Network-enabled smart appliances and systems and methods for activation and provisioning

Abstract

To provide a network-enabled device, system and method for activation using a web-based NFC protocol.SOLUTION: The startup application of the network-enabled appliance causes the data processing system to generate an NFC-enabled web page, and the data processing system sends instructions to the user device to navigate to the NFC-enabled web page to send instructions for the user to tap an NFC-enabled smart transaction card. The equipment data processing system reads the NFC information transmitted by the smart transaction card to the user device through the NFC-enabled webpage, and the application causes the equipment to transmit the NFC information to the service management server. The application starts at least one service application by a service start command from the service management server.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 213,943, filed March 26, 2021. The contents of the above-referenced patent application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. [Technical Field]

[0002] The present disclosure relates generally to network-enabled devices and other appliances, and more particularly to systems and methods for activating network-enabled devices using web-based Near Field Communication (NFC) protocols. [Background technology]

[0003] Today, many home appliances, vehicles, and IT systems are virtually network-enabled almost immediately upon installation in a home. However, a typical startup procedure requires the homeowner to connect the new appliance or other device to the home network and download an installation application to a home computer or mobile device. The application then guides the homeowner through the process of activating and provisioning the new device according to the homeowner's usage preferences. This typically requires the user to install the new device and enter identifying information. The application may also require the homeowner to provide account information necessary to manage or use the device. Summary of the Invention

[0004] An exemplary aspect of the present invention provides a network-enabled device comprising: an appliance data processing system; at least one operation system configured to communicate with the appliance data processing system and perform mechanical or electrical operations; a first network communication interface configured to establish communications over a wide area network; a second network communication interface configured to establish communications over a local network; and a memory. The memory stores appliance identification information, at least one service application, and a launch application. The at least one service application includes instructions for the appliance data processing system to perform a service operation using the at least one operation system. The launch application includes instructions for the appliance data processing system to establish an Internet connection over the first network communication interface and generate an NFC-enabled web page. The application further includes instructions for sending instructions to a user device via the second network communication interface to navigate to the NFC-enabled web page and sending instructions to the user device via the NFC-enabled web page for a user of the user device to tap an NFC-enabled smart transaction card against the user device. The application also includes instructions for reading NFC information sent to the user device by the smart transaction card via the NFC-enabled web page. The NFC information includes card identification information unique to the smart transaction card. The application still further includes instructions for transmitting the NFC information and the device identification information to a service management server and receiving a service activation command from the service management server. The application activates at least one of the at least one service application in response to the service activation command.

[0005] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for activating a network-enabled device using an NFC-enabled user device and an NFC-enabled smart transaction card associated with a card account. The method includes establishing an Internet connection by the network-enabled device, generating an NFC-enabled web page by the network-enabled device, and sending instructions to the user device via the NFC-enabled web page. The method further includes sending instructions to the user device via the NFC-enabled web page for the user to tap the smart transaction card against the user device, and reading NFC information sent by the smart transaction card to the user device via the NFC-enabled web page by the network-enabled device. The NFC information includes card identification information unique to the smart transaction card. The method still further includes sending the NFC information and device identification information by the network-enabled device to a service management server of a service administrator, identifying the network-enabled device using the device identification information by the service management server, and sending the NFC information to a card management server by the service management server. The method also includes receiving, by the service management server, card account information associated with the card account from the card management server, identifying, by the service management server, the account owner using the card account information, and associating, by the service management server, the network-enabled device with the card account and the device service account with the service administrator. The method further includes sending, by the service management server, a service invocation command to the network-enabled device.

[0006] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for activating a network-enabled device using an NFC-enabled user device and an NFC-enabled smart transaction card associated with a card account. The method includes establishing a connection between the network-enabled device and the user device, generating an NFC-enabled web page by the network-enabled device, and navigating to the NFC-enabled web page by a web browser on the user device. The method further includes establishing NFC communication between the smart transaction card and the user device, and reading, by the network-enabled device, NFC information transmitted by the smart transaction card to the user device through the NFC-enabled web page. The NFC information includes card identification information unique to the smart transaction card. The method still further includes transmitting, by the network-enabled device, the NFC information and device identification information to a service management server, and transmitting, by the service management server, the NFC information to the card management server. The method also includes identifying, by the card management server, a card account associated with the smart transaction card using the NFC information, and transmitting, by the card management server, card account information associated with the card account to the service management server. The method still further includes identifying, by the service management server, the account holder using the card account information; associating, by the service management server, the network-enabled device with the card account and the device service account with a service administrator; and sending, by the service management server, a service initiation command from the service management server to the network-enabled device. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] The present invention can be more fully understood from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals are used to refer to like elements, and in which: [Figure 1] A sequence diagram showing an operation scenario according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2]1 is a schematic diagram of a home network having network-enabled smart devices that can be used in conjunction with the method of the present invention; [Figure 3] Schematic diagram of a smart device that can be used with embodiments of the present invention. [Figure 4] Schematic diagram of a user processing device that can be used in conjunction with the method of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a schematic diagram of a network-based system for activating network-enabled smart devices according to one embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 1 is a schematic diagram of a microprocessor chip of a transaction card that can be used with an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 7] 1 is a schematic diagram of a device service management server that can be used in an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 8] 1 is a schematic diagram of a card account management server that can be used in an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] 1 is a flowchart of a method for activating a smart device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 10] 1 is a flowchart of a method for activating a smart device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 11] 3 is a flowchart of a method for activating a smart device according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] While the present invention will be described in connection with particular embodiments and manufacturing environments, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to these embodiments and environments. On the contrary, various alternatives, modifications, and equivalents are intended to be included within the spirit and scope of the described invention.

[0009] The present invention provides systems and methods for activating and provisioning a variety of network-connected smart appliances and other devices. As homes become more integrated via the "Internet of Things," homeowners are finding that each new appliance purchase requires adding the appliance to a home network, establishing service, and configuring the appliance to meet their needs. This process may be required for uniquely identifiable smart appliances or devices (i.e., devices with network-enabled processing systems). In a typical prior art scenario, a user purchases a device, such as a Wi-Fi router, to be used in conjunction with an Internet Service Provider (ISP). The user must establish an account with the ISP and may be prompted to download an application used to initialize the router and establish Internet service. The app may require the user to log on to their account and scan a barcode on the bottom of the router. The ISP then associates the router with the user's account and directs the user through a series of queries that can be used to establish service and configure the router.

[0010] In the method of the present invention, a consumer electronics appliance or other device may be equipped with the capability to establish its own web page that can be used to obtain information from an NFC-enabled transaction card via a user's mobile or other device. This can be achieved without requiring a mobile device application with API calls configured to read and interpret the NFC information from the transaction card. The transaction card information is read directly by the smart device and passed to an ISP or other service provider, which can use the card information to identify the user and establish service. This not only enhances the efficiency and security of the service initiation process, but also simplifies the process for the user.

[0011] NFC works using magnetic induction. A powered NFC reader generates a magnetic field into which a transmitter (which is typically unpowered) can enter. Entering the magnetic field generates a current in the transmitter, which can be used to power data transmission to a receiver. NFC functionality can be incorporated into transaction processing devices (e.g., merchant checkout devices) or mobile and other user devices. NFC transmitters can be passive tags or, as described in more detail below, can be incorporated into smart transaction cards.

[0012] While NFC functionality may be built into a user device, the ability to interpret information transmitted via NFC from a tag or other transmitter requires the use of an application on the user device. For example, if a mobile device is to read and interpret a tag's unique identifier, the user must open an application before establishing NFC communication with the tag. Then, when the tag is brought within NFC range of the user device, the device reads and interprets the tag's identifier. Without an application, the NFC information can be "read," but the information is unusable.

[0013] To avoid the need to load an NFC application onto a user device, embodiments of the present invention utilize browser-based NFC (referred to herein as "Web NFC"). Web NFC is a simplified API for using NFC via webpage JavaScript. Web NFC uses a high-level approach rather than a powerful low-level API that requires special privileges. In other words, Web NFC enables reading of NFC tags through the user device's browser. This means that no additional application needs to be downloaded to the user's device. Information transmitted via NFC is simply passed through the user device to a server or device operating via a webpage.

[0014] As described in more detail below, the methods of the present invention may be used in conjunction with a typical home network and appliance control system having one or more network-enabled smart appliances connected to a user device via a local network (see FIG. 2). The user device and smart appliances may also be connected to a wide area network that enables communication between the device and an ISP and / or one or more other service providers related to the operation of the smart appliance (see FIG. 5).

[0015] An exemplary scenario of the method of the present invention may follow a series of operations for initializing and provisioning a network-enabled smart device, as shown in FIG. 1 . In this scenario, a user purchases or otherwise acquires a network-enabled smart device, powers it on, and connects to the Internet. The Internet connection may be via a wired or wireless connection to a modem or a WiFi server, for example. The smart device then uses the Internet connection to generate a web page. In some embodiments, the smart device may instead contact a service management server and request generation of the web page. Once the web page is located, the smart device communicates (1100) the web page address to the user device. Communication with the user device may be established by connecting the device to a home network. However, in some embodiments, the device may be configured to operate as a limited-range wireless access point (i.e., a “hotspot”) to which the user device can connect. Upon receiving the address, the user device's browser navigates to the web page, which instructs the user to bring an NFC-enabled smart card within communication range of the user device. (This action may be referred to herein as “tapping” the transaction card to the user device.) The act of tapping the transaction card to the user device sends NFC information from the transaction card through the user device to the smart device via Web NFC (1200).

[0016] The NFC information may be or may include the unique identifier of a transaction card associated with the user's card account. At 1300, the smart device may send some or all of the NFC information, including the card identifier, to a service management server associated with the device or a service provided by the device. The device may also send its own unique identifier. The service management server may use the NFC information to identify the administrator of the account associated with the card. At 1400, the service management server sends some or all of the NFC information, including the card identifier, to the card account administrator's server. The card account administrator uses the NFC information to determine the account associated with the transaction card and returns the account information to the service management server at 1500. This account information may include information about the account owner that the service management server can use to determine whether the user has an existing service account with the service administrator or to establish a new service account for the user. The service management server may then associate the account information with the device and send a service activation command to the device at 1600. The service activation command may include default provisioning instructions or provisioning instructions determined based on the settings of the existing service account. In some embodiments, the service management server may contact the user to request and receive provisioning settings.

[0017] From the user's perspective, the above scenario provides a highly simplified activation / provisioning experience in which the user simply connects the device, establishes communication between the device and the user device, opens a web page identified by the device, and taps the transaction card to the user device. Send.

[0018] The systems and methods of the present invention will now be described in more detail.

[0019] FIG. 2 illustrates an exemplary home-based smart device control system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention, which can be used in conjunction with the methods of the present invention. The smart device control system 100 includes a user processing device 110 and one or more smart appliances or other devices. As used herein, the term smart appliance is used to refer to a controllable vehicle, appliance, or other mechanism or system having a data processing system capable of receiving control instructions from a user data processing device (such as the user device 110) either through direct wired or wireless communication or through a network (e.g., network 105). In the illustrative example of FIG. 2, the smart devices in the system 100 include a vehicle 120, a refrigerator 130, a clothes washer 140, a heating and cooling system 150, a "smart speaker" 160, a Wi-Fi router 170, and a general network-enabled device 190. Each of these devices may be interconnected via a local network 105 to which the user device 110 is also connected.

[0020] 2 and 3, a generic smart device 190 can be used to illustrate common features among various smart devices that can be used in the system of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 3, smart device 190 includes a data processing system 191 and one or more mechanical and / or electrical operational systems 197. The one or more operational systems 197 encompass all of the operational hardware of device 190 that enables device 190 to perform its functions. For example, in an appliance such as a refrigerator, this would include all of the primary and secondary mechanisms for cooling the enclosed compartment and the power system. In a washing machine, this would include all of the mechanisms for filling, agitating, spinning, and draining the wash drum. In a vehicle, this could include various systems such as power supply, steering, braking, and refrigeration.

[0021] The data processing system 191 comprises elements for communicating with and controlling the operation of the appliance 190. These may include a control data processor 192 configured to monitor and control one or more operational parameters of the operational system 197. Such parameters may be as simple as "on or off" or more complex, such as parameters related to a washing machine's wash cycle (e.g., water fill and drain control and timing, water temperature, agitation cycle, etc.). Operational instructions for the control processor 192 may be stored in a memory module 195. These instructions may be a combination of permanently stored instructions and temporary, user-provided instructions. In many cases, the memory 195 may also store predetermined operational modes. The memory 195 may also store operational limits that prevent the operational system 197 from operating under certain conditions (e.g., overheating or excessive current draw). These may require, for example, the control processor 192 to change the operational mode of the operational system 197 or even shut it down entirely.

[0022] Memory module 195 may also store one or more service applications that contain instructions for the device data processing system to perform service operations. These service applications may include instructions for control processor 192 to execute operational instructions received from a user or service administrator associated with device 190 or a service provided by or through device 190. For example, if device 190 is a router used to connect other devices to the Internet, the service administrator may be an ISP, and one or more service applications may be established and / or controlled by the ISP.

[0023] Memory module 195 may store software for constructing web pages that facilitate initializing operation of device 190. The web page coding may include web NFC Java Script configured to read NFC information transmitted from a transaction card via a browser on a user device.

[0024] User input to data processing system 191 may be received using a user interface 194, which may be or include any device for entering information, control inputs, and instructions into system 191. In many cases, user interface 194 may be a combination of buttons and / or dials with pre-defined control functions. In some devices, user interface 194 may include more complex devices such as a touch screen, keyboard, mouse, cursor control device, microphone, stylus, or digital camera.

[0025] Data processing system 191 also includes a local area communication interface 193 in communication with control processor 192 and configured for communication over one or more networks, such as local network 105 of FIG. 2. In particular, communication interface 193 may be configured to enable control processor 192 to send and receive transmissions to and from user device 110 over local network 105. In some embodiments, communication interface 193 may be configured to support short-range wireless communication (e.g., via NFC, radio frequency identification (RFID), and / or Bluetooth). Data processing system 191 may also include a second communication interface 198 configured to connect to a wide area network (e.g., a telecommunications cable network), such as network 230 of FIG. 5. The wide area network communication interface may be configured, in particular, to send and receive transmissions to and from one or more remote servers over the wide area network.

[0026] In some embodiments, data processing system 191 may include a wireless hotspot module 199 in communication with WAN communication interface 198. Hotspot module 199, in combination with software stored in memory module 195, is configured to operate as a limited-range wireless access point that can be accessed by user device 110 for communication with user device 110.

[0027] The smart appliance 190 may include a sensor configuration 196 in communication with the control processor 192. The sensor configuration 196 may be configured to monitor one or more operational parameters of the operational system 197 and / or measurable parameters of the environment in which the appliance 190 is operating. For example, in the case of a refrigerator, the sensor configuration 196 may include temperature sensors for monitoring the temperatures of various compartments of the refrigerator. In a home heating system, the sensor configuration 196 may include an indoor temperature sensor. The sensor configuration 196 may include sensors for monitoring the status or operating characteristics of the operational system 197. This may include, for example, a sensor for measuring the internal temperature of the machine, which, if exceeded, may lead to damage to the appliance. Sensor measurement information is transferred from the sensor device 196 to the control processor 192, which uses it to control the operation of the operational system 197.

[0028] Memory 195 may also store a device startup application that can be configured to execute when the device is initially powered and connected to the Internet. The startup application may include instructions for control processor 192 to receive a service initiation communication from user device 110 via local network communication interface 193 or via wireless hotspot module 199. The application may further include instructions for establishing Internet communication via wide area network communication interface 198 and generating a web NFC-enabled web page. The application then causes control processor 192 to send a communication to the user device via local communication interface 193 or wireless hotspot module 199, instructing the user to navigate to the web page, which includes the address of the web page and instructs the user to tap an NFC-enabled smart transaction card to the user device. The application then uses web NFC techniques to read NFC information sent by the smart transaction card to the user device, the NFC information including card identification information unique to the smart transaction card. The application then causes processor 192 to send the NFC information, along with the device identifier stored in memory 195, to the service management server. The application is configured to receive activation commands returned from the service management server. The service commands may include initial operation instructions and / or initial provisioning options for configuring the device for operation. In response, the application may activate device operations and / or one or more service applications.

[0029] In some embodiments, smart device 190 may be service equipment configured to facilitate the delivery or monitoring of a utility (e.g., electric, water, or gas service), a telecommunications link, or a data distribution system (e.g., cable or satellite). In such embodiments, the service manager may be the supplier of the utility, telecommunications service, or data distribution service. For example, if the smart device is or is part of an electrical distribution system, the service manager may be the electric utility company that provides the power.

[0030] 2 and 4, the account holder / user interface device 110 may be any data processing and / or communication device used by an account holder to conduct transactions and / or receive notifications regarding their account, including, but not limited to, a smartphone, laptop, desktop computer, or tablet. In certain embodiments, the account holder device 110 includes an onboard data processor 111 in communication with a memory module 113, a user interface 115, and a communication interface 117. The data processor 111 may include a microprocessor and associated processing circuitry and may include additional components, including a processor, memory, error and parity / CRC checkers, data encoders, anti-collision algorithms, controllers, command decoders, security primitives, and tamper-proof hardware, as needed to perform the functions described herein. The memory 113 may be read-only memory, write-once-read-multiple memory, or read / write memory, such as RAM, ROM, and EEPROM, and the user device 110 may include one or more of these memories.

[0031] The user interface 115 includes a user input mechanism, which may be any device for inputting information and instructions into the account holder device 110, such as a touch screen, keyboard, mouse, cursor control device, microphone, stylus, or digital camera. The user interface 115 may also include a display, which may be any type of device for presenting visual information, such as a computer monitor, flat panel display, and mobile device screen, including a liquid crystal display, a light emitting diode display, a plasma panel, a cathode ray tube display, etc.

[0032] The communication interface 117 is configured to establish and support wired or wireless data communication functions for connecting the device 110 to a wide area network (e.g., network 230 of FIG. 5), a local network 105, or other communication network. The communication interface 117 may also be configured to support communication with short-range wireless communication interfaces such as radio frequency identification and Bluetooth. In particular, the communication interface 117 may be configured to detect and establish communication with the smart appliance data processing system 191 via the wireless hotspot module 199.

[0033] The user device 110 may further include an NFC interface 119 including an NFC receiver configured to selectively activate a magnetic field for use in establishing near field wireless communication with an NFC transmitter. The NFC interface 119 is configured to establish NFC communication when a passive NFC tag or other NFC-enabled device is brought within the magnetic field and within NFC communication range of the user device 110. The NFC interface 119 is configured to communicate with an NFC-enabled smart transaction card 102, particularly when the card 102 is tapped against the user device 110.

[0034] In embodiments of the present invention, memory 113 may store one or more applications usable by data processor 111 to conduct and / or monitor transactions on a transaction account between account holder device 110 and merchant or other devices. These applications may include instructions usable by data processor 111 to identify transaction events, store event data in memory 113, and communicate the event data to a transaction processing server and / or an account management server. Some applications may also include instructions for receiving and interpreting notifications and / or instructions from a transaction processor or account management server (e.g., card account management server 260 of FIG. 5).

[0035] In particular embodiments, memory 113 may store a financial monitoring application configured to receive account information from an account management server. The account information may include information regarding any account parameter, including, but not limited to, current account balance, average account balance, project account balance, and spending over a period of time or since the start of a period (e.g., the beginning of the month). The account information may also include information such as previous account balances, information about recent transactions, information about planned or scheduled transactions (e.g., automatic credits or withdrawals), and payments to specific merchants.

[0036] The user device memory 113 may also store a smart device control application configured with instructions for the data processor 111 to construct and send control instructions to one or more of the smart devices 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, and 190 via the local network 150. The application may be configured to adjust these instructions according to information stored in the memory 113 of the controlled device. The instructions associated with the general-purpose device 190 may include instructions for displaying prompts to the account holder and receiving control input information for the device 190 from the account holder via the user interface 115. The control input information may include selecting an operating mode, specifying one or more operating parameters, and / or one or more desired device output parameters. The control application may be configured to instruct the data processor to receive the control input information, construct device control instructions, and send them to the data processing system 191 of the device 190 via the local network 105. The device control instructions may include instructions to set or change operating parameters of the device 190.

[0037] The control application may further be configured with instructions for receiving operational information from the data processing system 191 of the device 190. The application may be configured to review this information and determine whether to display some or all of the information to the account holder via the user interface 115. In some embodiments, the control application may be configured to request and receive additional control input information in response to the operational information received from the device 190.

[0038] The user device memory 113 may also store an appliance operation monitoring application having instructions configured to receive information regarding the operation of the appliance and determine whether automated changes to its operation will adversely or unintendedly affect the equipment, which may include instructions for receiving and evaluating operational information from any or all of the appliances 120, 130, 140, 150, 160, 170, and 190. Such operational information may include information regarding one or more measured operating parameters of the appliance and / or measured environmental parameters.

[0039] In some embodiments, the control application may include instructions for the data processor 111 to use the financial and operational parameter information, along with empirical life expectancy and / or cost information for the equipment 190, to determine an optimized set of operational parameters for that equipment 190. The optimized set of operational parameters may then be included in change control instructions sent by the data processor 111 to the control processor 192 of the equipment 190.

[0040] 5, a system 200 for activating a network-enabled smart appliance 290 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a user device 210 that can selectively communicate with the smart appliance 290 via a local network 205. The user device 210 and the local network 205 can be similar to those described above with respect to the appliance control system 100. The system 200 can also include an internet service provider 240, an appliance service management server 250, and a card account management server 260, all of which can communicate with each other and / or with the user device 210 and / or the smart appliance 290 via a wide area network 230.

[0041] The various components of system 200 may include various network-enabled computer systems configured to process information and transactions involving multiple service accounts managed by a device service administrator and / or multiple transaction card accounts managed by a financial institution, merchant, or other card account administrator. As referred to herein, network-enabled computer systems and / or devices may include any computing or communication device, including, but not limited to, a server, a microprocessor or system of microprocessors, network appliances, personal computers (PCs), workstations, and mobile processing devices such as smartphones, smart pads, handheld PCs, or personal digital assistants (PDAs). In some examples, a computing device may use instructions stored on a computer-accessible medium (e.g., a storage device such as a hard disk, floppy disk, memory stick, CD-ROM, RAM, ROM, or a combination thereof). The computer-accessible medium may include executable instructions. Additionally or alternatively, a storage arrangement may be provided separate from the computer-accessible medium, and the storage arrangement may provide instructions to the processing arrangement to configure the processing arrangement to perform certain example procedures, processes, and methods, as described herein.

[0042] A network-enabled computer system used to perform the operations contemplated by the present invention may execute one or more software applications to, for example, receive data as input from entities accessing the network-enabled computer system, process the received data, transmit data over the network, and receive data over the network. The one or more network-enabled computer systems may also include one or more software applications for notifying account holders based on transaction information.

[0043] It is understood that the depiction of Figure 5 is merely an example, and that the functions and processes described herein may be performed by any number of network-enabled computers. Also, even if the illustrated system 200 has only one instance of a particular component, it is understood that multiple instances of those components may be used. System 200 may also include other devices not shown in Figure 5.

[0044] Network 230 may be any type of communications network capable of enabling communication between subsystems of system 200. For example, network 230 may be one or more of a wireless network, a wired network, or any combination of a wireless network and a wired network. Network 230 may be or include an optical fiber network, a passive optical network, a cable network, an Internet network, a satellite network, a wireless LAN, a Global System for Mobile Communications (“GSM”), a Personal Communications Service (“PCS”), a Personal Area Network (“PAN”), a Wireless Application Protocol (WAP), a Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS), an Enhanced Messaging Service (EMS), a Short Message Service (SMS), a time division multiplexing (TDM)-based system, a code division multiple access (CDMA)-based system, D-AMPS, Wi-Fi, fixed wireless data, IEEE 802.11b, 802.15.1, 802.11n, and 802.11g, or other wired or wireless network for transmitting and receiving data signals. Network 230 may utilize one or more protocols of one or more communicatively coupled network elements. Network 230 may translate one or more protocols of network devices to and from other protocols. While network 230 is shown as a single network, it is understood that network 230 may include multiple interconnected networks, such as, for example, the Internet, a service provider network, a cable television network, an enterprise network, and a home network.

[0045] In the exemplary embodiments presented herein, an account holder may be any person or entity authorized to conduct transactions (which may be, but are not limited to, financial transactions) using a transaction card account. An account may be held by any place, location, object, entity, or other mechanism for holding money or conducting transactions in any form, including, but not limited to, electronic form. An account may be, for example, a credit card account, a prepaid card account, a stored value card account, a debit card account, a checking card account, a payroll card account, a gift card account, a prepaid credit card account, a charge card account, a checking account, a rewards account, a line of credit account, a credit account, a mobile device account, or a mobile commerce account. An account holder may be a transaction processing entity, such as a financial institution, a credit card provider, or other entity that offers accounts to customers.

[0046] A transaction account may be associated with one or more smart transaction cards 220 (e.g., debit cards, credit cards, or prepaid account cards). Alternatively, or in addition, a transaction account may be associated with one or more account holder's processing devices, or simply with a unique identifier that can be entered by the account holder to facilitate a transaction. The processing device may be configured to function as a payment method at a point-of-sale location, for example, using NFC or any other mobile payment technology. In some embodiments, separate cards or user devices may be associated with each account holder.

[0047] Transaction card 220 may be any chip-equipped transaction card ("smart" card) with electrical and / or near-field or other short-range communication capabilities. As shown in Figures 5 and 6, a typical transaction card 220 usable with various embodiments of the present invention is a smart card with a microprocessor chip 221. Microprocessor chip 221 contains processing circuitry for storing and processing information, including a microprocessor 222 and memory 226. It is understood that the processing circuitry may include additional components, including a processor, memory, error and parity / CRC checkers, data encoders, anti-collision algorithms, controllers, command decoders, security primitives, and anti-tamper hardware, as needed to perform the functions described herein.

[0048] The transaction card 220 is configured to communicate with transaction terminals and other devices via a first communication interface 224. The interface 224 and the microprocessor 222 may be configured, among other things, to establish communication with a merchant transaction processing device to execute purchases and other transactions. The communication interface 224 may be configured to provide contact-based communication, in which case the interface 224 may include electrical circuitry and contact pads on the surface of the card 220 to establish direct electrical communication between the microprocessor 222 and the processing circuitry of the transaction terminal of the card 220. Alternatively, or in addition, the first communication interface 224 may be configured for contactless communication with a transaction terminal or other wireless device. In such an embodiment, the communication interface 224 may be or include an NFC communication interface configured to communicate with other NFC communication devices when the card 220 is within a predetermined NFC range. The communication interface 224 and the microprocessor 222 may be configured, among other things, to establish NFC communication with the user device 210. In some embodiments, microprocessor chip 221 may include a second communication interface 228 configured to establish short-range communications with user device 210 via Bluetooth® or other short-range communications methods. In such embodiments, transaction card 220 may also have a short-range communications antenna 229 included in or connected to short-range communications interface 228. Microprocessor chip 221 may include a power management system 225 used to manage the distribution of power during NFC transactions.

[0049] In certain embodiments, transaction card 220 may be Bluetooth® enabled using microprocessor chip 221, second communication interface 228, and antenna 229. A Bluetooth® enabled transaction card may support Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and be capable of pairing with user device 210. In some embodiments, pairing and communication may be established between transaction card 220 and other interfacing devices, such as a terminal (not shown), merchant transaction processor 140, etc. A Bluetooth® enabled device may include the ability to establish a link between the card and the device (or pair the device) using device settings (e.g., iOS® or Android® settings that manage Bluetooth connections) and / or a mobile application associated with the card issuer that may interface with device controls to manage the Bluetooth connection with card 220.

[0050] Memory 226 may be read-only memory, write-once-read-multiple memory, or read / write memory, such as RAM, ROM, and EEPROM, and chip 221 may include one or more of these memories. Memory 226 may store information associated with a transaction card account. In some embodiments, memory 226 may persistently store a unique alphanumeric identifier associated with the account. Memory 226 may also store public and private card encryption keys. In some embodiments, the private and public encryption keys may be persistently embedded in the card memory.

[0051] Memory 226 may be configured to store one or more software applications executed by microprocessor 222. In various embodiments, memory 226 may store instructions for generating and transmitting cryptographic information to a receiving device (e.g., user device 210) via first communication interface 224 (e.g., via NFC) or short-range communication interface 228. Such cryptographic information may be or include an encrypted verification block or signature that may be used to authenticate and verify the presence of transaction card 220 during transaction processing. In some embodiments, the cryptographic information is specific to a particular communication (e.g., a particular NFC transmission by the transaction card).

[0052] The device service management server 250 may be associated with and / or managed by the manufacturer or merchant (or lessor) of the smart device 290. Alternatively, the service management server 250 may be associated with a provider of services managed via the device 290. Referring to FIG. 7 , the device service management server 250 may include a communication interface 252 providing a wired and / or wireless connection to the network 230, a device initialization processor 254, and a service account management processor 256. The device initialization processor 254 is configured to receive an initialization request from the device 290, the request including some or all of the NFC information read from the transaction card 220 and identification information of the device 290. The device initialization processor 254 may be further configured to use the NFC information to identify a card account administrator associated with the transaction card 220 and send a card account information request to the card account administrator's card account management server 260. The request may include some or all of the NFC information, including the card identification information, some or all of which may be encrypted. The device initialization processor 254 is also configured to receive card account information returned from the card account management server 260. Such information may include identification, contact, and other information about the account holder. This information may be forwarded by the initialization processor 254 to the service account management processor 256.

[0053] The service account management processor 256, in communication with the account information database 251, is configured to receive card account holder information from the device initialization processor 254. The service account management processor 256 may then use the card account holder information to identify the card user and determine whether the user has a service account with the service provider. This may be accomplished by comparing the card account information with account information stored in the service account information database 251. If the user has an account, the processor 256 may associate the device identifier of the device 290 with the user's existing service account. If the user does not have an existing account, the processor 256 may create a new service account using the user's card account information. In some embodiments, the service account management processor 256 may contact the user (e.g., via a transmission to the user device 210 over the network 230) to confirm that the user wishes to open a new service account or to obtain the user's preferences and / or operational parameters of the smart device 290 when establishing the account. The service account management processor 256 may then associate the smart device 290 with the new account and store the service account information in the account information database 251.

[0054] Once the device 290 is associated with an existing or new account, the account management processor 256 sends the service account information back to the initialization processor 254, which constructs and sends an initialization command to the smart device 290. This command may include initial provisioning information and instructions for initiating device operation.

[0055] In some embodiments, service management server 250 may include a device operations management processor 258 configured to communicate with device 290 to monitor and manage device operation. In some cases, operation management processor 258 may communicate with a user regarding user operation settings or instructions. Device operations management processor 258 may also be configured to provide system updates to the data processing system of smart device 290. In some embodiments, operation management processor 258 may also be configured to determine time- or usage-based service fees associated with use of the device or services accessed or used via the device. Operation management processor 258 may also be configured to automatically charge some or all of such service fees to a transaction card account associated with transaction card 220 or another financial account of the service account holder.

[0056] Card account management server 260 is a system of one or more network-enabled processing servers configured to monitor and / or process transactions related to transaction card 220 and process requests for information regarding card accounts associated with transaction card 220. Referring to Figure 8, card account management server 260 includes a transaction communication interface 262 connected to network 230 for communicating with user device 210 and merchant devices.

[0057] Card account management server 260 includes a transaction processor 264 and a card account information server 266, both of which are configured to communicate over network 230 via transaction communication interface 262. Card account information server 266 may be configured to maintain a transaction card account database (not shown) in which identification information for each of a plurality of transferable cards is stored along with associated account information. Such account information may include identity, contact, and other information regarding the account holder.

[0058] The card account information server 266 may be further configured to assign private and public personal encryption keys to the account of the account holder to which the transaction card 220 has been or will be issued. Once assigned, the card management server may transmit the personal encryption keys via the network 230 to the user device 210 associated with the account holder. The card processing system may be further configured to receive a request to activate the transaction card 220 from the user device 210 via the network 230 and the transaction communication interface 262. The activation request includes a software signature encrypted by the user device 210 using the public and private personal encryption keys and a hardware signature encrypted by the card's microprocessor chip 221 using the public and private card encryption keys stored therein. Upon receiving the activation request, the card account information server 266 is further configured to decrypt the software and hardware signatures to verify their association with the account and, upon positive verification, activate the transaction card 220 by associating one or more authorized account functions with the transaction card 220. The server 266 may then store information reflecting the activation in a card database. The authorized account function may be any typical transaction card function, such as, for example, interaction with a merchant transaction processing device to perform a purchase transaction, or use at an automated teller machine, etc. In particular embodiments, the authorized account function may include use of transaction card 220 to initiate a service and / or create a service account associated with smart device 290.

[0059] Card account information server 266 may also be configured to receive account information requests from a merchant or service account administrator to whom transaction card 220 is presented. In particular, server 266 may be configured to receive account information requests from service account management processor 256. The request may include NFC information transmitted by transaction card 220 and read by smart device 290. In embodiments in which a portion of the NFC information is encrypted using a key stored on the transaction card, server 266 may be configured to retrieve the encryption key associated with transaction card 220 and decrypt the encrypted information to authenticate and verify the presence of transaction card 220.

[0060] FIG. 9 is a diagram of a method M100 of activating a network-enabled smart device according to one embodiment of the present invention. The method includes using an NFC-enabled user device and an NFC-enabled smart transaction card to activate the smart device, which may be any electrical device, vehicle, or system having attributes similar to those of the general-purpose device 190 of FIG. 3. Some or all of the operations of method M100 may be performed by a data processing system of the smart device being activated. Method M100 includes, at S110, establishing an Internet connection by the device data processing system. This may be performed through a wired or wireless connection to an ISP or through a connection to a telecommunications network. In some embodiments, this operation may be performed immediately after the user powers on the device for the first time. At S120, the smart device data processing system generates a web page configured for use in performing a web NFC read of information from the transaction card. At S130, the device data processing system transmits the location of the web page to the user device. This may be accomplished by connecting the smart device to a local network. Alternatively, if so configured, the smart device may transmit information through a self-generated hotspot to which the user device is connected. In either case, the transmission may occur upon receiving a request to initiate an action in response to establishing communication with the user device. In some embodiments, such communication between the user device and the appliance may be established before the appliance establishes an Internet connection. In such embodiments, the establishment of the Internet connection may be triggered by receiving a request to establish or initiate communication with the user device.

[0061] At S140, the device data processing system sends instructions to the user device to tap the transaction card to the user device. The instructions may be presented via a web page or by a separate transmission via a local network or a hotspot generated by the device. When the user taps the transaction card to the user device, the device data processing system reads NFC information sent by the transaction card to the user device via the web NFC code at S150. The NFC information includes at least information sufficient to identify the transaction card administrator and information the transaction card administrator can use to identify the card and its associated transaction account. At S160, the device data processing system sends an activation request to the service management server via the device's network connection. The activation request may include an identifier unique to the device and some or all of the NFC information read from the transaction card. At S170, the device information processing system receives a service activation command from the service management server. The command may include instructions for initiating an operation and / or initial operations and provisioning instructions. In some embodiments, the device may also receive service account information. At S180, the device initiates an operation, possibly an established operation preparation. In the latter case, the device may require additional prompting or action by the user before actually "powering on." In some embodiments, at S190, the device may optionally send a service initiation notification to the user device. This may be sent over a local network, a device self-created hotspot, or a wide-area or other communications network.

[0062] 10 is a diagram of a method M200 of activating a network-enabled smart device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Some or all of the operations of method M200 may be performed by a device service management server managed by an administrator associated with the activating smart device or the services provided through the activating smart device. At S210 of method M200, the management server receives an activation request over the network from the smart device. The activation request includes identification information unique to the smart device. The request may also include NFC information read by the smart device from a smart transaction card. The NFC information was sent by the transaction card to a user device of the owner of the card account associated with the transaction card.

[0063] At S220, the service management server uses the NFC information to identify a card account administrator associated with the transaction card and sends a card account information request to that administrator's card account management server. This request may include some or all of the NFC information, including card identification information, some or all of which may be encrypted. At S230, the service management server receives the card account information returned from the card account management server. This information may include identity, contact, and other information about the account owner / user. At S240, the server uses the account information to identify the account owner / user who wants to activate the smart device. At S250, the server associates the device identification information with a service account associated with the account owner. The account and device ID information may be stored by the server in a service account information database. At S260, the service management server may optionally determine the user's settings for device services or operating parameters. If the account owner already has an existing account, this may include importing settings previously established for the account owner. Alternatively or additionally, the account owner may be contacted to provide or confirm the account owner's settings. At S270, the server constructs a service activation command. The command may include instructions for initiating operations and / or initial operations and provisioning instructions, which may be based on user settings. In some embodiments, the command may include service account and / or account owner information. At S280, the service management server transmits the service activation command to the smart device over the network.

[0064] 11 is a diagram of a method M300 for activating a network-enabled smart device according to one embodiment of the present invention. Some or all of the operations of method M300 may be performed by a device service management server managed by an administrator associated with the activating smart device or services provided through the activating smart device. At S310 of method M200, the management server receives an activation request from the smart device over the network. The activation request includes identification information unique to the smart device. The request may also include NFC information read by the smart device from a smart transaction card, the NFC information having been sent by the transaction card to a user device of the owner of a card account associated with the transaction card.

[0065] At S320, the service management server uses the NFC information to identify a card account administrator associated with the transaction card and sends a card account information request to the administrator's card account management server at S330. This request may include some or all of the NFC information, including card identification information, some or all of which may be encrypted. At S340, the service management server receives card account information returned from the card account management server. This information may include identity, contact, and other information about the account owner / user. At S350, the server uses the account information to identify the card account owner who wants to activate the smart device and determine whether the card account owner has a service account with the service administrator. This may include comparing the card account information with account information stored in a service account information database. If the user has an account, the processor sets the current service account to the existing account at S351. If the user does not have an existing account, the server may create a new service account using the card account information at S352. In some embodiments, the service management server may contact the card account holder (e.g., via transmission over the network to the account holder's user device) to confirm that the user wishes to open a new service account or to obtain the user's preferences and / or smart device operating parameters in establishing the service account. After opening the new account, the service management server may set the current account to be the new service account at S354. At S360, the server may associate the smart device with an existing account or a new account, as appropriate, and store the service account information in an account information database.

[0066] At S370, the service management server may optionally determine the user's preferences for device services or operating parameters. If the account holder already has an existing account, this may include importing previously established preferences for the account holder. Alternatively or additionally, the account holder may be contacted to provide or confirm their preferences. At S380, the server constructs a service activation command. This command may include instructions for initiating operations and initial operations, and provisioning instructions, which may be based on the user's preferences. In some embodiments, the command may also include service account and / or account owner information. At S390, the service management server transmits the service activation command to the smart device over the network.

[0067] The present invention provides a significant improvement in the security and efficiency of systems for initiating the operation of smart appliances, vehicles, and other devices by eliminating the need to download special applications to user devices. This method also enhances security by providing direct pass-through of transaction card identification information without interpretation or decoding by the user device used to activate the device. Those skilled in the art will readily appreciate that the present invention is susceptible to broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those described herein, as well as numerous variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from, or reasonably suggested by, the present invention and the foregoing description thereof, without departing from the spirit or scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. 1. A method for activating a device, comprising: receiving, by the service management server, from the network-enabled device, a startup request including transaction card information read from the transaction card and device identification information; receiving card account information from a card account management server by the service management server; identifying, by the service management server, the account holder using the card account information; associating, by the service management server, the device identification information with a service account associated with the account holder; and transmitting a service activation command to the network-compatible device by the service management server; Including, A method for starting the device.

2. before receiving said card account information; identifying, by the service management server, the card account management server using the transaction card information; further comprising the transaction card information includes a unique identifier for the transaction card; 10. A method for activating a device according to claim 1.

3. the card account information includes at least one selected from the group consisting of identification information regarding the account holder and contact information regarding the account holder; 3. A method for activating a device according to claim 2.

4. determining, by the service management server, at least one selected from a group of user settings and operational parameters related to the device service; further comprising:

10. A method for activating a device according to claim 1.

5. and importing, by the service management server, previously established user settings.

5. A method for activating a device according to claim 4.

6. The network-enabled device includes a home device.

10. A method for activating a device according to claim 1.

7. the network-enabled device includes a power distribution system; 10. A method for activating a device according to claim 1.

8. the network-enabled device includes a home environmental control system; 8. A method for activating a device according to claim 7.

9. the service activation command includes at least one selected from the group consisting of service account information and account holder information; 10. A method for activating a device according to claim 1.

10. sending, by the network-enabled appliance, instructions to tap a transaction card to a user device via a near field communication (NFC) enabled web page; and reading, by the network-enabled appliance, the transaction card information transmitted by the transaction card to the user device through the NFC-enabled web page; further comprising:

10. A method for activating a device according to claim 1.

11. establishing, by the network-enabled device, a connection between the network-enabled device and a wide area network; and initiating, by said network-enabled appliance, a wireless local area network node for communication with said user device; further comprising:

11. A method for activating a device according to claim 10.

12. 1. A system for activating a device, comprising: A service management server is provided. The service management server receiving, from the network-enabled device, a start-up request including transaction card information read from the transaction card and device identification information; Receives card account information from the card account management server, identifying an account holder using the card account information; Associating the device identification information with a service account associated with the account holder; sending a service activation command to the network-compatible device; It is configured as follows: A system for starting up equipment.

13. the service management server is associated with a service manager; the service manager includes at least one selected from the group of a service provider and a utility provider; 13. A system for activating a device according to claim 12.

14. The network-compatible device further includes: The network-enabled device is a first network communication interface configured to establish communications over a wide area network; a second network communication interface configured to establish communication over a local network; Equipped with 13. A system for activating a device according to claim 12.

15. The network-enabled device is establishing an internet connection through the first network communication interface; Generate a Near Field Communication (NFC) enabled web page; sending instructions to the user device directing it to the NFC-enabled web page; It is configured as follows:

15. A system for activating a device according to claim 14.

16. the network-enabled appliance transmitting instructions to tap a transaction card to the user device over the second network communication interface; 16. A system for activating a device according to claim 15.

17. A non-transitory computer-accessible medium, comprising: instructions to be executed by a network-enabled computer system, When executed by the network-enabled computer system, the instructions cause the network-enabled computer system to: receiving an activation request from the network-enabled device, the activation request including transaction card information read from the transaction card and device identification information; receiving card account information from a card account management server; identifying the account holder using the card account information; Associating the device identification information with a service account associated with the account holder; and sending a service activation command to the network-enabled device; Execute a process including Non-transitory computer-accessible media.

18. The process further includes constructing the service invocation command before sending the service invocation command.

20. The non-transitory computer-accessible medium of claim 17.

19. the service invocation command includes an instruction to initiate an operation and a provisioning instruction; 20. The non-transitory computer-accessible medium of claim 18.

20. the provisioning instructions are based on user settings; 20. The non-transitory computer-accessible medium of claim 19.

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