Method and apparatus for supporting NFC payment and authentication

Abstract

The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for assisting NFC payment of a user terminal, and provides a method and apparatus for providing an environment in which NFC payment can be performed by actively utilizing the NFC writing function of the user terminal in order to enable NFC payment of a user terminal that cannot support the card mode during NFC payment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for assisting NFC (Near Field Communication) payment of a user terminal. Specifically, in order to enable NFC payment of a user terminal that cannot support the card mode during NFC payment, the present invention relates to a method and an apparatus for providing an environment in which NFC payment can be performed by actively using the NFC writing function of the user terminal. Further, the present invention relates to an NFC payment support method and an apparatus therefor that enable NFC payment in both a payment means that functions in a read / write mode and a payment means that functions in a card mode when attempting NFC payment using a user terminal or an NFC card.

Background Art

[0002] Due to the leap-forward development of technologies related to user terminals (smartphones) and the network infrastructure that enables ultra-high-speed communication, payment using user terminals has now become widespread. In particular, the payment function based on MST supported by user terminals of Company S in Korea based on the Android OS (Operating System) has received favorable reviews from many users for its ease of use, and the number of Android OS users has increased significantly due to the simplicity and ease of use of this payment function.

[0003] On the other hand, although the user terminals of Company A based on iOS are equipped with physical hardware that enables the execution of NFC-based payment functions, in many countries including South Korea, software restrictions are imposed to disable the card mode, so that currently, it is substantially impossible to conduct payments based on user terminals. Despite being user terminals that appeal with excellent product designs and user-friendly interfaces and occupy the highest share rate in the overall user terminal market, the inability to perform easy payments using user terminals has been a cause for many purchasers to hesitate to buy Company A's terminals.

[0004] The present invention was devised by paying attention to such problems, and relates to a method and apparatus that enable NFC payments even in a user environment where the use of the card mode is restricted, such as the user terminals of Company A based on iOS.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to enable NFC payments even when using a user terminal that cannot perform easy payments due to restrictions on disabling the card mode.

[0006] Another object of the present invention is to enable a payment with higher security compared to a payment method that scans a barcode or QR code or a payment method based on multi-stream transport (MST) technology by utilizing NFC technology when delivering information necessary for payment (for example, identification information of a card medium necessary for payment, etc.).

[0007] Furthermore, for the settlement franchise stores, the present invention aims to enable NFC settlement of the user terminals of Company A by simply further providing a small device (NFC settlement support device) without replacing the existing settlement terminals.

[0008] Moreover, since the present invention is capable of supporting various NFC settlement methods, it aims to simultaneously improve the usability for users and the usability for franchise store owners.

[0009] In addition to these, after detecting the NFC settlement means, the present invention aims to enable the automatic activation of a suitable settlement mode without the user or the franchise store owner having to perform separate operation actions by activating the settlement mode of the appropriate type that matches this.

[0010] On the other hand, the technical problems of the present invention are not limited to the problems described above, and other technical problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those of ordinary skill in the art from the following description.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0011] In order to solve the problems as described above, a method for supporting NFC settlement of a user terminal according to the present invention includes a step of writing media identification information from the user terminal into an NFC tag module in the NFC settlement support device, a step of the NFC settlement support device reading the value written into the NFC tag module, and a step of the NFC settlement support device delivering the value read in the previous step to the settlement terminal side.

[0012] Also, in the NFC settlement support method, the media identification information written into the NFC settlement support device may be encrypted by the user terminal.

[0013] Furthermore, at this time, after the step of writing the encrypted media identification information into the NFC payment support device, the NFC payment support device may further include a step of decrypting the encrypted media identification information and a step of determining whether the decrypted media identification information is media identification information for NFC payment.

[0014] On the other hand, an NFC payment support device for supporting NFC payment of a user terminal according to still another embodiment of the present invention includes an NFC tag module into which media identification information from the user terminal is written by the NFC writing function of the user terminal, a control unit that reads the value written into the NFC tag module and delivers the read value to the payment terminal side via a port, a communication unit that supports transmission and reception of data between the NFC payment support device and a payment terminal connected via a network, and a power supply unit that supplies power required for driving the NFC payment support device.

[0015] Further, the NFC payment support device may further include a microphone that senses a sound wave signal output from the user terminal, and the control unit may be characterized by converting the sound wave signal sensed by the microphone into a signal that can be delivered to the payment terminal side.

[0016] On the other hand, a method for supporting NFC payment of a user terminal according to still another embodiment of the present invention may include a step of writing media identification information from the user terminal into an NFC tag module in an NFC payment terminal, a step of the NFC payment terminal reading the value written into the NFC tag module, a step of the NFC payment terminal generating payment information - the payment information is payment information regarding a product or service that the user of the user terminal intends to purchase - and a step of the NFC payment terminal transmitting the read value - the read value is the same as the media identification information - and the media identification information and the payment information to a financial institution server.

[0017] In addition, an NFC payment terminal for assisting NFC payment of a user terminal according to still another embodiment of the present invention includes an NFC tag module into which media identification information from the user terminal is written by the NFC writing function of the user terminal, reads a value written in the NFC tag module, and generates payment information - the payment information is payment information regarding a product or service that the user of the user terminal intends to purchase - and a control unit that transmits the read value - the read value is the same as the media identification information - and the payment information to a financial institution server, a communication unit that assists in transmitting and receiving data between the NFC payment terminal and a financial institution server connected via a network, and a power supply unit that supplies power necessary for driving the NFC payment terminal.

Advantages of the Invention

[0018] According to the present invention, it becomes possible to perform easy payment even using a user terminal that has not been able to perform easy payment substantially until now. In particular, there is an effect that the usability of users who use user terminals based on iOS can be significantly improved.

[0019] Also, according to the present invention, while making full use of the existing infrastructure installed in existing payment-affiliated stores as it is, it is possible to increase the usage rate of easy payment based on NFC and improve the payment efficiency without the burden of cost.

[0020] Furthermore, according to the present invention, since it is relatively safely protected from security threats such as information theft in other payment methods, both users and payment-affiliated stores can use the payment service with confidence.

[0021] On the other hand, the effects according to the present invention are not limited to the above-described effects at all, and other technical effects not mentioned can be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the following description.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0022]

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Modes for Carrying Out the Invention

[0023] Details regarding the object, technical configuration, and associated operational effects of the present invention should be more clearly understood through the following detailed description based on the drawings attached to the specification of the present invention. Hereinafter, embodiments according to the present invention will be described in detail based on the attached drawings.

[0024] The embodiments disclosed in this specification should not be construed or used as limiting the scope of the present invention. It goes without saying that explanations including the embodiments in this specification have various applications for those of ordinary skill in the art. Therefore, any embodiment described in the column of the detailed description of the present invention is merely exemplary for more clearly explaining the present invention, and is not intended to limit the scope of the present invention to the embodiments.

[0025] The functional blocks shown in the drawings and described below are merely realizable examples. In other aspects, other functional blocks can be used without departing from the spirit and scope of the detailed description. Although one or more functional blocks of the present invention are shown as individual blocks, one or more of the functional blocks of the present invention can be a combination of various hardware and software components that perform the same function.

[0026] Also, the expressions "comprises", "has", "includes", and "contains" are to be interpreted as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning "including but not limited to") unless otherwise specified, and merely indicate the presence of the component, and do not exclude additional components.

[0027] Furthermore, in this disclosure, when a certain component is referred to as being "coupled" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that the certain component is directly coupled or connected to the other component, or there may be other components between them.

[0028] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0029] First, FIG. 1 is a diagram for briefly describing the settlement process of how the entire settlement is performed when the user terminal 100 uses the NFC settlement support method and device proposed in the present invention.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 1, the user terminal 100 can approach the NFC settlement support device 200 side and deliver information necessary for settlement, especially information that can identify a medium for settlement (card number or a one-time code that can replace it; hereinafter referred to as medium identification information). After that, the NFC settlement support device 200 delivers the information received earlier to the settlement terminal 300 installed in the store, and the settlement terminal 300 actually adds the above-mentioned medium identification information to the user's product or service settlement information and requests approval from the financial institution server 400 side.

[0031] Notably, the NFC settlement support device 200 existing between the user terminal 100 and the settlement terminal 300 is such that the medium identification information is written by the NFC writing function of the user terminal 100. Also, the NFC settlement support device 200 can deliver the medium identification information written in this way directly to the settlement terminal 300 side, and as a result, it can deliver the most important information required for simple settlement to the settlement terminal 300.

[0032] The user terminal 100 mentioned in the present invention assumes a terminal of Company A based on iOS. This user terminal 100 has a module that can execute NFC writing and reading functions in terms of hardware, but the activation of the card mode is restricted by software and it cannot use the simple settlement provided by Company A itself. However, the NFC settlement support method and NFC settlement support device according to the present invention can perform NFC-based simple settlement at any store even if the user terminal 100 has the above-mentioned restrictions.

[0033] For reference, if each entity shown in FIG. 1 is understood in terms of hardware, it is as follows.

[0034] First, the user terminal 100 refers to a device that any user owns or carries, and this may include portable terminals such as smartphones, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), tablet PCs, etc. It is assumed that any such user terminal 100 is equipped with a central processing unit (CPU) and memory. For reference, in this detailed description section, to deepen the understanding of the invention, it is assumed that the user terminal 300 is a smartphone, and in particular, a smartphone of Company A based on iOS. In this case, the user terminal 100 may be equipped with a display and a touch-sensitive surface, and in some cases, one or more other physical user input means such as a physical keyboard, mouse, and / or joystick may be randomly connected. Also, the user terminal 100 may further be equipped with means for sensing sound and voice and for recording. On the other hand, various applications launched on the user terminal 100 can optionally use at least one universal physical user input means such as a touch-sensitive surface. Not only one or more functions of the touch-sensitive surface, but also the corresponding information displayed on the terminal may be optionally adjusted or changed from any one application to the next application and / or within an individual application. In such a manner, the universal physical architecture of the device (such as the touch-sensitive surface) can optionally support various applications using a user interface that is intuitive and clear for the user.

[0035] Next, it is assumed that the settlement terminal 300 is preferably a computable device equipped with a central processing unit (CPU) and a memory. The central processing unit may also be referred to as a controller, a microcontroller, a microprocessor, a microcomputer, etc. Further, the central processing unit can be realized by hardware, firmware, software, or a combination thereof. When realized using hardware, it can be realized by application specific integrated circuits (ASICs), digital signal processors (DSPs), digital signal processing devices (DSPDs), programmable logic devices (PLDs), field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), etc. When realized using firmware or software, the firmware or software may be configured to include modules, procedures, functions, etc. that perform the above-described functions or operations.Also, the memory may be realized by a read-only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), a flash memory, a static random access memory (SRAM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state disk (SSD), or the like. Such types of the settlement terminal 300 may include any device that can request approval for settlement from the financial institution server 400 or a financial institution equivalent thereto after receiving media identification information (such as card information or a one-time code) from a purchaser, like a POS terminal, a CAT terminal, or the like.

[0036] The financial institution server 400 may, as the term implies, mean a server computer of an operator engaged in the financial industry, and may be realized by a computing device equipped with the central processing unit and the memory mentioned above.

[0037] Hereinafter, based on FIG. 2, the NFC settlement support method according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0038] Referring to FIG. 2, the NFC payment support method may first include a step (S101) in which the user terminal 100 writes media identification information to the NFC payment support device 200. This step is premised on the NFC function of the user terminal 100 being available, and further premised on the NFC mode of the user terminal 100 being a mode in which NFC writing can be performed, such as the P2P mode or the read / write mode. Also, the media identification information may include specific media necessary for payment, such as card information (card number), a one-time value (code), or other unique value (code). To give a more simple example, when a payment application is launched on the user terminal 100 for simple payment, a one-time code (barcode, QR code, etc.) with a limited time may be displayed on the screen. However, the one-time code generated in such a manner can be one type of media identification information. However, as mentioned above, the media identification information in the present invention is not displayed in forms such as barcodes or QR codes, that is, in a form that can be captured (at this time, capturing includes scanning) and externally snatched or shared. Instead, it can only exist for the purpose of performing NFC writing on the NFC payment support device 200 side. Only a message with the content "NFC writing mode is prepared" or "Perform NFC payment" may be displayed on the screen of the user terminal 100, and it will not be displayed in a form that can be snatched or shared externally by capturing (including scanning in this case), such as a barcode, QR code, or physical card information. Also, since step S101 can only be performed after the user necessarily brings the user terminal 100 close to the NFC payment support device 200, it can be said to be safer compared to other types of payment methods that can be made at a distance.

[0039] After step S101, the NFC payment support device 200 reads the medium identification information written to itself and transmits the value thus read to the payment terminal 300 (S103, S105). Although this step is described in two stages in this way, steps S103 and S105 above may be steps that can be performed simultaneously when actually realized. For example, in step S101, when the user brings their user terminal 100 close, the medium identification information may be written to the NFC payment support device 200 and at the same time, read and displayed on the screen of the payment terminal 300.

[0040] On the other hand, when executing step S105, on the side of the payment terminal 300, there may be cases where pre - preparation steps such as sending a separate ready state to the NFC payment support device 200 side are unnecessary. Preferably, the control unit 203 may be programmed so that as soon as the NFC payment support device 200 reads the value, it is handed over to the payment terminal 300 side.

[0041] On the other hand, contrary to the previous paragraph, step S105 may be realized to be performed only when the ready state from the payment terminal 300 is confirmed. That is, the payment terminal 300 may be a terminal capable of adopting various payment methods. However, if a specific procedure or mode switch is required to accept NFC payment, after completing that procedure or mode switch, it may notify the NFC payment support device 200 and then transmit the read value.

[0042] After step S105, the payment terminal 300 can transmit together the medium identification information previously received on the financial institution server 400 side and the payment information generated by the payment terminal 300 (S107). The payment information means information regarding the purchase when a user attempts to purchase goods or services in a specific affiliated store. For example, it may include the price, quantity, name of the goods or services for which the transaction is to be made, the date and time of the transaction, the location of the transaction, the name of the person in charge involved in the transaction, or the name of the representative of the affiliated store.

[0043] After step S107, on the financial institution server 400, it is possible to perform the step of approving the medium identification information received from the payment terminal 300 (S109) and the step of approving the payment (S111), and transmit the approval result to at least one of the payment terminal 300 side and the user terminal 100 side (S113, S117).

[0044] The step of approving the medium identification information (S109) is a step of confirming whether the identification information of the medium issued by the financial institution server 400 (such as a card or a one-time code) is correct. It should be understood that the payment approval step (S111) is a process of confirming whether there is any abnormality in the previously received payment information or whether there is any information containing errors.

[0045] On the other hand, in the payment terminal 300, after receiving the approval result (S113), a receipt may be printed (S115) as necessary.

[0046] As described above, based on FIG. 2, the NFC payment support method according to the first embodiment of the present invention has been described.

[0047] FIG. 3 shows the components of the NFC payment support device 200 mentioned in the present invention.

[0048] Referring to FIG. 3, the NFC payment support device 200 may generally include an NFC tag module 201, a control unit 203, a communication unit 205, a port 206, and a power supply unit 207.

[0049] The NFC tag module 201 is a component into which the media identification information from the user terminal 100 is written by the NFC writing function. The NFC tag module 201 may further include a loop wire for power supply as needed. Since any information existing currently can be used for tagging by the existing NFC technology, it can be said that there is no limitation in the realization of the NFC tag module 201.

[0050] Next, the control unit 203 plays a role in generally controlling the components of the NFC payment support device 200. In particular, it can perform a function of reading the value written in the NFC tag module 201 in conjunction with the NFC tag module 201, and a function of delivering the read value to the external payment terminal 300 side via the port 206.

[0051] The communication unit 205 is a component that supports data transmission and reception via the network between the NFC payment support device 200 and the payment terminal 300, and it should also be understood that it is a component that substantially delivers the read value to the payment terminal 300 side according to the control command of the control unit 203. The communication unit 205 is compatible with wired / wireless communication. For example, when the payment terminal 300 is connected by wire (such as a serial cable, a USB cable, etc.), or when the payment terminal 300 is connected by Bluetooth (BLE) communication, infrared (IR) communication, WiFi, etc., the communication unit 205 supports data transmission and reception according to the corresponding communication method.

[0052] The power supply unit 207 is for supplying the general power required for driving the NFC payment support device. The NFC payment support device can be connected to a payment terminal 300 such as a POS (Point of sales) terminal to receive the required power supply, but it is not limited to this. It may be designed to receive power supply from a power outlet by itself, or to receive power supply through a removable dry battery inside, or to receive power supply through a charger.

[0053] On the other hand, FIG. 4 shows an NFC payment support device 200 required for still another payment support method of the present invention. In addition to the components introduced in FIG. 3 above, it is characterized in that a microphone 209 is further provided. The microphone 209 functions to sense an ultrasonic frequency band sound wave signal output from the user terminal 100. When a sound wave signal is sensed by the microphone, the control unit 203 converts it and transmits it to the payment terminal 300 side. The converted signal may take any format as long as it is in a form that can be delivered externally, but preferably, it may be text data consisting of numbers, letters, or a combination thereof.

[0054] FIG. 5 shows an NFC payment support method according to a second embodiment to deepen the understanding of the invention. For reference, the process of sensing the sound wave signal and transmitting the converted value according to the second embodiment can be implemented independently, but in this detailed description section, since it is premised on the situation of "NFC payment", it should be understood as such here.

[0055] Referring to Fig. 5, the NFC payment support method according to the second embodiment can start from the step (S201) where the user terminal 100 first generates and outputs a sound wave signal. The sound wave signal is generally composed of sounds in a frequency band that cannot be heard by humans. For example, after a card number or a one-time code is generated in the form of a sound wave signal, it may be output via the output unit of the user terminal 100. At this time, the output unit of the user terminal 100 may be a speaker provided in the smartphone, and in addition, any type of built-in (or internal) component capable of emitting sound can also serve as the output unit.

[0056] After step S201, the NFC payment support device 200 can sense (S203) the sound wave signal via the microphone 209 and immediately convert (S205) the sensed sound wave signal. As described above, since the NFC payment support device 200 corresponds to a type of computing device equipped with a CPU and a memory, it has the ability to perform basic signal processing. Since the data carried and transferred on the sound wave signal is generally not complex data, the signal conversion can be performed with relatively few resources.

[0057] After step S205, the NFC payment support device 200 will transmit the converted value to the payment terminal 300 side (S207).

[0058] For the NFC payment support device 200, the second embodiment can be used as a means to assist or complement the NFC payment support method according to the first embodiment. For example, if an attempt is made to perform NFC payment on the user terminal 100 but for some reason such as component failure or environmental influence, they cannot be performed normally, the user terminal 100 can immediately generate and output a sound wave signal to proceed with the payment.

[0059] Alternatively, when the user terminal 100 attempts NFC payment, by using a sound wave signal to send additional information, for example, information that can secondarily authenticate the user or information that can authenticate whether the medium identification information is suitable for payment, the signal processing in the NFC payment support device 200 may be performed in parallel. For example, if the card number is written using the NFC writing function and the PIN (Personal Identification Number) information (password, pattern, etc.) preset by the user is delivered using the sound wave signal, the NFC payment support device 200, the payment terminal 300, or the financial institution server 400 may authenticate the user attempting the payment in a dual manner.

[0060] As described above, the NFC payment support device 200 according to the present invention is provided with a data delivery function using a sound wave signal in addition to the data delivery using the NFC function, thereby enhancing the stability and security of the payment.

[0061] FIG. 6 shows an NFC payment support method according to the third embodiment of the present invention. When compared with the first embodiment, the third embodiment is different in that encrypted medium identification information is written.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 6, the third embodiment includes a step (S301) of encrypting medium identification information on the user terminal 100 first. As described above, the medium identification information refers to the identification information of the medium (means) necessary for payment, and may include card information, a one-time code, etc. Here, the user terminal 100 can further enhance the security of the data by encrypting this information.

[0063] After step S301, the user terminal 100 will write the encrypted media identification information to the NFC payment support device 200, more precisely, to the NFC tag module 201 (S303). With respect to the written media identification information, the NFC payment support device 200 can attempt decryption (S305). At this time, the NFC payment support device 200 may store a pre-shared decryption key (key) or a pre-installed decryption key (key).

[0064] After step S305, the NFC payment support device 200 can determine (S307) whether the written media identification information is writable media identification information, in other words, whether it is media identification information in a suitable format that can be used for this NFC payment. For example, it can be determined whether the format of the decrypted media identification information conforms to the standard format, or whether the decrypted media identification information is recorded in the blacklist, etc., according to the built-in judgment algorithm to determine whether it is suitable media identification information for use in NFC payment.

[0065] If it is determined in step S307 that it is not suitable, the procedure should end as it is. However, if it is determined to be suitable, in the control unit 203 of the NFC payment support device 200, the decrypted value can be read and transmitted to the payment terminal 300 side (S311).

[0066] As described above, based on FIGS. 1 to 6, the NFC payment support method according to the present invention and the NFC payment support device required therefor have been described.

[0067] FIG. 7 shows an example of an NFC support method not limited to the payment field, and generally shows the process of realizing an application function by utilizing the NFC support device 250.

[0068] Although all of the above-described embodiments were premised on a "payment environment," the NFC support technology proposed in the present invention can be utilized in a variety of ways even in environments other than payment. For example, the NFC support technology can be used in a variety of fields such as the process of identifying a user when passing through an entrance / exit door, the process of unlocking the door of an apartment building such as a condominium or apartment, and the process of verifying identity at a bank.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 7, the NFC support method may include a step (S401) in which a user terminal writes an identification code to an NFC support device 250, a step (S403, S405) in which the NFC support device 250 reads the written value and transmits the read value to an application device 350, and a step (S407) in which the application device 350 drives an application function. However, since this can be understood with reference to the steps in the payment environment described above, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0070] As a simple example to which FIG. 7 is applicable, in the process of unlocking the door of an apartment building such as a condominium or apartment, any user can bring their smartphone (user terminal) close to the NFC support device 250 while keeping it in the write mode, and an identification code (password or character for unlocking the door) previously stored in the smartphone may be written to the NFC support device 250. After that, the NFC support device 250 can transfer this to the application device 350 side to unlock the door.

[0071] In this way, the NFC support technology proposed in the present invention enables various functions to be easily executed for a user terminal 100 that cannot support the card mode.

[0072] Finally, FIG. 8 shows an NFC payment support method according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

[0073] If the first to third embodiments described above were described on the premise that the NFC payment support device 200 and the payment terminal 300 were separated, the fourth embodiment is based on the premise that they are in a combined form environment. That is, the NFC payment terminal 320 mentioned in the fourth embodiment means a device that can perform NFC writing because it has the function of a payment terminal and at the same time has an NFC tag module inside.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 8, the fourth embodiment starts with the step (S501) in which the user terminal 1000 first writes media identification information to the NFC payment terminal 320.

[0075] After step S501, the NFC payment terminal 320 reads the value previously written by the user terminal 100 and transmits this together with the payment information to the financial institution server 400 (S503, S505).

[0076] After step S505, the financial institution server 400 approves the media identification information and approves the payment in the same manner as in the previous embodiments (S507, S509), and then transmits the approval result to at least one of the user terminal 100 and the NFC payment terminal 320 (S511, S513).

[0077] Hereinafter, a multi-mode NFC payment support method, which is still another embodiment of the present invention, and an NFC payment support device required therefor will be described.

[0078] FIG. 9 shows a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The fifth embodiment shows the configuration of a system that enables an ordinary consumer to perform payments based on NFC technology regardless of what NFC mode their user terminal 100 can support or what NFC mode it is set to.

[0079] Referring to FIG. 9, a consumer can bring the user terminal 100 or the NFC card 150 closer to the multi-mode NFC payment support device 200 and provide information necessary for payment, particularly information that can identify the payment medium (card number or a one-time code that can replace it; hereinafter referred to as medium identification information). The meaning of the phrase "provide information" means that the medium identification information necessary for NFC payment can be read or written by the NFC payment support device 200 by any means or method, and it may mean that the NFC payment support device 200 is placed in a state where it can be subsequently provided to the payment terminal 300 side. On the other hand, the medium identification information provided in this way may have additional information necessary for payment added by the payment terminal 300 and then be provided to the financial institution server 400 side. At the financial institution server 400, it can determine whether to approve the payment based on the information received from the payment terminal 300.

[0080] For reference, the above-mentioned user terminal 100 mentioned in this detailed description column may attempt to make a payment with the NFC mode set to the read / write mode or may attempt to make a payment with the NFC mode set to the card emulation mode. The NFC payment support device 200 can, as will be described in detail later, change or enable the payment mode according to the NFC mode of the user terminal 100 so that NFC mode-customized payment is performed. For reference, the payment terminal 300 is not necessarily limited to only the terminal that makes the payment. It can also be a device that receives the medium identification information from the NFC payment support device 200 and acts as an intermediary to other external devices, that is, it can also be referred to as a host device in a broader sense.

[0081] Returning to FIG. 9, the payment support method may initially include a step (S601) in which the payment support device 200 enables a specific payment mode. The payment support device 200 can receive medium identification information, that is, card information, from the user terminal or the NFC card according to the enabled payment mode (S602).

[0082] The payment mode may refer to a payment environment that can be changed by setting the mode of the NFC module inside the device so that the payment support device 200 proceeds with payment based on NFC technology. The payment support device 200 according to the present invention can support at least two or more payment modes. The plurality of payment modes may include, for example, a first payment mode in which media identification information can be received from the user terminal 100 or the NFC card 150 set in the card mode (card emulation mode), and a second payment mode in which media identification information can be received from the user terminal 100 in the read / write mode. Further, it may also include a third payment mode in which media identification information can be received from the user terminal 100 set in the peer-to-peer mode. To deepen the understanding of the invention, taking the case where a consumer makes a payment while holding a smartphone (user terminal) as an example, in the first payment mode, the payment support device 200 is activated in the read / write mode. At this time, the user terminal 100 can have its media identification information (card information) read by the payment support device 200 while being set in the card mode. The second payment mode is a state where the payment support device 200 is activated in the tag-emulation mode. At this time, the user terminal 100 can write media identification information (card information) to the payment support device 200 while being set in the read / write mode. In the third payment mode, the user terminal 100 can share media identification information (card information) with the payment support device 200 while both the payment support device 200 and the user terminal 100 are set in the peer-to-peer mode.

[0083] The media identification information may include a specific medium necessary for performing a settlement, such as card information (card number), a one-time value (code), or other unique value (code). To give a simple example, when a settlement application is launched on the user terminal 100 for settlement, a one-time code (barcode, QR code, etc.) with a limited time may be displayed on the screen. Such a one-time code generated in this way can be a type of media identification information. On the other hand, as mentioned above, the media identification information in the present invention may not be displayed in forms such as barcodes or QR codes, that is, in the form displayed on the screen. Only a message with the content "NFC settlement is ready" or "Perform NFC settlement" may be displayed on the screen of the user terminal 100.

[0084] On the other hand, after step S602, the settlement support device 200 can deliver the media identification information to the settlement terminal 300 (S603). For reference, step S603 can be executed immediately after step S602, and the settlement terminal 300 can receive the media identification information immediately without prior preparation steps such as sending a separate ready state to the settlement support device 200.

[0085] After step S603, the settlement terminal 300 can transmit together the media identification information received earlier from the financial institution server 400 side and the settlement information generated by the settlement terminal 300 (S604). The settlement information means information regarding the purchase in the case where the user attempts to purchase goods or services within a specific affiliated store. For example, it may include the price, quantity, name of the goods or services to be transacted, the date and time of the transaction, the place of the transaction, the name of the person in charge involved in the transaction or the name of the representative of the affiliated store, etc. Also, although not shown in the figure, after step S604, at the financial institution server 400, steps of approving the media identification information received from the settlement terminal 300 and steps of approving the settlement can be performed, and the approval result can be transmitted to at least one of the settlement terminal 300 side and the user terminal 100 side.

[0086] Above, based on FIG. 9, the general order of the settlement support method according to the present invention has been described.

[0087] FIG. 10 shows the components of the settlement support device 200. Referring to FIG. 10, the settlement support device 200 may generally include an NFC module 202, a control unit 203, a communication unit 205, and a power supply unit 207. These components are generally substantially the same as those described in FIG. 3 above.

[0088] However, in FIG. 10, the NFC module 202 is separately shown so as to be distinguishable from the NFC tag module 201 in FIG. 3. The NFC module 202 is capable of switching and activating at least two or more settlement modes, and is a component that reads media identification information from a user terminal or an NFC card, or writes media identification information, according to the activated settlement mode. The NFC module 202 may further include a loop wire for power supply as needed. FIG. 10 shows in what kind of environment the NFC module 202 supports the NFC settlement method with a user terminal, an NFC reader, an NFC card, etc. For example, in order to operate in the first settlement mode by the user terminal 100 or the NFC card set in the card mode (card emulation mode), the NFC module 202 may be activated in the read / write mode. In order to operate in the second settlement mode by the user terminal 100 or the NFC reader set in the read / write mode, the NFC module 202 may be activated in the tag emulation mode. In order to operate in the third settlement mode by the user terminal 100 or the NFC reader set in the P2P mode, the NFC module 202 may be activated in the P2P mode.

[0089] Descriptions of the control unit 203, the communication unit 205, and the power supply unit 207 are omitted here to avoid duplication.

[0090] The above described the components of the payment support device 200 used in the fifth embodiment with reference to FIG. 10.

[0091] FIG. 11 is shown to explain the payment support method according to the 5-1st embodiment of the present invention. In the previous FIG. 9, the step (S601) in which the payment support device 200 activates one of a plurality of payment modes was described. However, in the 5-1st embodiment, the payment support device 200 repeatedly or cyclically activates a plurality of payment modes one by one according to a preset time or a preset period. Referring to the figure, it can be confirmed that the payment support device 200 repeatedly activates the payment modes as follows: the first payment mode (read / write mode) - the second payment mode (tag emulation mode) - the third payment mode (P2P mode) - the first payment mode (read / write mode) -... At this time, each payment mode may be controlled by the control unit 203 so as to be activated to the next payment mode every predetermined time, for example, every 300 ms.

[0092] When the 5-1st embodiment is actually realized, the payment support device 200 activates a plurality of payment modes in a very short cycle, so that it becomes possible to proceed with NFC payment in an appropriate payment mode when the consumer's user terminal 100 or NFC card approaches. For example, when the user terminal 100 is in the card mode, the payment support device 200 can receive the medium identification information while being close to the user terminal 100 during a short moment (300 ms) when the first payment mode is activated. In the same manner, when the user terminal 100 is in the read / write mode or when the user terminal 100 is in the P2P mode, it is also possible to receive the medium identification information during the time when the payment support device 200 is activated to the second payment mode or the third payment mode. As a result, the payment support device 200 can proceed with NFC payment regardless of what kind of NFC payment means the consumer has.

[0093] On the one hand, in the above example, for the purpose of deepening the understanding of the invention, the case where the time or period during which the settlement mode is enabled is set to 300 ms was taken as an example for explanation. However, it should be understood that the present invention is not necessarily limited to this, and the above time or period can be determined according to the intention of the designer or operator. However, when assuming the settlement situation between the franchise store owner and the consumer, if the consumer approaches the settlement support device 200 for too long a time with the smartphone, it may cause inconvenience. Therefore, preferably, one cycle of all settlement modes is performed within a time of less than 1 second as much as possible.

[0094] In the 5-1st embodiment, when there is no approach of the NFC settlement means from the consumer initially, the settlement support device 200 cyclically enables the settlement mode according to a predetermined time or period. When it is sensed that the NFC settlement means has approached at a certain moment, the enabled state of a specific settlement mode may be designed to continue for a certain period of time. For example, when the user terminal 100 in the read / write mode approaches, if the enabled state is switched to the second settlement mode following the first settlement mode, the settlement support device 200 can receive the medium identification information from the user terminal 100 (more precisely, the medium identification information is written (write) to the NFC module 210 by the user terminal 100, and the settlement support device 200 reads (read) this process). Thus, if the reception of the medium identification information is sensed, the settlement support device 200 may be designed to hold the same settlement mode for a longer time, for example, up to 5 seconds.

[0095] Conversely, even if the payment support device 200 senses the approach of the NFC payment means from the consumer and the reception of specific medium identification information, it may be designed to continue the repeated cycle of the payment mode without stopping. In particular, the NFC module 202 reads the medium identification information from the user terminal 100 in the card mode (the first payment mode), or after the medium identification information is written to the NFC module 202 and then read out (the second payment mode), since the process of receiving the medium identification information is carried out in a very short time, NFC payment can be normally carried out without necessarily stopping the repeated cycle of the payment mode for a certain period of time.

[0096] On the other hand, if the payment support method according to the first embodiment is applied, it becomes possible to perform a plurality of NFC payment processes within approximately the same time when a plurality of NFC payment means are brought close. For example, assuming that two consumers have a meal together and then split the bill, when the first smartphone in the card mode and the second smartphone in the read / write mode are simultaneously brought close to the payment support device 200, along with the repeated cycle of the payment mode in the payment support device 200, the NFC payments of the first smartphone and the second smartphone can be sequentially performed. Since the medium identification information is read from each smartphone or written to each smartphone within a very short time of less than 1 second, consumers may experience as if two payments are performed approximately simultaneously.

[0097] As described above, based on FIG. 11, the payment support method according to the 5-1st embodiment has been described.

[0098] FIG. 12 and FIG. 13 are diagrams for explaining the payment support method according to the 5-2nd embodiment. The 5-2nd embodiment is characterized in that the payment support device 200 generates an electromagnetic wave, and when the approach of the NFC payment means is sensed in this state, the payment mode matched to the NFC payment means is activated.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 12, the payment support device 200 may be controlled to generate and emit electromagnetic waves to the outside in a state initially set to the read / write mode. The card recognition signal REQA may be continuously broadcast using electromagnetic waves. At this time, when the user terminal 100 or the NFC card set to the card mode approaches, the payment support device 200 can receive the response signal ATQA as a response to the card recognition signal REQA. If the response signal ATQA is received, the payment support device 200 can receive the medium identification information of the user terminal 100 or the NFC card in the read / write mode and proceed with the NFC payment.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 13, the payment support device 200 can similarly generate and emit electromagnetic waves to the outside in a state initially set to the read / write mode. At this time, when the user terminal 100 or the NFC reader set to the read / write mode approaches, the payment support device 200 can sense still other electromagnetic waves emitted from the user terminal 100 or the NFC reader (distinguishing the electromagnetic waves emitted from the payment support device 200 as the first electromagnetic waves and the electromagnetic waves emitted from the user terminal or the NFC reader as the second electromagnetic waves). Thus, if the second electromagnetic wave is sensed, the payment support device 200 immediately switches the NFC module 202 to the tag emulation mode. In other words, the payment support device 200 can enable the second payment mode so that the medium identification information can be read after being written by the user terminal 100 or the NFC reader. For reference, the second electromagnetic wave generated by the user terminal or the NFC reader may be an electromagnetic wave of a specific frequency (13.56Mhz) that is generated and emitted to prevent collision with other equipment.

[0101] After the second payment mode is enabled, the payment support device 200 can receive a card recognition signal REQA from the user terminal 100 or the NFC reader, and as a response thereto, can transmit a response signal ATQA. After that, NFC payment can be advanced according to the subsequent protocol.

[0102] FIG. 14 shows the above-described 5-2nd embodiment according to a flowchart. Referring to the figure, the 5-2nd embodiment may include a step in which the payment support device 200 is first set to the read / write mode, in other words, a step in which it is enabled in the first payment mode (S701).

[0103] After step S701, the payment support device 200 can generate an electromagnetic wave (first electromagnetic wave), and through this, can broadcast a card recognition signal REQA to the outside (S702). The card recognition signal REQA is a type of signal for sensing when any external NFC payment means approaches, and in particular, may be a signal that induces the delivery of a response signal ATQA when a user terminal or NFC card in card mode reacts to the electromagnetic wave.

[0104] After step S702, the payment support device 200 will check (S703) whether the response signal ATQA has been received. If the response signal ATQA has been received, an anti-collision loop will be executed (S704). After that, after reading the medium identification information (for example, unique identifier (UID), select acknowledge signal (SAK), etc.) of the user terminal or NFC card (S705), NFC payment will be advanced according to the defined protocol (S706).

[0105] On the one hand, if the response signal ATQA is not received in step S703, the payment support device 200 can check whether a second electromagnetic wave from another user terminal or an NFC reader is detected (S707). If the second electromagnetic wave is not detected, the process can return to step S702 to generate the first electromagnetic wave and broadcast the card recognition signal REQ again.

[0106] Conversely, if the second electromagnetic wave is detected in step S707, the payment support device 200 can switch the NFC module 202 to the tag emulation mode or activate the second payment mode (S708). After that, it can receive the card recognition signal REQA from the user terminal or NFC reader that emits the second electromagnetic wave and transmit the response signal ATQA (S709).

[0107] After step S709, the steps of transmitting media identification information (such as UID, SAK, etc.) to the user terminal or NFC reader that emits the second electromagnetic wave (S710) and the NFC payment step (S711) can be performed.

[0108] As described above, a method for supporting NFC payment and an NFC payment support device required therefor have been described. On the other hand, the present invention is not limited to the specific embodiments and application examples described above. It goes without saying that various modifications can be made by those with ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains without departing from the gist of the present invention claimed in the claims. Such modifications should not be understood as being distinguished from the technical idea and perspective of the present invention.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0109] 100: User Terminal 200: NFC Payment Support Device 250: NFC Support Device 300: Payment Terminal 320: NFC Payment Terminal 400: Financial Institution Server

Claims

1. In a method for assisting NFC payment of a user terminal, a step of writing media identification information from the user terminal into an NFC tag module in the NFC payment assistance device; a step of the NFC payment assistance device reading the value written in the NFC tag module; a step of the NFC payment assistance device delivering the value read in the previous step to the payment terminal side, characterized in that it is an NFC payment assistance method.

2. The media identification information written into the NFC payment assistance device is encrypted by the user terminal The NFC payment assistance method according to Claim 1

3. After the step of writing the encrypted media identification information into the NFC payment assistance device, a step of the NFC payment assistance device decrypting the encrypted media identification information; a step of the NFC payment assistance device determining whether the decrypted media identification information is media identification information for NFC payment, The NFC payment assistance method according to Claim 2.

4. In an NFC payment assistance device for assisting NFC payment of a user terminal, an NFC tag module into which media identification information from the user terminal is written by the NFC writing function of the user terminal; a control unit that reads the value written in the NFC tag module and delivers the read value to the payment terminal side via a port; a communication unit that assists in sending and receiving data between the NFC payment assistance device and a payment terminal connected via a network; a power supply unit that supplies power required for driving the NFC payment assistance device, characterized in that it is an NFC payment assistance device.

5. Further comprising a microphone for sensing a sound wave signal output from the user terminal, The control unit converts the sound wave signal sensed by the microphone into a signal that can be delivered to the payment terminal side The NFC payment assistance device according to Claim 4.

6. In a method for assisting NFC payment of a user terminal, a step of writing media identification information from the user terminal into an NFC tag module in the NFC payment terminal; a step of the NFC payment terminal reading the value written in the NFC tag module; a step of the NFC payment terminal generating payment information - the payment information is payment information regarding a product or service that the user of the user terminal intends to purchase - The step in which the NFC payment terminal transmits the read value - the read value is the same as the medium identification information - and the medium identification information and the payment information to the financial institution server, and the like, are included. An NFC payment support method characterized by this.

7. In an NFC payment terminal that supports NFC payment of a user terminal, an NFC tag module into which medium identification information from the user terminal is written by the NFC writing function of the user terminal; a control unit that reads the value written in the NFC tag module, generates payment information - the payment information is payment information regarding a product or service that the user of the user terminal intends to purchase - and transmits the read value - the read value is the same as the medium identification information - and the payment information to the financial institution server; a communication unit that supports data transmission and reception between the NFC payment terminal and a financial institution server connected via a network; a power supply unit that supplies power necessary for driving the NFC payment terminal, and the like, are provided. An NFC payment terminal characterized by this.

8. In a multi-mode NFC payment support device, in a method for supporting multi-mode NFC payment, (a) a step in which one of at least two or more payment modes is activated; (b) a step of receiving medium identification information from a user terminal or an NFC card according to the activated payment mode; (c) a step of delivering the medium identification information to the host device, and the like, are included. A multi-mode NFC payment support method characterized by this.

9. The payment mode is a first payment mode capable of receiving medium identification information from a user terminal or an NFC card set in card mode, and a second payment mode capable of receiving medium identification information from a user terminal in read / write mode, and the like, are included. The multi-mode NFC payment support method according to Claim 8.

10. In a multi-mode NFC payment support device, it is possible to switch and activate at least two or more payment modes, and according to the activated payment mode, an NFC module that reads medium identification information from a user terminal or an NFC card, or into which medium identification information is written; a control unit that delivers the medium identification information to the host device; a communication unit that supports data transmission and reception between the multi-mode NFC payment support device and a host device connected via a network; A power supply unit that supplies power necessary for driving the multi-mode NFC payment support device, and A multi-mode NFC payment support device characterized by the above.

Images