U.S. patent application number 17/737281 was filed with the patent office on 2022-08-18 for system and method for facilitating a purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website.
This patent application is currently assigned to Blackhawk Network, Inc.. The applicant listed for this patent is Blackhawk Network, Inc.. Invention is credited to Andrew Bennett, David Tate.
Application Number | 20220261787 17/737281 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-08-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220261787 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Bennett; Andrew ; et
al. |
August 18, 2022 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR FACILITATING A PURCHASE TRANSACTION VIA A
MERCHANT'S FOREIGN WEBSITE
Abstract
A computer implemented system and method for facilitating a
consumer's purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website
utilizes a stored value card transformation computer to convert a
stored value card to a different denomination for utilization in
another country. An exchange computer retrieves a value rate to
calculate the currency different and a time-limited quote is
generated which may be transformed into active stored credit in the
selected denomination.
Inventors: |
Bennett; Andrew;
(Pleasanton, CA) ; Tate; David; (Los Gatos,
CA) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Blackhawk Network, Inc. |
Pleasanton |
CA |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Blackhawk Network, Inc.
Pleasanton
CA
|
Appl. No.: |
17/737281 |
Filed: |
May 5, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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16376527 |
Apr 5, 2019 |
11348091 |
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17737281 |
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15440190 |
Feb 23, 2017 |
10282725 |
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16376527 |
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62301387 |
Feb 29, 2016 |
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International
Class: |
G06Q 20/34 20060101
G06Q020/34; G06Q 20/38 20060101 G06Q020/38; G06Q 20/40 20060101
G06Q020/40 |
Claims
1. A computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website comprising:
receiving in a stored value card transformation computer, an input
credit value from a stored value card, an input denomination and an
output denomination, from a user interface; applying the input
denomination and the output denomination to an exchange computer to
retrieve a value rate from an exchange datastore, and combining the
value rate with an expiration time to generate a time-limited
exchange multiplier; applying the time-limited exchange multiplier
to the input credit value to transform the input credit value into
time-limited stored credit in the output denomination; retrieving a
value balance of the stored value card from a card issuer's
authorization system; transmitting a hold signal to the card
issuer's authorization system; transmitting a devaluation request
to the card issuer's authorization system; receiving a response
from the card issuer's authorization system; and transforming the
time-limited stored credit into active stored credit.
2. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein a target value of the active stored credit is used to
calculate the input credit value.
3. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein expiration of the time-limited stored credit value triggers
an alert on the user interface.
4. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein transforming the input credit value into the time-limited
stored credit generates a quote notification on the user
interface.
5. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the user interface is automatically populated with the
stored value card's current balance as the input credit value.
6. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the input denomination is automatically populated on the
user interface based on a user's access location.
7. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the user interface occurs on a personal computer or mobile
device.
8. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the user interface occurs on a point of sale terminal.
9. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the card issuer is automatically identified from a list of
issuers.
10. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the transformation of the time-limited stored credit
triggers a user notification to be generated on a the user
interface.
11. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein a transaction fee is added to the input credit value in the
hold signal and the devaluation request and excluded from the
active stored credit.
12. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the user interface may be configured for the selection of a
target country to automatically populate the output
denomination.
13. The computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website of claim 1,
wherein the user interface may be configured for the selection of
an origin country to automatically populate the input
denomination.
14. A computing apparatus for facilitating a consumer's purchase
transaction via a merchant's foreign website, the computing
apparatus comprising: a processor; and a memory storing
instructions that, when executed by the processor, configure the
apparatus to: receive in a stored value card transformation
computer, an input credit value from a stored value card, an input
denomination and an output denomination, from a user interface;
apply the input denomination and the output denomination to an
exchange computer to retrieve a value rate from an exchange
datastore, and combining the value rate with an expiration time to
generate a time-limited exchange multiplier; apply the time-limited
exchange multiplier to the input credit value to transform the
input credit value into time-limited stored credit in the output
denomination; retrieve a value balance of the stored value card
from a card issuer's authorization system; transmit a hold signal
to the card issuer's authorization system; transmit a devaluation
request to the card issuer's authorization system; receive a
response from the card issuer's authorization system; and transform
the time-limited stored credit into active stored credit.
15. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein a target value of
the active stored credit is used to calculate the input credit
value.
16. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein expiration of the
time-limited stored credit triggers an alert on the user
interface.
17. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein transforming the
input credit value into the time-limited stored credit generates a
quote notification on the user interface.
18. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the user interface
is automatically populated with the stored value card's current
balance as the input credit value.
19. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the user interface
is automatically populated with the input denomination of the
stored value card based on the user's access location.
20. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the user interface
occurs on a personal computer or mobile device.
21. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the user interface
occurs on a point-of-sale terminal.
22. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the card issuer is
automatically identified from a list of issuers.
23. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the transformation
of the time-limited stored credit triggers a user notification to
be generated on the user interface.
24. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein a transaction fee
is added to the input credit value in the hold signal and the
devaluation request and excluded from the active stored credit.
25. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the user interface
may be configured for the selection of a target country to
automatically populate the output denomination.
26. The computing apparatus of claim 14, wherein the user interface
may be configured for the selection of an origin country to
automatically populate the input denomination.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a continuation of, and claims priority
to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/376,527 filed on Apr. 5,
2019, which is a continuation of and claims priority to Ser. No.
15/440,190 filed on Feb. 23, 2017, which is a continuation
application of and claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application
No. 62/301,387, filed Feb. 29, 2016, entitled "Systems and Methods
for Facilitating Foreign Online Transactions," which are hereby
incorporated by reference for all purposes.
FIELD
[0002] The present invention generally relates to a processing and
activation system providing consumers with the ability to purchase
a stored value card, e.g., a gift card, a prepaid card, a loyalty
card, a membership card, a ticket card, an entertainment card, a
sports card, a prepaid communications card, and the like, of
various affiliated or non-affiliated service providers with
additional value added beyond the purchase price.
BACKGROUND
[0003] The market for stored value cards such as merchant gift
cards continues to grow. The marketplace is currently filled with
many types of stored value cards offered by numerous card issuers.
Some of the cards are tailored to be redeemed from a single
merchant while others may be redeemed by several merchants. Because
the consumer has numerous choices in selecting a stored value card,
such as a gift card, it is becoming increasingly difficult for card
issuers to distinguish themselves in the marketplace from other
issuers of stored value cards. Therefore, it would be desirable to
have a method and system that provided card issuers and redeeming
merchants a mechanism for distinguishing their card and/or store in
order to encourage a consumer to purchase a stored value card from
them or redeem a stored value card with them.
[0004] Consumer use of stored value cards typically involves a card
vendor, a redeeming merchant, and a card issuer. In various
embodiments, the card vendor, redeeming merchant and card issuer
may be the same, different, or related entities. The point of sale
where stored value cards are purchased and activated may be
referred to as the card vendor or simply vendor. An entity that
will accept a stored value card for business transactions, for
example as tender for a purchase, may be referred to as a redeeming
merchant. An entity that provides the financial backing and/or
payment processing accessed via the stored value card may be
referred to as the card issuer or simply issuer.
[0005] Typically, the issuer is identified on the stored value card
and associates a unique issuer account code with each stored value
card. Card issuers include direct issuers of cards such as
store-branded cards, and in some embodiments the card vendor may
also be the card issuer and/or the redeeming merchant. Card issuers
also include banks, financial institutions, and transaction
processors such as VISA, Mastercard, American Express, etc., and
cards issued by such institutions may be readily accepted by a
number of redeeming merchants to conduct transactions such as
purchases. In some instances, the redeeming merchant may be
identified on the stored value card (for example, a retailer
branded card such as Store X), and such cards may be sold at the
same or different card vendor (e.g., card vendor is Store X or a
different or unrelated Store Z). In such instances, the Store X
branded stored value card may be issued by Store X, by Store Z, or
by a third party such as bank or financial institution. Customers
may be offered incentives to purchase and/or redeem a card (or
cards) via value differentiation between the purchase and
redemption values of said card (or cards).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS
[0006] To easily identify the discussion of any particular element
or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number
refer to the figure number in which that element is first
introduced.
[0007] FIG. 1 illustrates an embodiment of a stored value card
transaction system 100.
[0008] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a computer implemented
system for facilitating a consumer's purchase transaction via a
merchant's foreign website 200.
[0009] FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment of a process 300.
[0010] FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of a process 400.
[0011] FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of a process 500.
[0012] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
600.
[0013] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
700.
[0014] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
800.
[0015] FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
900.
[0016] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a digital apparatus
1000 to implement components and process steps of the system
described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0017] "Stored value card" in this context refers to a transaction
device that may be used to transact business with a party willing
to accept the card, for example as tender for a purchase. Examples
of such cards include gift cards, prepaid telephone cards, loyalty
cards, membership cards, ticket cards, entertainment cards, sports
cards, prepaid cards, and the like. Typically, such cards are
wallet-sized and made of plastic. In various embodiments, the
transaction card may be a type of card such as a gift or prepaid
card that requires activation at a point of sale. For example, a
stored value card may be purchased and activated at a point of sale
by a consumer and subsequently used by the consumer or another
(e.g., the recipient of the card as a gift) to transact
business.
[0018] The ordering of steps in the various processes, data flows,
and flowcharts presented are for illustration purposes and do not
necessarily reflect the order that various steps must be performed.
The steps may be rearranged in different orders in different
embodiments to reflect the needs, desires and preferences of the
entity implementing the systems. Furthermore, many steps may be
performed simultaneously with other steps in some embodiments.
Also, techniques, systems, subsystems and methods described and
illustrated in the various embodiments as discrete or separate may
be combined or integrated with other systems, modules, techniques,
or methods without departing from the scope of the present
disclosure. Other items shown or discussed as directly coupled or
communicating with each other may be coupled through some interface
or device, such that the items may no longer be considered directly
coupled to each other but may still be indirectly coupled and in
communication, whether electrically, mechanically, or otherwise
with one another. Other examples of changes, substitutions, and
alterations are ascertainable by one skilled in the art and could
be made without departing from the spirit and scope disclosed
herein.
[0019] Described herein are embodiments of a stored value card
transaction system that allows consumers to transform the value of
a stored value card from one denomination to another. It will be
apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications may be made
without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. The
embodiments described are representative only, and are not intended
to be limiting. Many variations, combinations, and modifications of
the applications disclosed herein are possible and are within the
scope of the invention. Accordingly, the scope of protection is not
limited by the description set out above, but is defined by the
claims which follow, that scope including all equivalents of the
subject matter of the claims.
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary stored value card
transaction system 100 in accordance with one embodiment of the
present invention. In one embodiment, the stored value card
transaction system comprises: (a) at least one point of sale
component 108; (b) a stored value card transaction computer 136;
(c) a datastore 110 containing stored value card identifiers,
stored value card account information, value added award conditions
(herein "value added award" is synonymous with "value added bonus,"
"value added bonus award," "value added award bonus," and "value
differentiation"), and other information related to activating,
redeeming, and managing stored value cards; and other information
related to activating, redeeming, and managing stored value cards;
(d) at least one individual card issuers' card issuer authorization
system 132; and (e) any other component included in the system by
the stored-value card transaction computer administrator 114.
[0021] In one embodiment, the stored value card transaction
computer 136 comprises a value added determination component 122, a
POS interface POS interface 124, a message modification component
116, a reconciliation component 118, a card issuer system interface
120, and an authorization component 126.
[0022] The POS Interface reconciliation component 118 provides a
means for the stored value card transaction computer 136 to
communicate with the point of sale component 108 via, for example,
the Internet, a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), or an
independent dedicated network. Likewise, the stored value card
transaction computer 136 may communicate with the card issuers'
card issuer authorization system 132 via, for example, the
Internet, a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), or an
independent dedicated network. Communications message 138, message
140 between the POS interface 124 and the point of sale component
108 and communications message 142, message 144 between the card
issuer system interface 120 and the card issuers' authorization
systems 160 may be encrypted for added security and/or may utilize
a virtual private network (VPN).
[0023] A point of sale component 108 (typically located at a vendor
and/or redeeming merchant), the card identifier on the stored value
card is interpreted by a point of sale interpretation component 102
(e.g., a card reader). The point of sale interpretation component
102 can comprise a human, a bar code scanner, magnetic strip
reader, optical character recognition device, or other device
configured to interpret the data encoded in the card identifier on
the stored value card.
[0024] Contemporaneously with the interpretation of the card
identifier, a request for activation, deactivation, or redemption
item 146 by a point of sale transaction component 104 is made. The
point of sale transaction component 104 may comprise a human, an
electronic input device, a register, a computer processing unit
("CPU"), or other means of requesting the activation or
deactivation of the stored value card identifier interpreted by the
point of sale interpretation component 102. In some embodiments,
the actions performed by the point of sale interpretation component
102 and the point of sale transaction component 104 may be
performed by one component capable of performing both actions that
would be performed by the individual components.
[0025] The point of sale interpretation component 102 and the point
of sale transaction component 104 communicate with the point of
sale processing component 106. The point of sale processing
component 106 can comprise a CPU or other type of processing device
accepted for use in the industry. The point of sale interpretation
component 102 communicates the card identifier to the point of sale
processing component 106. The point of sale transaction component
104 communicates the request for activation or deactivation of the
card identifier interpreted by the point of sale interpretation
component 102 to the point of sale processing component 106. The
point of sale processing component 106 communicates with the stored
value card transaction computer 136 (e.g., transmits a message
requesting card activation, deactivation or redemption).
[0026] In some embodiments, the actions performed by the point of
sale interpretation component 102, the point of sale transaction
component 104, and the point of sale processing component 106 may
all be performed by one component (e.g., an integrated POS device
such as a computerized register) capable of performing all the
actions that would be performed by the individual components.
[0027] The point of sale processing component 106 is connectable to
the stored value card transaction computer 136 via a suitable
network, such as the Internet, the public switched telephone
network (PSTN), or an independent dedicated network. Each point of
sale processing component 106 has an associated identifier that may
be transmitted to the stored value card transaction computer 136
during the course of connecting the point of sale processing
component 106 to the stored value card transaction computer 136.
Each point of sale processing component 106 may include multiple
point of sale transaction components point of sale interpretation
component 102, point of sale transaction component 104
corresponding to individual terminals each with its own terminal
identification.
[0028] The stored value card transaction computer 136 is configured
to: (a) form a secure connection with the card vendor (e.g., via
the point of sale component 108), the card issuers' card issuer
authorization system 132, and any other entities granted access 134
authorized to access the stored value card transaction computer 136
by the stored value card transaction computer administrator 114;
(b) to communicate with card issuers' authorization systems 160 to
request and receive activation or deactivation of stored value
cards as well as receive value added information for stored-value
cards that are eligible for incentives; (c) to communicate with
card issuers' authorization systems 160 to redeem all or a portion
of the value, services, or products associated with the
stored-value card; (d) generate and maintain a transaction log 128
of all activities performed; (e) generate and maintain an error log
130 of all activities unsuccessfully completed and reasons
therefor; (f) communicate to the card vendor (e.g., via the point
of sale component 108) the activation or deactivation of the stored
value card and any information concomitant with the activation or
deactivation of individual stored value card, i.e. the
communication of PINs associated with activated stored value cards;
and (g) communicate to the card vendor (e.g., via the point of sale
component 108) any reasons why requested transactions cannot not be
completed.
[0029] The stored value card transaction computer 136 may comprise
a singular processing unit (e.g., a centralized server or data
center), a plurality of processing units (e.g., a distributed
computing system with various components distributed and in
communication with each other), or combinations thereof, with
concomitant storage capabilities, each capable of or designated
for: accessing the datastore 110; creating a transaction log 128;
creating and maintaining an error log 130; communicating with card
vendors; communicating with the individual card issuers'
authorization systems 160; processing individual transaction card
activation and or deactivation requests; processing stored value
card redemption requests, processing value added functions to add
additional cash value or add an electronic redemption coupon for a
specific product(s) or service(s), processing redemption request
for electronic redemption coupons for specific product(s) and/or
service(s), and communicating with other entities granted access
134 capable of and authorized to communicate with the stored value
card transaction computer 136.
[0030] Datastore 110 maintains records of accounts associated with
each stored value card indicating: (a) whether each individual card
has been activated or deactivated, (b) whether the card has been
redeemed, (c) records and details of each individual redemption
request, (d) the amount remaining on the card, (e) conditions
required for activation and redeeming the card, (f) identity of the
card issuer, (f) value added bonus awards, (g) conditions for
redeeming value added bonus awards, and (h) any combination
thereof. The datastore may also maintain records of conditions
required for granting a value added bonus award to a stored value
card.
[0031] The stored value card transaction computer 136 is also
configured to generate and maintain a transaction log 128 of all
activity involving the stored value card transaction computer 136.
The transaction log may comprise a detailed summary of: (a)
requested stored-value card activations; (b) requested stored-value
card deactivations; (c) the monetary amount ascribed to card
activations; (d) the monetary amount ascribed to card
deactivations; (e) the value added amounts, products, or services
ascribed card activations; (f) the value added amounts, products,
or services ascribed to card deactivations; (g) the time the cards
were activated; (h) the time the cards were deactivated; (i) the
transaction or communication performed with the card issuer to
activate the cards; (j) the transaction or communication performed
with the card issuer to deactivate the cards; (k) the PIN
communicated to the card vendor in response to a request to
activate a card requiring the input of a PIN for use; (l) any other
information the administrator 114 directs the stored value card
transaction computer 136 to maintain as a log entry; and (m) any
combination thereof.
[0032] The information contained in the transaction log 128 may be
used to generate reconciliation reports, settlement reports,
payment reports, audit reports, or other forms of information
aggregation for the benefit of, use by, or for provision to, the
stored value card transaction administrator 114, the datastore
administrator 112, card vendors, card issuers, card issuers'
authorization systems 160, redeeming merchants, or other interested
parties. For example, the transaction log 128 contains information
about each transaction performed by stored value card transaction
computer 136 and may be utilized by the reconciliation component
118 when reconciling accounts belonging to various vendors,
merchants, card issuers and the stored value card transaction
system administrator.
[0033] Oversight and maintenance of the stored value card
transaction computer is performed by the stored value card
transaction computer administrator 114. Although not required, in
an alternative embodiment, the stored value card transaction
computer administrator 114 may also function as the datastore
administrator 112. The stored value card transaction computer 136
is configured to generate and maintain an error log of all
transactions that were not completed and reasons therefor. In some
embodiments, the error log is administered by the stored value card
transaction computer administrator 114.
[0034] As noted above, the stored value card transaction computer
136 may communicate with the datastore 110 and/or the card issuers'
authorization systems 160 to determine whether the stored value
card to be activated is eligible for a value added award. The
stored value card transaction computer 136 may compare one or more
of the card identification, the terminal identification, vendor
identification, and the time and date of the activation request
contained within the activation request to data contained in the
datastore 110 to determine whether the stored value card to be
activated is eligible for a value added award. For example, a
particular card issuer may run a promotion to encourage customers
to purchase its stored value card in which cards issued by that
card issuer that are purchased within a specified period of time
receive a $5 bonus added to the stored value card in addition to
the purchase price for the card. Thus, a $25 gift card may be
purchased for $25, but be authorized for $30. In another example, a
vendor may run a promotion to encourage customers to purchase a
stored value card, wherein stored value cards purchased within a
specified period of time may be purchased for a price less than the
value designated by the stored value card's markings and/or
packaging. Thus, a customer could purchase a $25 gift card for some
amount less than $25, e.g., $20. In either of the above examples,
the value differentiators, e.g., bonus added to a redemption value
of a stored value card and reduction of purchase price for a
designated value of a stored value card, may be applicable to
bundled stored value card packages and the value differentiators
distributed amongst and/or across the cards, either equally or
disproportionately.
[0035] Upon receipt of an activation or deactivation request for a
stored-value card from the card vendor, the stored value card
transaction computer stored value card transaction computer 136
accesses the datastore 110 of stored value card identifier data.
The stored value card transaction computer stored value card
transaction computer 136 processes the information contained in the
datastore 110 and communicates message 142, message 144 with the
individual card issuers' authorization systems 160 to effectuate
activation or deactivation of the transaction cards secured by the
package as well as to effectuate the addition of a value added
service, product, or cash value amount. The stored value card
transaction computer's stored value card transaction computer 136
communication with the individual card issuers' authorization
systems 160 may occur simultaneously or independently. The stored
value card transaction computer stored value card transaction
computer 136 is connectable to the individual card issuers'
authorization systems as via a suitable network, such as the PSTN,
the Internet, or an independent dedicated network. The stored value
card transaction computer stored value card transaction computer
136 is configured to receive communication message 144 from the
card issuers' authorization systems 160 concerning the status of
the activation or deactivation of individual transaction cards. The
stored value card transaction computer stored value card
transaction computer 136 is also configured to communicate to the
card vendor 107 the status of a request for activation or
deactivation of a stored-value card and to communicate any
necessary PIN information required by activated stored value cards
to the card vendor in order for the card purchaser to be apprised
of that information for use of the purchased individual transaction
card. As previously discussed, is connectable to the individual
card issuers' authorization systems as via a suitable network, such
as the PSTN, the Internet, or an independent dedicated network.
[0036] The stored value card transaction computer stored value card
transaction computer 136 is also configured to communicate with
other entities granted access 134 authorized to access the stored
value card transaction system and specifically authorized to access
the stored value card transaction computer stored value card
transaction computer 136. These other entities may comprise third
party payment management systems, third party audit systems, card
issuer affiliated entities, card vendor affiliated entities,
redeeming merchants or redeeming merchant affiliated entities,
financial institutions, such as banks and credit unions, or any
other entity provided access by the stored value card transaction
computer administrator 114.
[0037] There may arise situations where an activation,
deactivation, or redemption request is received by the stored value
card transaction computer 136, but the information in the datastore
datastore 110 pertaining to the stored value card identifier
received by stored value card transaction computer 136 precludes
completion of the request. For example, a card may have been
previously activated, returned to the point of sale for a refund,
but not deactivated prior to reshelving. In that case, when a
subsequent customer purchases that card, and an activation request
is communicated to the stored value card transaction computer 136,
the datastore 110 file accessed by the stored value card
transaction computer 136 will indicate that the card is already
activated. In another example, the stored value card identifier
received by the stored value card transaction computer 136 may have
already been redeemed for the entire amount associated with the
stored value card. In these and other similar situations, the
stored value card transaction computer 136 will communicate a
message to the card vendor that the transaction cannot be
completed.
[0038] The value added determination component 122 uses information
contained within the activation request or redemption request
received from the point of sale component 108 as well as
information contained in datastore 110 to determine whether the
stored value card which the point of sale component 108 is
attempted to have activated or redeemed is eligible for a value
added award. The activation request from the point of sale
component 108 may contain one or more of the following pieces of
information: (a) stored value card identification, (b) point of
sale terminal identification, (c) amount to be credited to an
account associated with the stored value card, (d) the time of the
activation request, (e) the date of the activation request, (f)
identification of the card issuer for the stored value card, (g)
identification of the activating vendor, (h) location of activating
vendor, and (i) any combination thereof. The redemption request
from the point of sale component 108 may contain one or more of the
following pieces of information: (a) stored value card
identification, (b) point of sale terminal identification, (c)
amount to be debited from the account associated with the stored
value card, (d) the time of the redemption request, (e) the date of
the redemption request, (f) identification of the card issuer for
the stored value card, (g) identification of the redeeming
merchant, (h) location of the redeeming merchant, (i)
identification of the product(s) and/or service(s) being purchased,
(j) and any combination thereof. However, the information contained
within the activation and redemption requests is not limited to the
enumerated list but may other items in addition to the items
enumerated or in place of the items enumerated above.
[0039] For an activation request, the value added determination
component 122 compares the information received in the activation
request to information in the datastore 110 to determine if any of
the criteria for adding additional value to the stored value card
or discounting the price of the stored value card to be activated
are met. For example, the card issuer may have provided that stored
value cards purchased during a certain period of time should
receive an additional value added to the purchase amount.
Alternatively, the card issuer may provide that stored value cards
of a certain value or purchased during a specified time period be
discounted such that the card selling vendor is only required to
obtain an amount less than the face value of the card. For example,
the face value of the stored value card may be $50, but the card
issuer is running a promotion to encourage customers to purchase
its cards by giving a $5 discount such that the purchase amount for
the $50 card is only $45, but the card is activated for $50. Such a
promotion may encourage a consumer to purchase the card issuer's
card or encourage the consumer to purchase the card issuer's card
rather than a competitor's card. Alternatively, the vendor selling
the card could run a promotion in which cards purchased during a
specified period of time receive an additional value added to the
purchase amount of the stored value card. The vendor selling the
card may not be related to the card issuer. However, by running
such a promotion, the vendor selling stored value cards may
encourage a consumer to purchase the stored value card from them
rather than another vendor. The value added to the stored value
card in excess of the purchase amount of the stored value card may
be a monetary amount. For example, a $25 gift card purchased for
$25 may be activated for $30-$25 purchase amount plus a $5 value
added award. Thus, the gift card may be used to purchase items
totaling $30 even though the consumer only paid $25 for the gift
card. However, the value added to the card need not be a monetary
amount, but could be an award of a specific product or service. For
example, the value added could be an electronic coupon for a free
product or service if the stored value card is redeemed for a
specified product or service or is redeemed during a specified
period of time or is redeemed with a specified merchant.
Furthermore, the value added, whether it be a monetary amount or
for a specific product or service, may have an expiration date that
is different from the purchased amount of the stored value card.
Also, the value added, may be tied to other specific redemption
criteria that are different from the redemption criteria of the
purchase amount of the stored value card. For example, the value
added portion of the stored value card may be required to be
redeemed at a specific location(s), specific merchant(s), a
specific time(s), or credited toward the purchase of a specific
product(s) or service(s) while the remaining portion of the stored
value card may have no limitations on redemption or have different
limitations on redemption.
[0040] For a redemption request, the value added determination
component 122 compares the information received in the redemption
request to information in the datastore 110 to determine if any of
the criteria for adding additional value to the stored value card
to be redeemed are met. Depending on the type of value added award
specified by the card issuer or redeeming merchant, the value
added, if a monetary amount, could be subtracted from the
redemption amount requested or, alternatively, could be added to
the account associated with the stored value card to be redeemed at
a later time during a separate transaction.
[0041] The message modification component 116 modifies the message
138 and message 144 to add value added information into the
messages. For example, if it is determined by the value added
determination component 122 that a stored value card to be
activated is eligible for a value added bonus, the activation
message 138 received from the point of sale component 108 is
modified by the message modification component 116 to include the
determined value added bonus and is then forwarded as message 142
to the appropriate card issuers' authorization system 160 for
authorizing the activation request for the amount specified in the
activation request plus the value added bonus. As another example,
if it is determined that the stored value card is eligible to be
purchased at a discount, the activation message 138 received from
the point of sale component 108 is modified by the message
modification component 116 (and forwarded as message 142) to
indicate to the appropriate card issuers' authorization system 160
that the stored value card to be activated will be activated for
one amount, but that the customer will be charged a lesser amount
reflecting the discount associated with the stored value card.
[0042] The message modification component 116 also modifies message
144 from the card issuers' authorization systems 160 intended for
the point of sale component 108 to include any information
regarding value added to the stored value card that may be printed
on the receipt generated for the customer as well as information
that may be presented to a cashier on a terminal (point of sale
interpretation component 102 or point of sale transaction component
104) that the cashier may communicate to the customer, and such
modified messages are forwarded as message 140 to the point of sale
component 108.
[0043] The reconciliation component 118 reconciles the accounts of
various card issuers, selling vendors, and/or redeeming merchants,
to credit and debit appropriate merchants, vendors, the stored
value card transaction system administrator, and card issuers with
the value of various transactions to reflect which entities
received value from which other entities. For example, if a vendor
A sells a stored value card issued by card issuer B for a specified
amount and receives payment from a customer, then an account
associated with the stored value card is credited with the payment
amount, the selling vendor receives a percentage (e.g., retains a
percentage) of the purchase amount and/or a predetermined amount,
the stored value card system administrator receives a percentage of
the purchase amount and/or predetermined amount, and the card
issuer receives the remainder. If a stored value card issued by
card issuer Y is redeemed at merchant X to purchase items, then the
amount redeemed is debited to the card issuer Y and credited to the
merchant X, sometimes minus a transaction fee collected by the card
issuer and/or a transaction fee collected by the stored value card
transaction system administrator. Authorization component 126 is
utilized when the stored value card transaction computer 136 is
also the authorizing system such that the stored value card
transaction computer 136 authorizes activation, deactivation, and
redemption requests rather than transmitting the request to the
card issuers' authorization systems 160 for authorization. When the
authorization component 126 is utilized, the stored value card
transaction computer 136 may transmit details of transactions to
the card issuers' authorization systems rather than authorization
requests. Also, in some embodiments, the card issuer, the
authorizing system, and the transaction computer are part of the
same entity and, in such an embodiment, there would be no a card
issuers' authorization systems 160 or the card issuers'
authorization systems 160 would be under common control with the
other components of the stored value card transaction computer 136
(for example, a commonly owned and operated computing system, that
may be centralized (e.g., part of a centralized data center) and/or
distributed within a commonly owned or controlled system or
network). Furthermore, it should be noted that although components
associated with the stored value card transaction computer 136
(e.g., components POS interface 124--authorization component 126)
are depicted as various components within a single data processing
system for illustration and conceptual purposes, one or more of
components POS interface 124--authorization component 126 could be
implemented on separate computers, systems, or servers in a
distributed data processing environment.
[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a computer implemented
system for facilitating a consumer's purchase transaction via a
merchant's foreign website 200.
[0045] The user interface 206 may occur on a home computer, tablet,
cell phone, laptop or other consumer device.
[0046] The computer implemented system for facilitating a
consumer's purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website
200 comprises a point of sale component 108, a card issuers' card
issuer authorization system 132, a stored value card transformation
computer 202, a stored value card 204, a user interface 206, a
computer 208, a network 210, an output denomination 212, an input
denomination 214, an exchange computer 216, an exchange datastore
218, an expiration time 220, a time-limited stored credit value
222, a response 224, an active stored credit 226, a kiosk 228, a
devaluation request 230, a hold signal 232, a balance inquiry 234,
a value rate 236, and an input credit 238.
[0047] The user interface 206 may be configured to allow the user
to input an input denomination 214, output denomination 212 and
stored value card 204. The stored value card 204 may take the form
of a number, barcode, or digital identifier to identify it to the
card issuers' card issuer authorization system 132. The user
interface 206 collects the information and is triggered to send the
input denomination 214, stored value card 204, and output
denomination 212 over the network 210 to the stored value card
transformation computer 202. The user interface 206 may similarly
be utilized through a network-enabled kiosk, POS machine, or
automated teller machine. The network 210 may be, for example, the
Internet, a Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), or an
independent dedicated network. The stored value card transformation
computer 202 sends a request to the exchange computer 216 for a
value rate between the input denomination 214 and the output
denomination 212. The exchange computer 216 retrieves the value
rate 236 from the exchange datastore 218 and transmits it to the
stored value card transformation computer 202.
[0048] The value rate is combined with an expiration time 220 to
create a time-limited stored credit value 222. The expiration time
220 may be pre-set, or may be retrieved or calculated from the
exchange computer 216. The time-limited stored credit value 222 may
then be transformed into active stored credit 226 within the amount
of time specified by the expiration time 220 used to generate the
time-limited stored credit value 222. The system may utilize the
time-limitation property of the time-limited stored credit value
222 to trigger an alert requiring additional action by the user or
may invalidate the time-limited stored credit value 222, requiring
the re-generation of the time-limited stored credit value 222. The
stored value card transformation computer 202 may send a balance
inquiry 234 to the card issuers' card issuer authorization system
132 to ensure proper funding to cover the amount of the
time-limited stored credit value 222, the stored value card
transformation computer 202 may also send a hold signal 232 to
prevent the funds from being used. The stored value card
transformation computer 202 may then send a devaluation request 230
to the card issuers' card issuer authorization system 132. The
response 224 to the devaluation request 230 may trigger the stored
value card transformation computer 202 to remove the
time-limitation property from the time-limited stored credit value
222 and transform it into the active stored credit 226. The active
stored credit 226 may then be used, for example, through a point of
sale component 108, or via a website.
[0049] Referring to FIG. 3, a process 200 comprises an input credit
value from a stored value card, an input denomination and an output
denomination, is received in a stored value card transformation
computer, from a user interface (block 302).
[0050] The input denomination and the output denomination is
applied to an exchange computer to retrieve a value rate from an
exchange datastore, the value rate is combined with an expiration
time to generate a time-limited exchange multiplier (block
304).
[0051] The time-limited exchange multiplier is applied to the input
credit value to transform the input value amount into a
time-limited stored credit value in the output denomination (block
306).
[0052] A value balance of the stored value card is retrieved from
the card issuer's authorization system (block 308).
[0053] A hold signal is transmitted to the card issuer's
authorization system (block 310).
[0054] A devaluation request is transmitted to the card issuer's
authorization system (block 312).
[0055] A response is received from the card issue authorization
system (block 314).
[0056] The time-limited stored credit is transformed into active
stored credit (block 316).
[0057] A computer implemented method for facilitating a consumer's
purchase transaction via a merchant's foreign website may include
receiving in a stored value card transformation computer, an input
credit value from a stored value card, an input denomination and an
output denomination, from a user interface. The input denomination
and the output denomination may be applied to an exchange computer
to retrieve a value rate from an exchange datastore, and then
combine the value rate with an expiration time to generate a
time-limited exchange multiplier. The time-limited exchange
multiplier may be applied to the input credit value to transform
the input value amount into a time-limited stored credit value in
the output denomination. A value balance of the stored value card
may then be retrieved from the card issuer's authorization system.
The value balance may be retrieved by multiple parties, e.g., the
party or parties performing the actions at blocks 306 and/or 310 of
FIG. 3, including a financial institution. A hold signal may be
transmitted to the the card issuer's authorization system, then a
devaluation request may be transmitted to the card issuer's
authorization system. A response may be received from the card
issue authorization system, which may trigger the transformation of
the time-limited stored credit into active stored credit. A target
value of the active stored credit may be used to calculate the
input credit value. The expiration of the time-limited stored
credit value may trigger an alert on the user interface. The
transformation of the input credit value into the time-limited
stored credit value may generate a quote notification on the user
interface. The user interface may be automatically populated with
the stored value card's current balance as the input credit value.
The input denomination May be automatically populated on the user
interface based on a user's access location. The user interface may
occur on a personal computer or mobile device, or on a point of
sale terminal. The card issuer may be automatically identified from
a list of issuers. The transformation of the time-limited stored
credit may trigger a user notification to be generated on a user
interface. A transaction fee may be added to the input credit value
in the hold signal and devaluation request and excluded from the
active stored credit. The user interface may be configured for the
selection of a target country to automatically populate the output
denomination. The user interface may be configured for the
selection of an origin country to automatically populate the input
denomination.
[0058] Referring to FIG. 4, the process 400 comprises a stored
value card is purchased at a local store (block 402).
[0059] Load value of funds is held until conversion is performed
(block 404).
[0060] Consumer uses network site to receive quote of conversion to
foreign currency (block 406).
[0061] Network site queries network provider for balance and
devalues card (block 408).
[0062] Network activates new card based on forecasted rate in
foreign denomination (block 410).
[0063] Network pays company load value less commission for
converted card (block 412).
[0064] Referring to FIG. 5, a process 500 comprises a stored value
card is purchased by a consumer at a local store (block 502).
[0065] Stored value card funds are held in consumer's local
currency until conversion is performed (block 504).
[0066] Consumer converts stored value card balance via website for
gift card code in foreign currency (block 506).
[0067] Active stored credit is generated based on exchange rate
(block 508).
[0068] FIG. 6 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
600.
[0069] The user interface 600 comprises an exchange multiplier 602,
an input denomination 604, an input credit value 606, and a
time-limited stored credit 608.
[0070] The input denomination 604 may be selected by the user, and
the value of the input denomination 604 may be used with the input
credit value 606 to configure the exchange computer 216 to retrieve
an exchange multiplier 602 to generate a time-limited stored credit
608.
[0071] FIG. 7 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
700.
[0072] The user interface 700 comprises a targeted country 702 and
an origin country 704. The origin country 704 may be used to
automatically set the input denomination by selecting the national
currency of the selected country. The targeted country 702 may be
indicated and/or retailer may be selected and used to automatically
select the national currency of the selected country as the output
denomination.
[0073] FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
800.
[0074] The user interface 800 comprises an origin country 802, an
output denomination 804, and a target value 806.
[0075] The target value 806 may be used to configure the exchange
computer 216 with the output denomination 804 and the origin
country 802 to reverse-calculate the necessary input credit value
to achieve the desired target value 806 as an active stored
credit.
[0076] The FIG. 9 illustrates an embodiment of a user interface
900.
[0077] The user interface 900 comprises a transaction fee 902, an
input credit value 904, a time-limited stored credit 906, a
merchants foreign website 908, a target country 910, and an item
912.
[0078] The system and method may generate alerts requiring
confirmation by the user. The confirmation may need to be indicated
by the user in order to process the transaction in the time limit
indicated in the time-limited stored credit. The system and method
may configure a user interface to display an input credit value
904, with the transaction fee 902. The interface may also display
the time-limited stored credit 906, merchants foreign website 908
and target country 910.
[0079] FIG. 10 illustrates an embodiment of a digital apparatus
1000 to implement components and process steps of the system
described herein.
[0080] Input devices 1004 comprise transducers that convert
physical phenomenon into machine internal signals, typically
electrical, optical or magnetic signals. Signals may also be
wireless in the form of electromagnetic radiation in the radio
frequency (RF) range but also potentially in the infrared or
optical range. Examples of input devices 1004 are keyboards which
respond to touch or physical pressure from an object or proximity
of an object to a surface, mice which respond to motion through
space or across a plane, microphones which convert vibrations in
the medium (typically air) into device signals, scanners which
convert optical patterns on two or three dimensional objects into
device signals. The signals from the input devices 1004 are
provided via various machine signal conductors (e.g., busses or
network interfaces) and circuits to memory 1006.
[0081] The memory 1006 is typically what is known as a first or
second level memory device, providing for storage (via
configuration of matter or states of matter) of signals received
from the input devices 1004, instructions and information for
controlling operation of the CPU 1002, and signals from storage
devices 1010.
[0082] The memory 1006 and/or the storage devices 1010 may store
computer-executable instructions and thus forming logic 1014 that
when applied to and executed by the CPU 1002 implement embodiments
of the processes disclosed herein.
[0083] Information stored in the memory 1006 is typically directly
accessible to the CPU 1002 of the device. Signals input to the
device cause the reconfiguration of the internal material/energy
state of the memory 1006, creating in essence a new machine
configuration, influencing the behavior of the digital apparatus
1000 by affecting the behavior of the CPU 1002 with control signals
(instructions) and data provided in conjunction with the control
signals.
[0084] Second or third level storage devices 1010 may provide a
slower but higher capacity machine memory capability. Examples of
storage devices 1010 are hard disks, optical disks, large capacity
flash memories or other non-volatile memory technologies, and
magnetic memories.
[0085] The CPU 1002 may cause the configuration of the memory 1006
to be altered by signals in storage devices 1010. In other words,
the CPU 1002 may cause data and instructions to be read from
storage devices 1010 in the memory 1006 from which may then
influence the operations of CPU 1002 as instructions and data
signals, and from which it may also be provided to the output
devices 1008. The CPU 1002 may alter the content of the memory 1006
by signaling to a machine interface of memory 1006 to alter the
internal configuration, and then converted signals to the storage
devices 1010 to alter its material internal configuration. In other
words, data and instructions may be backed up from memory 1006,
which is often volatile, to storage devices 1010, which are often
non-volatile.
[0086] Output devices 1008 are transducers which convert signals
received from the memory 1006 into physical phenomenon such as
vibrations in the air, or patterns of light on a machine display,
or vibrations (i.e., haptic devices) or patterns of ink or other
materials (i.e., printers and 3-D printers).
[0087] The network interface 1012 receives signals from the memory
1006 and converts them into electrical, optical, or wireless
signals to other machines, typically via a machine network. The
network interface 1012 also receives signals from the machine
network and converts them into electrical, optical, or wireless
signals to the memory 1006.
* * * * *