Mobile NFC Transaction Confirmation System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional wireless payment systems generate unnecessary paper receipts, which customers do not desire, and require separate interactions for payment and transaction confirmation.
Innovation Solution
A method and system using close-proximity communication devices, such as NFC, where a mobile device emulates a payment method, establishes a communication link, transfers payment information, and receives transaction confirmation within a single instance of being in range of a point of sale, allowing for automatic or subsequent confirmation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of substance
If paper receipts are generated for wireless transactions, then transaction confirmation is provided, but unnecessary paper waste is created and customer convenience is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical paper receipt system with an electronic confirmation system. The mobile device receives transaction confirmation data via close-proximity communication and displays it on the screen, eliminating the need for physical paper receipts while providing immediate electronic confirmation to the customer.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates an electronic copy of the transaction confirmation data and transmits it to the mobile device. This electronic copy serves the same function as a paper receipt but without the physical waste, allowing customers to view transaction details on their devices.
2Reliability
If separate interactions are used for payment and transaction confirmation, then transaction completeness is ensured, but transaction time is increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the payment and confirmation processes into a single close-proximity communication event. The mobile device first transmits payment information to the point of sale, then automatically switches to receive mode to get transaction confirmation data, all while remaining in proximity to the point of sale device, thus completing both actions in one interaction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent maintains continuous communication between the mobile device and point of sale without requiring the customer to move away or initiate a separate interaction. The device automatically transitions from transmission mode to reception mode, ensuring uninterrupted flow of information and eliminating idle time between payment and confirmation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Eliminates the need for paper receipts by enabling seamless and efficient transaction confirmations directly on the mobile device, enhancing user experience and reducing unnecessary paper waste.
Implementation Method 1
establishing a close-proximity communication link using the close-proximity communication device
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus to obtain transaction confirmation are described. One example method includes emulating a payment method using a close-proximity communication device of a mobile device, establishing a close-proximity communication link using the close-proximity communication device of the mobile device, transferring payment information from the mobile device using the close-proximity communication device, switching the close-proximity communication device of the mobile device to an information receiving communication mode, and receiving a transaction confirmation at the close-proximity communication device of the mobile device. Other implementations are possible.