AU2003264606A1 - Mobile commerce platform - Google Patents

Description

01/12 '03 MON 14:27 FAX 81 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO. Q004 1

AUSTRALIA

Patents Act 1990 TELEQUITY PTY LIMITED COMPLETE SPECIFICATION STANDARD PATENT Invention 2tle: Mobile commerce platform The following statement is a full description of this invention including the best method of performing it known to us:- COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:27 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC o 0 F B RICE CO.

Z005 2 Field of hventiox This invention concerns a mobile Commerce Platform wit integration into a range of static parking system and boat mooring operations.

Background of the Invention Not having enough loose change available to feed a parking meter or ticket machine is a conl frustration. often there is only enough change to provide for a limited parking time, but not enough to cover the time required. Other parking related problems include broken meters or ticket machines. This is not only problematic for the general public but parking management authorities Such as local councils also inculr significant costs in providing, servicing and emptyig the meters and ticket machines.

Currently, street parking has a range of parking payment options available, typically limited to coin based meters and ticket machines that cover multiple bays.

In some instances bank notes and credit cart are accpted in the street mounted ticket machines.

Some car Parks have a manned exit and/or entry booth. This is an expensive mode of operation but is still preferred in certain situations. Alternatively, ticket machines can be used which cater for a full range of payment including coins, notes and credit cards. These machines are both costly to purchase and maintain, they are also prone to failure due to their complexity. When these machines fail, parking attendants are required to assist people next to these machines. At peak periods, this is inefficient and leads to customer dissatisfaction.

Other alternatives are the use of smart cards or ticket machines that are "OSM Enabled". The deployment, mainteance and infrastructure costs of these alternatives are significant. To use smart cards, meters and ticket machines need modification, as well the distribution of thousands of smart cards. "GSM Enabled" ticket machines initiate the production of a parking ticket by receiving a mobile phone Call.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MION 14:28 FAX 61 2 0810 8200 PBRC o F B RICE CO.

[a1 006 3 Although eliminating the need for cash, credit card or smart card, this option is extremely expensive and does not dispense with the cost of providing expensive ticket machines and modifying them to accept GSM calls. This alternative has been trialled in Melbourne, Australia which involves the driver having to: 1. Check the meter to see if they're eligible 2. Press any key on the key pad to wake up the meter 3. Key in the bay number on the meter 4. Key in the required time ontheimeter 5. Dial the displayed number on the meter screen with a mobile phone 6. Receive confirmation of the purchase on the meter screen and from the voice on their mobile phone.

The management of oar parking is a glo'bal problem as traffic volumes increase and parking bays become a costly resource to mainage. For the parking operators, cash collection is a persistent problem and is costly. Furthermore, therm is minimal flexibility in this mode of operation for the tariff of parking bays. Another problem lies in the topping up of ticket machines. Currently, it requires people to revisit the machines before the parking time expires. This is often inconvenient and is unlikely to be done.

Although typical parking payment fees are of low value, the volumes of such transactions are huge. In Australia there are over 450,000 paid parking bays (excluding private car parks).

Summary of the Invention The Invention is a method for paying a parking fee using a mobile transmitter device of a registered user, comprising the steps of: tranismitting user identification information to a server for identifying the identity of the user, transmitting parking location information to, the server for identifying the location of a parked vehicle; transmitting payment related infformation to the server for payment of the parking fee; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user COMS IDNo: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time (Itm) 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:28 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO. [a007 4 identification information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user. Alternatively where "Off Street" parking is involved, the ingress of a registered user is permitted through authentication by windscreen mounted smartoard (RFID) or "License Plate Recognition" through static cameras. Upon egress of the parking area, the iPark user will be logged as departed and their parking credit decrenented accordingly.

Some of the benefits enjoyed by users of the present invention include convenience and security because there is no need to carry loose change or to open a handbag or wallet when standing next to a ticket machine or parking meter.

Advantageously, payment can be effected from inside the vehicle.

In a second aspect, the invention is a mobile commerce platform for payment of parking fees using a mobile transmitter device of a registered user comprising: a server to receive parking location information for identifying the location of a parked vehicle, payment related information for payment of the parking fee and user identification information for identifying the identity of the user from the mobile transmitter device; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification Information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user.

In a third aspect, the invention is a distributed parking system comprising: street signage to indicate parking location information for transmission to a server; and a mobile commerce platform for payment of parking fees using a mobile transmitter device of a registered user, the mobile commerce platform including: a server to receive the parking location information, payment related information for payment of the parking fee and user identification infbrnation for identifying the identity of the user, from the mobile transmitter device; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:28 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

Q oo8 The mobile transmitter device may be a mobile phone or a Radio Frequency Identification (RMID) card. The mobile transmitter device may be a wireless communicator device, for example, a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) phone. In the case of a mobile telephone or PDA, verification of purchase can be made by the transmission of a "Readablc barcodc which can be scanned by a local barcode reader to authenticate the transaction.

In a fourth aspect, the invention is a distributed parking system comprising: a local proximity rcer to read user identification information from a Radio io Frequency Identification (RFID) card of a registered user; and a mobile commerce platform for payment of parking fees, the mobile commerce platform including: a server to receive the user identification information, the parking location information for identifying the location of a parked vehicle, and payment related information for payment of the parking fee; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user.

The user may transmit the parking location information and payment amount to the server using an Interactive Voice Response (VR) system or data messages, for example, Short Messaging Service (SMS) text messages.

The user identification information may be entered by the user. The user identification information may be Caller Line Identity (CLI) or alphanumeric characters of a barcode. The user Identification information may also include the International Mobile Equipment Identifier (IMEI) of the users mobile phone or wireless communicator device. An advantage of using the CLI and IMEI together is that the risk of misuse is reduoed because the transmission must originate from the uses mobile phone or wireless communicator device The parking location information, payment related information and/or user identification information may be transmitted at the same time. They may be transmitted in a single transmission. They may also be encrypted to provide data security during transmission.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:29 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC O 0 F B RICE CO.

[a 009 6 The parking location information may be entered by the user. The parking location information may be a zone area code. The zone area code may be obtained from street signage or displayed near a parking bay. The zone area code may correspond to a specific paring station. The parking location information may be Global positioning System (GPS) location information or the cell location of the mobile phone or wireless communicator device at the time the vehicle is parked.

The payment related information may be entered by the user. The payment related information may be a monetary amount to be deducted from the account of the user. The payment related information may be an amount of parking time corresponding to a monetary amount The parking fee may be invoiced on the mobile phone account or standard telephone account of the user. A premium rate phone call fee may be added to the parking fee, alternatively a premium rate SMS fee may be charged. Accounts of users may be consolidated into one account to allow the total amount to be paid by their employer.

The parking fee for a specific parking area may be selectively adjusted based on pre-determined conditions, for excample, discounted fees for local residents, pensioners or people with disabilities; higher fees for peak periods.

A barcode may be provided on the vehicle to be scanned by a parking inspector for deternining whether a vehicle is validly parked. The server may transmit the remaining parking time to a mobile receiver device such as a Personal Digital Assistant (FDIA) or a mobile phone to allow a parking inspector to determine whether a vehicle is validly parked. The parking inspector may print an infingement ticket if the vehicle is not validly parked. The details of the infringemnent ticket may be sent to the server at the same time it is printed. The platform also supports an infr-ingement issuing application enabling parking officer to issue tickets for violations and record incidents on a central database.

The parking inspector may send a message to the server to be received by a registered use about the condition of their vehicle, for example, if it is damaged or the headlights have been left on.

COMS 1D No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:29 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC O ~1 F B RICE CO.

zolo 7 A reminder may be sent ftrm the server to the mobile phone of the user prior to the expiration of the parking time. An additional parking fee may be remotely payable by transmitting a message to the server. The message may be a reply to the reminder.

The server may send broadcast messages to selected registered users to inform them of certain events, for example, road works or special parking offers.

A user may request a listing of vacant parking in a specific parking area before they arrive at the parking area via their wireless conimuilcator device.

A web site may be provided to allow users to view their account and parking activity via the Internet.

A loyalty rewards scheme may be provided to reward users for shopping with certain merchants. A merchant may offer a redeemable voucher to a user. The voucher may be redeemed via the Internet or IVR and the parking fee charged to the merchant.

Some of the benefits enjoyed by parking administrators of the present invention include minfimal costs and ease of deployment, reduction of costs for maintaining and repairing parking meter and improved revenue stream from parking bays. Advantageously, if users choose pro-payment as a payment option, cash is collected up front which leads to increased revenue though accrued interest on funds for the parking administrators. Full reporting is also available on who is parking where and when for planning purposes. Comprehensive data is available on parking demographics previously not available to local councils which also facilitate accurate planning for future parking needs. tUtilisatlon of parking resources is improved due to alerts sent to users to top up their parking. This typically leads to over-payment, for example, when t user leaves the parking bay before their paid time expires. Therefore increased revenues are enjoyed by parking administrators.

The invention allows the payment of parking fees which do not require the use of tickets or the handling of cash at the time the vehicle is parked. The present COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:29 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO. Qb 0.t I 8 invention seeks to reduce the operating costs for local councils and private ear park operators for their parking operations.

Brief Description of the Drawings An example of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure I is a system diagram of the mobile commerce platform.

Figure 2 is a connectivity diagram of the mobile commerce platform.

Figure 3 is a process flow diagram of the user registration process.

Detailed Description of the Drawings Referring to Figure 1, the mobile commerce platform 1 comprises an iPark management server 10 that is integrated with software and hardware modules that collectively form the entire m-commerce platform 1. These modules include a credit management system 1 (for a pre-paid payment option) and a customer database which stores user details including vehicle registration and mobile telephone number along with a range of other relevant information. Other modules include a billing system 12 (for a post-paid payment option), a management portal 13, a messaging application suite 14, a customer portal 15, an IVR system 30 (parking registration'pre-payment re-charge) and a mobile communications intcrface 33

(SMS/GPRS).

Referring to Figure 2, the management server 10 interfaces with end users parking inspectors 21, local councils and private parking operators 22. Available interfaces include the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system 30, a human operator at a call centre 31, an Internet web site 32 or via a mobile phone 36 using Short Message Service (SMS) or Wireless Application Protocol (WAP). The management server 10 is also connected to banks 23, financial institutions and clearing houses via a real-time credit card gateway 35 for facilitating credit card transactions via the Internet. This allows instant credit to be received in the accounts of end users 20 when credit card details are entered during user registration or when accounts are being topped up. The credit card gateway 35 is secure and compliant with the AS 2805 standard of the Standards Association of Australia. The gateway also facilitates daily banking transfers from the iPark banking reserves to the relevant parking entity 22, for example, local councils or private parking operators.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:30 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC o 1 F B RICE CO. IM 012 9 The main users of the rn-commerce platform 1 are end users 20 and parking inspectors 2 1. End users 20 commnunicate with the management sewer 10 by using any type of mobile telephone 36 (AMPS, GSM, CDMA, D-AMPS, NMT) which can transmit DTMF tones from the handset 36 to the JVR 30. Existing phones such as toe Nokia 5110/6110/3 210/8210 or Ericsson TI T28 are adequate. End users 2 0 can also interact with the management server 10 by sending and receiving SMS messages on their handset 36, accessing the web site 32 or calling the call centre 3 1.

Parking inspectors 21 communicate with the management server 10 by using a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) 34 that is enabled for digital wireless couununication. Other ways for parking inspectors 21 to interact with the management server 10 include the web site 32 iuteutbee, the IVR 30 or calling the call centre 3 1.

Referring to Figure 3, before an end user 20 can commence using the parking services provided by the m-conunerv platform 1, they arm required to register 50 as a "User" via the customer portal 15, the call centre 31, mail or over the counter at local council offices. Pre-registration is necessary to ensure that billing can take place. Using the web site 32, end users 20 enter their mobile telephone number and personal details 51 onto a web-based form. If not already done, end users 20 must enable the "Own Number Sending" feature on their handset 36 to allow Caller Line Identity (CLI) information 21 to be transmitted to the server 10 when they make a call to the mobile commerce platfonn 1. This enables the server 10 to associate incoming calls with customer records held in the customer database 20. End users are also required to enter details of their vehicle(s) 53 on the for including details on the colour, make and registration of the vehicle. If the end user 20 has multiple vehicles 54, details of the other vehicles applicable to the given CLI are also entered Whenever a mobile phone is used which is associated with multiple registered vehicles, the end user 20 will be asked to select the required vehicle.

The completed web-based form is submitted to and processed by the server During processing, relevant credit checks are undertaken 56 on the now customer. Once the end user 20 has been accepted as a "Trusted Party" they are able to charge 57 their credit account with a credit card or direct debit. The funds are transferred 58 from the bank, financial institution or clearing house to the account of the end user 20. The level of credit can be monitored in a number of ways, including dialling the IVR 30. access via the web site 32 or an SMS alert 33 when the level COMSItONo: SMBI-0051 5771 Received by II' Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:30 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO. a 013 falls below a pre-deter'mined amount. Upon successfiUl registration, an iPark ID is generated 59. which is a barcode number assigned to the end user 20. A windscreen sticker is sent to the end user 20 printed with the same barcode to be affixed 60 onto their vehicle. At the end of the registration process, the receipt details are played 61 to the end user 20 or displayed 61 on a web page on the web site 32. The creation of the new customer is completed and the iParkID, user, vehicle and account details are stored 62 in the customer database Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system The IVR 30 is an end user interface which enables interaction with the incommerce platform 1 in an intuitive manner. The VR 30 is used for parking registration and re-charging of an end user's 20 account. When an end user recharges their account either through the web site 32 or IVR 30, the receipt details are played to the end user 20 or displayed on a web page on the web site 32. The IVR 30 is connected through standard ISDN services and is accessible from both fixed lines and wireless devices. In addition to providing facilities to the end user parking inspectors 21 can also use the rVR 30 as a back-up system if the PDA 34 is not operating properly.

The facilities provided to the end user 20 using the VR 30 include parking registration, purchasing a "re-charge" for their account using a credit card, entering "loyalty" bonus value to their account, account information services such as querying an account balance, help and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), parking status information such as parking time expiry, access to "Parking News" in the locality. Also, "Outbound" notifications can be provided which advise of low credit levels with the ability to top up on line and a 'Tax Back" option for the collection of an iteinised account of the months parking to date. For end users 20 that do not use or have access to the Internet, reports are mailed out monthly.

The facilities provided to the parking inspector 21 include stand-by use if their PDA 34 fails or a barcode affixed to the vehicle cannot be read to give parking status information. The inspector 21 calls the IVR 30, which then directs him or her to manually enter the iParkiD (barcode) or other vehicle identification information, for example, vehicle registration plates to check on the vehicle's parking status.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:30 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

o614 11 Short Messane Savice (SMS) The SMS interface provides a silent communications link to the end user The m-commerce platform 1 uses SMSC links to all mobile operators/carriers to provide controlled messaging with reliable "Reply Path" services. The main uses of the SMS facility 33 include alerting end users 20 of impending expiry of parking time, end users 20 "Replying" to "Top Up" 65 parking fees. Other optional services can be provided such as notification of low level credit with the ability to re-charge the account by replying using a credit card or approval for direct debit. Broadcast services using SMS 33 are available such as broadcast notification of road works or parking limitations in a locality, broadcast of special offers on parking in a locality, broadcast of special offers from local retailers and "Special Alerts" from parking inspectors 21 when they notice lights are left on the vehicle or when a vehicle has been broken into.

The "top up" service 65 is available in the following scenario. Once a specific ArealD has been paid for, five minutes before the parking expires, a reminder SMS 33 is sent to the end user's 20 mobile phone 36. By replying to this SMS 33 with the digit amount in cents, for example $1.50 is entered as '150', the m-commerc platform 1 responds by returning a confirmation SMS to the end user 20 stating that the parking has been topped up to the value of the specified amount. This service gives further parking value to the "Virtual Meter" such that if a parking inspector 21 scans the windscreen barcode sticker they are advised of the extended coverage.

Where a parking time is exceeded either at initial registration or top up time, the system advises of the maximum time permitted in the selected parking bay.

Internet Web Site The Internet web site 32 provides the primary control interface to the mcommerce platform 1 for parking administrators 22, end users 20, corporate account holders and system managers which maintain the platform 1. Internet access is given to end users 20 and parking administrators 22 to a secure web site 32. To access the web site 32 the following URL is entered; www.i-park.cornau Parking administrators 22 include local councils and private parking operators and are responsible for all day to day management of parking zones in their particular area. They are provided with total control and the ability to view COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:31 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO o015 12 activity of all iPark operations. The key interfaces available through their secure portal 32 arc: View 9 All client registration details All parking zone IDs and attributes e Optionally "Map Info" images with zones in relevant areas All parking status by zones a All parking inspector 21 profiles e All parking inspector 21 status Logged On /Off Locality information Modify/Delete Parking zone attributes 9 Optionally Map Info attributes Parking inspector 21 details Client registration details Locality information g=t SMS Group messages to parking inspectors 21 SMS Group messages to parking clients (Roadworks/Special parking offers) New parking inspector 21 profile New parking zone a New customer (Registration) Locality information for parking users The parking administrator 22 has visibility of parking in specific areas by a secure link via the Internet to a secure web site application 32. They are then able to interrogate information and statistics on either a "real-time" or historical basis.

Reports can be generated across a range of data including Zone, Vehicle and Frequency. Also, the reporting suite for iPark can deliver "Real-time" and historic reporting.

As described earlier, the customer portal 15 provided by the Internet web site 32 allows end users 20 to create new accounts. End users 20 can also access their COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:31 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

oZ06 13 account by entering a "Usemame" and "Password" at a login page. The following are features available through the customer portal a Initial registration process 9 View of standard iPark FAQ and contact information U Reporting on monthly parking activity e Re-charge facility to enable credit input from Credit Card Direct debit or loyalty card Modify/Deletion of existing registration information Account status Locality information as posted by parking authority (with links to other parking authority information pages) The customer portal 15 also allows a registered user to list their parking history and for printing itemised billing to reclaim parking expenses. This structured account of parking activity for each month can also be automatically c-mailed to the end user 20 for reimbursement from the company where parking is related to work.

Alternatively, if the end user 20 does not have access to the Intcrnet, a call to the JVR 30 requesting delivery of a monthly parking report to a facsimile machine can be made.

Similarly, corporate account holders are provided with itemised billing on a monthly basis. This enables accurate auditing of parking activity and costs. The corporate account holder typically has vehicle fleet responsibilities and therefore a modified page is provided at the Intemet web site with additional features to the end user 20 web page. Corporate accounts arc either Pro-paid or Post-paid. The following functions are available to them on their web page: Initial registration process View of standard iPark FAQ and contact information Suite of reporting fbcilities (By vehicle/ area etc) e Re-charge facility by Credit Card Direct Debit P Modify Deletion of existing registration details Account status Locality information as posted by parking authority (with links to other parking authority information pages) Group SMS broadcast facilities to fleet COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:31 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC O Z 1 F B RICE CO 16017 14 The management pertal 13 grants system managers all privileges to view and modify all information. They can also create new parking entities and can oversee and control financial transactions.

Also available on the Internet web site 32 is a 'Prking' page, 'Parking Zones' page, 'Inspector' page and 'Search' page. The 'Parking' page allows searching of different kinds of parkdig that exist. Current/active or expired parking can be listed based on a AreaID. The 'Parkiing Zones' page lists the councils that currently have registered with the system and have individual AreaIDs. By clicking on the council links, Areal~s are listed that belong to each council and their details. The 'Inspector' page lists all the registered inspectors 21 with the system. Inspectors 21 can be added by the 'Add Inspector' feature and listed or modified by clicking the 'Profile' button by authorised parking authority persons. An end user 20 can also see if' a particular inspector 21 is logged in Or out. The 'Search' page allows searching based on specific criteria, for example, 'By inspector' or 'By parking zone'.

Call Centre Onerators In addition to the IVR 30 and the Internet web site 32, call centre operators 3 1 can service the needs of the end users 2Q, parking inspectors 2 1, local councils and private parking opeators 22. The call centre operators 31 f~lfil the following roles: 9 Initial registration of users Modification of existing users e Re-charge of users credit General customer care enquiries Call centre operators 31 can also register users by manually entering the required data into the customer database 20 following a similar process to registration via the web site 32.

Parking inspector Parking inspectors 21 are equipped with a handheld unit or Personal Digital Assistant (PDA) 32 for monitoring the status of parked vehicles. The unit 32 is fully self-contained and combines a barcode scanner, palm computer and digital COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:31 FAX 51 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

Z018 communications facilities and a digital camera which enable wireless communication through GSM or 3G. Client software is installed on the devices 32 for direct communication with the iPark management server 10. Communications to the PDAs 32 for iPark operations are by way of carrier supplied GPRS mobile data services, GPRS provides "real time" communications between the PDA 32 and management server 10. In situations where GPRS is not available or not commercially viable, the system can be supported on other communication layers including SMS, USSD, CPDP and MPT1327.

The PDA 32 can only be accessed by an authorised parking inspector 21.

Their personal login activates the PDA 32 and communicates securely with the iPark management server 10 to update their availability. Once logged in, the parking inspector 21 has a "Logged On" status.

The PDA 32 is used to undertake the following tasks: Log On/Off Scan iPark windscreen stickers to view status similar to a barcode scanner Read Broadcast SMS messages Reply to SMS messages Search by zone and expired vehicles In a typical scenario, when a parking inspector 21 notices an iPark windscreen sticker on a vehicle in a marked iPark zone, the PDA 34 scanner scans the barcode on the sticker. A GPRS communication with the iPark management server 10 returns details of the vehicle, when it was parked and when the parking is due to expire and displays it on the screen of the PDA. If the parking is expired, the PDA 34 flashes an alert and a "Print Ticket" option is available. Alternatively where the iPark user has registered to park on an "Ad Hoc" basis, the parking officer will not be able to scan a bar code. The onboard camera allows the officer to scan the license plate, which will in turn translate the image to a "Readable" plate data stream which will be transmitted to the central server for validation. This allows the inspector 21 to print an infringement ticket on their belt mounted thermal printer detailing the vehicle and zone including infingement details. The infringement action is also communicated in real-time and recorded on an iPark database 24 for fature reference. All activities of a parking inspector 21 can be viewed both historically and in "real time' by local council officials.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 MW-II II I II lli l 01/12 '03 MON 14:32 FAX 81 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

[a019 16 Payment Options The billing system 12 is responsible for administration of payment options, billing and general accounting. For a registered user 20 to perform an iPark payment, the phone number of the IVR 30 is dialled and instructions to perform their payment are played back. End users 20 choose a pre-paid payment option whereby parking activity is paid for according to use by decrementing "Pre-Paid" credit or either a post-paid payment option whereby parking event data is collected and billed at a later date. Reverse billing (carrier dependent) and corporate accounts (post-paid) are also provided. Reverse billing is only available in countries where the mobile/network operators offer "reverse billing" which allow end users 20 to pay for parking through their standard telephone account.

The pre-paid payment option requires a registered end user 20 to use credit card or cash. All parking activities and payment decrement the initial credit value.

There are several options for payment of the "pr-paid" account, although it is envisaged that credit cards will prove the most popular. The other options include: Credit card through YVR 30 and web site 32 a Direct debit through IVR 30 and web site 32 Premium rate (Fixed fee) where available Premium rate SMS where available Cash/Credit card top up through main ticket machines ATM cashpoints could also be used to provide top up facilities, depending upon bank cooperation Top-up of existing pre-paid accounts can be undertakem in any of the following ways: Cash purchase of "Scratchy" pre-pay card these will be sold through local authority offices or channel partners. Once purchased, the end user enters the unique pin number into the IVR 30 or on the web site 32, alternatively it can be sent via SMS to the iPark management server 10 which will top up the value.

Web site 32 "Top Up" 65 access using credit card.

IVR 30 'Top Up" 65 access using credit card.

Through strategic 'E-Services" partners (eg. ATM BPay and E-Pay) COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:32 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

Z 020 17 purchasing a special top up voucher at designated outlets using a specially modified ticket machine where the end user's magnetic swipe card is inserted whilst cash is entered for charging. The value is not credited to the card but added to their account iPark parking services are also available for corporate users where a fleet of vehicles frequent a parking area. A pre-authorised account is established on iPark, and the crporate customer is invoiced monthly. Furthermore, the customer has access to view and report on parking activities in iPark zones via the web site 32.

Alternatively "Pre-paid" accounts can be established for the corporate accounts using multiple vehicles/mobile numbers to one "Pre-paid" value.

The iPark parking services can compliment "Smart Card" pro-payment services. The smart cards depend on the provision of smart card reader machines.

Purchasers receive an iPark window sticker with a unique iPark barcode. Each recharge ticket purchased has a unique serial number which can be entered into the iPark system. Also, where a parking operator has locations where sophisticated ticket machines are used, the end user 20 puts cash into the machine and enters their mobile/iPark account number in to do a cash top up.

Infriment Services Mana oment Parking payment is just one facet of the overall requirement for a managed solution, and therefore the system not only offers a fully managed payment service, it also offers infringement services management. When the parking inspector 21 identifies a vehicle that has infringed local parking by-laws they can produce a parking ticket on the spot using their PDA 34 and printer. Payment of the infringement can be made through a range of options: Internet

IVR

"Over the counter" Mail response Sncial Tarff Local residents can be charged at preferential rates for parking in their locality using the m-commerce platform 1. This allows residents to enjoy the benefits of discounted parting rates when applicable. Also any parking price COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:32 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC O J2 F B RICE CO.

Qb 021 is structure for senior citizens, pensioners and people with disability parking permits can be flexibly adjusted and catered for. The system also allows a parking authority 22 to configure individual zones and change tariffs according to different times of the day through the Internet by setting hourly rates and maximum time limits.

To address the problem of people being deterred from visiting the establishments of retailers because of council parking fees and parking infringements, a loyalty rewards schemec is offered. This scheme awards loyal customers with 'Top Up?' vouchers enabling them to add credit to their accounts.

Retailers offer low denomination vouchers as a reward to customers for doing business with them These vouchers are entered via the web site 32 or IVR 30 in the same way as normal re-charge vouchers. As the vouchers are activated that "Value" is assessed and charged to the issuing retailer. Subject to Privacy laws, the details of reipients that have activated the vouchers may be forwarded to the issuer -for marketing infonnation. The loyalty schemes also enable the input and draw down of 'Parking value" which can be extended to other areas in the transport sector such as ticketing.

In a typical scenario, a motorist 20 parks their car into an iPark nominated parking bay. Street-side or parking meter signage indicate the "Zone ID" to be transmitted by the motorist 20 via their mobile phone. Parking operators 22 designate parking zones IDs for the rn-commerce platform I using a four digit numeric code. These zones typically cover thirty vehicle bays. The motorist 20 then calls the iPark IVR 30, which has already been pro-programmed into the phone book of the mobile phone at the time the motorist registered with the system. Firstly, the IVII 30 checks whether the CLI is known and creditworthy. If the CLI is unknown, the system asks the motorist 20 to enter their unique account number/mobile number in case they are using someone else's mobile phone. If the account is not creditworthy the system prompts the motorist 20 to top up their account and ask for their credit card details to be confirmed. Secondly, the system waits for the motorist to enter dhe numeric zone number followed by the nominated fee for payment of parking. Once the infbrmation is entered, the system confirms that the vehicle is validly parked and advises what time parking expires. The amount entered is then debited from the credit account. The payment is logged within the system and stored 353 in the iPark database 24 for future reference by local parking inspectors 21. Parkcing COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:33 FAX 61 2 0810 8200 F B RICE CO.

Z022 19 inspectors 21 can also quay this database at anytime to identify defaulters, and searching can be done according zone, expired parkers or vehiole details.

After this process is completed, the parking space is designated as paid until the indicated expiry time. Five minutes prior to expiry of the parking, an SMS 33 to the motorist 20 informs them that their parking is about to expire and offers the possibility of topping-up the parking time. Topping up is initiated by "Replying" to the SMS with a monetary amount. Once the reply SMS 33 is received, the parking credit is updated.

In an off-street parking scenario where barrier access is required, iPark end users 20 are provided with Radio Frequency ID cards (RFID) which can be read by a local proximity reader. The local proximity reader communicates with the iPark management server 10 by GPRS. The RFID cards are located on the back of an iPark windscreen sticker or embedded within a standard credit card form factor.

Access and departure from the paid parking area is monitored and the iPark user ID is read from the RFID card and transmitted to the server 10. Debiting of the account occurs in a similar way to on-street parking.

2a Where a parking facility already operates with "punch hole" paper tickets that require payment through a standard ticket machine, the system removes the need of having to go to the machine to pay for the ticket. By calling the IVR 30, the end user enters the unique serial number clearly visible on the ticket and pays the required amount. The ticket is then validated such that the boom gate will automatically open when the ticket is inserted.

iPark information services can be accessed whilst enroute to a destination.

Due to the system being able to track whether parking spaces are occupied, end users 20 an query the iPark management server 10 and request a listing of zones/locations with available parking bays. Additional services including "Vacant" iPark zones are sent to end users 20 requesting parking in busy areas.

A hybrid solution can be introduced while the complete m-commerce platforn I is being phased in. The hybrid solution requires certain existing ticket machines to be equipped with a vandal proof GSM telephone that provides a basic DTMF keypad and speaker. This permits the end user 20 to transact with the COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:33 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

U 023 management server 10 using their mobile/iPark account number in the absence of CLI information.

Although GPRS has been described, other data and network protocols such as WAP, 3G or Bluetooth can be used to communicate between the management server and the end user 20. Infra-Red and Bluetooth are further "Wireless Enablers" which can be used with the present invention. Although mobile phones have been described, end users 20 can also use any wireless communication device to interact with the mobile commerce platform 1, for example, a PDA phone or GSM enabled notebook.

Although parking has been described, it is envisaged that park and ride facilities can be integrated with the m-commerce platform 1 to provide a single access point so that both parking and transportation are covered by a single transaction. Other services that are within the scope of the present invention include car pooling payments and payment of taxi fares.

Although a management server 10 has been described, it is possible that an array of servers configured in a "fault tolerant" manner to deliver "high availability" z0 services can be used. Such a configuration optimises the database operations and ensures that transactions are processed with minimal delay.

In a fbrther embodiment of the invention, vehicle based "telernatics" solutions can be incorporated with the m-commerce platform I in addition with a range of wireless technologies, for example, GPS, Bluetooth and RFID whereby any vehicle parked can be tracked in a specific location for the time It is parked. That is, the end user 20 does not have to manually transmit the zone area code since the location of the vehicle is automatically known from the GPS location of the phone or the vehicle itself The OPS location information is transmitted in a similar way that CLI information is transmitted to the server 10. Invoicing for parking can be levied at month end, or be deducted from a pre-paid account. This embodiment can be coupled with "E-card" based systems that will also bill for segment use of road services which involve a toll.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that numerous variations and/or modifications may be made to the invention as shown in the specific COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:33 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO.

024 21 embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention as broadly described. The present embodiments are, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and not restrictive.

COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01

Claims (20)

1. A method for paying a parking fee using a mobile transmitter device of a registered user, comprising the steps of; transmitting user identification information to a server for identifying the identity of the user; transmitting parking location information to the server for identifying the location of a parked vehicle; transmitting payment related information to the server for payment of the parking fee; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user.

2. A method according to claim 1, wherein "Off Stroet" parking is involved, and the ingress of the registered user into the parking facility and their subsequent egress is monitored through use of cameras, and upon egress the user's account is charged.

3. A method according to claim 2, wherein the cameras identify the registered user by use of a windscreen mounted Bmartcard (RFID) or by "License Plate Recognition".

4. A method according to any preceding claim, wherein the registered user is able to effect payment from within the vehicle, A mobile commerce platform for payment of parking fees using a mobile transmitter device of a registered user comprising: a server to receive parking location information for identifying the location of a parked vehicle, payment related information for payment of the parking fee and user identification information for identifying the identity of the user from the mobile transmitter device; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user. COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:34 FAX 51 2 9810 8200 FBRC o 2 F B RICE CO. [a 026 23

6. A mobile commerce platform according to claim 5, wherein "Off Street" parking is involved, and the server also monitors ingress of the registered user into the parking facility and their subsequent egress through use of cameras, and upon egress the uses account is charged.

7. A mobile commerce platform according to claim 6, wherein the cameras identify the registered user by use of a windscreen mounted smarteard (REID) or by "License Plate Recognition". S. A mobile commerce platform according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the registered user is able to effect payment fr-om within the vehicle.

9. A distributed parking system comprising: street signage to indicate parking location information for transmission to a server; and a mobile commerce platfinn fbr payment of parking fees using a mobile transmitter device of.a registered user, the mobile commarc platform including: a server to receive the parking location infornation, payment related information for payment of the parking fee and user identification information for identifying the identity of the user, from the mobile transmitter device; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification informnation; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fcc to the account of the user. A distributed parking system according to claim 9, wherein the mobile transmitter device is a mobile phone and verification of purchase is made by the transmission of a "Readable" barcode which can be scanned by a local barcode reader to auithenticate the transaction.

11. A distributed parking system comprising: a local proximity reader to read user identification infornation from a Radio Frequency Identification (REID) card of a registered user, and a mobile commerce platform for payment of parking foes, the mobile commerce platform including: COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:34 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 FBRC O 2 F B RICE CO. 16027 24 a server to receive the user identification informnation, the parking location information for identifying the location of a parked vehicle, and payment related information for payment of the parking fee; wherein the server receives the transmitted information; associates the parking location information and the payment related information with the user identification information; records the associated transmitted information and charges the parking fee to the account of the user. 12, A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 11, wherein the user transmits the parking location inzformatioa and payment amount to the server using an Interactive Voice Response (IVR) system or data messages.

13. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 12, wherein the user identification information is entered by the user, and comprises one of Caller Line Identity (CLI). alphanumeric characters of a barcode or the International Mobile Equipment Identifier (WMEI) of the user's mobile phone or wireless communicator device.

14. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the parking location infornation, payment related infomation or user identification information are transmitted at the same time. They may be transmitted in a single transmission. They may also be encrypted to provide data security during transmission.

15. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 14, wherein the parking location information is obtained from street signage displayed near a parking bay, Global Positioning System COPS) location information or the cell location of the mobile phone or wireless communiicator device at the time the vehicle is parked.

16. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 15, wherein the payment related information is entered by the user, and is either a monetary amount to be deducted fxrm the account of the user, or an amount of parking time corresponding to a monetary amount COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time (tI:m) 14:38 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:34 FAX 61 2 9810 8200FBRIE&C.Ii2 F B RICE CO. Qh 028

17. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 16, wherein the parking fee is invoiced on the mobile phone account or standard telephone account of the user.

18. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 17, wherein, the parking fee for a specific parking area is selectively adjusted based on pre- determined conditions.

19. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 18, wherein a barcode is provided on the vehicle to be scanned by a parking inspector for determining Whether a vehicle is validly parked, and the server transmits the remaining parking time to a mobile receiver device to allow a parking inspector to determine whether a vehicle is validly parked.

20. A distributed parkdig system according to claim 19, wherein the parking inspector prints an infingement ticket if the vehicle is not validly parked, and the details of the infringement ticket are sent to the server at the same time it is printed.

21. A distributed parkcing system according to any one of claims 8 to 20, wherein a reminder is sent from the server to the mobile phone of the user prior to the expiration of the parking time.

22. A distributed parking system according to claim 21, wherein an additional parking fee is remotely payable by transmitting a message to the server in reply to the reminder.

23. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 22, wherein the server sends broadcast messages to selected registered users to inform thorn of events.

24. A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 23, wherein a user requests a listing of vacant parking in a specific parking area before they arrive at the parking area via their wireless communicator device. COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01 01/12 '03 MON 14:35 FAX 61 2 9810 8200 F B RICE CO. 2029 26 A distributed parking system according to any one of claims 8 to 24, wherein a web site is provided to allow users to view their account and parking activity via the Internet. Dated this first day of December 2003 Telequity Pty Limited Patent Attorneys for the Applicant: F B RICE CO COMS ID No: SMBI-00515771 Received by IP Australia: Time 14:36 Date 2003-12-01