Matrix Bar Code Card Data Transfer via Image Capture
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile card readers face challenges in supporting new mobile devices due to the need for frequent driver updates and compatibility issues with audio protocols, and Bluetooth communication has its own set of problems.
Innovation Solution
A system that converts card data into a matrix bar code displayed on a screen, which can be captured by an image capturing device, eliminating the need for direct communication between the card reader and mobile device via audio or Bluetooth, and includes encryption and a countdown feature for security.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If audio jack connection is used for communication between card reader and mobile device, then data transmission is achieved, but device compatibility requires frequent driver updates and protocol adjustments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary communication mechanism using visual display and image capture instead of direct audio jack connection. The card reader displays visual codes (QR codes, barcodes, or other graphical representations) that the mobile device captures through its camera, eliminating the need for audio protocols and drivers while achieving reliable data transmission across different device types.
2Ease of operation
If Bluetooth communication is used between card reader and mobile device, then wireless data transmission is achieved, but communication reliability and security issues arise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the electronic Bluetooth communication system with a visual-optical system. Instead of using radio frequency wireless communication, the card reader displays visual codes that are captured by the mobile device's camera, substituting electromagnetic field-based communication with light-based optical communication, thereby avoiding Bluetooth's reliability and security vulnerabilities.
3Speed
If card data is transmitted directly via audio or Bluetooth connection, then data transmission speed is achieved, but security risks increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates visual copies of card data in the form of QR codes, barcodes, or graphical representations that can be captured by the mobile device's camera. This copying mechanism allows the card information to be transmitted without exposing the actual magnetic stripe or chip data, reducing fraud risk while maintaining transmission efficiency. The visual codes serve as secure replicas that can be captured and processed without direct electrical connection.
Data Source
AI summary
User credit card data or smart chip data or Near Field Communication data is easily transferred from a card reader to a host device via a matrix bar code such as a Quick Response (QR) code. Data transfer is performed by converting the card data into matrix bar code and allowing the host device to take an image and process the image to obtain the card data. Card reader will convert magnetic signal/smart chip/NFC data into machine readable form and then convert it into matrix bar code to be consumed by a device that is capable of capturing the matrix bar code. The card reader has the ability to encrypt the data before converting it into a matrix bar code.