Multifunctional smart card

Abstract

MULTIFUNCTIONAL SMART CARD The present invention relates to a multifunctional smart transaction card that revolutionizes electronic payment and identification systems. This compact card securely stores personal data, including name, age, nationality, religion, Aadhar number, PAN number, and more. It eliminates the need for carrying multiple cards by combining various functionalities into a single device. The multi-functional smart card utilizes a unique QR code, strategically positioned on both sides, enabling easy scanning with a QR code reader, thereby enhancing security and protection against fraudulent activities. The code links to a secure online database containing the user's personal information. The system interconnected through a network and central server site, facilitates seamless transactions, authentication processes, and efficient settlement. It offers a universal transaction vehicle for closed or open interfaces and financial services. The invention caters to diverse applications, from financial services to government and healthcare sectors, improving convenience and accessibility while addressing the concerns of data privacy and security. This innovation empowers individuals to carry their personal information securely and conduct transactions with ease using a single smart card.

Description

[0001] MULTIFUNCTIONAL SMART CARD

[0002] FIELD OF INVENTION

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a multifunctional smart card to store users’ data such as age, name, nationality, religion, Aadhar number, PAN number, and more information that falls under the category of electronic payment and user identification systems. More particularly, The invention provides a secure and convenient way for individuals to carry their personal information in a compact and easily accessible form, while also allowing for seamless transactions and authentication processes.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] Smart cards are portable devices that are used in educational, governmental, and commercial environments, for example, as identity cards to permit access to facilities and events, to maintain data records associated with the user, and as a mechanism to transact transactions. Users are currently able to store a predetermined amount of information or other value on a smart card.

[0006] Conventionally available smart cards are compact microprocessor-based device that stores and processes data. Smart cards have mostly supplanted conventional magnetic cards since they can store more data and perform more functions. Smart cards are now used in various industries, including retail, public transportation, and security.

[0007] However, the major disadvantage associated with the currently available smart cards is that a user must carry different cards for different functionalities such as identification, authorization, and transactions. Another disadvantage with current smart cards is that the cards do not restrict the type of use to which value stored in the card may be applied or spent by the user. For example, even though a person has information about himself on various other cards, he needs to carry every card for various uses. Hence no one card stores the data altogether. Elderly persons find it very difficult to carry many cards and sometimes may have a risk of losing any of them.

[0008] Furthermore, conventional smart cards possess potential benefits, such as increased convenience and security. However, there are also concerns about privacy and data security. It would be important to ensure that any personal information stored in this way is properly secured and protected from unauthorized access. Hence, the present invention provides a more reliable multiple-function smart card comprised of a uniquely positioned QR code to prevent unauthorized copying by theft. Therefore, there is a need to provide a single multifunctional smart card that can store user data in a single database that eliminates the need to carry different cards by the users for different purposes.

[0009] OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a multi-functional smart card that can store users’ identification details in an organized and compact way.

[0011] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a network- accessible transaction card having multiple functions and stored information with discrete pockets, each, in a cash storage mode, capable of being allocated for a predetermined use or purposes.

[0012] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a smart card having a uniquely positioned QR code that saves all the user's identification details in an online database.

[0013] Another objective of the present invention is to provide a multi-functional smart card with a unique QR code that is difficult to replicate to add a layer of protection against fraudulent activities and counterfeiting.

[0014] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of the multifunctional smart card displaying the user’s name and unique identification number along with a portion of the unique QR code.

[0016] FIG. 2 illustrates a back view of the multi-functional smart card comprising another portion of the QR code.

[0017] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0018] The invention consists of a multiple-function stored value smart card associated with a network or web-based system that includes a central server site that acts as a portal through which educational, governmental, and commercial communities may move and track information and financial data through the use of a smart card. The system provides a universal transaction vehicle for closed or open interfaces and financial services.

[0019] The present invention comprises a multiple-function smart card associated with conventional uses such as access to events and buildings, voting, eligibility determination, Internet access, payment of financial instruments, and other paperless purchases. The invention further provides improved operational efficiency for controlled cashless payments based on an account linked to the card, as well as efficient settlement of the transactions made by a user of the card.

[0020] The invention has the advantage that, in addition to identification and access to institution elements and activities, it allows a smart card funder (namely, a parent, in the college instance of the example) to predefine one or more given pockets in an electronic purse according to a predetermined funding application associated with an individual pocket.

[0021] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The present invention discloses a multi-functional smart card that can store users' data related to name, age, nationality, medical information, account details, and any other information to prevent the unnecessary carrying of multiple cards by the users.

[0023] In more detail, FIG. 1 shows features of the front of a multi-functional smart card (1) used with the system. The card includes the date of issue on the face of the card. In the preferred embodiment, the unique identification number and the name of the user are shown on the face of the card along with a Unique QR code which is placed in such a pattern that a portion of the QR code (2) lies on the face of the card whereas another portion of the QR code (3) falls on the back side of the card.

[0024] The unique QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that contains information in the form of black and white squares arranged on a grid. These codes can be scanned using a QR code reader on a smartphone or other device, Wherein the QR code is printed on the multi-functional card (1) using high-quality ink or other materials to ensure legibility and durability. One potential use of a unique QR code is to store personal data, such as financial or medical information, on the multifunctional smart card. This could be useful for people who want to carry important information with them without the need for physical documents.

[0025] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the unique QR code is uniquely positioned on the multifunctional card that is linked to a secure online database that stores the user's personal information. When the QR code is scanned by a user using any compatible electronic scanner device, the user's information would be accessed and displayed on the electronic scanner's device. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, a portion of the QR code (2) is presented at the front face of the multi-functional smart card, and another portion of the QR code (3) is present at the back face of the multi-functional smart card (1). The unique arrangement of the QR codes is difficult to replicate providing an additional layer of security against fraudulent activities and counterfeiting.

[0026] FIG. 2 illustrates the back view of the multifunctional smart card in which another portion of the QR codes is positioned.

[0027] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the multifunctional smart card optionally comprises a magnetic strip, logo, disclaimer, web address, and helpline number to further enhances its functionality and user-friendliness.

[0028] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the unique QR code of the multifunctional smart card is linked to an online database for storing personal information, wherein the online database is encrypted and secured against unauthorized access to ensure the protection and privacy of the users.

[0029] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the QR code is further integrated with other security features like PIN or biometric authentication to prevent unauthorized access to the information.

[0030] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the card user accesses the smart card system via a network, such as the Internet, using a computer, such as a personal computer, a cell phone, etc. In the example, the user accesses the system's web page. During the interface, the web page downloads a Java applet to the user's computer to allow communication between the card and a smart card reader to create the card, and files are created on the system.

[0031] The multifunctional smart card of the present invention is useful in a transaction system that includes a smart card terminal for populating data on the smart card concerning a card user and for registering a stored value having a restricted purpose in at least one of the pockets; a funds terminal wherein funds data associated with an account from which funds registered to a smart card pocket is entered; a merchant terminal operable with the smart card wherein merchant data, including a merchant account and merchant purchase data concerning use of the smart card, are entered; and an institution terminal operable with the smart card wherein institution and card user data and institution use data concerning use of the smart card are entered. The terminals are interconnected in a network served by a central processing unit (CPU). The CPU is operatively interconnected with a database containing records of data associated with a card user, stored values having a restricted purpose in a pocket on the card user's card; funds associated with an account from which funds are registered to a smart card pocket; a merchant and merchant purchases concerning the use of the smart card; and an institution and institution use data concerning use of the smart card. Upon receipt of a data signal in the network from at least one of the smart card terminals, the funds terminal, the merchant terminal, and the institution terminal, the CPU processes the data in the signal concerning a card user, stored values having a restricted purpose in a pocket on the card user's card; funds associated with an account from which funds registered to a smart card pocket; a merchant and merchant purchases concerning the use of the smart card; and an institution and institution use data concerning use of the smart card; according to predetermined criteria associated with the interrelationship of a card user, stored values having a restricted purpose in a pocket on the card user's card; funds associated with an account from which funds registered to a smart card pocket; a merchant and merchant purchases concerning use of the smart card; and an institution and institution use data concerning use of the smart card.

[0032] The present invention is a system that uses a network to issue multifunctional smart cards to a user. The invention further allows for restriction of purchase ability from the pockets of the electronic purse of the smart card and effects settlement between a funder's account at a financial institution and a variety of merchant accounts. The system is a universal transaction vehicle for closed or open interfaces and financial services. The system includes a database located at a central processing unit housing information concerning merchants, institutions, transactions, funders, and users.

[0033] A unique QR code is a two-dimensional barcode that is capable of storing a large amount of data. These codes can be read using a device equipped with a QR code reader. QR codes are increasingly being used in a variety of applications, including marketing, inventory management, and payment systems. One potential use of QR codes is to store personal data on a transaction card.

[0034] A transaction card is a card that is used for making payments or conducting transactions of information. Examples of transaction cards include credit cards, debit cards, and loyalty cards. Traditionally, transaction cards have included a magnetic stripe or chip that stores the cardholder's personal information. However, QR codes can provide a more secure and convenient way to store this information.

[0035] When a user signs up for a transaction card, they would be given a unique QR code. This code would be linked to a secure online database that stores the user's personal information, such as their name, address, and payment details. When the user wants to make a payment or conduct a transaction, they would simply scan the QR code using their smartphone or other device. The scanner would then access the user's information from the online database and complete the transaction.

[0036] There are several potential benefits to using a unique QR code for storing personal data on a transaction card. One of the main advantages is increased security. QR codes are difficult to counterfeit, which makes them a more secure way to store personal information than magnetic stripes or chips. Additionally, because the user's information is stored online, it is less vulnerable to theft or loss.

[0037] Another benefit of using QR codes for transaction cards is convenience. With a QR code, users would no longer need to carry physical documents or remember account details. Instead, they could simply scan their QR code to complete a transaction. This could make transactions faster and more efficient, particularly for transferring data.

[0038] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the method for accessing information using a multi-functional smart card comprises the step of registering the user’s personal information, such as name, age, nationality, medical details, and account data, with the issuer or administrator of the multi-functional smart card system. This information is securely stored in an online database linked to a unique QR code assigned to the user's multi-functional smart card.

[0039] Secondly scanning the multi-functional smart card's unique QR code using a QR code reader on a compatible electronic scanner device, like a smartphone. The QR code reader retrieves the encrypted user information from the online database linked to the unique QR code. Subsequently, the user's information is displayed on the electronic scanner's device, offering quick and convenient access to their stored details.

[0040] The accessed information can be utilized for various purposes, such as identity verification, enabling cashless payments, granting access to events or buildings, participating in voting processes, and conducting other authorized transactions or services. For cashless payments, the user can choose to allocate funds from their linked account to specific pockets within the electronic purse associated with the multi-functional smart card.

[0041] To enhance security and protect privacy, the online database containing the user's information is encrypted and shielded against unauthorized access. Additionally, personal data can only be accessed upon successful authentication using the unique QR code and the associated security measures, ensuring that sensitive information remains safeguarded at all times.

Claims

CLAIMI claim,1. A multi-functional smart card system, comprising: a) a multifunctional smart card (1) associated with a network or web-based system, wherein, the multi-functional card comprises: i) a front surface displaying a user’s name, unique identification number, and a portion of the unique QR code (2); ii) a back surface displaying another portion of the unique QR code (3), b) a central server site acting as a portal facilitating movement and tracking of information and financial data associated with the multi-functional smart card system; c) a smart card terminal in communication with the multi-functional smart card, the smart card terminal configured for populating data on the multi-functional smart card, including user data and restricted purpose stored values; and d) a database operatively connected to the central server site, the database containing records of user data, restricted purpose stored values, funds data, merchant data, and institution use data associated with the multi-functional smart card system; wherein, the unique QR code linked to the multi-functional smart card is uniquely positioned at the front and back surface of the multi-functional smart card to prevent replication and counterfeiting.

2. A multifunctional smart card as claimed in claim 1, wherein the online database is encrypted and secured against unauthorized access.

3. A multifunctional smart card as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the card terminal comprises a funds terminal, a merchant terminal, and an institution terminal in communication with the multi-functional smart card, wherein, the funds terminal is configured for entering funds data associated with an account linked to the multi-functional smart card, wherein, the merchant terminal operable to enter merchant data, including a merchant account and purchase data, with respect to use of the multi-functional smart card, and wherein, the institution terminal configured to enter institution and user data and institution use data with respect to use of the multi-functional smart card.

4. A multi-functional smart card as claimed in claim 1, wherein the personal information stored in the online database includes the user's name, address, age details, and other relevant information.

5. A multi-functional smart card as claimed in claim 1, wherein the QR code is uniquely positioned such that it spans across both the front and back surface of the card.

6. A multi-functional smart card as claimed in claim 1, wherein the QR code is printed on the card using high-quality ink or other materials to ensure legibility and durability.

7. A multi-functional smart card as claimed in claim 1, wherein the QR code is integrated with other security features, such as a PIN or biometric authentication, to prevent unauthorized access to the stored information.

8. A method of accessing information using a multifunctional smart card, comprising the steps of: a. registering user information, including personal details, financial data, and other relevant information, in an online database linked to a unique QR code associated with the multifunctional smart card; b. issuing the multi-functional smart card (1) to the user, the multi-functional smart card (1) comprising a front surface displaying the user's name, unique identification number, and a portion of the unique QR code (2), and a back surface displaying another portion of the unique QR code (3); c. securing access to the user's information by implementing additional security features, including at least one PIN or biometric authentication, associated with the unique QR code on the multi-functional smart card; d. initiating access to information by scanning the unique QR code on the multi-functional smart card using a QR code reader on a compatible electronic scanner device; e. retrieving the user's information from the online database linked to the scanned unique QR code; f. displaying the user's information on the electronic scanner device, enabling quick and convenient access to the stored details; and g. utilizing the accessed information for authorized transactions, services, or identity verification, thereby enabling the multi-functional smart card to serve as a secure and versatile means of accessing and managing user information.

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