Intermediary Payment System for Multi-Device Selection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inconvenience when trying to make electronic payments using devices without a payment function, as they need to search for and locate suitable payment-enabled devices, which can be time-consuming and inconvenient, especially if multiple devices or payment methods are available.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that allows multiple electronic devices to interwork, enabling users to select the most suitable device for payment by identifying and listing nearby devices with payment functions, allowing for efficient payment processing through a communication interface and processor-controlled operations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a user uses an electronic device without a payment function to make a purchase, then the user can access content on the device, but the user cannot perform payment directly and must search for another device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary system comprising a server and communication networks that mediate between the non-payment device and payment-capable devices. The server receives payment requests from any device, identifies suitable payment devices, and facilitates the connection, thereby eliminating the need for users to manually search for payment devices while maintaining ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables universal payment capability across multiple device types. By allowing any electronic device (regardless of native payment functionality) to initiate payment requests through the intermediary system, the solution provides multi-functional payment access, making the payment system universally usable across smartphones, tablets, PCs, and other electronic devices.
2Adaptability or versatility
If there are multiple electronic devices capable of performing payment, then the user has more payment options, but the user cannot easily recognize locations and select an appropriate device
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the server provides information about available payment devices back to the user through the initiating device. This includes displaying device identifiers, locations, and payment method details, enabling users to make informed selections. The feedback loop continues with confirmation and status updates throughout the payment process, enhancing ease of device selection while maintaining versatility.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary identification and presentation of suitable payment devices before the user completes the payment action. By pre-filtering and displaying relevant payment options based on the user's context and available devices, the system prepares the selection process in advance, making it easier for users to choose from multiple versatile payment options without being overwhelmed.
3Ease of operation
If a user needs to move to find a payment device, then the user can access payment functionality, but the user loses time and convenience
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical approach of physically moving to access payment functionality with an information-based system. Instead of requiring users to locate and physically access a specific device, the system uses digital communication networks to transmit payment requests and device identification information, allowing users to initiate payment from any location and receive guidance on which device to use, thereby eliminating the need for physical movement while maintaining payment accessibility.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus in which an electronic device, which does not have a payment function, determines an electronic device most suitable for a current situation among neighboring electronic devices having a payment function, and can provide the determined electronic device to user. According to various embodiments, a server may generate a list comprising information on payment-capable devices related to an account of a user associated with a first electronic device. The list may be generated based on a priority for the payment-capable devices. The list may be transmitted to the first electronic device and a signal for selection of one of the payment-capable devices included in the list may be received from the first electronic device. A signal comprising information related to payment may be transmitted to the selected payment-capable device.