Method of contactless interactions with a payment terminal, corresponding payment terminal and computer program.

Abstract

The invention relates to a method for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal. This contactless payment terminal emits an electromagnetic field for establishing a near-field communication (NFC) with a user's payment device.In particular, the method comprises the following steps, implemented within the payment terminal: - detection by the payment terminal of at least one modulation of the emitted electromagnetic field, said at least one modulation resulting from at least one touch of the payment device on the payment terminal, - determination of a frequency N, N an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the payment terminal, this frequency N corresponding to N touches of the payment device on the payment terminal, - a selection of at least one function on the payment terminal as a function of the determined frequency N of modulation of the electromagnetic field. FIGURE 3.

Description

Title of the invention: Method for contactless interactions with a payment terminal, corresponding payment terminal and computer program. 1. Technical field of the invention

[0001] The present invention relates to contactless interactions between a user and an electronic payment terminal (EPT). In particular, the invention relates to the selection by the user of at least one function on a contactless payment terminal, with the user's payment device.

[0002] A contactless payment terminal is understood to mean an electronic payment terminal using near field communication (NFC) technology to establish communication with a user's payment device and thus carry out an electronic transaction for the purchase of a product or a service. 2. Prior art

[0003] Currently, it is possible to make the purchase of a product or service electronically by simple contact, or immediate proximity, of the customer's payment device (such as their bank card or mobile phone) with a so-called contactless electronic payment terminal, located at a merchant's place of business. This type of contactless payment uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology. This short-range, high-frequency wireless communication technology allows the exchange of information between devices up to a distance of approximately 10 cm.

[0004] Generally, the contactless TPE initiates communication by emitting an electromagnetic field, then sending a command to the customer's payment device, also equipped to communicate by CCP. The payment device then responds by retro-modulation of the incident wave, which allows the payment device and the TPE to exchange transaction information by amplitude modulation of the electromagnetic field.

[0005] To perform this contactless transaction via NFC communication, the customer's payment device is equipped with a chip coupled to an antenna. The chip contains the information that the EFT needs to accept the transaction. The merchant's EFT is then able to access the data stored on the customer's payment device, record a transaction, and communicate with a remote authentication server.

[0006] This payment method thus allows the customer to no longer need to directly manipulate the TPE to make their purchase, for example when they enter their PIN on the EFT keypad. The end of the payment transaction is, in most cases, evidenced by the EFT printing a payment receipt for the customer and the merchant.

[0007] However, in order to limit the production of waste, and to protect the health of consumers, in particular against the harmfulness of the chemical compounds constituting the ink or paper of the payment receipt, it is recommended to no longer systematically print this receipt at the end of the transaction. This is why, at present, before printing the payment receipt, some merchants ask their customers whether they wish to have this payment receipt. Thus, in the years to come, the payment receipt may no longer be printed by default, unless expressly requested by the customer.

[0008] Consequently, the choice of whether or not to print the payment receipt requires manipulation of the EFT by the merchant, who then selects a printing function via the EFT keyboard. However, in view of the current health crisis, contactless interaction between users and payment terminals is becoming increasingly essential. Thus, even if interaction with payment terminals remains a recurring need, it is interesting to study methods allowing the merchant to interact with the payment terminal, without contact with the latter (for example without interactions with the keyboard).

[0009] One of the solutions put forward is that at the end of the transaction, the customer simply passes his hand, or his mobile phone, near the payment terminal, to specify his receipt printing preference. In particular, depending on the detected movement, for example up, down, left or right, the customer can select the printing of the payment receipt or not or select an email sending option. However, this motion detection system requires the integration of an additional component, such as an optical sensor, in the payment terminal.

[0010] There is therefore a need for a technique for interactions between a user and a payment terminal, which does not have these various drawbacks. In particular, there is a need for such a technique which allows the user, customer or merchant, to select a function on the payment terminal without having to handle it, in particular by taking advantage of the technical specificities of near-field communication used for contactless payment. 3. Statement of the invention

[0011] The invention meets this need by proposing a method for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal. This contactless payment terminal emits an electromagnetic field for establishing near-field communication (NFC) with a device payment by a user. In particular, the method comprises the following steps, implemented within the payment terminal: - detection by the payment terminal of at least one modulation of the emitted electromagnetic field, said at least one modulation resulting from at least one touch of the payment device on the payment terminal, - determination of a frequency N, N an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the payment terminal, this frequency N corresponding to N touches of the payment device on the payment terminal, - a selection of at least one function on the payment terminal as a function of the determined frequency N of modulation of the electromagnetic field.

[0012] Thus, the invention is based on a completely new and inventive approach to the interaction between a user's payment device and a so-called contactless payment terminal, using near field communication (NFC) technology. More particularly, the invention proposes to take advantage of the use of this NFC communication technology, already used during a conventional contactless payment step, to be able to select one or more functions available on the contactless payment terminal, i.e. without requiring direct physical interaction between the user, such as for example a customer or a merchant, and the payment terminal.

[0013] For this purpose, when purchasing a product or a service, a conventional electronic transaction step is implemented. In particular, the customer brings their payment device, such as their bank card or mobile phone, close to the contactless payment terminal, then, after establishing communication by CCP, the payment device and the contactless payment terminal exchange transaction information necessary for initiating and finalizing the electronic transaction. This transaction information is, for example, identification and authentication data for the customer's payment device, identification of the payment terminal, transaction amount, etc.

[0014] When the user, customer or merchant, needs to interact with the contactless EFT, for example to select a function such as printing the payment receipt, the method according to the invention makes it possible to limit physical contact between the user and the EFT. For this, in order to be able to select one or more functions on the EFT, the latter detects a modulation of the electromagnetic field that it emits linked to the “touch”, or “tap”, of the user’s payment device on the EFT.

[0015] “Touching” or “tapping” means bringing the payment device close to the TPE to establish communication by CCP between the two peripherals, or at least a modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the TPE. for the payment device. More specifically, during a step of selecting a function on the contactless EFT, during which there is no exchange of transaction information between the payment device and the EFT, the user is invited to use his payment device (contactless bank card or mobile phone) and “touch” the EFT. The EFT, which emits an electromagnetic field, is then capable of detecting a disturbance in the absorption profile of the electromagnetic field.

[0016] Thus, it is the detection of a modulation, or disturbance, of the electromagnetic field emitted by the payment terminal which makes it possible to select a function on the payment terminal. In other words, the user can select a function for using the payment terminal by modulating the electromagnetic field of the terminal using his payment device, without coming into direct contact with it, by simply "tapping" his payment device on the payment terminal. There is therefore no longer any need to manipulate the EFT by entering his choice of function, for example using the terminal's keyboard. On the contrary, the selection is made without contact via a modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the terminal to establish near-field communication and without the need to exchange transaction information as during the transaction step.

[0017] In particular, depending on the modulation frequency of the electromagnetic field emitted by the payment terminal, the user can select a function on the terminal, i.e. each modulation frequency of the electromagnetic field corresponds to a function on the payment terminal. In other words, if the payment terminal determines a modulation frequency N of the electromagnetic field (N being an integer greater than or equal to 1), then it implements the function corresponding to this modulation frequency. Thus, in order to select a function on the payment terminal, the user will “touch” the payment terminal, or perform a “tap” with his payment device, and consequently modulate the electromagnetic field emitted by the terminal. Each time the user performs a “tap”, the electromagnetic field is modulated and thus, for N “taps” a modulation frequency N of the electromagnetic field is determined.In one example, to select the payment receipt printing function, the user must make two consecutive “taps” with his payment device on the payment terminal. The modulation frequency N=2 is then determined and the printing function is selected and implemented.

[0018] According to a particular aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a determination of at least one parameter chosen from: - a period of modulation of the electromagnetic field, - an amplitude of modulation of the electromagnetic field, - an approach threshold of the payment device towards the payment terminal.

[0019] Advantageously, the determination of a period between the detected modulations of the electromagnetic field, of a modulation amplitude and / or of an approach threshold makes it possible to filter out any parasitic interactions. In other words, the method according to the invention makes it possible to detect a voluntary gesture on the part of the user and therefore to precisely select a function on the payment terminal.

[0020] According to another particular aspect of the invention, this selection of said at least one function on the payment terminal is implemented before and / or after a contactless electronic transaction step.

[0021] Advantageously, the user can select a function on the contactless payment terminal before and / or after the contactless electronic transaction step, according to a predetermined function sequence kinematics. In one example, before performing the conventional contactless electronic transaction step, the user is asked whether or not they wish to print their payment receipt. The user, by a simple “tap”, selects that they wish, for example, to print their payment receipt, then then performs a contactless electronic transaction in a conventional manner to purchase a product or service. At the end of the transaction, the user is asked, for example, to make a donation to an association. The user can then select to make this donation in the same way as for selecting the payment receipt printing function, by a simple “tap” of their payment device on the payment terminal.Thus, the user can select one or more functions on the payment terminal before and / or after the electronic transaction step without payment, by making the number of "taps" required to select a function on the terminal.

[0022] According to a characteristic of the invention, said at least one function selected on the payment terminal is selected from: - a function for printing a payment receipt, - a function for transmitting a payment receipt by email, - a function for transmitting a payment receipt by SMS or MMS, - a function for accepting the payment of a tip, - a function for accepting the payment of a donation, - a function for implementing at least one other contactless electronic transaction.

[0023] Thus, before and / or after the actual step of the conventional electronic transaction, the payment terminal displays on a screen a list of functions from which the user can select, for example, to print his payment receipt or send it by email to an address registered with the merchant. For each function, a modulation frequency N is associated. In other words, for each function, a number N of "taps" to be performed is associated and displayed. In one example, to select to print the payment receipt, the terminal screen displays that a single "tap" must be made on the payment terminal with the payment device (bank card or mobile phone), and to select to send it by email, a double "tap" must be made.

[0024] According to another characteristic of the invention, the method according to the invention comprises a display on a screen of the payment terminal of a message for selecting said at least one function, this message comprising the frequency N, N an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of the electromagnetic field making it possible to select said at least one function.

[0025] Thus, the user (or customer) can select from several different functions, without having to physically interact with the payment terminal. The user can therefore very simply select either to receive his payment receipt physically, that is to say he selects the printing of the payment receipt by the payment terminal, or to have this payment receipt sent by email or by SMS or MMS type messaging. In another example, if the user wishes to make a donation to an association or to give a tip to the merchant (for example when it is a restaurant owner), the method according to the invention allows him to select a function for implementing another transaction on the contactless payment terminal.

[0026] The invention also relates to a device for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal. This contactless payment terminal emits an electromagnetic field for establishing a near-field communication (NFC) with a user's payment device. In particular, this device comprises:

[0027] - a module for detecting by the payment terminal at least one modulation of the emitted electromagnetic field, said at least one modulation resulting from at least one touch of the payment device on the payment terminal,

[0028] - a module for selecting a function on the payment terminal, this module selection being furthermore capable of:

[0029] i. determine a frequency N, N an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the payment terminal, the frequency N corresponding to N touches of the payment device on the payment terminal,

[0030] ii. select at least one function on the payment terminal according to the determined electromagnetic field modulation frequency N.

[0031] The invention also relates to a payment terminal comprising a device for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a wireless payment terminal. contact, as described above.

[0032] According to a preferred implementation, the different steps of the methods according to the present disclosure are implemented by one or more software or computer programs, comprising software instructions intended to be executed by a data processor of an execution terminal according to the present technique and being designed to control the execution of the different steps of the methods, implemented at the level of the communication terminal, the electronic execution terminal and / or the remote server, within the framework of a distribution of the processing operations to be carried out and determined by a scripted source code or a compiled code.

[0033] Consequently, the present technique also relates to programs, capable of being executed by a computer or by a data processor, these programs comprising instructions for controlling the execution of the steps of the methods as mentioned above.

[0034] A program may use any programming language, and be in the form of source code, object code, or code intermediate between source code and object code, such as in a partially compiled form, or in any other desirable form.

[0035] The present technique also aims at an information medium readable by a data processor, and comprising instructions of a program as mentioned above.

[0036] The information medium may be any entity or terminal capable of storing the program. For example, the medium may comprise a storage means, such as a ROM, for example a CD ROM or a microelectronic circuit ROM, or a magnetic recording means, for example a mobile medium (memory card) or a hard disk or an SSD.

[0037] On the other hand, the information carrier may be a transmissible carrier such as an electrical or optical signal, which may be conveyed via an electrical or optical cable, by radio or by other means. The program according to the present technique may in particular be downloaded over an Internet-type network.

[0038] Alternatively, the information carrier may be an integrated circuit in which the program is incorporated, the circuit being adapted to execute or to be used in the execution of the method in question.

[0039] According to an exemplary embodiment, the present technique is implemented by means of software and / or hardware components. In this regard, the term "module" may correspond in this document to a software component, a hardware component or a set of hardware and software components.

[0040] A software component corresponds to one or more computer programs, one or more sub-programs of a program, or more generally to any element of a program or software capable of implementing a function or set of functions, as described below for the module concerned. Such a software component is executed by a data processor of a physical entity (terminal, server, gateway, set-top-box, router, etc.) and is likely to access the hardware resources of this physical entity (memories, recording media, communication buses, electronic input / output cards, user interfaces, etc.).

[0041] Similarly, a hardware component corresponds to any element of a hardware assembly capable of implementing a function or a set of functions, as described below for the module concerned. It may be a programmable hardware component or one with an integrated processor for executing software, for example an integrated circuit, a smart card, a memory card, an electronic card for executing firmware, etc.

[0042] Each component of the system described above of course implements its own software modules.

[0043] The different embodiments mentioned above can be combined with each other for the implementation of the present technique.

[0044] The aforementioned processing device, payment terminal and corresponding computer program have at least the same advantages as those conferred by the method for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal according to the different embodiments of the present invention. 4. List of figures

[0045] Other objectives, characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description, given as a simple illustrative, and non-limiting, example, in relation to the figures, among which:

[0046] - [Fig.lA]: presents an example of an environment for implementing the invention according to a particular embodiment; - [Fig.lB]: presents an example of an environment for implementing the invention according to another particular embodiment; - [Fig.2]: presents an architecture of an electronic payment terminal contactless according to an example of realization; - [Fig.3]: graphically presents an example of an absorption profile of an electromagnetic field of a payment terminal according to an exemplary embodiment; - [Fig.4]: schematically presents an example of kinetics of a phase of contactless payment and an opening phase according to an example of implementation; - [Fig.5]: graphically presents examples of absorption profile of a electromagnetic field of a payment terminal when selecting a function on an electronic payment terminal according to an exemplary embodiment; - [Fig.6]: graphically presents an example of an absorption profile of a electromagnetic field of a payment terminal when selecting a function on a payment terminal by double “tap” according to an exemplary embodiment. 5. Detailed description of the invention

[0047] An object of the present disclosure is to offer new possibilities for interactions between a user of a payment device (typically a bank card, or even a communication terminal used as a payment device) and a payment terminal having a near-field communication interface (e.g. NFC). To achieve this objective, the general principle of use of the proposed technique is to make it possible to select a function on an electronic payment terminal (EPT) without direct physical interactions between the user and the EPT, in particular in order to be able to meet health constraints of reducing such physical interactions. To do this, an interaction detection and processing method is implemented.In particular, the invention proposes, to enable this interaction, to take advantage of a near field communication (NFC) technology already implemented by the TPE in the context of contactless payment transactions, also called contactless payment.

[0048] Thus, the invention is based on the modulation, by the user's payment device, of the electromagnetic field emitted by the TPE in the context of implementing communications by CCP for contactless electronic transactions. To do this, the user will perform a "touch" or "tap" of the TPE using his payment device, such as for example his contactless bank card or his mobile phone. This "tap" then modulates the electromagnetic field of the TPE which consequently determines, according to the method described, a function selected as a function of a modulation frequency of the electromagnetic field linked to the number of "taps" performed.

[0049] Figures 1A and 1B present examples of environments for implementing the invention according to particular embodiments.

[0050] When purchasing a product or a service, the user 1, or customer, is invited by the merchant to make a payment, for example using a payment method such as a bank card ([Fig.lA]) or a mobile phone ([Fig.lB]), for example their smartphone.

[0051] Currently, an electronic banking transaction, such as the payment of a purchase, can be done via a contactless interface (not shown) of an electronic payment terminal 3. This type of contactless electronic transaction, also called contactless payment, is based on inductive coupling, also frequently called "near field communication" (or NFC), usually known by the acronym "NFC" (for "Near Field Communication" in English). This NFC communication method is based mainly on the ISO (International Standard Organization) 14443 standard, and uses wireless technologies to allow an exchange of information between two devices located a short distance apart.

[0052] In practice, in this classic and well-known contactless payment method, the merchant enters the amount of the transaction on his TPE 3 which allows a payment to be made by means of a contactless interface (not shown) connected to and controlled by the TPE 3. The TPE 3 also includes a user interface, also called HMI (for Human Machine Interface), comprising for example a screen intended to display messages for the user and a numeric keypad on which the user can enter a code for example.

[0053] The user 1 is then invited, via a message displayed on the screen, to present his means of payment, also called hereinafter payment device 2, such as for example his contactless bank card ([Fig.lA]), or his smartphone ([Fig.lB]), on this contactless interface within a determined period (for example 1 minute), in order to proceed with the payment of his purchase.

[0054] This transaction step involves a secure exchange of transaction information, such as for example identification and authentication data of the payment device 2 and / or the user 1. For this, the user 1 physically positions his payment device 2 in front of the contactless interface of the TPE 3, at a maximum distance of 3 or 4 centimeters to pay for his purchase. Concretely, it is therefore appropriate for the user 1 to “touch” the contactless interface of the TPE 3. This physical contact between the payment device 2 and the TPE 3 is commonly called “tap”. The user 1 then keeps his payment device 2 in front of the contactless interface of the TPE 3, until a signal (beep sound and / or distinctive light) indicates the end of the transaction.For the merchant, this signal characterizes the validation of the transaction and the printing of a receipt and possibly a payment receipt (for example, a bank card receipt) for customer 1.

[0055] We present in relation to [Fig.2] an architecture of a contactless electronic payment terminal 3 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0056] The TPE 3 is a contactless type TPE, that is to say that it is capable of establishing communication by CCP with a payment device 2 of the user 1, such as for example his contactless bank card, to carry out a transaction, or contactless payment.

[0057] The contactless TPE 3 typically comprises:

[0058] - a processing unit or “CPU”, intended to load instructions into memory, to execute them, to carry out operations,

[0059] - a set of memories MEM, including a volatile memory or "RAM" (for "Random Access Memory" in English) used to execute code instructions, store variables, etc., and non-volatile memory, such as "ROM" or "EEPROM" intended to contain persistent information.

[0060] The contactless TPE 3 also comprises a device for processing electromagnetic field modulations of the contactless TPE 3, or DISP processing device. In particular, the DISP processing device comprises a contactless reader LEC, conventionally integrated into a contactless type TPE. The contactless reader LEC of the TPE 3 is an active system which emits an electromagnetic field by means of an integrated antenna ANT and sends data by modulating the amplitude of the emitted electromagnetic field. Indeed, the contactless TPE 3 via the integrated antenna ANT emits an electromagnetic field in order to be able to establish communication by CCP with the payment device 2 of the user 1 at any time.

[0061] Thus, a conventional contactless payment phase consists of the exchange of electromagnetic waves between the payment device 2 of the user 1 (for example a bank card or a smartphone) and the contactless TPE 3 of the merchant. In particular, during this contactless payment phase, the electromagnetic field of the contactless TPE 3 is absorbed to a greater or lesser extent, depending on the presence in the field of the payment device 2, such as for example the bank card of [Fig. 1A],

[0062] More particularly, the payment device 2 conventionally has a chip containing the information necessary for the transaction and a miniature antenna which sends the data by short-distance radio waves to the contactless TPE 3, itself equipped with the integrated antenna ANT. The chip of the payment device 2 sends data to the contactless reader LEC of the contactless TPE 3 by load modulation, that is to say by short-circuiting its antenna circuit by means of a switch controlled by a load modulation signal. The antenna short circuits cause a disturbance in the electromagnetic field which is reflected in the contactless reader LEC. The latter can thus extract the load modulation signal by filtering the signal and deduce therefrom the data sent by the payment device 2.The electromagnetic field can be modified in various ways that can be recognized by the contactless reader LEC and converted into binary digits 1 and 0. The waves can be increased or decreased (amplitude modulation) or shifted in time (phase shift keying). It is also possible to vary the . frequency (frequency shift keying) or to ensure that the data is contained within the duration of the pulses (pulse width modulation).

[0063] The merchant's TPE is then able to access the data stored on the customer's payment device, record a transaction, and communicate with a remote authentication server.

[0064] The processing device DISP of the contactless TPE 3 further comprises a module SEL for selecting a function on the contactless TPE 3. By “function” is meant a particular action which is carried out by the contactless TPE 3 following a command from the user. This function may be for example:

[0065] - a function for printing a payment receipt (for example, bank card receipt or invoice), - a function for transmitting a payment receipt by email, - a function for transmitting a payment receipt by SMS or MMS, - a function for accepting the payment of a tip, - a function for accepting the payment of a donation (typically a donation allowing the total amount of purchases to be rounded up to a higher monetary unit), - a function of the rating of the service provided by the merchant, - a function of implementing at least one other contactless electronic transaction.

[0066] Hereinafter, the payment receipt transmission function is mainly used to describe the interaction examples. It is understood that these examples can be implemented for functions other than that of transmitting such payment receipts.

[0067] In other words, user 1 can very simply select either to receive his payment receipt physically, that is to say he selects the printing of the payment receipt by the payment terminal, or to have this payment receipt sent by email or by SMS or MMS type messaging, when an email address or a telephone number are known to the merchant (for example recorded in a database of the merchant). In another example, if user 1 wants to make a donation to an association or to give a tip to the merchant (for example when it is a restaurant owner), he then selects either a function for implementing another transaction on the contactless payment terminal.

[0068] To do this, the contactless TPE 3 displays on its screen the different functions that it can select in association with a number N (N an integer greater than or equal to 1) of "tap" that must be performed to select a particular function. The contactless reader LEC of the TPE 3 then detects the modulations of the electromagnetic field emitted by the antenna ANT resulting from the presence in the field of the payment device 2 when the user 1 performs a "touch" or "tap" of his payment device 2 on the TPE 3. The selection module SEL then determines a frequency N (N an integer greater than or equal to 1), of modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the contactless TPE 3. This frequency N corresponds to the number N of "taps" that the user performs with his payment device 2 on the TPE. Thus, depending on this frequency N of modulation of the electromagnetic field, the module SEL makes it possible to select a corresponding function. In one example, the user wishes his payment receipt to be sent to him by email to an email address registered in the merchant's database.To do this, at the end of the contactless payment, he is invited to make a double “tap” with his bank card on the contactless TPE 3. The contactless reader LEC therefore detects a modulation of the emitted electromagnetic field and the selection module SEL determines that the modulation frequency is N=2 and that consequently it is the function of transmission by electronic mail of the receipt which is selected by the user 1.

[0069] Thus, the user can select different functions on the contactless TPE 3, in a dematerialized manner, that is to say without direct physical contact, by “touching” it with his payment device 2. Indeed, it is the detection of a modulation, or disturbance, of the electromagnetic field emitted by the TPE by the contactless reader LEC which makes it possible to select via the selection module SEL a function on the TPE. The user therefore no longer needs to manipulate the contactless TPE 3 by entering his choice of function, for example using the keyboard. Indeed, the selection is made without direct contact between the TPE 3 and the user 1 thanks to a modulation of the electromagnetic field of the TPE 3 and without the need to exchange transaction information as during the contactless payment phase.

[0070] According to an exemplary embodiment, this step of selecting a function is done at the end of the conventional contactless payment phase. The user is then invited, via the display of the functions on the screen of the TPE 3, to select a function for printing or sending by email of his payment receipt. To select the function for printing the payment receipt, the user 1 performs a single “tap” (N=1) with his payment device 2, for example his bank card. To select a function for sending the payment receipt by email, the user 1 performs a double “tap” (N=2) with his bank card.

[0071] In another exemplary embodiment, this selection is made before carrying out the classic contactless payment phase.

[0072] In another exemplary embodiment, user 1 chooses a function before the conventional contactless payment phase, such as printing their payment receipt by making a simple “tap” with their bank card, then makes a contactless payment in the conventional manner, before selecting another function displayed on the screen at the end of the payment, such as, for example, giving a tip to the merchant or making a donation to an association.

[0073] We now present in connection with [Fig.3] an example of the absorption profile of the electromagnetic field emitted by the contactless TPE 3 used for the implementation of the present technique. The contactless reader LEC of the TPE 3 being sensitive to the absorption of the electromagnetic field, it is therefore capable of perceiving these modulations by a variation of the voltage at the level of the integrated antenna ANT.

[0074] Thus, during a conventional contactless payment phase, three stages are distinguished:

[0075] - an approach stage, where the absorption of the electromagnetic field increases and therefore the voltage (in volts) decreases, - a transaction stage with exchange of digital data (or transaction information), - a withdrawal stage, where the absorption of the electromagnetic field decreases and therefore the voltage (in volts) increases.

[0076] In the example in relation to [Fig. 3], user 1 is invited to select a function on the contactless EFT 3 at the end of the contactless payment phase. It should be noted that this selection step can also be done before the contactless payment phase, or, in another example, before and after payment.

[0077] [Fig.4] schematically presents an example of the kinetics of a contactless payment phase and an opening phase for the selection of a function on the contactless TPE 3 according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0078] In this example, the N “tap” occurs after an electronic contactless payment transaction.

[0079] During an opening phase, the contactless reader LEC scans for possible modulations of the electromagnetic field linked to one or more “taps” of the user with his payment device 2. When the user “taps” with his payment device 2, the contactless reader LEC detects the disturbance of the electromagnetic field. This modulation of the electromagnetic field is characterized by a brief variation of the field during which the absorption increases briefly before decreasing, as presented in relation to [Fig. 3]. The selection module SEL then determines the modulation frequency N of the field, then selects the corresponding function called by the user. During this selection step, there is no digital dialogue (exchange of data, for example banking data) between the contactless EFT 3 and the payment device 2, such as for example the card banking. The LEC contactless reader of the TPE 3 determines whether there is a modulation of the electromagnetic field and, based on this modulation, via the SEL selection module, selects the corresponding function on the payment terminal. Indeed, depending on the profile of this absorption (value and duration), it is possible to detect a movement, or number of specific "taps", activating a function at the contactless TPE 3.

[0080] In one example, the merchant initiates the contactless payment in a conventional and well-known manner. User 1 carries out the transaction by placing, for example, his bank card in the field of the contactless reader LEC of the EFT 3. Once the transaction is complete, a message is displayed on the screen of the contactless EFT 3 asking user 1 if he wishes, for example, to print a payment receipt with a double validation “tap”. User 1 then uses his contactless bank card to carry out this action which prints the payment receipt.

[0081] It is entirely possible to launch this action before the transaction, or to perform another action (transmission of the payment receipt by email, ticket by SMS, etc.) or to use the depth of the “N tap”; in this case a single “tap” will perform action 1, a double “tap” will perform action 2, etc.

[0082] In relation to [Fig.5] examples of absorption profiles of the electromagnetic field emitted by the contactless TPE 3 during the implementation of a selection of a function according to an exemplary embodiment are presented.

[0083] In one example, when the user 1 “touches” or “taps” the contactless EFT 3 once with his payment device 2, he then performs a single “tap” characterized by a peak of absorption of the electromagnetic field, and a decrease in the voltage. In this case, the selection module SEL determines that the frequency N is equal to 1 and that the function called by the user is that corresponding to a single “tap”, for example the printing of the payment receipt by the contactless EFT 3.

[0084] In another example, when the user 1 “touches” or “taps” the contactless EFT 3 twice in a row with his payment device 2, he then performs a double “tap” characterized by the appearance of two absorption peaks of the electromagnetic field, and a decrease in the voltage. In this case, the selection module SEL determines that the modulation frequency N is equal to two and that the function called by the user is that corresponding to a double “tap”, for example sending the payment receipt by email.

[0085] In another example, when user 1 “touches” or “taps” the contactless EFT 3 three times in a row with his payment device 2, he then performs a triple “tap” characterized by the appearance of three absorption peaks of the electromagnetic field, and a decrease in the voltage. In this case, the selection module SEL determines that the modulation frequency N is equal to three and that the function called by the user is that corresponding to a triple “tap”, for example sending the payment receipt by SMS or MMS type messaging.

[0086] Thus for a number N, an integer greater than or equal to 1, of “taps”, we therefore have N modulations of the electromagnetic field characterized by a number N of absorption peaks. The selection module SEL then determines as a function the modulation frequency N which then makes it possible to select the corresponding function N. In other words, the user 1 must perform N “taps” and thus, as a function of the modulation frequency N of the electromagnetic field emitted by the contactless TPE 3, the user can select, without direct interactions between the user 1 and the TPE 3, a corresponding function N.

[0087] We now present in relation to [Fig.6] an example of an absorption profile of an electromagnetic field of the contactless TPE 3 during an implementation of a selection of a function by double “tap” according to an exemplary embodiment.

[0088] In this example, the user approaches his payment device 2, such as his contactless bank card, twice to the contactless interface of the TPE 3, to perform a double “tap”, in order, for example, to select a function for transmitting the payment receipt by email.

[0089] The contactless reader LEC of the TPE 3 detects a modulation of the electromagnetic field emitted by the antenna ANT of the TPE 3 characterized by two absorption peaks of the field.

[0090] The SEL selection module then determines an approach frequency N= 2 which allows the called function to be deduced. This determined approach frequency also allows the filtering of parasitic absorptions which could occur (even if they remain very low, the operating frequency (13.56 MHz) of the interface being far from the absorption of water).

[0091] The SEL selection module also determines the following parameters:

[0092] - a modulation period of the electromagnetic field, - an amplitude of modulation of the electromagnetic field. The amplitude of these movements allows the triggering of capture as well as the filtering of parasitic absorption, - an approach threshold of the payment device towards said contactless payment terminal.

[0093] Thus, it is possible to detect a voluntary gesture on the part of the user for the selection of a function on the contactless TPE 3.

Claims

Claims

1. Method for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal (3), said contactless payment terminal (3) emitting an electromagnetic field for establishing near-field communication (NFC) with a payment device (2) of a user (1), said method comprising the following steps, implemented within the payment terminal: - detection by said payment terminal (3) of at least one modulation of said emitted electromagnetic field, said at least one modulation resulting from at least one touch of said payment device (2) on said payment terminal, - determination of a frequency N, N being an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of said electromagnetic field emitted by said payment terminal (3), said frequency N corresponding to N touches of said payment device (2) on said payment terminal (3), of a modulation amplitude of said electromagnetic field,and an approach threshold of said payment device (2) towards said payment terminal (3), - a selection of at least one function on said payment terminal (3) as a function of said determined frequency N of modulation of said electromagnetic field.,

2. Treatment method according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises a determination of a modulation period of said electromagnetic field,

3. Processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that said selection of said at least one function on said payment terminal (3) is implemented before and / or after a contactless electronic transaction step.

4. Processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that said at least one function selected on said payment terminal (3) is selected from: - a function of printing a payment receipt, - a function of transmitting a payment receipt by email, - a function of transmitting a payment receipt by SMS or MMS, - a function of accepting payment of a tip, - a function for accepting the payment of a donation, - a function for implementing at least one other contactless electronic transaction.

5. Processing method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that it comprises a display on a screen of said payment terminal (3) of a message for selecting said at least one function, said message comprising said frequency N, N being an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of said electromagnetic field making it possible to select said at least one function.

6. Device for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal (3), said contactless payment terminal (3) emitting an electromagnetic field for establishing near-field communication (NFC) with a payment device (2) of a user (1), said device comprising: - a detection module (LEC) by said payment terminal (3) of at least one modulation of said emitted electromagnetic field, said at least one modulation resulting from at least one touch of said payment device (2) on said payment terminal (3), - a selection module (SEL) of a function on said payment terminal (3), said selection module (SEL) being further capable of: i.determining a frequency N, N being an integer greater than or equal to 1, of modulation of said electromagnetic field emitted by said payment terminal (3), said frequency N corresponding to N touches of said payment device (2) on said payment terminal (3), an amplitude of modulation of said electromagnetic field, and an approach threshold of said payment device (2) towards said payment terminal (3), ii. selecting at least one function on said payment terminal (3) as a function of said determined frequency N of modulation of said electromagnetic field.

7. Payment terminal, characterized in that it comprises a device for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal (3) according to claim 6.

8. Computer program product comprising program code instructions for implementing a method for processing electromagnetic field modulations of a contactless payment terminal (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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