Method for optically decoding a debit or credit card

Abstract

A method for collecting and transmitting information desired for a commercial transaction from a debit or credit card uses a processor configured with optical character recognition (OCR) capability. At least one optical image of the debit or credit card is collected by the processor. The edges of the card are algorithmically defined from the collected image. Predefined offsets are applied to the algorithmically defined edges of the debit or credit card to algorithmically locate an area in the collected image having the desired transactional data. The transactional data within the located area is encoded and transmitted for further processing of the commercial transaction.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM[0001]The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 61 / 596,385, filed Feb. 8, 2012.FIELD OF THE DESCRIBED METHODS[0002]The present subject matter relates to methods and systems for performing all logistical functionality (e.g., activation, sales, validation, etc.) of lottery and contest type tickets (e.g., instant lottery tickets, on-line lottery tickets, promotional materials, etc.) using existing infrastructures without the need for additional lottery or game specific hardware installed at a retailer's location. Additionally, the use of the aforementioned infrastructures also enables street vendors to readily: activate, sell, and validate lottery tickets, and to pay applicable prizes of lottery games. The proposed methodologies and systems enable the sale / processing of lottery and contest tickets, as well as interchange of other data (e.g., check clearing, authentication, etc.) between the retailer to a central processing hub withou...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes a way to use existing gift debit card activation systems at big box and drug stores to track and validate other products without needing to add any additional hardware. This allows for things like lotteries and contests to be conducted without needing a separate location or additional staff. The same technology can also be used with portable retailers or street vendors, who can use their smart phones as barcode scanners and printers. This eliminates the need for cash and reduces the risk of theft and violent crime. Overall, the patent text offers a way to save money and simplify the retail experience by utilizing existing infrastructure.

Problems solved by technology

However, after decades of growth, the sales curves associated with traditional games seem to be flattening out with the existing retailer base appearing to plateau.

However, attempts by lotteries and their service providers to recruit these new retailers have not succeeded.

The main reasons for the lack of success is that lottery products are too labor intensive and require special equipment.

Additionally, aside from the added cost of the special equipment, its placement may require big box and drug store retailers to have a separate lottery sales / redemption location possibly requiring extra staff.

U.S. Pat. No. 6,899,621), however all of these systems have required the addition of special scanning or dispensing hardware that consequently incur significant costs.

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