IL104195A - High-speed fee transaction system - Google Patents

Description

rr nn τν jvni-pON m^u roivn HIGH SPEED FEE TRANSACTION SYSTEM 0522pkg.crd EL-31 16.12.92 HIGH-SPEED ELECTRONIC FEE TRANSACTION SYSTEM FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to electronic transaction devices, and more particularly, to an electronic transaction card which can be loaded with advance payment credits to enable cashless transactions for road tolls, street and parking lot fees.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION The prior art of electronic devices for monitoring parking intervals includes an electronic parking meter as disclosed in US Patent 4,880,097 to Speas, which uses a card having an EEPROM in which data relating to monetary units may be stored. A parking meter "reads" this data and subtracts monetary units from the card for the value of parking services provided.

A parking meter provided as a microprocessor-controlled clock for mounting on the vehicle is disclosed in US Patent 4,847,776 to Huang. A digital display provides a readout of the prepaid time interval remaining for parking, and the unit can be returned to a parking agency to reset for another time interval.

A time metering device for use as a parking card is disclosed in US Patent 4,717.815 to Tomer, and features a pre-paid disposable card containing logic circuitry for decrementing a time interval and a display for indicating a remaining time interval to a parking inspector during inspection.

An electronic credit card for use with parking services is disclosed in US Patent 4.544,834 to Newport et al . The card has an electrochromic display of a value stored thereon, and it may be used in a "point of transaction" system of payment, when used with a reader/transcriber unit for stored card information.

US Patent 4,460,965 to Trehn et al. discloses a microprocessor-based device for use in a parking system based on advance payment, for conducting cashless transactions and allocating credits for distribution via an accounting system.

US Patent 4,310,890 to Trehn et al . discloses an electronic parking meter which is used in a vehicle, and may be loaded with an advance payment amount for parking services. After use, the meter is read by a terminal and the stored information is evaluated by an accounting system which distributes payments.

Japanese patent 60-215288 to Amano et al . discloses an electronic parking card having an LCD display and magnetic recording strip for storing parking time interval information.

A parking meter for mounting inside the vehicle and using a lamp to indicate the duration of a parking period is disclosed in US Patent 4,195,471 to Verhoeven.

European Patent 0402821 discloses a portable parking meter device and an exhangeable card which stores a prepaid amount of parking time, which is debited and allocated to parking authorities in accordance with user data registered on the card.

Other devices for use in cashless transactions include an automated transaction system as disclosed in US Patent 4,802,218 to Wright et al., which employs a card for maintaining an account balance and a terminal for dispensing an article and debiting the card balance. A prepayment metering system using a card for information storage is. disclosed in US Patent 4,629,874 to Pugsley et al. A self-contained card containing transaction information which can be displayed by the card without a terminal is disclosed in US Patent 4,614,861 to Pavlov et al. A portable electronic transaction device including optical means for transmitting and receiving information from a terminal is disclosed in US Patent 4,576,621 to Dreifus. A verification system for payments associated with a portable object is disclosed in US Patent 4,501,958 to Glize et al. US Patent 4,498,00 to Decavele et al. discloses a device which enables the exchange of data between authorized bearers of credit cards and remote centralized processing machines: The vehicular traffic congestion prevalent in many large cities of the world is due in large part to the existing tollbooth system of collecting tolls from drivers, which requires a driver to stop and hand over a toll to a collection clerk, or an automated toll machine. Every weekday morning, commuters who drive into the cities are confronted with the strategic choices that twist their half-awake brains: take the toll expressway or risk delays on local streets ? If the toll road is chosen, which tollbooth lanes move the fastest ? However, the more pertinent question goes unasked and unanswered, namely, why is this multi-billion dollar toll collection activity bogged down in ancient technological history, even by comparsion to supermarket checkout systems, with their laser-read optical scanners ? Existing solutions to electronic toll collection are based on the read-only concept. A radio frequency (RF) link communicates with a transponder placed on the vehicle instrument panel. The RF beam "interrogates" the transponder, establishing vehicle identity. The reader antenna sends the signal to a central computer that searches the database and deducts the toll from the driver's account.

In this system, the toll collection agency tracks each account, requiring a large-capacity, high speed computer system which is very expensive to purchase and operate.

Another problem with this approach is that the computerized record of transactions leaves a clear audit trail of where (and possibly when) the vehicle has passed through a specfic toll plaza, and this raises concerns over the citizen's right to privacy since his movements can be easily tracked. These concerns extend to improper use of the tracking information, for example, to enforce the speed limit in a clandestine fashion, by the simple addition of time notations to a toll payment location.

The short supply of parking spaces for the enormous quantity of cars in the large cities is turning into a costly matter and parking lots are a viable business, but more efficient methods are required to control and manage them.

Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a cashless transaction system for alleviating vehicular congestion at tollbooth locations, while also serving as a parking card to simplify street and parking lot fee collection and management.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Accordingly, it is a principal object of the present invention to overcome the above-mentioned disadvantages of existing collection systems for road tolls and parking fees and provide an electronic moneycard system that enhances mobility on the highways, featuring "on-the-move" toll collection capability.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a comprehensive solution to street and parking lot fee collection and management, and increase revenues while increasing public satisfaction from improved service.

It is still another object of the invention to provide rapid. automatic, controlled fee collection services which are immune to fraud, and do not require making change.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a high-speed electronic moneycard (EMC) system for fee collection transactions, said system comprising: a user card having a microprocessor for controlling the fee collection transaction; non-volatile memory means associated with said microprocessor for storing a user credit value used in the fee collection transaction; means for loading said user credit value into said memory means; means for modifying said loaded user credit value in said memory during the fee collection transaction; and means for displaying said modified loaded user credit value . wherein said loaded user credit value modifying means comprises : a high speed electro-optical communication means for providing two-way communication with said user card; means for debiting at least a portion of said loaded user credit value, and crediting said debited portion as a supplier credit value in a portion of said memory means. said user credit value less said debited portion thereof remaining as a modified user credit value in said memory means; and means for unloading said supplier credit value from said memory means portion and crediting a supplier account.

The inventive Electronic MoneyCard (EMC) system is a toll payment system that utilizes a single in-vehicle mounted toll card. The EMC system provides an on-the-move feature whereby vehicles can drive through a toll plaza and pay the toll unimpeded by the toll collection process.

The EMC system is a new technology application that allows tolls. and other money transactions, to be paid automatically without any physical involvement of the driver. The transaction takes place via electromagnetic transmission between a reader (transaction unit) at the toll booth (in the toll road application) and toll card - the EMC card, attached to the driver's vehicle.

The EMC card allows the driver to store monetary credit on the EMC card which can later be used as credit in paying toll and parking service fees to service suppliers. Money can be stored on the EMC card by presenting the card at point-of-sale termina Is .

The EMC system integrates high level technologies in communication, computer design and miniaturization and provides a technological, turnkey solution to the toll collection process. The service supplier obtains the money automatically collected by the EMC system, without investing in equipment, or incurring toll collection operation costs, all this for a reasonable commission. In addition, the EMC provides a technological solution to the emerging trend of collecting saturation toll from drivers to discourage driving during rush hours in the cities.

The EMC card shifts the account keeping from the toll booth to the vehicle-mounted EMC card that tallies all the fee collection transac ions. With the EMC card, a toll beam at the toll collection plaza writes instructions to subtract the appropriate amount from the memory containing the money credit logged into the EMC card. This eliminates the need to enter the transaction in the database and later bill the account.

When the money balance stored in the EMC card is low, the driver can replenish it by stopping at the gas station, or tollbooth and refill the card with money at a point-of-sale terminal .

The Electronic MoneyCard system offers many benefits to toll road operators, including: 1) Drivers can pay for their toll through already existing payment mechanisms, such as credit card accounts. ' Agencies can offer new services to trucking and other commercial firms such as detailed transaction reports and fleet vehicle tracking. 2) Toll plaza throughput can be increased to reduce congestion and, in effect, plaza capacity can be increased significantly. 3) The Electronic MoneyCard system enables better utilization of collection personnel, reduces the need to handle cash at the plaza, and streamlines revenue accounting and accountab lity. 4) The Electronic MoneyCard system can monitor traffic at selected highway locations to detect prevailing speeds.

In addition to the convenience of faster, no-cash transactions for drivers, the EMC system reduces vehicle emissions and fuel consumption by cutting the waiting time in line and streamline accounting and security functions by the operating agencies. Data generated by the system can also assist in traffic management.

As it can be used as an automatic payment means for parking lot and street parking, the EMC system also has the potential to improve the flow of traffic beyond toll plazas.

In addition to its application to toll roads and parking, the EMC system can be applied as an electronic purse for general electronic payment transactions carried out by a user, such as payment for public transportation services, shopping etc.

Other features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following drawings and description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS For a better understanding of the invention Vith regard to the embodiments thereof, reference is made to the accompanying drawings, in which like numerals designate corresponding elements or sections throughout, and in which: Fig. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic payment system constructed and operated in accordance with the principles of the present invention, featuring an Electronic MoneyCard (EMC) for conducting cashless transactions for parking and tollbooth services; Fig. 2 illustrates a point-of-sale terminal for loading the EMC card memory with credit to be used by a vehicle driver in obtaining road toll and parking fee services; Fig. 3 is an inspection unit for inspecting an EMC card in time-dependent applications such as street parking,- Fig. 4 is an illustration of a tollbooth plaza featuring the electronic payment system of Fig. 1; Fig. 5 is an electronic block diagram of the EMC card of Fig. 1; Fig. 6 is a layout of an LCD display used with the EMC card of Fig. 1; Figs. 7a-b are flowcharts showing operation of the EMC card ; Fig. 8 is a flowchart showing a secret code set and check procedure for set-up of the EMC card; Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing how the EMC card is used in a street parking application; Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing how the EMC card is used at the entrance to toll roads and parking lots; Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing use of the EMC card at the exit from toll roads and parking lots; Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing a balance check routine in which the EMC card warns the user of a low card credit balance: Fig. 13 is a timing diagram illustrating the communication between the card and the card reader: Fig. 14 is a block diagram of the reader for providing communication with the EMC card; Fig. 15 is a flowchart of the communication between the card and the card reader; and Fig. 16 is a schematic block diagram of the communication links between the card and the card reader.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF A PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Referring now to Fig. 1, there is shown a block diagram of an electronic payment system 20 constructed and operated in accordance with the principles of the present invention, featuring an Electronic MoneyCard (EMC) for conducting cashless transactions involving payment of road tolls and parking fees. The EMC system is a toll payment system utilizing a single in- vehicle mounted toll card. The EMC system features on-the-move toll collection capability. enabling vehicles to drive through a toll plaza and pay tolls unimpeded by the toll collection process The EMC system 20 comprises the following elements: a. EMC - the Electronic MoneyCard (22). b. POS - Point of sale (26)- to load electronic money onto card. . TXU - Transaction Unit (28) - toll collection unit at toll booth and at parking lots. etc. d. INU - Inspection Unit (30) - to inspect the EMC during street parking . e. MCS - Management Computer System (32).

The EMC card 22, which is held by the user, carries electronic money stored in its memory with which the payments are made. The EMC card 22 includes LCD display 23 which displays the data associated with the card operation, a keypad 24 which the user uses to operate the card, and a window 25 for exterior communication. The system also includes a point-of-sale terminal 26 (POS) for loading electronic money into EMC card 22.

As illustrated in Fig. 2, the EMC card can be loaded with money at the POS unit 26, which can be located in gas stations, tollbooths, shopping centers, etc. When the card user is interested in recharging money into the card 22, he places it on a certain area 27 of POS 26. and by pressing a few machine push-buttons (the amount to be loaded, type of payment, - credit, cash, etc.) the card is loaded with electronic money, against the driver payment. With the aid of communication between card 22 and POS 26. the money loading information is transferred to card 22, and the information on card 22 (such as name, etc.) is transferred to POS 26.

While loading the electronic money onto card 22, the POS 26 extracts the balances of the in-card handled services constituting supplier accounts, and clears them for future use. This account's data enables the EMC system operator through the Management Computer System (MCS) 32 to reimburse the various service suppliers (toll road agencies, car park operators, municipal ties, etc.) in accordance with the use of card 22 made by the card user. The payments and their transfer to the service suppl ers is controlled by MCS 32.

During loading of the card with money, an updated parking zone's rate table is loaded into the card memory, with parameters relating to the rate per hour, allowable maximum and minimum parking interval, service operating hours, and free days.

A transaction unit 28 (TXU) is placed at the gate of the toll road or parking lot for collection of tolls and parking fees, respectively. The operations of the EMC card 22 are performed through use of the TXU. Payment information (amount of payment, receipt of payment and other necessary data) are transmitted to the card when the vehicle goes through the gate, via secure 2-way coded communica ion. This information is interpreted by the card which performs the money debit from the card balance.

Fig. 3 shows a portable inspection unit 30 (INU) which enables a parking inspector to inspect the EMC 22 transaction during street parking and check proper card use. With the assistance of this portable unit, communication can be made with the card 22 to check if the parking parameters suit the parking regulations. The INU 30 can validate the reading of the LCD display that indicates card operation during use of time-dependent services. It can also write data into the card for control and monitoring purposes.

All the peripherals - TXU 28. INU 30 and POS 26 are connected to the MCS 32 by modem and regular phone lines. The TXU 28 passes the debit information for the last shift as determined by the system. and demands the payments it has collected. The INU 30 passes the inspection information and parking tickets it has issued. The POS 26 passes information on the money loading into the card. and the information on monies owed to suppliers. and name data from cards that were reloaded. The MCS 32. in return. passes various functional parameters to , the peripheral units (blacklist of cards - stolen or lost) different rates, etc.

The Electronic Moneycard system is a new application of technology enabling tolls. parking fees and other monetary transactions to be conducted and paid automatically without any physical involvement of the driver. For example. as described further herein with reference to Fig. 4. in a toll road application. the transaction takes place via electromedical transmission between a reader. the transaction unit (TXU 2Θ) at the tollbooth 34. and the toll card (EMC card 22) attached to the driver's vehicle.

In use, EMC card 22 is loaded with electronic money via point-of-sale terminal POS 26 (Fig. 2). and the user makes payment to a service supplier by presenting card 22 to a TXU 2Θ . Λη Infra-Red beam generated by TXU 28 writes instructions to EMC card 22 to debit the appropriate amount from the money credit logged into card 22.

The money balance displayed on the LCD display 23 of card 22 is reduced by the transaction amount. The service supplier account in the EMC card 22 is credited with the same amount. The card internal microcomputer performs the account keeping of the agencies and. service suppliers.

! The amount of the transaction is stored in the TXU 28. but without any identification data. This is done to control and audit the accumulated money collected by the TXU 28. so that it can be claimed by the service suppliers.

As shown in Fig. 4. upon entrance to the toll road, the gate number (tollbooth 34) and agency is written into the EMC card 22 via a communication link 35 established by a transmitter 33. On exit from the toll road. the TXU 28 reads the entrance gate number from the EMC card 22. calculates the amount of the toll and writes instructions to the card to subtract the calculated amount from the EMC card 22 balance. No card identification is required.

During the communica ion between the EMC card 22 and the TXU 28. an encoded encrypted bidirectional communication is executed. A three layer protection/encryption scheme is utilized according to standard money transaction procedures and algorithms.

A unique very fast communication protocol is implemented to establish a reliable communication link 35 between the EMC card 22 and the TXU 28. POS 26 or INU 30. at distances from contact to 10 meters, and at relative speeds of 150 kmh. This enables on-the-move transactions at tollbooth plazas 34.

Fig. 5 describes the general block diagram of the EMC card 22. The main component of the card is the CPU 36 - a central microcomputer that controls and supervises the function of card 22 and controls all its systems. The CPU 36 is an 8-bit CPU which was chosen since it is a common and inexpensive type, such as Intel 8051 or Motorola 6Θ05. 104195/2 The CPU 36 manages the communications protocol between card 22 and the auxiliary system. The communication itself is channeled through tYie I/O port 37. The communication is electro-optical in the infra-red band (see Figs. .14-16). The advantages of working in infra-red are: a) communication immune to interference b) high reliablity level of communication and c) low cost. The communication between EMC card 22 and the auxiliary systems is half-duplex.

The EMC card 22 contains a real-time clock such as Dullas DS 1202, and a calendar 38. The card 22 is automatically updated and set when the money is reloaded into the card and does not require any such updating by the user. A separate battery having a minimum 10-year life powers the clock. With the aid of this clock, it is possible to establish time-dependent rates (such as for street parking) which are dependent on time of day, date, etc.

A non-volatile memory unit 39 on card 22, such as Xicor 24XC16 contains information on money stored in the card 22, a tariff schedule for time-dependent services, and history of the usage of the card 22 (service supplier accounts and amounts to be paid to them) .

A lithium battery 40 powers the electronic components of the card. The card is designed so that a small battery can feed it in regular use for 3 years without need of replacement. Keypad 24 comprises four buttons, with which the user can perform all card 22 functions.

The custom-designed LCD display 23 displays various information to the user about card 22 function. A sound beeper 42 is provided and is activated by the microcomputer whenever it is necessary to give the driver an indication of a correct or incorrect action. The beeper has several sounds for different indications (confirmation, warning of low credit balance, etc.).

Fig. 6 illustrates the LCD display 23. The display has four display areas: a) display area n containing four large digits and the displays B and Z (B=Balance, Z=Zone) which display the balance of the card, or the chosen zone number for time-dependent use (parking zone) . The B or Z displays are lit in accordance with the number shown on n .

The LCD display 23 is activated in the ZON mode when the card is used in t me-dependent applications, and displays the number of the zone. This is done so that the parking inspector can easily check whether the card is properly used. The inspector can also operate the INU 30 and read the internal parameters of the card operation and confirm these with the card LCD display. b) display area a containing three digits and a point pi, and the letters F (fixed rate), $, and h (hourly rate). This part of the display also presents the toll rate - the value of the transaction in traveling on the toll road, or the hourly rate of the time-dependent service. c) ON - is lit when the card is on. d) display area d containing two digits and a point p2, and the displays R, M and H. This part of the LCD display 23 presents the length of the permitted interval of the time-related service.

These displays are also used for additional parameters, display of data etc. connected with the function of the card.

Figs. 7a-b are flowcharts of the EMC card operation. In Fig. 7a, the operation begins in block 50 by pressing the ON key on keypad 24. When pressed. a self-test (built-in test) and a battery status test are inititated in block group 52. If the voltage of the batteries is lower than 5.4 volts (block 51), a further test is made in block 53 to check if the voltage is lower than 4.4 volts, and if this test is FALSE, in area d of display 23 the letters L/b appear for two seconds, indicating low battery level, and a beep is sounded. If the test is TRUE, the card goes into an End mode - total shutdown. If the test shows that the card is operating properly, the n area of display 23 will present the balance on the card in block 54. The rest of the display remains blank. As long as the ON key is pressed in block 50, the balance will be displayed.

When the ON key is released in block 56, the CPU 36 checks in block 58 whether the date is a free day (weekend) or a pay day for parking. If the day is a free day, area n of display 23 will present d-Of (day off) for six seconds, a beep will sound, and the card will turn itself off in block group 59. If the day is a pay day, the balance will be checked in block 60. If the balance is not greater than zero, a beep will be heard and the card will turn itself off in block group 62.

If the balance is positive, block group 64 will check if the displayed parking zone is on the list providirig a discount to the card user. If the zone is within the discount list stored in the card, then P will get the value 1 - RDC/100, in which RDC is the discount percentage. If the zone is not included on the list, then P = 1. After P is calculated, the rate for the zone is determined in block 65 as TRF = TRF x P, that is, the zone rate multiplied by P. Area n of display 23 will display in all three display areas, the zone (Zon) , the rate (TRF) and maximum allowable time (DUR) (block 66). The user can change the zone by pressing the DOW /UP key, in blocks 68 or 70.

The operational sequence after pressing the DOWN key is similar to that for pressing the UP key. When pressed in block 68, the zone number is decreased in block 72 by one unit, (Zon = Zon - 1). As regards the new zone, the rate is checked in block 74 to see if it exceeds 0 (TRF > 0) . The significance of the test is to determine if the zone is included in the list of zones of the specific EMC card. If TRF > 0 is FALSE, the operation returns to block 72 and the zone number is decreased. If the test is TRUE, the new zone number is checked in block 75, and then in block group 76, to see if it is included in the discount list, similar to the test in block group 64, and 65-66.

If the DOWN key is pressed longer than 3 seconds, the operation returns to block 72 every 0.05 seconds. If it is pressed within the range of 3 seconds, the change in zone number occurs every 0.5 seconds. When the DOWN key is released (block 78), a 6 second delay occurs, display 23 shows the zone, rate and duration (as per block group 76), and another check commences in block 80 (Fig. 7b) to see if it is required to set the secret code in street parking. If the specific EMC card 22 requires a secret code (if so chosen when card was issued), it is necessary to initiate the procedure (block 82) for entering a secret code, after which the card will enter the park mode (block group 84).

In block 86, a check is made to see if within 6 seconds after release of the DOWN key (block 78), the OFF key is pressed (block 88 - Fig. 7b). If so, the card will check the necessity for a secret code in use of toll roads and parking lots (block 90). If no such requirement exists, the card will sound a beep, go to END, and be ready to execute a payment as necessary.

If the block 90 test for the necessity of a secret code in a toll road or parking lot is TRUE, when the OFF button is released in block 92, the card will enter the procedure for entering a secret code in block 94. After the secret code is entered, the TR/CP - SC parameter is set to 1 in block 96 (thus indicating a TRUE condition for the necessity of a secret code in a toll road or parking lot). At this point, in block 98 the display 23 will show the balance in area n, in area a the letters S-C (secret code) will appear and in area d OH appears (OK indication) , and in block 100 the card is ready to perform a payment at the entrance to a toll road or parking lot. Within the next 6 minutes the parameter TR/CP - SC = 1 and thus the card will execute the toll transaction in this 6 minute time window.

If during this period the ON key is pressed, . the time window of 6 minutes will start with the new pressing of the key in block group 102. Before the time window is over, the display blinks for 6 seconds to warn the user to press the ON key and lengthen the time window for an additional 6 minutes' If the ON key is not pressed, the TR/CP-SC parameter is determined as zero, a beep is sounded and the card goes to END in block group 104.

Fig. 8 shows a flowchart for establishing and checking the 3-digit secret code. The procedure begins in block 106, which requires entry of the secret code. In block group 108, the user is prompted by display 23 to enter the secret code. In area a of display 23. the letters S-C (secret code) appear and in area n the first number is blank, the second number presents a.blinking zero (0) and the third and fourth number present a dash. The secret code entry procedure begins with setting of the parameter i to a zero value in block 110. If block 112 determines that nothing happens within the next 6 seconds, a card beep is sounded and the card goes to END (self shut-off) in block 114.

If, however, within 6 seconds the DOWN or UP key are pressed in either of blocks 116 or 118, the first number of the secret code is determined. The second number of the display decreases one unit in block 120. If the DOWN key is released, the change in the second number begins. If the DOWN key remains pressed, the numbers on display 23 change quickly in block group 122, increasing the speed of number selection. If the key remains pressed more than 2 seconds, the numbers change every 0.1 seconds. If the key was pressed less than 2 seconds, the numbers change at a rate of 0.5 seconds.

A similar procedure occurs upon pressing the UP key, but the numbers increase. If the UP/DOWN key is released, the second digit of the personal code is entered. After release, if the key is pressed within a period of 6 seconds as determined in block 124, the number ceases to blink in block 126. If the user delays for a period longer than 6 seconds, the procedure stops in block group 128. With the release of the ON key in block 130, a check is made in block 132 to see if the digit fits the secret code. If the digit does not coincide, the card is blocked from use in block group 134.

If the digit coincides with the secret code, a confirmation beep is sounded in block 136 and the procedure begins with the next digit. If during setup of the first digit. i=0, then when block 138 checks for the placement of the digit, the operation moves to block 140. In this case, the second digit of the n area of display 23 shows the first digit of the personal code (SO, the third digit of n shows a blinking zero, and the fourth digit shows a dash. In block 142, the index is raised by 1 (i=l) and the operation moves to block 144, and then to block 146 (top of flowchart) to setup the second digit of the secret code. If, in block 138, i=l (second digit of the secret code completed), the index is raised by one (i=2) , area n shows the first and second digits of the secret code, and the third digit blinks zero, and through block 144, the third digit is entered.

If. in block 138. i=2, (third and last digit of the secret code completed) . area n shows the three digits of the secret code (n2 = SCI, n3 = SC2, and n4 = SC3) , three beeps are sounded indicating that setup of the secret code is completed. The card inner parameter SCOK (secret code OK) is raised to one, and in block group 147, area d displays OH, indicating OK.

Fig. 9 describes the procedure of street parking when the EMC card 22 is used as a vehicle-mounted parking meter. On start of parking, the driver sets the number of the city or the parking zone on the card using the up/down keys. On pressing the card ON key, an internal timer deducts each predetermined parking interval from the card money balance, dependent on the parking rate, and credits the parking zone account in the card.

The street parking procedure begins in block 148 which is the PARK state. The procedure of debiting the card for street parking begins as described in the flowchart of Fig. 7a-b.

Before the debiting begins, the current time is checked in block 150 to determine whether the parking rates are in force for that specific zone. If the current time is after the period and the rate is not in force, area a of display 23 shows h - OF for a period of 6 seconds, (indicating hours off -free parking), a beep is sounded and the card turns itself off (block group 152) .

If the current time is before the end of said period, display 23 shuts itself off (BAL, TRF, DUR) in block 154. At this point, a check is performed in block 156 to determine if the current time is after the beginning of the period during which the rate is in force. If the current time is before the rate is in force, area a of display 23 shows E-a indicating early arrival. Display 23 shuts itself off except for blinking of the ON key, until the current time advances to chargeable time (block group 157) .

If block 156 determines that the current time is after the beginning of the chargeable period, the operation moves to block 158 where an inner countdown timer is set to the allowed period of time (in minutes) - DUR (duration). In block 160, the rate per time resolution is calculated by dividing the rate per hour by the number of TR units per hour (40. 20, 10 or 5 in accordance with TR units of 1.5, 3, 6. or 12 minutes). In block 162, display 23 shows ON and the number of the zone (ZON + ON -the display is in low power mode) . This low power display mode remains for the duration of the parking - to enable the parking inspector to check the card visually, and see that it is operational and that the appopriate zone is displayed.

During the parking period, current time is checked in block 164 to see if the parking period has ended. If so, the card sounds a beep and turns itself off in block group 166. Pressing the OFF key will shut the process off in similar fashion. If the parking period has not yet ended, block 168 checks the internal timer (T) . If block 168 determines that the time is up, that is the duration as set in block 158 is over, the card shuts itself off in block group 166. If block 168 determines that parking time remains, a 6 second delay ensues in block 170 after which debiting of the card occurs according to the RpTR and this amount is added in block 172 to the cumulative bill for this zone on the card. This debiting is performed in block 172 every TR minutes (block group 173), in loop fashion beginning at block 164.

Fig. 10 shows a flowchart for the EMC card operation when entering a toll road, toll booth or entering a parking lot.

This procedure begins at START block 174, which is initiated by a reader 175 (Fig. 14) placed at the entrance to the toll road, etc. In block 176, a check is performed to see if the card is in a DISABLED mode. This mode is determined in block group 194 after a payment is made, so that the card is blocked for similar activity for a 60 second interval. If the card is found to be disabled in block 176, a BEEP2 sound is heard. and the operation returns to start until block group 194 releases the disabled mode.

If block 176 determines that the ENTRANCE DISABLE mode is released, a test is performed in block 178 to see if a secret code is needed for performance of this payment. If the answer is TRUE, a check is performed in block 189 to see if a secret code was entered. If block 180 determines that a secret code was not entered (i.e., TR/CP - SC = 0 in block group 104 of Fig. 7b) - a BEEP2 is heard, display 23 shows in area a S-C and in area d there appears dl= - d2= - for a period of 6 seconds and the EMC card goes to the END in block group 182.

If the personal code was entered, that is TR/CP - SC = 1 in block group 104 of Fig. 7b, a check is performed in block 184 to see if the EMC card user is entitled to a discount at the entrance gate to the toll road, etc. If a discount is due the user, P is calculated in block 186 according to the equation P = 1 - RDC, where RDC indicates the percentage discount, and if no discount is due, than P=l is set in block 188 In block 190, the money transaction is performed. The value of the transaction as received by the card from this gate at the entrance is multiplied by P is debited from the card balance and at the same time, the identical amount (VAL) is added to the cumulative account for said gate. In addition, the transaction performed counter (TXN #) is raised by one. Information on the gate is stored in the card in block 192. a BEEPl is sounded in block 193 as confirmation of the payment, the new balance is displayed and the amount of the transaction is shown in area a of display 23. after which the parameter DISABLED ENTRANCE is displayed in block group 194 for a period of 60 seconds and the card shuts itself off.

The driver can use the EMC card to enter a parking lot. The TXU 28 is located at the entrance gate and it writes onto the vehicle-mounted EMC card the entrance data, (date, time, number of gate, etc.) Upon exiting the parking lot, the exit TXU 28 read the entrance data from the card, and deducts the parking fee it hadcalculated according to entrance data and the parking lot rate. The EMC card parking lot account is credited that amount.

Fig. 11 shows a flowchart which describes the EMC card operation upon exiting from a toll road, toll booth or a parking lot. All operations are similar to the those described in Fig. 10, except for the fact that when exiting, there is no secret code check. The operation begins in START block 196, and. after the EXIT DISABLED check in block 198, a check is performed in block 200 for a discount availability and the process continues as with the entrance procedure.

Fig. 12 shows a flowchart describing the check procedure for the balance on the card, the purpose of which is to warn the user that the balance is lower than a preset value, and that the user should recharge the card with new funds. These actions are performed regardless of the status of the EMC card operation.

Every 15 minutes the card turns itself on in block 202, and in block 204, performs a check of the remaining balance on the card vs. a set amount in the card memory (which is determined at the time of card issuance) . If the balance is greater than the set value. the card shuts itself off in block 206, waits 15 minutes in block 207, and the process begins again. If. however, the balance is smaller than the set value, in block 208 a BEEP2 sound is heard for a period of 0.5 seconds, and the card shuts itself off.

Fig. 13 shows a timing diagram of the communication between card 22 and reader 175. Each relevant portion of the diagram is numerically labeled in parentheses and described. The input signals are generated by microcomputer (214) in the reader.

All communication is initiated by the user at the START time (210). Communicat on begins with a signal called CW (212) which causes the card to turn itself on, by connecting the battery to the microcomputer (214) . In this fashion, the current flow to the card from the battery exists only after it is turned on for a short time, and therefore, a small amount of energy is drawn from the battery, extending its life to 3-5 years.

After the CW sequence, the first reader command (216) begins. The length of the CW command is such that it is sufficient for turning the card on before the CW signal is over.

When the reader Tx/Rx signal (218) is at a HIGH level, this indicates that the transmitter portion of the reader should be active (220). A similar procedure occurs on the card. When the card is in the receive mode, the Tx/Rx signal is at a LOW level (221), indicating that the receiver is active (223).

After the CW command, an A command is , transmitted by the reader. The command is received by the card, interpreted by it and the card responds to it (225) . This response is received by the reader. interpreted and a B command is transmitted from the reader to the card (226). This B command is received by the card. interpreted by it and a response is transmitted to the reader (228). and this continues until the end of the communi ati n procedure.

When the communication is over, the card will initiate a self-shut off. or alternatively. the reader transmits a shutdown command to the card (230) .

Fig. 14 is a block diagram of the reader 175». which provides the communication with EMC card 22. Reader 175 is located in TXU 28. INU 30 and POS 26. and provides communication with MCS 32. as well as providing some local processing capabilities, to assist the TXU 28. INU 30 and POS 26 operation The front end of reader 175 is a Infra-Red receiver/transmitter 232, which provides the two-way half-duplex high speed communication with EMC card 22. The data entering and exiting receiver/transmitter 232 is processed by the mi roprocessor-based controller 234. Module 234 processes the data that is to be transmitted to the EMC card 22 by inserting it into the special communication protocol and adding the encryption algorithm. The same is done with data that is received from the EMC card 22. The local memory 236 is used to store real-time data before sending it to the PC-type computer 237 and to MCS 32. It is a non-volatile memory (similar to Intel 8 MBit flashfile memory 28F008SA) that stores data even when the power is shut off The communication from controller 234 to the PC-type 27 i computer 237 is via an RS-232 standard serial communication link. RS-232 drivers 238, 240 are used to interface the two units.

The PC-type computer card 237 is used as a local interface computer between the reader 175, MCS 32 and the operator. The keyboard or controls 242 are used to operate reader 175 locally and the display indicators 244 monitor reader operation and display collected data when required. Communication between the PC-type computer 237 and MCS 32 is via a modem 246 using standard telephone lines.

Fig. 15 shows a flowchart of the communication between the PC-type computer 237 of reader 175, controller 234 and the EMC card 22. The PC-type computer 237 initiates the communication in block 250 for the purpose of reading data, transmitting data, etc. to/from EMC card 22. The i parameter is set to 1 in block 252, where i describes the number of transmittal attempts.

The initiating PC generates an RTS command (Request-To-Send) and transmits it to controller 234 (PC-CON) in block 254. The controller 234 is supposed to receive this RTS command. If in block 256 it is determined that this command has not been received, controller 234 is on hold to receive an RTS command. If the RTS command from the PC is received by controller 234, it generates the first command to the card, which is also RTS by nature, but adds to this command an unmodulated continuous wave (CW) signal, in order to activate the card in block 258. As mentioned previously, the card is normally in a waiting mode disconnected from the battery, until the CW command activates the card in block 258.

If the card receives the command Tx-CW + RTS (CON-CRD) in block 260 (the CON-CRD indicates that the communicat ion is from controller 234 to the card), the card is activated (for a second) in block 262 and receives and interprets the RTS (CON-CRD) . If the CW command is not received by the card in block 260. the card continues to wait until receipt of the command.

If block 264 determines that the RTS (CON-CRD) command is received by the card. a .Tx-CTS (CRD-CON) (Clear To Receive) command is prepared in response and transmitted to controller 234 in block 266. If the command RTS (CON-CRD) is not received by controller 234 in block 264. the card waits 0.5 seconds in block 26Θ. then shuts itself off in block 270. and waits for a new CW command .

If controller 234 receives the CTS (CRD-CON) command of the card in block 272. it resends the command CTS (CON-PC) to the PC block 274. If controller 234 does not receive the CTS (CRD- CON) command in block 272. it waits 1 second in block 276. and transmits NCD (CON-PC) to the PC (NCD - no card detected) in block 278. The PC waits for 0.5 second in block 280. increases index i by one in block 282. and tries the entire process again.

If block 284 determines that i>2. that is. three attempts have been made. the PC cuts off communication in block 286. If the CTS (CON - PC) command is received by the PC in block 288. th«? PC is ready in block 290 to send the remaining commands.

If the command is not received by the PC in block 288, another attempt at communication is made (via blocks 280, 282. 284 and 286).

The communication link between 'the reader and 29 i 104195/2 the EMC card 22 is used to convey serial encrypted data associated with the operation of the EMC system. The communication is Electro-Optical, high speed two-way. half duplex at the infra red bandwidth (0.8 - 0.95 micrometer). The modulation utilized is Manchester coding pulsed energy at the data rate, without the need of carrier frequency (which is usually AM modulated with data). This design enables achievment of very high data rates (up to 1,000,000 bits per second) with standard LEDs.

Fig. 16 shows the schematic diagram of the Electro-Optical (E-0) communication link. The link consists of a transmitting channel and receiving channel.

The transmitter portion of the E-0 link consists of an array 290 of the infrared emitting diodes (IRED) . This type of device is used advantageously due to its low cost and availability, and due to the fact that the emitting energy is low, eliminating the need for regulatory agency approval for hazardous conditions. The IRED array 290 provides the proper coverage of the traffic lane while the vehicle is moving. to insure money transactions are reliable.

The IRED array 290 is driven by an electronic driver 292, with the proper voltage and current to transmit the required IR energy. The data to be transmitted is generated by the CPU 36 of EMC card 22. The output of the CPU is serial NRZ data stream, i.e.. the data stream is processed and inserted into the communication protocol processor 294. The communication protocol provides the required encryption and synchronization signal to transmit the data.

A Manchester code encoder 296 is utilized, and provides to self-clocking operation and the best immunity^ noise . The protocol processor 294 and Manchester encoder 296 are implemented in a special ASIC (Application Special Integrated Circuit). The receiving portion of the E-0 link consists of an array 298 of infra-red photodiodes that are integrated with the preprocessing electronics .

A specially designed E-0 energy activated turn-on circuit 300 is utilized. This circuit turns on when the proper encoded data is received by EMC card 22, and sets the card electronics to process the data and perform the money transaction. When the E-0 energy is not received, the card is off, thus saving battery power.

An E-0 receiver 302 is utilized to decode the serial data stream and provides operation in the required E-0 energy dynamic range of 1:1000 (from 10 cm to 100 m) .

A Manchester code decoder 304 is used to extract the NRZ serial data from the Manchester coded data, which is then processed by the protocol processor 294, to remove the encryption format and obtain the real transmitted data. This data is used by CPU 36 to complete the money transaction between reader 175 and card 22. 104195/2 The EMC card 22 can be designed according to the following specifications, in accordance with skill of the art electronic design techniques: 1) Read/Write microprocessor control; 2) Card - Reader communication; 3) Three layers of protected/encrypted Card - Reader communication; 4) Advanced dynamic encryption algorithms in Card - Reader communication; 5) Very fast bidirectional Card - Reader communication protocol-enables executing transaction on-the-move at 150 KmH; 6) 10.000 time dependent service suppliers (cities in street parking) and 55,000 different service suppliers (parking lots, tollbooths, etc.); 7) 250 different operating agencies and 250 different EMC card issuing agencies; 8) The EMC card can operate for 3 years without battery replacement (150 hours of use per year in time-dependent applications, 10,000 toll transactions); 9) Optional secret code entry on card for service - established at card issue; 10) Several EMC cards available, with 250, 500, 1000 different zones / t me-dependent suppliers; 11) Card temperature range: -20 to + 80 deg. C.

In summary, the electronic payment system provides a comprehensive solution to electronic fee collection and system management for toll road and time-dependent services, including street parking and parking lots.

Having described the invention with regard to certain specific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that the description is not meant as a limitation since further modifications may now suggest themselves to those skilled in the art and it is intended to cover such modifications as fall within the scope of the appended claims.

Claims (22)

104195/3 CLAIMS:

1. A high-speed electronic moneycard (EMC) system for on-the-move fee collection transactions, said system comprising: a user card having a microprocessor for controlling the fee collection transaction; non-volatile memory means associated with said microprocessor for storing a user credit value used in the fee collection transaction; means for loading said user credit value into said memory means; means for modifying said loaded user credit value in said memory during the fee collection transaction; and means for displaying said modified loaded user credit value , wherein said loaded user credit value modifying means comprises: a high speed optical communication means for providing two-way communication with said user card; means for debiting at least a portion of said loaded user credit value, and crediting said debited portion as a supplier credit value in a portion of said memory means, said user credit value less said debited portion thereof remaining as a modified user credit value in said memory means; and means for unloading said supplier credit value from said memory means portion and crediting a suppl er account.

2. The system of claim 1 wherein said means for debiting comprises a real-time clock means, calendar and countdown timer means for debiting said user credit value per elapsed time unit.

3. The system of claim 2 wherein said debiting per elapsed time unit is executed in accordance with at least one parameter established by the hour, day and date.

4. The system of any of claims 1-3 further comprising an audible signal means for providing an audio indication of said user card operation.

5. The system of claim 4 wherein said audio indication is provided to insure valid card use during a fee transaction.

6. The system of claim 4 wherein said audio indication is provided to warn of a low user credit value on said user card.

7. The system of claim 4 wherein said audio indication is provided to insure valid completion of card setup procedures.

8. The system of any of claims 1-7 wherein said means for debiting is provided at a gate entrance to a toll road, for debiting said card user credit value in accordance with use of said toll road.

9. The system of any of claims 1-7 wherein said means for debiting is provided at a gate entrance tb a parking lot, for debiting said card user credit value in accordance with duration of parking interval.

10. The system of any of claims 1-9 wherein said supplier account is stored in a management computer system. for payment distribution in accordance with the fee collection transactions performed with said user card.

11. The system of any of claims 1-10 wherein said means for debiting said credit value further comprises means for storing a security code on said user card to insure its use by authorized persons.

12. The system of any of claims 1-11 wherein said means for displaying also displays information associated with vehicle parking. including at least one of user credit value balance, parking zone, tariff, and duration of parking interval.

13. The system of any of claims 1-12 wherein said means for displaying also displays transaction information associated with toll roads.

14. The system of any of claims 1-13 wherein said means for displaying also displays transaction information associated with parking lots.

15. The system of any of claims 1-14 wherein said optical communication means comprises electro-optical transmission and receiving means utilizing a pulse modulated. infra-red communication format.

16. The system of claim 15 wherein said electo-optical transmission means comprises an LED array. 104195/3

17. The system of claim 15 wherein said electo-optical receiving means comprises a photodiode array.

18. The system of claim 15 wherein said electro-optical transmission means is used to activate said user card during communicat on.

19. The system of claims 15 wherein said electro-optical link is in the infra-red (0.8-0.95 micrometer) wavelength.

20. The system of claim 15 wherein said electro-optic l link utilizes Manchester coding pulsed energy at the data rate.

21. Ά high-speed electronic moneycard (EMC) system for fee collection transactions as described herein by way of example and with reference to the drawings.

22. A method of performing high-speed fee collection transactions as described herein by way of example and with reference to the drawings.