US20180375834A1

Movatterモバイル変換

Info

Publication number: US20180375834A1
Application number: US16/028,344
Authority: US
Inventors: William A. Wadley
Original assignee: Wadley Ticket And Transaction Technology LLC
Current assignee: Wadley Ticket And Transaction Technology LLC
Priority date: 2015-05-17
Filing date: 2018-07-05
Publication date: 2018-12-27
Also published as: US9690968B2; US20160364590A1; US20170293908A1

Abstract

A computing device for secure communications includes a communication interface, a transceiver, and a processor. The processor identifies an action to be completed by a third computing device operably connected to the computing device via the communication interface. The action is associated with data stored in the third computing device. In response to identifying the action, the processor transmits an identifier, obtained from the third computing device, to a second computing device using the transceiver; receives a second identifier from the second computing device using the transceiver; transmits the second identifier to the third computing device via the communication interface; and receives a confirmation of completion of the action from the third computing device via the communication interface.

Description

BACKGROUND

Computing devices may communicate via multiple intermediary devices such as in a distributed computing environment. For example, when computing devices communicate via the Internet multiple routers, switches, repeaters, and other types of computing devices may assist in transmitting the communication from a sending computing device to a receiving computing device.

In some cases, it may be important to ensure the authenticity of both the communication and the content of the communication. In a distributed environment doing so may be made difficult due to the nature of the environment. For example, a communication may be received and transmitted by an unknown number and type of computing device. Each of the transmissions may subject the communication and its contents to risk of inadvertent modification or malicious action by a third party.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Certain embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, the accompanying drawings illustrate only certain aspects or implementations of the invention by way of example and are not meant to limit the scope of the claims.

FIG. 1 illustrates a flowchart diagram of a user account creation process within an Authenticated Scannable Code (ASC) system, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 2 illustrates a flowchart of a user retail purchase process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 3 illustrates a flowchart diagram of a consumer-to-consumer payer initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 4 illustrates a diagram of a consumer-to-consumer payee initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 5 illustrates a flowchart of a mobile consumer-to-consumer payer initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 6 illustrates a diagram illustrating a mobile consumer-to-consumer payee initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 7 illustrates a flowchart diagram of a process for a user selling tickets, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 8 illustrates a flowchart diagram illustrating a process for social media integration, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 9 illustrates a diagram of the data collection within the ASC System; according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 10 illustrates a front elevation view of a scannable code reader, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 11 illustrates a right side elevation view of the scannable code reader, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 12 illustrates a back side elevation view of the scannable code reader, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 13 illustrates a detailed side sectional view of the scannable code reader of the embodiment ofFIG. 11, schematically showing the power, electrical, and hardware components, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 14 illustrates a detailed back side sectional view of the scannable code reader of the embodiment ofFIG. 12, schematically showing the power, electrical, and hardware components, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 15 illustrates a flowchart of a ticket search process in the ASC system, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 16 illustrates a flowchart diagram of a user ticket purchasing process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 17 illustrates a diagram of a ticket holder engagement process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 18 illustrates a flowchart of a user ticket parameters process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 19 illustrates a diagram illustrating a ticket redemption process, according to an example embodiment;

FIG. 20 illustrates an example of a user device, in conjunction with the ticket redemption process, according to an example embodiment; and

FIG. 21 illustrates a schematic view of a computer system, according to one example embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Illustrative embodiments of the system of the present application are described below in the interest of clarity, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer's specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure.

In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” or other like terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the device described herein may be oriented in any desired direction.

Embodiments of the invention relate to system and methods for securing communications in a distributed system. Securing the communications may include ensuring both that a message is communicated and the contents of the communication are accurate.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, a system may utilize a combination of communication mediums to complete a secure communication. The communication mediums may include one or more wireless communication interfaces and one or more optical communication interfaces. A wireless communication interface may be, for example, a near field communication interface, a wireless local area network interface, or another type of wireless interface. An optical communication interface may be, for example, an optical transceiver. The optical transceiver may include a display and a camera. The display may be a display for displaying information to a user of a computing device, e.g., a display of a cell phone.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, the system is utilized to facilitate secure communications for transaction purposes. Conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication systems are limited in that they are configured with limited one-way communication between an image and scannable code reader. Conventional systems and methods lack the ability to authenticate the originality or validity of a scannable code, such as a quick response (QR) code.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, the system is utilized to facilitate secure communications for commercial purposes. Traditional credit and debit cards, checks, and cash require individuals to be in physical possession of the item in order to conduct transactions and are susceptible to theft. Near Field Communication (NFC) technology can pose a threat of theft and fraudulent use by thieves that are in possession of NFC scannable code readers in proximity to an individual's bank card. Digital ticketing systems, such as those commonly used by airlines, are unable to authenticate the originality or validity of a scannable code.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, the system is utilized to securing the secondary exchange of tickets for entrance to events. Conventional digital ticketing systems do not provide a means of controlling secondary market transactions by the original vendor. Further, conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication systems are limited in the methods of control of purchaser access to transaction authentication displays. In one conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication system, a purchaser may view a transaction authentication quick response (QR) code on a device and subsequently take a screenshot picture of the code thereby facilitating the easy transfer of the transaction authentication through means of transferring the screenshot picture from the device. Transfer of transaction authentication codes by purchasers can facilitate fraudulent action, reduce potential vendor profits, and lead to service denials of valid customers.

In one or more embodiments of the invention, the system utilizes a scannable code is a QR code. In other embodiments the scannable code may be a barcode, or any other scannable image containing embedded information that may be read and interpreted by a camera. It should be appreciated that the exact scannable code is implementation specific.

Referring toFIG. 1, the flowchart diagram depicts aprocess100 for creating a user account. Instep102, a user can first access the Authenticated Scannable Code (ASC) system website using, for example, any electronic device, smartphone, or computer. Upon accessing the venue's website or ASC website instep104, the user may select to create a new account and proceed to a user account creation page. The user may enter appropriate profile and account information instep106 including, but not limited to: credit card and banking information, demographic information, and social network information, and a digital certificate may then be installed on a device. In some embodiments, a device may be a smartphone or computer. The IP address for the user's device may be documented in theASC System database1000 to authenticate the user's device2100 (seeFIG. 20) upon future visits to the ASC website. Instep108, the new user account is created within theASC System database1000 and ascannable code2013a(seeFIG. 20) is assigned to the user instep110. Thescannable code2013ais a unique user account scannable code. Once the user has created an account and has been assigned thescannable code2013a, the user may then install and log in to the ASC application, viastep112, from the user'sdevice2100. One important feature is that the user account is specifically tied to the user device, via digital certificates, IP address

Referring toFIG. 2, the flowchart diagram depicts a user retailpurchase transaction process200. Instep202, once the user is in a retail establishment that utilizes the ASC system, the user may approach the retailer cashier with items to purchase. Instep204, the cashier enters and totals the prices of items to be purchased by user. Instep206, the user may then open the ASC application on the user's device2100 (seeFIG. 20) and select the desired method of payment: credit card, debit card, or checking account, to name a few examples. Instep208, the ASC application displays thescannable code2013a(seeFIG. 20) and the camera2102 (seeFIG. 20) on the user's device is activated. Instep210, the user presents the user'sdevice2100, displaying thescannable code2013ato the scannable code reader2000 (seeFIGS. 10-14). Instep212, thescannable code reader2000 recognizes the user'sscannable code2013aand the ASC System database1000 (seeFIG. 1) can transmit a correspondingscannable code2013bto thescannable code reader2000.Scannable code2013bis an activation scannable code that is unique to the specific user's account. Instep216, thescannable code reader2000 displays thescannable code2013b. Instep218, the user scans thescannable code2013bdisplayed on thescannable code reader2000 using the ASC application on the user'sdevice2100. The user can scan thescannable code2013bby utilizing the user'sdevice camera2102. Instep220, the ASC application reads and recognizes the activationscannable code2013bin order to unlockscannable code2013c.Scannable code2013cis the user's unique digital payment scannable code. Instep222, the ASC application displays thescannable code2013c. Instep224, thescannable code reader2000 scans, reads, recognizes, and accepts thescannable code2013c. Instep226, the cashier completes the transaction and the user receives a physical or digital receipt, and the user retailpurchase transaction process200 is completed.

Referring toFIG. 3, the flowchart diagram depicts the payer initiated consumer-to-consumermoney transfer process300. Instep302, the payer can launch the ASC application on the user'sdevice2100 and can elect to make a payment instep304. Instep306, the payer can enter the dollar amount to be paid. Instep308, the ASC system generates ascannable code2013awhich can then transmitted to the payer's device and, instep310, thescannable code2013acan be displayed on the payer's device display. Instep312, the payee can launch the ASC application, and, instep314, may elect to scan the payment and the payee's device camera can be activated. Instep316, the payee scans thescannable code2013aon the payer's device display, and, instep318, the ASC system transfers the funds from the payer to the payee. Instep320, the payee's device may display a message confirming the transfer of funds. Lastly instep322 the payer's device may also display a message confirming the transfer of funds.

Referring toFIG. 4, the flowchart diagram depicts the payee initiated consumer-to-consumermoney transfer process400. Instep402, the payee launches the ASC application, and the payee may elect to receive a payment instep404. Instep406, the payee enters the dollar amount to be received. Instep408, the ASC system generates ascannable code2013a, which can then be transmitted to the payee's device and, instep410, thescannable code2013acan be displayed on the payee's device display. Instep412, the payer may launch the ASC application, and, instep414, may elect to scan the payment, and the payer's device camera can be activated. Instep416, the payer scans the payee's device display, and, instep418, the ASC system transfers funds from the payer to the payee. Instep420, the payee's device may display a message confirming the transfer of funds. Lastly instep422, the payer's device may also display a message confirming the transfer of funds.

Referring toFIG. 5, the flowchart diagram depicts the payer initiated consumer-to-consumermobile transfer process500. The payer launches the ASC application instep502, and the payer can elect to make a payment instep504. The payer enters the dollar amount to be paid instep506. The ASC system generates ascannable code2013ainstep508, which can then be transmitted to the payer's device and thescannable code2013acan be displayed on the payer's device display instep510. The payer may elect to send thescannable code2013avia text or email instep512. Instep514, the payer may select the payee from contacts, or directly input other payee specific data like a mobile number or email address. Instep516, the payee may receive and select a link provided in a message, for example a text or email message, which may launch the ASC application instep516. The payment details may be displayed on the payee's device and the payee may accept or reject the payment instep518. If the payee accepts the payment instep520, the ASC System can transfer funds from the payer's account to payee's account instep522. Once the funds have been transferred, a message confirming the successful transfer of funds may be sent to both parties, for example, being displayed on the payee's device instep524, and the payer's device instep526.

Referring toFIG. 6, the flowchart diagram depicts the payee initiated consumer-to-consumermobile transfer process600. The payee launches the ASC application instep602, and the payer can elect to receive a payment instep604. The payee enters the dollar amount to be paid instep606. The ASC system generates ascannable code2013ainstep608, which can then be transmitted to the payee's device and thescannable code2013acan be displayed on payee's device's display instep610. The payee may then elect to send thescannable code2013avia text or email instep612. Instep614, the payee selects the payer from contacts, or directly inputs mobile number or email address of payer. Instep616, the payer receives and clicks the link provided in a text or email message. Instep618, the payment details can be displayed on the payer's device display and the payer can elect to accept or reject the payment. If the payee accepts the payment instep620, the ASC system can transfers funds from the payer's account to payee's account instep622. Once the funds have been transferred, a message confirming the successful transfer of funds can be displayed on the payee's device display instep624, and the payer's device display instep626.

The ASC system transaction processes facilitate financial transactions that: are more convenient than cash, have more potential benefits and opportunities for data gathering than credit cards, more secure than both cash and credit cards, and more smart devices in use today are capable of running the ASC application than Near-Field Communication (NFC) based transactions. The ASC system and smart device application enable the exchange or transfer of funds between friends, family, strangers, and businesses and customers without disclosing the user's sensitive personal credit card or account information. Additionally, these transactions may be conducted in a physical face-to-face situation, or over long distances via a cellular or wireless network. Because of the unique methodology of the ASC system, even if someone were to take a screenshot of a user's payment code, it would not satisfy the authentication process and the original user's payment and account information is protected. Even in a situation where a user's smart device is stolen, without the original user's ASC system passcode, or fingerprint authentication, the user's payment and account information is safe within the ASC system application; unlike other items such as cash or credit cards that can also be stolen.

Referring toFIG. 7, which illustrates theprocess700 through which users may list previously purchased tickets for sale on the ASC system, venue, or event website. Instep702, the user can access their ASC account via computer or other device, and instep704 the user may select the previously purchased tickets which they have since decided to sell. Instep706, the user can select to dispose of tickets by way of an auction format, or the user may input a set price. Once the ASC system database1000 (seeFIG. 1) receives the user's input, the user's tickets may be published on the ASC website as available for purchase, as illustrated instep708.

Referring toFIG. 8, a diagram depicts theprocess800 through which one user may engage another user using the social media integration capabilities of the ASC system database1000 (seeFIG. 1). Instep802, the user's social media data is captured and stored inASC system database1000 upon the user completing the new user account process. Instep804, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media networks may be integrated with the user account. Instep806, upon user's purchase of tickets, a posting may be made to their social media page and, instep808, the user's friends and social network contacts may see the posting as well as a message that informs the user's friends whether there are seats still available next to the user. Instep810, other ASC system users who are friends with the ticket holder through social media may click on a posting to see available tickets, and purchase any amount of tickets as needed through ticket purchase process1600 (seeFIG. 16).

Referring toFIG. 9, a system integration diagram900 illustrates how a user can progress and complete various processes. For example, user may select the useraccount creation process100,ticket search process1500,ticket purchase process1600, engageticket holder process1700,ticket redemption process1900, sale of tickets byconsumer process700, or socialmedia integration process800. After the user selects one of the processes, the information and data can be captured in the ASC system database1000 (seeFIG. 1). Instep902, TheASC system database1000 may perform a data tracking process to track and gather, among others, user profile/demographic information and purchasing/selling habits and patterns. Instep906, the user's data captured in theASC System database1000 may then be analyzed and provided to clients, venues, event websites, and the like, in order to refine marketing strategies.

Referring toFIGS. 10-14, one embodiment of ascannable code reader2000 is illustrated. In a preferred embodiment, thescannable code reader2000 is encased in ahard shell2001. In one embodiment, thescannable code reader2000 may have front face dimensions of seven inches in height by four inches in width. In a preferred embodiment, thescannable code reader2000 has adisplay screen2002 configured for displaying thescannable code2013b(seeFIG. 20). In some embodiments, thedisplay screen2002 is covered by a protective piece that is made out of atranslucent plate2012. In other embodiments, the display screen2002 (seeFIG. 13) may be oriented such that the face of thescannable code reader2000 slopes back at an angle to facilitate specific needs of the embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 11, which illustrates a side view of one embodiment of ascannable code reader2000.FIG. 11 shows the slope of one possible embodiment. The slope may vary in other embodiments in order to facilitate specific needs of the embodiment. In one embodiment, the dimension of thehard shell2001 may be five and one half inches in length. This dimension may vary in other embodiments.

Referring toFIG. 12, which illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of ascannable code reader2000. In one embodiment, thehard shell2001 has anupper communication port2003 andlower communication port2004. The two communication ports may aid in the transfer of data to and from thescannable code reader2000 in order to facilitate a user's desired applications. In one embodiment, apower cable2005 may be used to provide the necessary power to thescannable code reader2000.

Referring toFIG. 13, which illustrates a side view of the inside of an example embodiment of ascannable code reader2000. In this example embodiment, the hard shell includes aclear plate2012. In some embodiments theclear plate2012 may be tempered glass. The example embodiment has anupper communication port2003 andlower communication port2004. The example embodiment includes awireless network adapter2008 capable of connecting a device to an available wireless network. The

communication ports

2003 and2004 may aid in the transfer of data to and from the scannable code reader in order to facilitate a user's desired applications. The example embodiment uses apower cable2005 connected to a power supply to provide the necessary power to thescannable code reader2000. A display screen2006, capable of displaying scannable codes, facilitates the communication to a user device from thescannable code reader2000. Anupper camera2007aand alower camera2007bare capable of reading, scanning, or otherwise interpreting a scannable code displayed on the user's device. The software and coding needed to operate the scannable code reader may be stored in thecircuit board2011 of the example embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 14, which illustrates a back view of the inside of an example embodiment of ascannable code reader2000. In this example embodiment, thehard shell2001 includes aclear plate2012. In some embodiments theclear plate2012 may be tempered glass. The example embodiment has anupper communication port2003 andlower communication port2004. The example embodiment includes awireless network adapter2008 capable of connecting a device to an available wireless network. The communication ports may aid in the transfer of data to and from the scannable code reader in order to facilitate a user's desired applications. The example embodiment uses apower cable2005 connected to a power supply to provide the necessary power to the scannable code reader. Adisplay screen2002, capable of displaying scannable codes, facilitates the communication to a user device from the scannable code reader. Anupper camera2007aandlower camera2007bare capable of reading, scanning, or otherwise interpreting a scannable code displayed on a device facilitates the communication from a user device to thescannable code reader2000. The software and coding needed to operate the scannable code reader may be stored in thecircuit board2011 of the example embodiment.

Referring toFIG. 15, a newticket search process1500 is illustrated. Instep1502 the user may search the ASC website via computer, or the ASC application via mobile device, for events by, for example, specific name, date, location, or category. Instep1504, the user may select the desired event or ticket, which they intend to purchase. Instep1506, the user can see any tickets available for sale through venue or agent, as well as tickets for sale by other users.Step1508 facilitates the integration of the user's social network information with the ASC system database1000 (seeFIG. 1), andstep1510 displays an available map of a venue and available seats or tickets indicating where the user's friends, based on the social network connections and relationships, are located. In some embodiments,step1512 may sort the available tickets, for example, by: price, location, quantity, proximity to friends, direct purchase from venue or ASC website or application, or purchase from other user. Instep1514, once the user has identified the seats or tickets the user intends to purchase, the user may select the desired tickets. Instep1516, the user determines if the tickets are listed for sale by the venue, ASC application, or other users, or if the user will instead engage another user. If the tickets are listed for sale by the venue, ASC application, or other users, the purchaser may proceed to theticket purchasing process1600. However, if the user would like to propose an offer to another ticket holder, who happens to be sitting next to or near the purchaser's friends, the user may proceed to the engageticket holder process1700 via the ASC system database1000 (seeFIG. 1).

Referring toFIG. 16, theticket purchasing process1600 is illustrated. Instep1602, the user may enter their credit card and/or banking information, if not previously done during the useraccount creation process100. Instep1604, the user can make the selection as to whether the purchased tickets will be for themselves, for others as guests, or for someone else as a gift. Instep1606, the user can elect that the tickets will be redeemed by the user or by another as a gift. If the user elects, instep1606, that the user will be redeeming the tickets, the user may elect, instep1608, that the user will be attending the event alone, or as part of a group. If the user elects that he or she will be attending the event alone instep1608, the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information instep1620. Thereafter, instep1622, the ticket data is downloaded from theASC system database1000 to the user's device before the user begins the ticket parameters process1800 (seeFIG. 18). If the user elects instep1608 that he or she will attend the event as a part of a group, the user may elect if the group will enter the venue together or if the group will enter the venue separately and meet at the seats instep1610. If the user elects that the group will enter the event together instep1610, the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information instep1620. Thereafter, instep1622, the ticket data is downloaded from theASC system database1000 to the user's device before the user begins theticket parameters process1800. If the user elects that the group will enter the event separately instep1610 the user may enter the username, e-mail, and/or mobile number for the other guests instep1612, before the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information instep1620. Thereafter, instep1622, the ticket data is downloaded from theASC system database1000 to the user's device before the user begins theticket parameters process1800. On the other hand, if the user elects instep1606 that the tickets will be redeemed by others as a gift, the user may enter, instep1614, for example, the recipient's username, e-mail, or mobile number in order to transfer the tickets. Instep1616, the user may elect to transfer the tickets immediately, or at a later specified date. If the user elects instep1616 to transfer the tickets immediately, the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information instep1620. Thereafter, instep1622, the ticket data is downloaded from theASC System database1000 to the user's friend's device before the user begins theticket parameters process1800. If the user elects instep1616 to transfer the tickets at a later specified date, the user may enter the specific date when transfer should occur instep1618, before the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information instep1620. Thereafter, instep1622, the ticket data is downloaded from theASC system database1000 to the user's friend's device before the user begins theticket parameters process1800.

Referring toFIG. 17, after the user has selected tickets or seats near the user's friends that have already been purchased by another ticket holder, the user may proceed to the engageticket holder process1700 to propose an offer to purchase their tickets. If the ticket holder has not previously provided a minimum price the user may enter payment information and submit an offer to the ticket holder as a prospective purchaser instep1708. On the other hand, if the ticket holder has set a minimum price and the ticket holder has made the minimum price viewable to prospective purchasers, the user may enter payment information and submit offer to ticket holder instep1706. However, if the ticket holder has set a minimum price, and the ticket holder has not made the minimum price viewable to prospective purchasers, the user may submit a blind bid, or offer, to the ticket holder for the tickets instep1710. Instep1712, if the user's bid does not meet or exceed the ticket holder's minimum amount, the user may increase their offer price and re-submit their offer to the ticket holder instep1714. If the user's bid does meet or exceed the ticket holder's minimum amount instep1712, the user's proposal will proceed to the ticket holder through the ASC system database1000 (seeFIG. 1). Once the user's proposed offer has met or exceeded the ticket holder's minimum price requirements, theASC system database1000 will generate a notification to the ticket holder instep1716, notifying them of the proposed offer to purchase the tickets. After the ticket holder receives the notification instep1718, and reviewing the user's offer, the ticket holder may reject the offer instep1720, and the user may begin a newticket search process1500. Alternatively, the ticket holder may receive the notification instep1718 and accept the user's offer instep1720 at which point theASC system database1000 may transfer the ticket or tickets from the ticket holder's account to the user's account instep1724, and transfer the funds to the ticket holder's account.

Referring toFIG. 18, once the user has completed theticket purchase process1600, the user may begin theticket parameters process1800. Instep1802, the user may set parameters under which the user would consider selling their tickets. Instep1804, if the user selects that they are not open to receiving offers, regardless of a prospective purchaser's proposed offer, no further action is necessary and the transaction is terminated instep1814. However, instep1804, if the user is open to receiving potential offers, they may then specify whether there is a minimum price the user is willing to accept for their tickets instep1806. If the user selects that there is no minimum price instep1806, no further action is necessary and the transaction is terminated instep1814. If the user selects that a minimum price is required instep1806, the user should input the minimum amount required for them to consider selling their tickets instep1808. Once the user has input the minimum amount instep1808, the user may then select whether the minimum amount is made visible to prospective purchasers, or remains hidden instep1810. If the user selects to have the minimum amount made public instep1810, the minimum amount may be visible to other users who engage ticket holder through the ASC system instep1812.

Referring toFIG. 20, in this example embodiment a user'sdevice2100 may be oriented such thatscannable code2013afaces thescannable code reader2000. Thescannable code2013ais a unique user account scannable code that is assigned to the user when initially setting up an account. Thescannable code2013amay be read by the

camera

2007aor2007bof thescannable code reader2000. In one embodiment, the user simply lays thedevice2100 face down on theclear plate2012 of thescannable code reader2000. Theclear plate2012 is configured to protect the scannable code reader'sdisplay screen2002 which may display thescannable code2013b.Scannable code2013bis an activation QR code that is created in response to reading thescannable code2013a. Thescannable code2013bcan be a unique activation scannable code corresponding to specific ticket within the user's account specifically associated to theuser device2100. Thescannable code2013bcan be read by thecamera2102 on the user'sdevice2100 and analyzed by the application. Upon analyzingscannable code2013b, the user'sdevice2100 can in turn unlock and display ascannable code2013c. Thescannable code2013cis the user's digital ticket scannable code. Thescannable code2013cis read by a camera (such as2007aor2007b) of thescannable code reader2000 and is affirmed (or possibly rejected) allowing entry of the user to the venue.

The embodiments of the authenticated QR code system and method include ascannable code reader2000 that is configured to both scan and read QR codes, as well as thedisplay screen2002 to display QR codes, and the process, enabled through software, to authenticate QR codes. As described further above, the system can require the user/consumer to create a user account via a company website or Authenticated QR Code System smartphone application, at which point, the user is assigned a unique customer account QR code. The user account can utilize digital certificates in order to associate user accounts with the specific user device (such as a smartphone, for example) or alternatively, can recognize the unique IP address assigned to users electronic device. When a user purchases a ticket, or other digital item, through their device, data of the digital ticket or transaction is immediately downloaded to the user's device, stored in the software program coding, unable to be viewed directly by the user. In order to redeem the digital ticket or transaction, the user utilizes the Authenticated QR Code System smartphone application. Upon entering a venue for which the user has purchased a digital ticket or transaction, the user can select the appropriate digital ticket or item in the Authenticated QR Code System smartphone application and the user's unique account QR code is displayed on the smartphone to be read by thescannable code reader2000, and thecamera2102 on thedevice2100 is activated. Once the Authenticated QR Code Scanner reads the user's unique account QR code, the system identifies the specific account associated with the account QR code and in turn displays an activation QR code, specific and unique to the user's account and ticket, to be read by the smartphone application. The smartphone application detects the activation QR code, which unlocks the digital ticket QR code and is displayed on the screen of the smartphone to be read by thescannable code reader2000. Thescannable code reader2000 recognizes the ticket QR code as a valid and authenticated digital ticket and the user is admitted to the event or venue. Because the actual digital ticket is downloaded to the user smartphone upon purchase, the Authenticated QR Code smartphone application can function as necessary at the ticketing window, gate, venue, etc., regardless of whether a cellular or WiFi network is available. If a user attempted to take a screenshot, picture, or copy of their unique account QR code and send it to another individual to use, it would be a static image, incapable of interacting with thescannable code reader2000, and would be rejected. Providing added security, is the fact that the user is unable to access, view, or transmit the actual ticket QR code until the smartphone application receives the activation QR code provided by thescannable code reader2000.

The ticket authentication system and method described herein provides significant advantages over conventional ticketing systems and methods. For example, the ticket authentication systems and methods disclosed herein enable live entertainment venues, such as a sports stadiums, concerts, live theatre, etc. to regulate and monitor secondary market transactions of tickets that occur subsequent to the original ticket purchase from the venue or licensed agent. The ticket authentication systems and methods can insure that the spectator whom purchases the original ticket from the venue or ticketing agency is the same one that redeems the ticket upon entrance to the event, allowing the venue and spectator to capture the full value of the ticket. Further, because the actual digital ticket is downloaded to the customer smartphone upon purchase, the application on the smartphone can function as necessary at the ticketing gate regardless of whether a cellular or WiFi signal is available. If a customer was to attempt to take a screenshot or picture of their unique account CR code and sent it to someone else for their use, then it would be a static image incapable of interacting with thescannable code reader2000, and would be rejected. Security is provided by the prevention of the user from accessing, viewing, or transmitting the actual ticket QR code until it receives the activation QR code provided by thescannable code reader2000 at the point of entry into the venue. Further benefits include: 1) enabling the monitoring and tracking of a ticket through the life of the ticket; 2) preventing the unauthorized transfer or sale of tickets without the knowledge or approval of the original ticket seller; 3) enabling the easy transfer or sale of surplus tickets among customers, within the terms and conditions specified by the venue; and 4) allowing the transaction to take place without requiring the user to have cellular or WiFi signal on the user's device.

Referring now also toFIG. 21, acomputer system2101 is schematically illustrated.Computer system2101 can be configured for performing one or more functions with regard to the operation of the systems and methods further disclosed herein. Further, any processing and analysis can be partly or fully performed bycomputer system2101.

Thesystem2101 can include an input/output (I/O)interface2103, ananalysis engine2105, and adatabase2107. Alternative embodiments can combine or distribute the input/output (I/O)interface2103,analysis engine2105, anddatabase2107, as desired. Embodiments of thesystem2101 can include one or more computers that include one or more processors and memories configured for performing tasks described herein. This can include, for example, a computer having a central processing unit (CPU) and non-volatile memory that stores software instructions for instructing the CPU to perform at least some of the tasks described herein. This can also include, for example, two or more computers that are in communication via a computer network, where one or more of the computers include a CPU and non-volatile memory, and one or more of the computer's non-volatile memory stores software instructions for instructing any of the CPU(s) to perform any of the tasks described herein. Thus, while the exemplary embodiment is described in terms of a discrete machine, it should be appreciated that this description is non-limiting, and that the present description applies equally to numerous other arrangements involving one or more machines performing tasks distributed in any way among the one or more machines. It should also be appreciated that such machines need not be dedicated to performing tasks described herein, but instead can be multi-purpose machines, for example computer workstations, that are suitable for also performing other tasks.

The I/O interface2103 can provide a communication link between external users, systems, and data sources and components of thesystem2101. The I/O interface2103 can be configured for allowing one or more users to input information to thesystem2101 via any known input device. Examples can include a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, and/or any other desired input device. The I/O interface2103 can be configured for allowing one or more users to receive information output from thesystem2101 via any known output device. Examples can include a display monitor, a printer, phone display, and/or any other desired output device. The I/O interface2103 can be configured for allowing other systems to communicate with thesystem2101. For example, the I/O interface2103 can allow one or more remote computer(s) to access information, input information, and/or remotely instruct thesystem2101 to perform one or more of the tasks described herein. The I/O interface2103 can be configured for allowing communication with one or more remote data sources. For example, the I/O interface2103 can allow one or more remote data source(s) to access information, input information, and/or remotely instruct thesystem2101 to perform one or more of the tasks described herein.

Thedatabase2107 provides persistent data storage forsystem2101. While the term “database” is primarily used, a memory or other suitable data storage arrangement may provide the functionality of thedatabase2107. In alternative embodiments, thedatabase2107 can be integral to or separate from thesystem2101 and can operate on one or more computers. Thedatabase2107 preferably provides non-volatile data storage for any information suitable to support the operation of systems and methods described herein, including various types of data discussed further herein. Theanalysis engine2105 can include various combinations of one or more processors, memories, and software components.

The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the system may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the apparatuses described herein without departing from the scope of the embodiment. The components of the system may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the system may be performed by more, fewer, or other components.

Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the claims below.

The problems discussed above should be understood as being examples of problems solved by embodiments of the invention disclosed herein and the invention should not be limited to solving the same/similar problems. The disclosed invention is broadly applicable to address a range of problems beyond those discussed herein.

While the invention has been described above with respect to a limited number of embodiments, those skilled in the art, having the benefit of this disclosure, will appreciate that other embodiments can be devised which do not depart from the scope of the invention as disclosed herein. Accordingly, the scope of the invention should be limited only by the attached claims.

Claims

What is claimed is:

1. A computing device for secure communications, comprising:

a communication interface;

a transceiver; and

a processor programmed to:

identify an action to be completed by a third computing device operably connected to the computing device via the communication interface, wherein the action is associated with data stored in the third computing device;

in response to identifying the action:

transmit an identifier, obtained from the third computing device, to a second computing device using the transceiver;

receive a second identifier from the second computing device using the transceiver;

transmit the second identifier to the third computing device via the communication interface; and

receive a confirmation of completion of the action from the third computing device via the communication interface.

2. The computing device ofclaim 1, wherein communication interface supports a first operable connection, the transceiver supports a second operable connection, and the first operable connection is separate from the second operable connection, wherein the transceiver is an optical transceiver.

3. The computing device ofclaim 2, wherein the third computing device is not operably connected via the second operable connection.

4. The computing device ofclaim 1, wherein the confirmation indicates that the second computing device has been uniquely identified by the third computing device.

5. The computing device ofclaim 1, wherein the confirmation indicates that the third computing device has verified that completion of the action is authorized by both of a first user of the computing device and a second user of the second computing device.

6. The computing device ofclaim 1, wherein the transceiver comprises:

a light transmitting portion, and

a light receiving portion.

7. The computing device ofclaim 6, wherein the light transmitting portion comprises a display adapted to display information to a user of the first computing device, wherein the light receiving portion comprises a camera.

8. The computing device ofclaim 7, wherein the identifier is transmitted using the display, wherein the second identifier is received using the camera.

9. The computing device ofclaim 1, further comprising a radio frequency transceiver, wherein the radio frequency transceiver supports the communication interface.

10. The computing device ofclaim 1, wherein the computing device does not communicate with the second computing device via the communication interface during the response to the secure communication request.

11. A method for securing communications between computing devices, comprising:

identifying an action to be completed by a third computing device of the computing devices operably connected to a first computing device of the computing devices via a communication interface, wherein the action is associated with data stored in the third computing device;

in response to identifying the action:

transmitting an identifier, obtained from the third computing device, to a second computing device of the computing devices using a transceiver;

receiving a second identifier from the second computing device using the transceiver;

transmitting the second identifier to the third computing device via the communication interface; and

receiving a confirmation of completion of the action from the third computing device via the communication interface.

12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein communication interface supports a first operable connection, the transceiver supports a second operable connection, and the first operable connection is separate from the second operable connection.

13. The computing device ofclaim 12, wherein the third computing device is not operably connected via the second operable connection.

14. The computing device ofclaim 11, wherein the confirmation indicates that the third computing device has verified that completion of the action is authorized by both of a first user of the computing device and a second user of the second computing device.

15. The computing device ofclaim 14, wherein the transceiver comprises:

a display adapted to display information to the first user, and

a camera.

16. A non-transitory computer readable medium comprising computer readable program code, which when executed by a computer processor enables the computer processor to perform a method for securing communications between computing devices, the method comprising:

in response to identifying the action:

17. The non-transitory computer readable medium ofclaim 16, wherein communication interface supports a first operable connection, the transceiver supports a second operable connection, and the first operable connection is separate from the second operable connection.

18. The non-transitory computer readable medium ofclaim 17, wherein the third computing device is not operably connected via the second operable connection.

19. The non-transitory computer readable medium ofclaim 16, wherein the confirmation indicates that the third computing device has verified that completion of the action is authorized by both of a first user of the computing device and a second user of the second computing device.

20. The non-transitory computer readable medium ofclaim 19, wherein the transceiver comprises:

a display adapted to display information to the first user, and

a camera.