encrypted number and
validate an activity (e.g., validate a security access request or a
purchase transaction).
[0054] FIG. 7 shows card 700 that may include, for example,
signature area 710 that may include a material operable to receive
marks from a pen (e.g., a signature). Card 700 may also include,
for example, displays 720 and 730. Display 720 may, for example,
display a payment number while display 730 displays a security code
(e.g., for online purchase authentication). Display 720 as well as
display 730 may be utilized on the same side as, for example,
dynamic magnetic communications device 710.
[0055] FIG. 8 shows personal electronic device 800 which may be,
for example, a portable telephonic device, portable media player,
or any type of electronic device. Persons skilled in the art will
appreciate that the functionality of a card may be provided on a
personal device and displayed through a graphical user interface.
Personal electronic device 800 may include, for example, user
inputs 840 and display 810. Virtual card 820 may be displayed on
display 820. Display 820 may be a touch-sensitive display such
that, for example, virtual button 830 may be provided on virtual
card 820. Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that cards may
be provided as virtual cards and a user may interact with such
virtual cards in order to provide a variety of functions. Personal
electronic device 800 may communicate to a card reader such as, for
example, an RFID reader.
[0056] Persons skilled in the art will appreciate that a dynamic
magnetic communications device (e.g., a magnetic emulator or
magnetic encoder) may be fabricated, either completely or
partially, in silicon and provided as a silicon-based chip. Other
circuitry (e.g., driving circuitry) may also be fabricated on such
a silicon-based chip. A processor, such as a processor for
controlling a magnetic communications device, may be, for example,
a programmable processor having on-board programmable non-volatile
memory (e.g., FLASH memory), volatile memory (e.g., RAM), as well
as a cache. Firmware as well as payment information (e.g., dynamic
numbers) may be, for example, communicated from a programming
device to a processor's on-board programmable non-volatile memory
(e.g., a FLASH memory) such that a card may provide a variety of
functionalities. Such a processor may also have one or more
power-saving operating modes, in which each operating mode turns
OFF a different set of circuitry to provide different levels of
power consumption. One or more power-savings modes may turn OFF,
for example, one or more clocking circuitry provided on a
processor. An Application-Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC) may
also be included in a card or other device to provide, for example,
processing, dynamic magnetic communications, as well as driving
capabilities.
[0057] Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that the
present invention is not limited to only the embodiments described.
Instead, the present invention more generally involves dynamic
information. Persons skilled in the art will also appreciate that
the apparatus of the present invention may be implemented in other
ways then those described herein. All such modifications are within
the scope of the present invention, which is limited only by the
claims that follow.
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