Fare Collection Device Dual Payment Method Versatility
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current fare collection systems for public transport limit payment methods, making it inconvenient for users when they cannot use Near Field Communication (NFC) functions or NFC-enabled cards, as they lack alternative payment options.
Innovation Solution
A fare collection method and device that employs a dual collector system, using a camera to collect images and an NFC device to obtain payment information, allowing for payment processing via either method, ensuring payment information can be collected through various means even when one method fails.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single NFC-based payment method is used for fare collection, then the payment process is simple and fast, but the system lacks versatility and cannot accommodate users who cannot use NFC functions
Solution Approach 1:
The fare collection device is equipped with multiple collection modules including NFC module, image collection module (camera), and sound collection module (microphone). Each module can independently collect payment information through different methods, making the system universally applicable to various payment scenarios and user needs, thereby resolving the contradiction between versatility and complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically switches between different collection modes based on real-time detection results. The processor determines which module successfully collected payment information and activates only the necessary processing path, allowing the system to adapt its complexity level according to the situation while maintaining high versatility.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple collection modules are integrated into the fare collection device, then payment method versatility is improved, but the device structure becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The collection system is segmented into independent functional modules: NFC collection module, image collection module, and sound collection module. Each module operates independently with its own processing path, allowing the device to maintain multiple collection capabilities while managing complexity through modular design. The processor selectively activates only the required module based on detection needs.
Solution Approach 2:
The multiple collection modules are integrated within a single fare collection device housing, with each module nested within the overall device structure. The processor unit is centrally positioned to coordinate all modules, creating a compact nested arrangement that reduces structural complexity while maintaining versatility.
3Productivity
If the system waits for image collection before attempting NFC collection, then processing efficiency is improved, but user convenience deteriorates when image collection fails
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs image collection first as a preliminary action since it does not require user interaction. Only when image collection fails does the system proceed to NFC collection, which requires user action to place the terminal in the NFC area. This preliminary action approach maintains processing efficiency while ensuring user convenience through fallback options.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor continuously monitors the success or failure of each collection attempt and provides feedback to determine the next action. When image collection fails, the system receives feedback and automatically switches to NFC collection mode, creating a responsive feedback loop that maintains both efficiency and user convenience.
4Use of energy by moving object
If the NFC device remains in off state by default, then energy consumption is reduced, but payment processing time increases when NFC collection is needed
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC device operates in a periodic manner, remaining in off state to conserve energy during normal periods, and activating only when the image collection module fails to obtain payment information. This periodic activation pattern significantly reduces energy consumption while minimizing the time loss during actual payment transactions, as the NFC module is activated only when necessary.
Data Source
AI summary
A fare collection method and apparatus are provided. The apparatus comprises a camera; an NFC device; a processor, configured to: trigger a ride fare collection transaction upon a target object being detected within a set distance; determine whether a first payment information has been obtained by the camera; if yes, perform payment processing according to the first payment information; and if no, collect a near-field communication (NFC) signal through an NFC device to obtain second payment information, and perform payment processing according to the second payment information.