Audio-Based Payment Transaction System for Secure Mobile Commerce
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for mobile electronic fund transfers via POS devices with wireless communication suffer from delays, incompatibility with various hardware and software platforms, and security vulnerabilities, failing to meet PCI standards.
Innovation Solution
An apparatus and method for commercial transactions using a transaction card via a communication device that converts card information into an audio signal for transmission over an audio communication link to a remote processor assembly, enabling secure and compatible transactions without the need for software installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If traditional POS devices with wireless communication are used for mobile electronic fund transfers, then transaction capability is provided, but transmission delays occur and compatibility issues arise across different hardware and software platforms
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces traditional wireless data transmission protocols with audio frequency modulation over voice call channels. Card data is converted to audio tones (AFSK modulation) that can be transmitted through the voice communication infrastructure, bypassing the limitations of wireless data protocols and achieving faster, more reliable transmission without platform compatibility issues
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the transmission medium from electromagnetic wireless data signals to acoustic audio signals. By modulating card data onto audio frequencies suitable for voice call transmission, the system exploits the existing voice infrastructure for high-speed data transfer, eliminating the delays associated with traditional wireless payment protocols
2Adaptability or versatility
If software-based payment solutions are installed on mobile devices, then transaction functionality is achieved, but security vulnerabilities arise and PCI compliance becomes difficult to maintain
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an audio communication channel as an intermediary between the card reader and the remote processing system. This intermediary approach allows data transmission without storing or processing sensitive card information on the mobile device itself, eliminating the security vulnerabilities associated with software-based solutions while maintaining broad platform compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the data transmission function from the mobile device's operating system and application software. By using the audio subsystem (a fundamental hardware component present in all mobile phones) for data transmission, the solution removes dependency on platform-specific software implementations, thereby eliminating security vulnerabilities related to software installation and execution
3Productivity
If existing mobile payment systems are deployed, then electronic fund transfer capability is provided, but the systems become unavailable or experience unbounded delays in locations where services are not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the payment system universal by utilizing the voice call infrastructure, which is universally available worldwide. The audio-based transmission method can operate over any voice communication network (cellular, landline, VoIP), making the system functional in locations where specialized wireless payment infrastructure is unavailable, thereby ensuring continuous service availability
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for effecting a commercial transaction with a remote transaction server using a payment device via a communication device is provided. The apparatus includes a transaction device coupled with the communication device for capturing information stored on said payment device and a controller for converting the captured information into encrypted information and for transmitting the encrypted information to the communication device. The communication device delivers the encrypted information to the remote transaction server for processing the commercial transaction.