Device and method for aligning a contactless card with a foldable mobile device

Abstract

Exemplary embodiments of systems, methods, and devices for aligning a transaction card are provided. In one exemplary embodiment, a mobile device may include a first component and a second component that are foldable relative to each other between a first configuration and a second configuration. The mobile device may also include a screen interface on an inner side of the first component, and alignment features along the inner side that provide alignment for a contactless card relative to the screen interface, wherein the contactless card is uncovered by the second component in the first configuration and covered by the second component in the second configuration.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to user and transaction card authentication, and more particularly, to devices and methods for aligning a contactless card with a foldable mobile device.

[0002] Priority claim

[0003] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application Serial No. 16 / 367,892, entitled “DEVICES AND METHODS FOR CONTACTLESS CARD ALIGNMENT WITH A FOLDABLE MOBILE DEVICE,” filed on March 28, 2019. The contents of the above application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Background Art

[0004] Data security and transaction integrity are critical to businesses and consumers, and as electronic transactions constitute an increasing share of commercial activity, this need continues to grow.

[0005] Email can be used as a tool to verify transactions, but email is vulnerable to attack and is susceptible to hacking or other unauthorized access. Short Message Service (SMS) messages can also be used, but this is also vulnerable to compromise. In addition, even data encryption algorithms, such as the Triple Data Encryption Standard (DES) algorithm, have similar vulnerabilities.

[0006] While the increasing use of chip-based financial / transaction cards provides greater security for personal spending than previous technologies (e.g., magnetic stripe cards), account access may still rely on login credentials (e.g., username and password) to confirm the cardholder's identity. However, if the login credentials are compromised, or a user's transaction card is stolen, someone else may be able to access the user's account.

[0007] These and other deficiencies exist. Therefore, there is a need to provide users with appropriate solutions that overcome these deficiencies to provide data security, authentication and verification for transactions and transaction cards. In addition, there is a need for an improved card / user authentication method for account access. Summary of the invention

[0008] This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the Detailed Description. This Summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject matter, nor is it intended as an aid in determining the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0009] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a mobile device, including a first component and a second component, which are foldable relative to each other between a first configuration and a second configuration. The mobile device may also include a screen interface on the inner side of the first component; and an alignment feature along the inner side, the alignment feature providing an alignment for a contactless card relative to the screen interface, wherein the contactless card is uncovered by the second component in the first configuration and covered by the second component in the second configuration.

[0010] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a data transmission system, comprising a mobile device having a first component and a second component, which are foldable relative to each other between a first configuration and a second configuration. The data transmission system may also include a screen interface on the inner side of the first component and an alignment feature along the inner side. The alignment feature provides an alignment for a contactless card relative to the screen interface, wherein the contactless card is uncovered by the second component in the first configuration and covered by the second component in the second configuration. The contactless card may also include a card reader having a processor and a memory, wherein when the contactless card is aligned with the screen interface, the card reader is operable to send data through the contactless card.

[0011] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides a method, including providing a mobile device operable to send data via a contactless card, the mobile device comprising a first component and a second component, wherein the first component and the second component are foldable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and wherein the contactless card is covered by the second component in the closed configuration and uncovered by the second component in the open configuration. The method may also include providing an alignment feature along an inner side of the first component, the alignment feature facilitating alignment of the contactless card relative to a screen interface of the first component. The method may also include determining whether the contactless card is aligned on the screen interface, and providing feedback on the placement of the contactless card based on whether the contactless card is aligned on the screen interface. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] The accompanying drawings illustrate example methods of the present disclosure, including practical applications of its principles, as follows:

[0013] Figure 1 is a diagram of a system according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0014] Figure 2 is a diagram illustrating a sequence for providing authenticated access according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0015] Figure 3 is a diagram of a system for using transaction cards according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0016] Figure 4A-4B is a perspective view of a mobile device using a transaction card according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0017] Figure 5A is a perspective view of a mobile device operable with a transaction card according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0018] Figure 5B According to an exemplary embodiment Figure 5A An end cross-sectional view of a mobile device and a transaction card;

[0019] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a mobile device operable with a transaction card according to an exemplary embodiment;

[0020] Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating a method for aligning a transaction card on a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment; and

[0021] Figure 8 is a flow chart illustrating a method for aligning a transaction card on a mobile device according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0022] The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. The drawings are merely representations and are not intended to depict specific parameters of the present disclosure. The drawings are intended to depict exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and are therefore not to be considered limiting of the scope. In the drawings, similar numbers represent similar elements.

[0023] In addition, some elements in some figures may be omitted or not shown to scale for clarity of illustration. The cross-sectional views may be in the form of "slice" or "close-up" cross-sectional views, omitting certain background lines that would otherwise be visible in a "true" cross-sectional view for clarity of illustration. In addition, some reference numbers may be omitted in some of the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The following detailed description provides non-limiting representative examples of reference numbers to specifically describe the features and teachings of different aspects of the present disclosure. The described embodiments should be considered to be able to be implemented separately or in combination with other embodiments from the detailed description. Those of ordinary skill in the art who review this detailed description should be able to learn and understand the different described aspects of the present disclosure. This detailed description should promote an understanding of the present disclosure, so that other implementations that are not specifically covered but are within the knowledge of those skilled in the art who have read the description of the embodiments will be understood to be consistent with the application of the present disclosure.

[0025] The purpose of some embodiments of the present disclosure is to provide alignment and proper placement of contactless cards in clamshell or folding screen mobile phones to optimize near field communication (NFC) wireless reading of cards. The contactless reading of cards by mobile devices is highly dependent on the correct placement of the card relative to the mobile device. In the present disclosure, the mobile device is able to provide feedback on criteria such as time, placement of the card and / or signal strength. In various embodiments, the mobile device can operate in an open or closed configuration and have a closed clamshell or foldable screen design. Alignment features such as marks or outlines can be generated on the screen interface of the mobile device to suggest the placement of the card. Once the contactless card is placed on the screen interface, a reading can be generated to indicate feedback on the placement of the card. In some embodiments, when the card is acceptably positioned relative to the mobile device, the mobile device can then initiate data transmission between the card and the card reader.

[0026] Figure 1 A system 100 is shown according to an exemplary embodiment. As discussed further below, the system 100 may include a card 105, a client device 110, a network 115, and a server 120. Figure 1 A single instance of a component is shown, but system 100 may include any number of components.

[0027] System 100 may include one or more contactless transaction cards 105 (hereinafter referred to as "one or more cards"). Card 105 may be a credit or debit card, an RFID passport, or an access card. Although not limiting, card 105 may be made of one or more layers of polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl chloride vinyl acetate, acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, polycarbonate, polyester, anodized titanium, palladium, gold, carbon, paper, and biodegradable materials. In some examples, card 105 may have physical characteristics of an ID-1 format that conforms to ISO / IEC 7810 standard, and card 105 may conform to ISO / IEC 14443 standard in other aspects. However, it is understood that card 105 according to the present disclosure may have different characteristics, and the present disclosure is not limited to any particular card design.

[0028] The card 105 may also provide one or more functions that require contact, due to the method of communication through an identification chip such as an RFID chip, described herein as contactless. For example, the card 105 may include a conventional magnetic stripe and / or microchip connected to contacts present on the outer layer of the card 105. In some embodiments, the card 105 may utilize NFC, for example, to communicate wirelessly with the client device 110.

[0029] System 100 may include client device 110, which may be a network-enabled computer. As referred to herein, a network-enabled computer may include, but is not limited to, a computer device or a communication device, including, for example, a server, a network device, a personal computer, a workstation, a phone, a handheld PC, a personal digital assistant, a thin client, a fat client, an Internet browser, or other device. Client device 110 may also be a mobile device, for example, a mobile device may include a iPhone, iPod, iPad or other device running Apple Any other mobile device running Microsoft's Any device running Google's Mobile operating system Any device running the Windows operating system, and / or any other smartphone, tablet computer, or similar wearable mobile device. In an exemplary embodiment, the client device 110 is a configurable mobile device, such as a flip-type "flip phone" or a folding screen phone.

[0030] The client device 110 may include a processor and memory, and it is understood that the processing circuit may include additional components, including memory, error and parity check / CRC checker, data encoder, anti-collision algorithm, controller, command decoder, security primitives and anti-tampering hardware, as necessary to perform the functions described herein. The client device 110 may also include a display and an input device. The display may be any type of device for presenting visual information, such as a computer monitor, a flat panel display, and a mobile device screen, including a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, a plasma panel, and a cathode ray tube display. The input device may include any device that is available and supported by the user device for inputting information into the user device, such as a touch screen, a keyboard, a mouse, a cursor control device, a microphone, a digital camera, a video recorder, or a video camera. These devices can be used to input information and interact with the software and other devices described herein.

[0031] In some examples, the client device 110 of the system 100 may execute one or more applications, such as software applications, which enable, for example, network communication with one or more components of the system 100 and send and / or receive data. The client device 110 may communicate with one or more servers 120 via one or more networks 115 and may operate as a respective front-end to back-end pair with the server 120. The client device 110 may transmit one or more requests to the server 120, for example, from a mobile device application executing on the client device 110. The one or more requests may be associated with retrieving data from the server 120. The server 120 may receive the one or more requests from the client device 110. Based on the one or more requests from the client device 110, the server 120 may be configured to retrieve the requested data from one or more databases (not shown). Based on receiving the requested data from the one or more databases, the server 120 may be configured to send the received data to the client device 110, the received data being responsive to the one or more requests.

[0032] The system 100 may include one or more networks 115. In some examples, the network 115 may be one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, or any combination of a wireless network and a wired network, and may be configured to connect the client device 110 to the server 120. For example, the network 115 may include one or more of: a fiber optic network, a passive optical network, a cable network, an Internet network, a satellite network, a wireless local area network (LAN), a global system for mobile communications, a personal communications service, a personal area network, a wireless application protocol, a multimedia messaging service, an enhanced short message service, a short message service, a time division multiplexing-based system, a code division multiple access (CDMA)-based system, D-AMPS, Wi-Fi, fixed wireless data, IEEE 802.11b, 802.15.1, 802.11n, and 802.11g, Bluetooth, NFC, radio frequency identification (RFID), Wi-Fi, and / or the like.

[0033] In addition, the network 115 may include, but is not limited to, telephone lines, optical fibers, IEEE Ethernet 902.3, wide area networks, wireless personal area networks, LANs, or global networks such as the Internet. In addition, the network 115 may support an Internet network, a wireless communication network, a cellular network, and the like, or any combination thereof. The network 115 may also include a network that operates as an independent network or in cooperation with one another or any number of exemplary types of networks mentioned above. The network 115 may utilize one or more protocols to which one or more network elements are communicatively coupled. The network 115 may be converted to or from other protocols to one or more protocols of a network device. Although the network 115 is depicted as a single network, it should be understood that, according to one or more examples, the network 115 may include multiple interconnected networks, such as, for example, the Internet, a service provider's network, a cable television network, an enterprise network (such as a credit card association network), and a home network.

[0034] System 100 may include one or more servers 120. In some examples, server 120 may include one or more processors coupled to a memory. Server 120 may be configured as a central system, server, or platform to control and call various data at different times to perform multiple workflow behaviors. Server 120 may be configured to connect to one or more databases. Server 120 may be connected to at least one client device 110.

[0035] Figure 2 is a timing diagram illustrating an example sequence for providing user / card authentication according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. System 100 may include card 105 and client device 110 , which may include application 122 and processor 124 . Figure 2 You can refer to Figure 1 Similar components are shown in FIG.

[0036] In process 102, application 122 communicates with card 105 to receive a primary authentication including cardholder data according to a standard protocol. For example, when card 105 is used during a transaction identified by application 122, the primary authentication can be based on the communication between application 122 and card 105.

[0037] At process 104, application 122 may request secondary authentication of card 105. Communication between application 122 and card 105 may involve card 105 being brought sufficiently close to a card reader (not shown) of client device 110 to enable NFC data transfer between application 122 and card 105, as shown at process 106. In some embodiments, card 105 is provided in direct physical contact with a screen interface of client device 110.

[0038] At process 108, the application 122 transmits the transaction card data to the processor 124. At process 112, the processor 124 may execute instructions to determine whether to authenticate the transaction based on a comparison between the transaction card data and predetermined identification data.

[0039] In some examples, communication with card 105 may be performed by a device other than client device 110, such as server 120 (e.g., as in Figure 1 ). For example, processor 124 may output data from card 105 to server 120. In some embodiments, server 120 may verify a transaction and / or user identity by comparing data received from card 105 with transaction / user data accessed via server 120. In other embodiments, server 120 may verify card 105 by retrieving an account password associated with card 105 and comparing the card data to the account password.

[0040] Figure 3 A data transmission system (hereinafter referred to as "system") 200 is shown, which uses a card 205, one or more client devices 210, a network 215, servers 220, 225, one or more hardware security modules 230, and a database 235. Figure 3 A single instance of a component is shown, but system 200 may include any number of components.

[0041] The system 200 may include one or more cards 205. In some examples, the card 205 may communicate wirelessly with the client device 210, such as NFC communication. The card 205 may include one or more chips configured to communicate via NFC or other short-range protocols, such as a radio frequency identification chip. In other embodiments, the card 205 may communicate with the client device 210 in other ways, including but not limited to Bluetooth, satellite, Wi-Fi, wired communication, and / or any combination of wireless and wired connections. According to some embodiments, when the card 205 is within the range of the card reader 213, the card 205 may be configured to communicate with the card reader 213 of the client device 210 via NFC. In other examples, communication with the card 205 may be achieved through a physical interface, such as a universal serial bus interface or a card swipe interface.

[0042] System 200 may include client devices 210, which may be network-enabled computers. As referred to herein, network-enabled computers may include, but are not limited to, for example, computer devices or communication devices, including, for example, servers, network devices, personal computers, workstations, mobile devices, phones, handheld PCs, personal digital assistants, thin clients, fat clients, Internet browsers, or other devices. One or more client devices 210 may also be mobile devices. Mobile devices may include iPhone, iPod, iPad or other device running Apple Any other mobile device running Microsoft's Any device running Google's Mobile operating system Any device running an operating system, and / or any other smartphone or similar wearable mobile device. In some examples, client device 210 can be connected to the Figure 1 and Figure 2 The client devices 110 described are the same or similar.

[0043] The client device 210 may communicate with one or more servers 220 and 225 via one or more networks 215. The client device 210 may send one or more requests to the one or more servers 220 and 225, for example, from an application 211 executed on the client device 210. The one or more requests may be associated with retrieving data from the one or more servers 220 and 225. The servers 220 and 225 may receive one or more requests from the client device 210. Based on the one or more requests from the client device 210, the one or more servers 220 and 225 may be configured to retrieve the requested data from the one or more databases 235. Based on the requested data received from the one or more databases 235, the one or more servers 220 and 225 may be configured to send the received data to the client device 210, the received data being in response to the one or more requests. For example, in some non-limiting embodiments, in response to the request from the servers 220 and 225, predetermined user data associated with the card 205 and / or an account password associated with the card 205 may be retrieved from the one or more databases 235.

[0044] In some embodiments, the system 200 may include one or more hardware security modules (HSM) 230. For example, one or more HSM 230 may be configured to perform one or more cryptographic operations as disclosed herein. In some examples, one or more HSM 230 may be configured as a dedicated security device that is configured to perform one or more cryptographic operations. The HSM 230 may be configured so that the key is never leaked outside the HSM 230, but is stored within the HSM 230. For example, one or more HSM 230 may be configured to perform at least one of key derivation, decryption, and MAC operations. One or more HSM 230 may be included in the servers 220 and 225, or may be in data communication therewith.

[0045] The system 200 may include one or more networks 215. In some examples, the network 215 may be one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, or any combination of a wireless network and a wired network, and may be configured to connect the client device 210 to the server 220, 225. For example, the network 215 may include one or more of: a fiber optic network, a passive optical network, a cable network, a cellular network, an Internet network, a satellite network, a wireless LAN, a global system for mobile communications, a personal communication service, a personal area network, a wireless application protocol, a multimedia messaging service, an enhanced short message service, a short message service, a time division multiplexing-based system, a code division multiple access-based system, D-AMPS, Wi-Fi, fixed wireless data, IEEE 802.11b, 802.15.1, 802.11n, and 802.11g, Bluetooth, NFC, RFID, Wi-Fi, and / or any combination of networks thereof. As non-limiting examples, communications from the card 205 and the client device 210 may include NFC communications, a cellular network between the client device 210 and the operator, and the Internet between the operator and the backend.

[0046] In addition, network 215 may include, but is not limited to, telephone lines, optical fibers, IEEE Ethernet 902.3, wide area networks, wireless personal area networks, local area networks, or global networks such as the Internet. In addition, network 215 may support Internet networks, wireless communication networks, cellular networks, and the like, or any combination thereof. Network 215 may also include a network that operates as an independent network or operates in cooperation with each other or any number of exemplary types of networks mentioned above. Network 215 may utilize one or more protocols of one or more network elements to which they are communicatively coupled. Network 215 may be converted to or from other protocols to one or more protocols of network devices. Although network 215 is depicted as a single network, it should be understood that, according to one or more examples, network 215 may include multiple interconnected networks, such as, for example, the Internet, a service provider's network, a cable television network, an enterprise network (such as a credit card association network), and a home network.

[0047] In various examples according to the present disclosure, the client device 210 of the system 200 can execute one or more applications 211 and include one or more processors 212 and one or more card readers 213. For example, the one or more applications 211, such as software applications, can be configured to enable network communication with one or more components of the system 200 and send and / or receive data. It is understood that although in Figure 3Only a single example of the components of the client device 210 is shown in FIG, but any number of client devices 210 may be used. The card reader 213 may be configured to read from and / or communicate with the card 205. In conjunction with one or more applications 211, the card reader 213 may communicate with the card 205.

[0048] The application 211 of any client device 210 can communicate with the card 205 using short-range wireless communication (e.g., NFC). The application 211 can be configured to interface with a card reader 213 of the client device 210, which is configured to communicate with the card 205. It should be noted that those skilled in the art will appreciate that a distance of less than twenty centimeters is consistent with the NFC range. As will be described in further detail below, when the card 205 is placed on the screen interface of the client device 210, the client device 210 can provide feedback on criteria such as time, placement of the card, and / or signal strength.

[0049] Server 220 may be a web server in communication with database 235. Server 225 may include an account server. In some examples, server 220 may be configured to verify one or more credentials from card 205 and / or client device 210 based on a comparison with one or more credentials in database 235. Server 225 may be configured to authorize one or more requests, such as payment transactions, from card 205 and / or client device 210 based on the comparison.

[0050] Figure 4A-4B An example card 305 is shown operating with a client device 310, which may be a payment card issued by a service provider, such as a credit card, debit card, or gift card. In the illustrated embodiment, the client device 310 is a hinged, foldable mobile device. For example, the client device 310 may include a first component 312 and a second component 314 that are foldable relative to each other between a first configuration (e.g., open) and a second configuration (e.g., closed). Although non-limiting, a set of hinges 311 may allow the first and second components 312, 314 to be rotatably coupled. The client device 310 may include a first screen interface 315 disposed along an inner side 316 of the first component 312, and a second screen interface 318 disposed along an inner side 320 of the second component 314. Optionally, the client device 310 may include a third screen interface 355 ( Figure 5A ).

[0051] One or more of the first screen interface 315, the second screen interface 318, and the third screen interface 355 can be a touch screen interface. That is, the screen interface is a display capable of monitoring changes in current. For example, each of the first screen interface 315, the second screen interface 318, and the third screen interface 355 can be a capacitive touch screen having a layer of capacitive material to hold a charge, wherein touching the screen changes the amount of charge at a specified contact point. In other embodiments, one or more of the screen interfaces may include a resistive screen, wherein pressure from a finger causes the conductive layer and the resistive layer of the circuit to contact each other, thereby changing the resistance of the circuit. Other interfaces can monitor changes in wave reflections such as sound waves or near-infrared beams. Still other interfaces can use sensors to measure changes in vibration caused when an object (such as a finger or stylus) hits the screen surface, or can use one or more cameras to monitor changes in light and shadow.

[0052] In some embodiments, card 305 may include an identification chip 308 coupled (e.g., recessed or partially embedded) to its surface. As used herein, identification chip 308 may be any microprocessor device configured to exchange data electromagnetically, such as an RFID chip. The RFID chip may include a radio frequency inductor, a volatile or non-volatile memory, a microprocessor, circuit logic, and / or an antenna. Although in some embodiments the electromagnetic data communication from the RFID chip will occur with radio frequency, other embodiments may exchange electromagnetic data at different frequencies. Although not shown, card 305 may also include a magnetic stripe on the reverse side.

[0053] As described above, the card 305 can be built on a software platform that can operate on a smart card or other device with limited memory (such as a JavaCard), and can securely execute one or more applications or applets. The applets can be added to the contactless card to provide a one-time password (OTP) for multi-factor authentication (MFA) in various mobile application-based use cases. The applet can be configured to respond to one or more requests (such as a near field data exchange request) from a reader (such as a mobile NFC reader) of the client device 310, and generate an NDEF message including an encrypted secure OTP encoded as an NDEF text tag.

[0054] In addition, the card 305 and the card reader 313 interact with each other to exchange information. In some embodiments, both the card 305 and the card reader 313 include one or more NFC communication devices, such as antennas. Information and data can be exchanged between the antennas in a point-to-point (P2P) communication mode or a reader / writer (R / W) communication mode. In the P2P communication mode, the card 305 can be configured to operate in an active communication mode and / or a passive communication mode.

[0055] As will be further described below, the card 305 is close enough to the card reader so that the information communication is inductively coupled to the antenna of the card reader 313. The card reader 313 can demodulate the communicated information to recover the information. The card reader can respond to the information by modulating its corresponding information onto a second carrier and generating a second magnetic field by applying the modulated information communication to the antenna to provide a second modulated information communication in an active communication mode. Alternatively, the card reader can respond to the information by modulating its antenna with the corresponding information to modulate the first carrier to provide a second modulated information communication in a passive communication mode. In some embodiments, the card 305 obtains or collects power from the client device 310 to recover, process and / or provide a response to the information.

[0056] As in Figure 4A-4B , the client device 310 may include an alignment feature 330 generated via the first screen interface 315 of the first component 312. The alignment feature 330 provides alignment for the card 305 relative to the first screen interface 315, thereby positioning the card 305 in close proximity to the card reader 313 of the client device 310. The card reader 313 may be a component embedded within the first and / or second components 312, 314. As will be described in more detail below, when the client device 310 is in the first open configuration, the card 305 may be uncovered by the second component 314, and when the client device 310 is in the second closed configuration, the card 305 is covered by the second component 314.

[0057] In some embodiments, the alignment feature 330 can be a visual indicator displayed via the first screen interface 315. For example, as shown, the alignment feature 330 can be an alignment window that generally corresponds to the shape of the card 305. However, the alignment feature 330 can actually take any shape, configuration, color, etc. In yet other embodiments, the client device 310 can include one or more physical alignment features, such as a standoff 334 extending from at least one of the first component 312 or the second component 314. Instead of aligning the card 305 in the middle of the first screen interface 315, the user can simply slide the card 305 along the first screen interface 315 until it encounters the standoff 334. This may be particularly useful in the case where the card 305 can be inserted into the client device 310 when the first and second components 312, 314 are in the second closed position.

[0058] As in Figure 4A As further shown in FIG. 3 , the second screen interface 318 may display a prompt 338 inviting the user to place the card 305 on top of the first screen interface 315. Once the card 305 is in place on the first screen interface 315, as shown in FIG. Figure 4B As shown in , the client device 310 can be closed.

[0059] Figure 5A-5B The card 305 and the client device 310 in the second closed configuration are shown. As shown, the first component 312 is rotatably coupled to the second component 314 so that the inner side 316 of the first component 312 and the inner side 320 of the second component 314 abut each other to sandwich the card 305 therebetween. An optional third screen interface 355 is shown along the outer side 352 of the second component 314. In some embodiments, when the client device 310 is in the second closed position, feedback can be provided to the user via the third screen interface 355. When the card 305 is placed between the first and second components 312, 314, the third screen interface 355 can provide feedback 344 on criteria such as time, placement of the card, and / or signal strength. Additionally, the third screen interface 355 can generate and display a prompt that invites the user to position the card 305 in the middle between the first and second components 312, 314.

[0060] As shown, feedback 344 can be a text and / or graphic message indicating whether the card is correctly aligned. If the card 305 is deemed not to be correctly aligned, feedback 344 can indicate how the card can be repositioned (e.g., moving the card up / down, right / left, etc.). If the card 305 is correctly aligned, feedback 344 can instruct the user to continue. In another example, the third screen interface 355 can provide feedback to the user about signal strength. The text and / or graphic message can indicate the signal strength, where a predetermined NFC signal strength threshold may need to be reached before the card 305 is read by the card reader 313. If the signal strength is below the threshold, feedback 344 can indicate a method to increase the signal, such as repositioning the card.

[0061] In some embodiments, the client device 310 may include a slot 360 recessed into the first and / or second components 312, 314. The slot 360 further facilitates the alignment of the card 305 and may allow the card 305 to be inserted between the first and second components 312, 314 when the client device 310 is in the second closed position. In some embodiments, the card 305 may be read only when the client device 310 is in the second closed position. For example, the card 305 may require close physical proximity of both the first and second components 312, 314 to initiate data transfer. That is, closing the second component 314 brings the reader into contact with the card reader 313 by less than 2 cm. The closure of the client device 310 may lock the card 305 in an optimal reading position. In other embodiments, when the client device 310 is in the first open position, the card 305 may be read when the card 305 is properly aligned along the first component 312 and the card reader 313 is located in the first component 312.

[0062] Figure 6An example client device 410 is shown that can operate with a card 405, which can be a payment card issued by a service provider, such as a credit card, debit card, or gift card. In the illustrated embodiment, the client device 410 is a foldable smartphone with a flexible screen. However, the client device 410 can alternatively be a tablet computer, a personal digital assistant, a media player, an e-book reader, or a display. As shown, the client device 410 can include a first portion 412 and a second portion 414 that can be folded relative to each other between a first configuration (e.g., open, laid flat) and a second configuration (e.g., closed). Although non-limiting, the first and second portions 412, 414 can be folded / rotated around a folding position 447, which can extend across the client device 410. Although not shown, the folding position 447 can be the result of a corresponding mechanical assembly within the client device 410. The folding position 447 can divide the client device 410 into a first screen interface 415 disposed along the inner side 416 of the first portion 412 and a second screen interface 418 disposed along the inner side 420 of the second portion 414. Optionally, the client device 410 may include a third screen interface (not shown) disposed along an outer side of the first and / or second portions 412 , 414 .

[0063] As shown, the first screen interface and the second screen interface 415, 418 can be part of a single continuous screen interface extending across the first portion 412 and the second portion 414. In an exemplary embodiment, the first screen interface and the second screen interface 415, 418 are combined to provide a touch-sensitive display, which includes a touch sensor for detecting a user's touch thereon or near it. The touch sensor can include a resistive, surface acoustic wave, capacitive (e.g., surface capacitance), projected capacitive, mutual capacitance or self capacitance (e.g., infrared), optical, dispersive signal and / or acoustic pulse recognition touch sensor or array thereof.

[0064] The first screen interface and the second screen interface 415, 418 can be made of plastic, thin glass, thin metal or elastomer. In some embodiments, the first screen interface and the second screen interface 415, 418 can include elastic materials such as gel, elastomer, foam, rubber or silicone or other elastic structures, such as hollow, woven, folded or spiral structures, or folded films of thin polymers such as fabrics. In the first configuration, the first screen interface and the second screen interface 415, 418 can be substantially planar to each other. In the second configuration, the inner side 416 of the first part 412 and the inner side 420 of the second part 414 can be in contact with each other and / or very close.

[0065] In addition, the card 405 and the card reader 413 interact with each other to exchange information. In some embodiments, both the card 405 and the card reader 413 include one or more NFC communication devices, such as antennas. Information and data can be exchanged between the antennas in a point-to-point (P2P) communication mode or a reader / writer (R / W) communication mode. In the P2P communication mode, the card 405 can be configured to operate in an active communication mode and / or a passive communication mode.

[0066] When the client device 410 is in the second closed position, the card 405 is close enough to the card reader so that the information communication is inductively coupled to the antenna of the card reader 413. The card reader 413 can demodulate the transmitted information to recover the information. The card reader can respond to the information by modulating its corresponding information onto a second carrier wave and generating a second magnetic field by applying the modulated information communication to the antenna to provide a second modulated information communication in an active communication mode. Alternatively, the card reader can respond to the information by modulating its antenna with the corresponding information to modulate the first carrier wave to provide a second modulated information communication in a passive communication mode. In some embodiments, the card 405 obtains or collects power from the client device 410 to recover, process and / or provide a response to the information.

[0067] As in Figure 6 As further shown in FIG. 4 , the client device 410 may include an alignment feature 430 generated via the first screen interface 415 of the first portion 412. The alignment feature 430 provides for alignment of the card 405 relative to the first screen interface 412, thereby positioning the card 405 in close proximity to the card reader 413 of the client device 410 when the second portion 414 is closed. In the illustrated embodiment, the card reader 413 may be embedded within the second portion 414.

[0068] As in Figure 6 As further shown in the figure, the second screen interface 418 can display a prompt 438, which invites the user to place the card 405 on the first screen interface 415. Once the card 405 is in place on the first screen interface 415, the client device 410 can be closed to initiate communication between the card reader 413 and the card 405.

[0069] Figure 7 is a flow chart illustrating a method 500 according to an exemplary embodiment. Figures 4A-5BMethod 500 is described with reference to a client device 310 and a card 305 of FIG. 5. As shown, at block 501, method 500 may include providing alignment features 330 along a first component 312 of client device 310. At block 503, method 500 may include detecting a position of card 305 relative to alignment features 330 to determine an alignment of card 305 relative to card reader 313. At block 505, method 500 may include providing feedback regarding the alignment of card 305. In the event that card 305 is acceptably positioned above first component 312, feedback 344 displayed via first, second, and / or third screen interfaces may indicate as such. In the event that card 305 is unacceptably positioned above first component 312, feedback 344 may indicate a method for adjusting card 305. At block 507, method 500 may then include initiating data transmission between card 305 and card reader 313 when card 305 is acceptably positioned above first component 312. In some embodiments, data transfer between the card 305 and the card reader 313 is initiated only when alignment of the cards has been achieved and the client device 310 is in the second closed position.

[0070] Figure 8 6 is a flow chart showing a method 600 according to an exemplary embodiment. In block 601, the method 600 may include providing a mobile device operable to send data via a contactless card, the mobile device including a first component foldable relative to a second component between an open and a closed configuration. In some embodiments, the contactless card is covered by the second component in the closed configuration and uncovered by the second component in the open configuration. In some embodiments, the mobile device is a clamshell phone or a folding screen phone. In some embodiments, the client device is a foldable smartphone with one or more flexible screens. In some embodiments, the mobile device has multiple screen interfaces. In some embodiments, the screen interface may be touch screen capable. In some embodiments, the contactless card may be a transaction card capable of NFC communication, such as a debit card and / or a credit card. In some embodiments, a groove is recessed in at least one of the first component and the second component, wherein when the first component and the second component are in the closed configuration, the contactless card can be accommodated by the groove.

[0071] At block 603, method 600 may further include providing an alignment feature along the inner side of the first component. The alignment feature facilitates alignment of the contactless card relative to the screen interface of the first component. In some embodiments, the alignment feature is a visual indicator, such as a dot-shaped alignment window that roughly corresponds to the shape of the contactless card. In some embodiments, the alignment feature is generated and displayed via the first screen interface. In other embodiments, the alignment feature may be a standoff extending from at least one of the first component and the second component.

[0072] At block 605, method 600 may include determining whether the contactless card is aligned on the screen interface. At block 607, method 600 may include providing feedback about the placement of the contactless card based on whether the contactless card is aligned on the screen interface. In some embodiments, the feedback is provided via a second screen interface disposed along an inner side of the second component. In some embodiments, the second screen interface displays feedback about criteria such as time, placement of the card, and / or signal strength. Other types of feedback may also be provided to the user.

[0073] At block 609, method 600 may also include allowing data transfer between the contactless card and the card reader of the mobile device based on whether the contactless card is aligned with the screen interface. In some embodiments, the method may include determining a configuration change of the first component and the second component from an open configuration to a closed configuration, and then in response to the configuration change of the first component and the second component, initiating data transfer between the contactless card and the card reader of the mobile device. For example, data transfer may not be allowed or possible unless the first component and the second component are in a closed configuration.

[0074] In some examples, the transaction card can selectively transmit information based on the recipient device. Once user input is received, the transaction card can identify the device to which the input is directed, and based on this identification, the transaction card can provide appropriate data for the device. This advantageously allows the transaction card to send only the information required to complete the immediate action or transaction (such as payment or card authentication). By limiting data transmission and avoiding unnecessary data transmission, efficiency and data security can be improved. Identification and selective transmission of information can be applied in various scenarios as a way to reduce fraud, including card activation, balance compensation, account access attempts, commercial transactions, etc.

[0075] If the trading card input points to a running Apple operating system, such as an iPhone, iPod or iPad, the transaction card can be recognized The operating system sends the appropriate data to communicate with the device. For example, a transaction card can provide the encrypted identity information necessary to authenticate the card using an NDEF tag via, for example, NFC. Similarly, if the transaction card input points to a running Devices that operate the system, e.g. Smartphone or tablet, the transaction card can be recognized operating system and sends appropriate data to communicate with the device (such as encrypted identity information necessary for authentication through the methods described herein).

[0076] As another example, the transaction card input may be directed to a POS device, including but not limited to a self-service machine, a checkout register, a payment station, or other terminal. Upon properly aligning the transaction card, the transaction card may identify the POS device and transmit only the information necessary for the action or transaction. For example, upon identifying the POS device used to complete a commercial transaction, the transaction card may transmit the payment information necessary to complete the transaction in accordance with the EMV standard.

[0077] In some examples, a POS device participating in a transaction may require or specify additional information to be provided by a transaction card, such as device-specific information, location-specific information, and transaction-specific information. For example, once a POS device receives data communications from a transaction card, the POS device may recognize the transaction card and request additional information necessary to complete an action or transaction, such as a sequence input into an overlay via indicia.

[0078] In some examples, data about user input behavior can be collected as biometric / gesture authentication. For example, a unique identifier that is cryptographically secure and not easily intercepted can be transmitted to one or more backend services. The unique identifier can be configured to look up secondary information about the individual. The secondary information can include personally identifiable information about the user. In some examples, the secondary information can be stored within the transaction card.

[0079] Although the illustrative methods 500 and 600 are described as a series of acts or events, unless otherwise specified, the present disclosure is not limited by the order in which these acts or events are shown. For example, according to the present disclosure, some acts may occur in a different order and / or occur simultaneously with other acts or events other than those shown and / or described herein. In addition, not all of the acts or events shown are necessary for the methods to be implemented according to the present disclosure.

[0080] Throughout the specification and claims, the following terms have at least the meanings explicitly associated herein unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. The term "or" is intended to mean an inclusive "or". Furthermore, the terms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to mean one or more unless otherwise specified or clear from context to be singular.

[0081] In this description, many specific details have been set forth. However, it should be understood that embodiments of the disclosed technology can be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, well-known methods, structures, and techniques are not shown in detail in order not to confuse the understanding of this description. References to "some examples," "other examples," "one example," "example," "various examples," "one embodiment," "embodiment," "some embodiments," "exemplary embodiments," "various embodiments," "one implementation," "implementation," "example implementation," "various implementations," "some implementations," etc., indicate that one or more embodiments of the disclosed technology described in this manner may include specific features, structures, or characteristics, but not every implementation must include specific features, structures, or characteristics. In addition, the repeated use of the phrases "in one example," "in one embodiment," or "in one implementation" does not necessarily refer to the same example, embodiment, or implementation, although it may.

[0082] As used herein, unless otherwise specified, the use of ordinal adjectives "first," "second," "third," etc. to describe common objects merely indicates that different instances of similar objects are referenced and is not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given order in time, space, ranking, or in any other manner.

[0083] Although certain embodiments of the disclosed technology have been described in conjunction with what are currently considered to be the most practical and various embodiments, it should be understood that the disclosed technology is not limited to the disclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover various modifications and equivalent arrangements included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

[0084] This written description uses examples to disclose certain embodiments of the disclosed technology, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice certain embodiments of the disclosed technology, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of certain embodiments of the disclosed technology is defined in the claims, and may include other examples that occur to one skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be included within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that do not differ substantially from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. A mobile device, comprising: a first component and a second component that are foldable relative to each other between a first configuration and a second configuration; a card reader disposed in the first component or the second component, wherein when a contactless card is located between the first component and the second component, the card reader is operable to transmit data using the contactless card; a first screen interface on the inner side of the first component, and a second screen interface on the inner side of the second component; an alignment feature along the inner side of the first component or the second component, the alignment feature providing alignment for the contactless card relative to the first screen interface or the second screen interface, wherein the contactless card is uncovered by the second component in the first configuration and covered by the second component in the second configuration; and an external screen interface along the outside of the second component, when the first component and the second component are in the second configuration, when the contactless card is clamped between the first component and the second component, the external screen interface provides positioning feedback of the contactless card generated by the processor of the card reader.

2. The mobile device according to claim 1, wherein the second screen interface is further configured to provide feedback of the positioning of the contactless card relative to the screen interface.

3. The mobile device according to claim 1, wherein: At least one of the first screen interface and the second screen interface is a capacitive touch screen interface.

4. The mobile device according to claim 1, wherein: The first component is rotatably coupled to the second component.

5. The mobile device according to claim 1, wherein: The alignment feature includes a visual indicator displayed via the first screen interface or the second screen interface.

6. The mobile device according to claim 1, wherein: The alignment feature includes a standoff extending from at least one of the first component and the second component, wherein the standoff is positioned between a set of hinges coupling the first component and the second component together.

7. The mobile device of claim 1, further comprising a slot recessed into at least one of the first component and the second component, wherein the slot allows insertion of the contactless card between the first component and the second component when the second component is in the second configuration, wherein The groove includes a first surface opposite to a second surface, and a third surface extending between the first surface and the second surface, wherein the first surface and the second surface extend perpendicular to a plane defined by the second screen interface, and wherein the third surface is oriented perpendicular to the first surface and the second surface.

8. A data transmission system, comprising: A mobile device, comprising: a first component and a second component, the first component and the second component being foldable relative to each other between a first configuration and a second configuration; a card reader having a processor and a memory, wherein upon determining that a contactless card is aligned between the first and second components, the card reader is operable to transmit data via the contactless card; A first screen interface on an inner side of the first component and a second screen interface on an inner side of the second component; an alignment feature along the inner side, the alignment feature providing alignment for the contactless card relative to the first screen interface and the second screen interface, wherein the contactless card is uncovered by the second component in the first configuration and covered by the second component in the second configuration; and an external screen interface along the outside of the second component, when the first component and the second component are in the second configuration, when the contactless card is clamped between the first component and the second component, the external screen interface provides positioning feedback of the contactless card generated by the processor of the card reader.

9. The data transfer system of claim 8, the second screen interface further operable to provide feedback of the positioning of the contactless card relative to the first screen interface.

10. The data transmission system according to claim 8, wherein: The first component is rotatably coupled to the second component.

11. The data transmission system according to claim 8, wherein: The alignment feature includes a visual indicator displayed via the first screen interface.

12. The data transmission system according to claim 8, wherein: The alignment feature includes a standoff extending from at least one of the first component and the second component, the standoff being operable to engage the contactless card.

13. The data transmission system of claim 8, further comprising a slot recessed into at least one of the first component and the second component, wherein the slot allows the contactless card to be inserted between the first component and the second component when the second component is in the second configuration.

14. A method of aligning a transaction card on a mobile device, comprising: A mobile device operable to transmit data via a contactless card is provided, the mobile device comprising a first component and a second component, wherein the first component and the second component are foldable relative to each other between an open configuration and a closed configuration, and wherein the contactless card is covered by the second component in the closed configuration and uncovered by the second component in the open configuration; determining whether the contactless card is aligned between the first component and the second component; allowing data transmission between the contactless card and a card reader of the mobile device when it is determined that the contactless card is aligned between the first component and the second component; providing positioning feedback via a third screen interface disposed along an outer side of the second component, wherein the positioning feedback is generated by a processor of the card reader when the first component and the second component are in the closed configuration; When it is determined that the contactless card is misaligned between the first component and the second component, denying data transmission between the contactless card and the card reader of the mobile device; and An alignment feature is provided along an inner side of the first component or the second component, the alignment feature providing alignment for the contactless card relative to the first screen interface or the second screen interface, wherein determining whether the contactless card is aligned between the first component and the second component includes determining whether the contactless card is aligned with the alignment feature.

15. The method of claim 14, further comprising visually displaying the alignment feature via the first screen interface or the second screen interface.

16. The method according to claim 14, further comprising: providing a groove recessed into at least one of the first component and the second component; as well as The contactless card is received by the slot when the first and second components are in the closed configuration.

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