JP5754751B2 - Validity checking method and apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  [0001] The present invention relates to transaction validation for services. The service is a tax refund service, and the transaction is a purchase transaction by a user who may be eligible to use the service and can validate the service.

  [0002] Tax refund systems are provided to travelers in many countries. Providing tax-free shopping is attractive to visitors to the country and may help promote the tourism industry. However, the tax-free shopping system is conventionally operated on a paper basis, and the store issues a certificate or check at the time of sale, and then the customs checks the take-out of goods at the border. The rules differ from country to country, but the traditional method of providing tax-free shopping is to identify and confirm that the local store is a staying traveler who is eligible for tax exemption. , Issuing certificates that include details about the traveler and the purchased product, and verifying with the customs that the item taken out of the country and the traveler match the item and traveler identified on the certificate Is. A refund can then be made. Tax refund operators work with stores and customs to help manage this process and manage the paperwork associated with them.

  [0003] However, such processing can be labor intensive and expensive. There are significant technical difficulties in ensuring that the tax refund system operates efficiently and at the same time is secure.

  [0004] The present invention seeks to provide a technical solution to such problems.

  [0005] Aspects of the invention are defined in the claims.

  [0006] One embodiment provides a method of providing a service, wherein the mobile communication device registered with a host server for the service is in the vicinity of a validation point for the service. In response to being determined, the mobile communication device automatically presents a guide to the user to use the service.

  [0007] One embodiment provides a mobile communication device, the mobile communication device having means for outputting information to a user, means for receiving user input, wireless communication means for communicating with a communication network system, and storage means. A mobile communication device configured to communicate with a registered remote server for providing a service, and determining that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of a validation point for the service Responsive to being configured to automatically present a user with guidance to use the service.

  [0008] One embodiment provides a mobile communication device having a mobile communication device identifier that is read by such a device, wherein the mobile communication device receives a tax refund service for one or more transactions. A guidance message prompting the user to respond to the guidance message using the device is configured to be received.

  [0009] One embodiment provides a computer system that provides automated validation of a request for a tax refund for one or more services, wherein the computer system automatically transacts transactions registered with the tax refund service. Automatically check for eligibility for refund and send validation status message to mobile communication device registered with host server for tax refund service for one or more of the transactions Have the mobile communication device notify the user if the tax refund service is automatically approved and / or if additional steps are required to obtain approval for one or more of the transactions Can work.

  [0010] While various aspects are set forth in the appended claims, other aspects of the invention may be found in the features described in the described embodiments and / or in the appended dependent claims and in the independent claims. It includes combinations with features and is not limited to those explicitly set forth in the appended claims.

  [0011] Various embodiments are described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a refund system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic diagram of a system. It is a schematic block diagram showing the functional element of a mobile communication apparatus. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary operating method. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary operating method. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary operating method. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary operating method. 2 is a flowchart of an exemplary operating method.

  [0016] One exemplary embodiment of the present invention seeks to provide operational flexibility while providing ease of operation. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more devices, devices, and systems can be purchased and refunded using a mobile communication device that uniquely identifies a user, eg, a traveler, and enables communication with the user. Link processing. One or more devices, devices, and systems may be operated by a store and / or tax refund operator (TRO) and / or customs authorities. In an exemplary embodiment, information related to a user and purchases made by that user is kept securely in the server's storage centrally and can be accessed using a mobile communication device and one or more other devices. To.

  [0017] In addition to providing administrative operations for refund operations, TROs can provide education to users and merchants throughout the process. By using an information technology system, TRO can guarantee the integrity of the system.

  [0018] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method, apparatus, and system for managing a refund process. In this exemplary process, shopping and receipt receipt (issue 30) is decoupled from further processing (acquisition 32, authorization 34, and payment 36).

  [0019] Like credit cards and debit cards, there may be multiple issuing service providers and multiple transaction and processing recipients. For example, there may be multiple TROs. Various point-of-sale information management (POS) devices and in-store user shopping assistance can be provided.

  [0020] In an exemplary embodiment, a merchant system may provide transaction issuance 30 using a POS device and / or software provided by a TRO. The host system operated by the TRO can perform the acquisition 32 of the tax refund transaction. A validation system (eg, a customs approval system) may implement the tax refund authorization 34. The host system can perform the refund payment business 36. An automated kiosk (also called an inspection station or inspection terminal) can be provided at the exit point from the area and used for various operations such as automatic recognition of mobile communication devices. Payments for refunds can be processed at a refund window (operated by TRO) or at a kiosk if refunded immediately in cash, or refunds can be made automatically using a bank and / or credit card account And / or using a paperwork process by TRO.

  [0021] The determination of a user's qualification can be made at a store during a purchase transaction, as described below. However, depending on the legal requirements in a given region, qualification and identification decisions can be transferred from the point of sale to the exit point from the region.

  [0022] The exemplary embodiments provide ease of use and flexibility as perceived by users of the system, while also providing operational safety and integrity.

  [0023] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention use near field communication (NFC) technology. NFC technology is a short-range wireless communication technology capable of exchanging data between devices over a short distance, for example, a distance of about 0.1 meter. NFC technology is an extension of the proximity card standard (contactless card, RFID), and can combine a smart card interface and a reading device into a single device. Compatible with existing contactless infrastructure already used for public transportation and payment. NFC is primarily intended for use with mobile phones. Examples of mobile phones using NFC technology are already on the market. NFC read / write devices with built-in NFC interfaces are also available from various manufacturers. Other short-range wireless technologies that utilize radio frequency identification (RFID), such as Bluetooth, can also be used in various embodiments.

  [0024] In one exemplary embodiment, when performing a purchase transaction, an application installed on a user's mobile communications device (eg, a mobile phone), eg, a downloadable application, is connected to the point-of-sale (POS) terminal of the store. Can interact. Digital duty free shopping (TFS) transaction information can be sent to a tax refund operator (TRO) and user information can be associated with the sent information. Users may also be able to pay for goods using mobile communication devices. The user then purchases further using the application of the mobile communication device and further digital TFS transaction information is transmitted in the same manner. The validation stage and the refund stage can be integrated by recognizing the user using the mobile communication device. For example, validation and refunds can be performed automatically on a user's mobile communication device approaching an NFC-compliant customs kiosk.

  [0025] The application can be downloaded or otherwise installed on the mobile communication device prior to or at the time of the initial purchase. This application can assist users throughout the tax refund process and also provide other TRO services. Examples of such services include issuance, validation, refund and tracking operations, store and other traveler information, maps, promotions, online proactive guidance, trading markets, direct currency exchange support. , Online services, loyalty programs, etc.

  [0026] Alternatively or additionally, a wireless communication base station (eg, a WiFi base station) may be used to interface with a user's mobile communication device. For example, a WiFi base station (base station) may be installed where a user is expected to use the service, and an application installed on the user's mobile communication device can interact with the WiFi base station. The WiFi base station can be provided by TRO, and can be connected to the TRO host system via the Internet, for example. By using a standard service set identifier (SSID) for all WiFi base stations provided by or for the TRO service, it is automatically determined that the base station for that service is provided The mobile communication device can be configured to automatically recognize and automatically connect to the base station using, for example, a predetermined password when it is within range of the base station.

  [0027] For example, a Wi-Fi base station can be provided at the store premises, and in response to the user's mobile communication device connecting to the base station, the TRO system or mobile communication device application at the store is the TRO host. A message can be sent to the system to operate to obtain information for use in connection with the provision of services. Such information includes, for example, information about the user to be provided to the store system. Alternatively or additionally, a message can be sent to the user's mobile communication device and output to the user. The message may be, for example, an SMS, MMS, or electronic message sent by a message exchange between the TRO host system and / or the merchant system and the mobile communication device application or from the TRO host system and / or the merchant system to the mobile communication device. It can be provided using e-mail messages. The message sent to the user may include information about the services that can be provided, such as the procedures necessary to use the services, special offers, etc., or direct assistance to make effective use of the services (eg, tax refund services). In the case of a refund check, etc.). The message can also be used to inform the user that other services such as a dynamic currency exchange service are available.

  [0028] In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, a mobile communication device, such as a mobile phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable media player, a tablet computer, a web book, a notebook or other portable computing device. Use as an intelligent token to identify users at various stages during the tax refund process. The mobile communication device communicates with other devices and devices such as store POS terminals, validation kiosks and / or customs kiosks, TROs and / or customs systems, for example using NFC technology and mobile communication device applications It can be constituted as follows.

  [0029] By presenting the mobile communication device when making a purchase, the identifier of the mobile communication device can be read by the reader of the POS terminal of the store using NFC technology and / or information related to the transaction is displayed in the NFC technology. Can be used to communicate to the mobile communication device. Individual applications running on the mobile communication device and the POS terminal of the store, for example, provided by the TRO, can control the exchange of information between the mobile communication device and the POS terminal of the store.

  [0030] The determination of whether a user is eligible for a service, eg, a tax refund service, can be made by an operator, eg, a store, at the time of sale. This can be done, for example, by using the communication device identifier to determine whether the user is already registered to use the service.

  [0031] For example, the POS terminal may operate to query the TRO host system via the intermediate system and determine whether the mobile communication device identifier is associated with user identification information.

  [0032] If the mobile communication device identifier is associated with a user identity, the TRO host system returns information identifying the user so that the operator can confirm the identity of the user (eg, passport information, photos or other (By transmitting biological information or the like).

  [0033] If the mobile communication device identifier is not associated with the user's identity, the TRO host system returns an appropriate notification to that effect, and the merchant system prompts the operator to enter predetermined information identifying the user. Can work as follows. The predetermined information includes, for example, the passport number of the user's passport and the country of issue of the passport, the identification card number of the user's identification card and the country of issue of the identification card, the license number of the user's license and the country of issue thereof. The information input at the POS terminal is then transmitted to the TRO host system and associated with the mobile communication device identifier so that it can be used as a means for identifying the user. A user record may be maintained at the TRO host system, which includes a mobile communication device identifier along with other information (eg, one or more other tokens) that can be used to identify the user.

  [0034] The merchant system may then purchase information associated with the mobile communication device identifier and / or other tokens associated with the user to create a computer record of the transaction, either directly or through the user's mobile communication device. Can operate to communicate. Such a transaction record may include an association of a mobile communication device identifier and / or other token with a transaction identifier for a purchase transaction for one or more purchases. Later, for subsequent purchases, for example one or more subsequent trips, record the transaction (s) directly or via user records using the mobile communication device identifier when leaving the area To check the validity of the refund.

  [0035] The system and method of an exemplary embodiment of a tax refund system for any region will now be described with reference to FIGS. In this embodiment, one or more TROs, eg, multiple TROs, partner with the merchant to provide a tax refund to the user. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an exemplary system, and FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an exemplary system configuration in which various functional elements are interconnected via a network 15 (eg, the Internet).

  [0036] At step 102, the mobile communication device 40 may be set as a token that identifies the user. This can be done before or when entering the region or at the time of sale. Note that one or more other tokens can be defined for a user. For example, the user can select a token to use. For example, the user may specify the mobile communication device and one or more other tokens to use, for example via a website, on a POS terminal or other terminal, or in response to a request from a store. it can. For example, a user can register details about himself by registering on a website provided by the TRO and associate the mobile communication device identifier with one or more additional tokens. The mobile communication device identifier includes a mobile phone number of the mobile communication device 40, an IMEI number of the mobile communication device, a SIM number of the mobile communication device 40, an NFC identifier of the mobile communication device, a unique identifier associated with the application of the mobile communication device, etc. , Can be formed from one or more. The TRO can then provide the user with information about refund opportunities and processes. Also, a dedicated token can be issued to the user (for example, a visitor card or a TRO card). User details can then be recorded at an input station that is local to the issuing point, for example, an entry point into the region or a point of sale, or the user details that the issued token was pre-entered on the TRO website Linked to Suitable input stations include, for example, a computer processor and memory, keypad, keyboard, touch screen, card reader, machine readable identifier reader, document scanner, voice activated input, display, printer, card writer, speaker, NFC interface. And one or more input / output interfaces in one or more forms. The input station may also include fingerprint reading and / or camera technology for verifying biometric information held in a machine readable user identifier (eg, an identification document such as a passport).

  [0037] The mobile communication device identifier can be held (stored) in the memory (MEM) when the TRO obtains the user details from the host server system (host system) 20. The host system 20 can be operated by a TRO and can comprise one or more server computers arranged in one place or as a distributed system, each server computer having one or more processors (CPUs) and memory ( MEM). If the mobile communication device identifier and user details are transferred to the host system 20 and recorded in real time, the efficiency of the system increases.

  [0038] User 12 may make a purchase at 104, for example at a store, using the mobile communication device as a token. When issuing a regular store receipt, the user 12 can be asked if a tax refund is required (or the user can request a tax refund). If a refund is desired, a second simple transaction can be created by entering the receipt identifier (eg, receipt number), the value of the purchased product, and the mobile communication device identifier. Thus, in this exemplary embodiment, information including two or three items (receipt identifier, purchase value, and mobile communication device identifier) may then be electronically transmitted from the merchant system 14 to the host system 20. it can. The store system 14 includes one or more computers arranged in one place or as a distributed system, each computer including one or more processors (CPU) and memory (MEM). The above functions can be built into the point-of-sale information management (POS) terminal, in which case purchase details are obtained directly from the electronic cash register (ECR) 44, thus eliminating the need to re-enter the information. Alternatively, this information may be entered into a stand-alone terminal, such as a web-based issuing application, a card payment terminal not connected to the ECR, or other applications or software not connected to the ECR. These alternatives may require re-entry of relevant purchase details so that the purchases made can be verified by a customs officer approval system. The one or more POS devices 44 may have one or more forms of, for example, a keypad, keyboard, touch screen, card reader, scanner, voice activated input, display, printer, card writer, speaker, and NFC interface 42. One or more input / output interfaces can be included.

  [0039] As described above, the WiFi base station 54 can be provided on the premises of the store, and connected to, for example, the Internet and then connected to the TRO host system 20, for example, as shown in FIG. Alternatively, or in addition, the base station 54 can be connected to the store system 14. The base station can be assigned a standard SSID for TRO, and the mobile communication device 40 application is programmed to automatically recognize and connect to the base station when it is within range of the base station. Can do. For example, a mobile communication device or system under control of an application of the mobile communication device or a store system 14 connected to the base station 54, for example, responds to the mobile communication device connecting to the base station, and the TRO host system 20 Can be operative to obtain information for use in connection with the provision of services. Such information includes, for example, information about the user to be provided to the store system. Alternatively or additionally, a message can be sent to the user's mobile communication device and output to the user. The message can be provided, for example, by exchanging messages between the TRO host system and the mobile communication device application, or by an SMS, MMS, or e-mail message transmitted from the TRO host system to the mobile communication device. The message sent to the user may include information about the services that can be provided, such as the procedures necessary to use the services, special offers, etc., or direct assistance to make effective use of the services (eg, tax refund services). In the case of a refund check, etc.).

  [0040] There may be only one TRO on the market. However, if there are multiple TROs on the market, there can be multiple acquisition system hosts 20. The relationship between the store and TRO is the relationship between the store and the acquirer (using the example of a credit card / debit card). Each TRO partners with its own merchant and is responsible for point-of-sale information management (POS) devices and built-in software that creates tax refund transactions.

  [0041] Accordingly, a transaction message can be sent 105 to the TRO host system 20 for further processing at the host system. Since the transaction message format between the POS and the host system 20 may be proprietary, it can take any suitable form. In one example, a transaction message transmitted between the store system 14 and the host system 20 includes a mobile communication device identifier, a receipt identifier (eg, a receipt number), a reference to a purchased product, a store identifier, a TRO identifier, a time, and a date. Includes a stamp, as well as a security hash (used to prevent tampering). In addition to these, it may include information about the tour guide, promotional codes, or other data that the TRO wishes to collect.

  [0042] Separate host systems 20 can be provided for each TRO, and each TRO can see only transactions generated at its affiliated merchants and keeps commercially sensitive information separate. Can do. All tax refund transactions generated by affiliated merchants can be stored in the host system 20 database. The transaction record stored in the memory of the host system 20 includes, for example, a unique transaction identifier of a transaction, a token identifier (for example, a mobile communication device identifier or a token identifier derived therefrom), a receipt identifier (for example, a receipt number), Includes purchase merchandise references, store identifiers, and time and date stamps. The host system 20 can assign a unique transaction identifier (eg, a unique transaction number) to a transaction so that a unique number within the system can be used to track the transaction during processing. The transaction identifier can be returned to the merchant system and can be printed on the purchase receipt given to the user using visible encoding such as plain text and / or barcode.

  [0043] A message interface or switch 24, for example an interface based on web services using industry standards (SOAP, WCF, XML over IP, etc.) may provide an interface for formatting and / or delivering messages. For example, the transaction message includes a transaction identifier (eg, transaction number), a token identifier (eg, a mobile communication device identifier or a token identifier derived therefrom), a receipt identifier (eg, a receipt number), a purchase product reference, a store identifier, a TRO One or more of an identifier, a time and date stamp, and a security hash (used to prevent tampering) may be included. The message interface 24 may be an independent system or combined with a validation system (eg, a customs approval system) 26, depending on the particular implementation.

  [0044] In one exemplary embodiment, message interface 24 may be implemented as a server system, which has processing and storage capabilities, and includes host system 20 (s) and validation system. It functions as a central repository for data accessed from (e.g. a customs approval system) 26 and can operate to provide message formatting and forwarding. However, in another embodiment, the data can be kept in the TRO's host system and can be accessed from the validation system 26 via the message interface.

  [0045] The validation system 26 provides an authorization system that permits refunds and may be operated by a customs authority or by a third party on its behalf. Validation system 26 can automatically approve or reject the tax refund transaction based on the rules set up in the system by customs. The validation system 26 can also be accessed manually by a customs officer from a customs service station 28.

  [0046] A self-service inspection station (inspection) connected to the host system (s) 20 via a standardized web service or message interface 24, for example, at an exit point (eg, a restricted area of an airport). It has been proposed to provide 22) (also called terminals or kiosks). Such an inspection station 22 can be configured to require the user to present a personal identifier to read (eg, an identification document such as a passport). Such an inspection station 22 includes one or more input interfaces in the form of one or more of, for example, a keypad, keyboard, touch screen, card reader, scanner, voice activated input, and a display, printer, card writer. , One or more output interfaces taking one or more forms of speakers. An NFC interface 42 can be provided. The inspection station 22 may also include fingerprint reading and / or camera technology for verifying biometric information held in a machine readable user identifier (eg, an identification document such as a passport).

  [0047] However, to use a validation kiosk as previously proposed, the user must find and use the kiosk. However, if the mobile communication device identifier is used as a registered token, the validation system can automatically prompt the user to initiate validation.

  [0048] Therefore, if the mobile communication device is registered with the host server to receive the tax refund service, using automatic detection that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the exit point from the area, Guidance prompting to use the tax refund service may be presented to the user using the mobile communication device. In various examples, this can be achieved in various ways.

  [0049] In one example, mobile communication device 40 may be provided with an application, such as the application referred to above, where the application is a mobile network cell (represented by mobile communication antenna 52) located at or near the exit point. It is possible to react to the detection that the mobile communication device is connected. The application can be run on the mobile communication device as a foreground task or can be configured to run as a background task. In such an example, the application can keep a file or other record of the mobile network cell corresponding to the exit point from the region, and the cell where the mobile network cell to which the mobile communication device is currently connected is in the file. In response to recognizing that it is, an instruction for using the tax refund service can be displayed to the user. This should, for example, display instructions regarding the location of the validation kiosk, or the mobile communication device can function as a kiosk and validate using, for example, SMS messaging, email, or web-based services. It can be in direct communication with the inspection system.

  [0050] In another example, the application of the mobile communication device 40 is responsive to the validation service 26 in response to recognizing that the mobile network cell 52 to which the mobile communication device is currently connected is a cell in the file. Can be sent to the validation service 26 to return a message to present to the user regarding the use of the validation service.

  [0051] In another example, to recognize that the mobile communication device 40 currently connected to the mobile network cell 52 located at or near the exit point is a mobile communication device registered in the tax refund service. The mobile communication network 50 can operate, notify the host system 20 or the validation service 26, send a message from the host system 20 or the validation service to the mobile communication device, and use the tax refund service. It can be configured to present prompting guidance to the user.

  [0052] Instead of using the mobile network cell 52 or as an additional means, the mobile communication device may detect the satellite position of the mobile communication device 40 indicating that the mobile communication device 40 is in the vicinity of the validation point. It can respond to positioning information (eg GPS information) obtained from satellites detected by a device (eg GPS device).

  [0053] Instead of using positioning information obtained from mobile network cells and / or satellites, the location detected by mobile communication device 40 indicates that mobile communication device 40 is in the vicinity of a validation point. It can respond to the wireless connection service it uses (e.g., using WiFi, Bluetooth, or alternative technologies). For example, the mobile communication device 40 can respond to detecting that a WiFi base station 54 with a particular network name and / or signature is near an exit point. In one particular example, WiFi hotspots operated by TRO or customs services can be used. For example, in FIG. 2, WiFi base station 54 is associated with TRO refund system 56 at the TRO service window. In such cases, the validation process can be performed using a WiFi connection with the mobile communication device.

  [0054] As described above for the base station 54 at the store premises, the base station 54 associated with the TRO service window or otherwise near the exit point may connect to, for example, the Internet and from there For example, it can be connected to the TRO host system 20. The base station 54 can also be assigned a standard SSID for TRO so that the application of the mobile communication device 40 automatically recognizes and connects to the base station when it is within range of the base station. Can be easily programmed.

  [0055] As a further example, using information entered only at or near the validation point using the mobile communication device 40, the user is at or near the validation point. Can be confirmed. Alternatively, or in addition, other information, such as information obtained from social networking sites, is used as part of the algorithm to verify that the mobile communication device and thus the user is at or near the validation point. Can be determined. Such an algorithm can employ one or more of the various elements described above, weighting those elements to determine that the mobile communication device and thus the user is at or near the validation point. Can do.

  [0056] The mobile communication device 40 uses the service in response to determining that the device is near a validation point and / or receiving a message in response to such determination, and / or Guidance to the user to confirm acceptance can be automatically presented. The presentation can be a visual and / or audio message.

  [0057] The guidance may be a simple guidance prompting the use of the inspection station 22 as described above and does not necessarily require an active response from the user.

  [0058] In one example, the mobile communication device 40 can be used to replace at least some of the functions such as the inspection station 22.

  [0059] For example, a mobile communication device presents one or more transactions to allow a user to select a transaction to process with the service, and a transaction selected by the user to process with the service in response to user input May be operative to send a message identifying the validation service 26 and / or the host system 20.

  [0060] Depending on the requirements in that country, the user can be asked to provide further identification. This can be done using the biometric sensor of the mobile communication device 40 if present, eg, a fingerprint read using a fingerprint reader, an image taken using the mobile communication device camera, and then It can be processed by the mobile communication device and / or sent to a validation service for comparison with stored records.

  [0061] If the mobile communication device does not include such a biosensor, or if local regulations require a separate process, in one example, the test station 22 may be assigned a user's personal identifier (eg, passport, identification card). , Etc.) can be configured to determine if the user is eligible for a tax refund. The inspection station 22 operates to determine the user's qualification by reading the information from the personal identifier and examining the information against an internal or external database holding information about the user / unqualified user in his country Can do. In that case, if the user's nationality or status is not in the list, the user can be considered qualified (negative approval). Alternatively or in addition, the inspection station 22 operates to determine eligibility by examining information against internal or external databases that hold information about non-native users / qualified users. You can also. In that case, if the user's nationality or status is in the list, the user can be considered qualified (positive approval).

  [0062] As noted above, the inspection station 22 can also include a fingerprint scanner and / or a camera that uses the biometric information held in a machine-readable identifier (eg, an identification document such as a passport) using the station 22. Can be used to verify the identity of the user. For an explanation of such biometric information, see, for example, the following Internet link: http: // www. highprogrammer. com / alan / numbers / mrp. It can be obtained in html.

  [0063] If it is determined that the user is eligible, the mobile communication device and / or the inspection station may send one or more validation request messages to the validation system 26, eg, via the message interface 24. Can operate to send to. In response to receiving the token, validation system 26 returns all transactions that fall under borrow validation.

  [0064] In one example, the mobile communication device 40 prompts the user to initiate a validation, and then sends a validation request message to the validation system 26 (eg, a customs approval system), eg, via the message interface 24. Passing may be configured to request approval based on both the user qualification with which the mobile communication device identifier is registered and the transaction recorded in association with the user and / or mobile communication device identifier.

  [0065] The validation approval system 26 responds to a validation request message, as described below, from its database and / or from the host system 20 via the message interface 24 about the user. All transactions (e.g., all transactions already associated with the token) and apply the set rules to determine whether to approve or reject.

  [0066] In one example, the validation system 26 automatically approves one or more of the transactions based on established rules ("green channel") or is also configured within the validation system 26. Transactions can be set to be automatically rejected (“red channel”) based on established rules.

  [0067] When the validation system 26 makes a decision (approval / rejection) on the transaction, an authorization message (validation request response message) is automatically returned to the corresponding host system 20 through the message interface 24. Such a response can take the form of a web service response and can hold an electronically approved transaction (including an electronic customs stamp). The host system 20 updates the existing tax refund transaction record for the transaction with an authorization message (approval, rejection, change).

  [0068] In the exemplary embodiment, validation system 26 does not function as a payment authorization host, and host system 20 becomes the system of record.

  [0069] Each host system 20 formats a refund message and sends it to the requestor (eg, inspection station 22 or mobile communication device 40) to inform the transaction that the “green channel” automatic payment has been approved. The TRO that issued the token can be given the first rank at the inspection station and the transaction of that TRO is displayed.

  [0070] If one or more of the acquired transactions have an approved code, the user can be given a “green channel” service for the approved transaction and asked how to pay for the refund. “Green Channel” service means that the refund is approved without further action. If none of the transactions are approved, the user can be given a “red channel” service for at least those transactions (possibly all transactions) and asked to see a customs officer for further processing . “Red channel” service means that the user must meet with customs officials for further processing to obtain approval, at least for those transactions (possibly all transactions).

  [0071] If the refund choice is a payment card (eg, a credit card), the refund can be made automatically to a registered payment card. If there is no registered payment card, the inspection station 22 or mobile communication device can be configured to specify a refund destination.

  [0072] If the user desires a cash equivalent refund, and the user uses the mobile communication device 40 or another form of token that can store the amount, the refund amount can be credited to the token.

  [0073] When red channel processing is instructed, the inspection station 22 or mobile communication device can operate to prompt the user to go to the customs officer, who uses the mobile communication device identifier. Processing can be started. The customs officer may include an approval station 28 connected to or forming part of the validation system 26. However, in other examples, the approval station can be separate from the validation system 26 and / or remote and can communicate with the validation system 26 via the message interface 24, for example.

  [0074] In response to the user selecting one or more transactions to validate, the mobile communications device may operate to send a validation request message to the validation system 26. Yes, the validation system can receive a message identifying the approved and rejected transactions.

  [0075] The customs officer can then approve or reject each transaction or change (reduce) the amount of value. The customs officer can enter the result of the decision using the input device (s) of the approval station 28. The result of the customs officer's decision is communicated from the validation system 26 to the appropriate host system 20 through the message interface 24. As a result, the host system 20 holds a tax refund transaction with an approval code (approval, rejection, changed value).

  [0076] Validation system 26 may be configured to operate in one or both of two modes of operation. In one operation mode, transaction information is stored in each host system 20. In the first mode of operation, the validation system 26 can operate to obtain transaction information from the individual host systems 20 to validate the refund. The authorization result is returned to the corresponding host system 20 through the message interface 24. As a result, the host system 20 holds a tax refund transaction having an approval code (approval, rejection, value change). In the second mode of operation, validation system 26 maintains a copy of each transaction in its database in association with the host system identifier as well as the associated token (mobile communications device identifier). In this case, the validation system 26 sends back the transaction and authorization code to the appropriate host system 20. The difference between the two modes is that in the second mode the customs approval system keeps a copy of all data from all host systems 20.

  [0077] Mobile communication device 40 may operate to use messaging using any suitable technology such as SMS messaging, email, or web-based services. Appropriate security protocols can be used to communicate information using existing software, equipment, and processes for processing secure financial transactions, as is known for electronic payments. Accordingly, a standard-based message format can be used when sending a refund transaction. Using a standard message format makes it possible to accommodate multiple TRO providers, while ensuring that customs and tax authorities only need to handle one system for approval.

  [0078] By recording the transaction in the host system 20 and / or validation system 26 using at least the transaction identifier and the purchase value, and then associating a detailed record about the user with the mobile communication device identifier in the host system 20 The validity checking system 26 obtains a refund transaction from the TRO host system 20 based on the mobile communication device identifier, notifies the request for permission for refund, and notifies the host system 20 of the result. Can operate to send to.

  [0079] In the illustrated example, communication between the host system 20 (s) and the validation system 26 can occur via the message interface 24. The message interface 24 may provide a dedicated network between the validation system 26 and the host system 20 of one or more TROs. The message interface can be implemented using a web service or other online or offline connection mechanism.

  [0080] In an exemplary embodiment, an automated inspection station 22 may be provided to automatically pre-screen refund transactions to generate a "red channel / green channel" response without human intervention. it can. An automatic prescreening process can be performed using, for example, the inspection station 22 at the exit point from the area.

  [0081] An inspection station 22 or an approval system (eg, a validation system 26) in communication with the inspection station 22 has defined “red channel” requirements for high value purchases and / or certain types of purchases, for example. Rules can be provided. The behavior for the “Red Channel” may require the user to present the token, purchase receipt, passport, and purchased goods to the customs officer at the customs station 16 for approval.

  [0082] An approval system 26 in communication with an inspection station 22 or an inspection station can include rules defining conditions for “green channels” that provide automatic approval according to specific criteria, the specific criteria being The country of origin of the traveler, the value of the product, the value of the transaction, the value of all transactions, the quantity of the product, the store, etc., and the logical combination of these criteria. White lists and black lists for countries of origin, retailers, travelers, etc. can also be used.

  [0083] In an exemplary embodiment, a mobile communication device application provides an interface for obtaining automatic prescreening of refund transactions for a user to generate a "red channel / green channel" response without human intervention. By providing, it may be possible to operate to provide the functionality of the inspection station (kiosk) 22. The automatic prescreening process may be useful when it is determined that the mobile communication device is near an exit point from the area.

  [0084] A mobile communication device application or a validation system (eg, a customs approval system) 26 in communication with the mobile communication device 40 may be a “red channel” for high value purchases and / or certain types of purchases, for example. It can have rules that define requirements. The behavior for the “Red Channel” may require the user to present the token, purchase receipt, passport, and purchased goods to the customs officer at the customs station 16 for approval.

  [0085] A mobile communication device application or a validation system (eg, a customs approval system) 26 in communication with a mobile communication device has defined a “green channel” condition that provides automatic approval according to certain criteria. Rules can be provided, and specific criteria are the country of origin of the traveler, the value of the product, the value of the transaction, the value of all transactions, the quantity of the product, the store, etc., and a logical combination of these criteria. White lists and black lists for countries of origin, retailers, travelers, etc. can also be used.

  FIG. 2 also shows a reservation system 58 and an immigration control system 60. The reservation system 58 is a travel reservation system, for example, an airline reservation system. Such airline reservation systems typically consist of large networked computer systems with multiple processors (CPUs) and memory / storage systems (MEMs). The travel reservation system 58 can monitor the status of the traveler's journey and update the traveler's status at various stages of the journey. For example, in the first stage, the reservation system recognizes that the user has made a travel reservation and holds information identifying the user. Thus, within the booking system there is a trip record that identifies a particular trip (eg, airmail) that the user plans and information that identifies the user. Information identifying the user can be kept directly in the travel record or a link to the user record can be invoked. In the exemplary system, reservation system 58 is also configured to store a user's status regarding the use of a service, such as a tax refund service. Information regarding the registration of the tax refund service can be included, for example, in the field of the actual travel reservation record or held in the field of the individual user record linked to the travel reservation record. For example, a tax refund service registration may be maintained as part of an airline loyalty program record. It is also envisioned that a traveler record in host system 20 may include a link to a travel reservation in travel reservation system 58.

  [0087] By linking the records of the travel reservation system 58 and the host system 20 to each other (ie, including appropriate links in the fields in the individual records of the travel reservation system 58 and the host system 20), Automatically generate a message to be sent to the user using the travel status and / or provide a final authorization for automatically determining that the user has actually left the country and making a tax refund it can.

  [0088] As shown, providing the same functionality using an immigration control system 60 that includes, for example, one or more processors and appropriate memory and includes records for each traveler entering and leaving the country. it can. This immigration control system 60 integrates with the travel reservation system 58 and / or the tax refund host system 20 to automatically generate a message to be sent to the user and / or provide a tax refund when the user leaves the area. It can also be authorized automatically.

  In the description of FIG. 2 above, the reservation system 58 is coupled to the host system 20 via the network 15. However, it should be noted that the reservation system 58 can be functionally coupled to the validation system 26 in the same manner as described above. In this regard, it will be noted that a dotted connection is shown between the reservation system 58 and the message interface 24 in FIG.

  [0090] FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating functional components of a mobile communication device, eg, a mobile phone such as a smartphone.

  [0091] As shown in FIG. 3, the mobile communication device 40 comprises one or more processors 70 and a memory 72 for storing programs and data. Various inputs and outputs can be provided, including audio input and output 76 (eg, speakers and microphones), a vibration mechanism 78 that provides a vibration warning, a touch sensor mechanism 80 for user input, and a display 74. Touch sensor configured as described above, and one or more keys 82. Various communication interfaces can be provided, including a wireless module 84 for wirelessly communicating with a cellular network, an NFC module 86 for interacting with near field communication technology, and a WiFi module for communicating with a WiFi base station. 88, a Bluetooth® module 90 that communicates using Bluetooth® technology, and a GPS module 92 for identifying the location of the mobile communication device. It will be appreciated that the interaction between the various functional components shown in FIG. 3 is shown schematically only and that an appropriate conventional configuration of the individual components is possible within the mobile communication device.

  [0092] FIGS. 4-8 provide flowcharts outlining the operation of the system shown in FIGS. 1-3.

  [0093] FIG. 4 illustrates an example of a process that can be performed at the time of sale when a user makes a purchase.

  [0094] At step 412, the user makes a purchase at a point-of-sale information management (POS) terminal at the store. The purchase details can be captured in the store system using any conventional technique, for example, the store reads the barcode and the store system retrieves the purchase details from the store system storage associated with the barcode. By doing so, the details of the purchase can be captured.

  [0095] The merchant system 14 is operable to determine a mobile communication device identifier of the user's mobile communication device. For example, the identifier can be captured using the NFC reader 42 of the POS terminal 44 of a store that uses NFC technology. Alternatively, the mobile communication device identifier can be entered using WiFi, Bluetooth (registered trademark) or other technology, or a manual input device.

  [0096] At 414, the merchant system 14 sends an inquiry message including the mobile communication device identifier to the host system 20. The host system 20 can operate to determine whether the mobile communication device is registered with the tax refund service by comparing the mobile communication device identifier with the user record.

  [0097] If, at 416, the mobile communication device identifier is recorded in the host system 20, the host system 20 operates to send a reply message including information for identifying the user to the store system 14. Can do. The information for identifying the user can include, for example, a passport number and / or biometric information (for example, a photograph) for identifying the user.

  [0098] At 418, the merchant system 14 may operate to output information for identifying the user to the merchant to manually identify the user. Alternatively or in addition, the merchant system can be configured to prompt the user to enter identification information (eg, using biometric recognition).

  [0099] At 416, if the mobile communication device identifier is not recorded in the host system 20, the host system 20 sends a reply message to the store system 14 asking the user or store for input of information identifying the user. Can work.

  [00100] At 420, the store system 14 may operate to prompt the store or user to enter information identifying the user. Information identifying the user can include information identifying the user's nationality or country of residence, such as a passport number, and / or biometric information identifying the user. Then, information identifying the user is transmitted to the host system 20, and the host system can operate to record information identifying the user in the user record of the user.

  [00101] At 422, if the user is eligible for service, the merchant system can operate to send a transaction message to the host system 20. The transaction message can include a receipt identifier (eg, a receipt number), the value of the purchased product, and a mobile communication device identifier. The message can also include further information, for example, details of the purchased item obtained at 412.

  [00102] The host system 20 operates to assign a transaction identifier (eg, transaction number or string) to the transaction and create a transaction record that includes a transaction identifier, a receipt identifier, a purchase value, and a mobile communication device identifier. can do. The transaction record can also include additional information such as details of the purchased product.

[00103] That is, an exemplary transaction record entry maintained at the host system may include the following fields, some or all of which may be filled in response to the above steps.
Transaction identifier Receipt identifier Purchase value Token identifier Registration flag Product details Traveler's details Payee.

  [00104] The host system 20 can be further configured to return a transaction response message that includes a transaction identifier, which can be printed on a purchase receipt printed at the merchant system 14. Thereafter, at 426, the process ends.

  [00105] Steps 412 to 426 can be performed in real time in parallel with the credit card authorization process, so no further delay is required at the time of sale.

  [00106] In the above method, communication with the host system 20 is performed by the store system 14. In another example, communication with the host system 20 is performed by a device other than the merchant system 14, such as a payment system, or by actually using the user's mobile communication device 40 under the control of the application of the mobile communication device. be able to.

  [00107] FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an example operation of the system described with reference to FIGS. 1-3 when a user approaches an exit point from a region.

  [00108] In an exemplary embodiment, the system can operate to automatically determine 512 that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of an immigration point or a customs validation point. The automatic determination of the position of the mobile communication device can be realized by various methods as described above.

  [00109] In one example, the location of the mobile communication device 40 can be determined using an interaction between the mobile communication device 40 and the cellular telephone network to which the mobile communication device is connected. Thus, for example, either the mobile network 50 or the mobile communication device 40 operates to determine that the mobile communication device 40 is within a mobile communication cell associated with an immigration point or a customs validation point. be able to. This is represented by the mobile network antenna 52 in FIG. In this determination, the mobile network compares the identification of the mobile communication device with a record held in a memory (MEM) in the mobile communication network system 50 indicating that the mobile communication device 40 is registered for the tax refund service. Can be done. The mobile communication network system 50 can then operate to send a message to the validation system 26 (or the host system 20), and the receiving side sends 512 a guidance message to the mobile communication device 40 to make a tax It can be configured to prompt the user to use the refund service. Instead of the mobile network system 50 recognizing the presence of the mobile communication device and communicating with the validation system 26 or the host system 20, it associates the identification of the mobile communication network cell with an immigration control point or a customs validation point. An application for recognizing a cell in the vicinity of a designated immigration point or customs validation point (for example, comparing a cell identification with a list of cell identifications held as application data of the mobile communication device 40) Thus, the mobile communication device 40 itself can be configured. The mobile communication device 40 can then operate to communicate with the validation system 26 or the host system 20, or simply provide a message directly to the user to prompt the user to use the tax refund service.

  [00110] The guidance may take the form of a query that simply asks the user for a response, or may take the form of a more detailed instruction regarding the procedure for obtaining a tax refund. This can include, for example, information regarding the location of an inspection station at an immigration point or customs validation point, the location of a tax refund operator's service window, the location of a customs window, and the like.

  [00111] The guidance message 514 does not necessarily require a response from the user, especially if the message immediately provides an indication of the type described above. However, if the guidance message requires a response and the response is received by the sender (ie, the validation system 26 (or host system 20), if the response is 518 that the user refuses service, The process ends at 520.

  [00112] Alternatively, if, at 518, the user requests to proceed to a tax refund service, at step 522, the validation system 26 uses the mobile communication device identifier where the transaction record was stored ( For example, it can operate to retrieve purchase transactions from the host system 20 or the message interface 24).

  [00113] The validation system 26 operates at 524 to determine if refunds are allowed for those purchases and at 526 to send a status message to the mobile communication device 40 informing the status of the tax refund request. can do. As explained above, this can take the form of a green channel or red channel response. In the case of a red channel response, the status message can provide the user of the mobile communication device with an instruction to proceed to be validated, such as going to a customs office for further processing.

  [00114] If a refund is granted at 526, the refund can be processed at 528 by the host system 20.

  [00115] FIG. 6 illustrates operations that can be performed on a mobile communication device as part of the process described with reference to FIG.

  [00116] For example, at 612, the mobile communication device receives the aforementioned guidance message. In this example shown in FIG. 6, it is assumed that the user requests a response with a guidance message and indicates whether the user wishes to use the tax refund system. At 614, the mobile communication device responds to user input made at the mobile communication device. If the user refuses to use the tax refund service at 616, the process ends at 618.

  [00117] Alternatively, if it is assumed that the user response at 614 is to confirm 616 that the tax refund service is to be used, the mobile communication device at 620 indicates the status message referenced above in connection with FIG. Receive. At 622, the user can be prompted to enter a selection of one or more purchases to process for a tax refund. That is, instead of providing a tax refund process for every purchase, the user can select one or more of the purchases. In this regard, in response to the status message, the mobile communication device indicates to the user all purchase transactions that have been centrally recorded and retrieved from the central storage, and the user can select one or more of those transactions. Like that. At 624, the response from the mobile communication device is sent to the validation system 26.

  [00118] FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a scheme that uses the reservation system 58 as part of a tax refund system.

  [00119] In FIG. 7, step 712 corresponds to the user checking in for a trip (eg, checking in for a flight). According to conventional processes, this can be done by the user checking in using a web-based or message-based service using a personal computer or mobile communication device. Alternatively, check-in can be obtained at a check-in terminal or a check-in window in the airport.

  [00120] At step 714, the reservation system 58 responds to a change in the traveler's status (eg, a change from an unchecked state to a checked-in state) and / or the tax refund host 20 and / or valid Send an appropriate travel status message to the sex testing system 26. The trip status message may include one or more identifications of the traveler (eg, mobile communication device identifier or unique user identifier, airline loyalty program identifier for the user, user passport number, or booking system 58 and Reservation system and any other identifier recorded as an identifier common to host system 20 and / or validation system 26), which allows linking of records of host system 20 and / or validation system 26) One or more may be included.

  [00121] One of the validation system 26, host system 20, or reservation system 58 then provides the user with guidance or instructions at status 716 corresponding to the guidance message described above with reference to FIGS. It can operate to transmit to the mobile communication device 40. At 718, as described above with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, prompting the user with a guidance message or giving instructions to the user on the steps to take to use the tax refund service Can do.

  [00122] If a response from the user is required, the user's mobile communications device requests a tax refund operation at the validation system 26 and / or the host system 20 in response to the user input at 718. Can do.

  [00123] In the description of FIG. 7 above, the reservation system 58 can be linked to the host system 20 and / or validation system 26, and the associated messaging and functionality described above can be related to the reservation system 58 and / or validity. Note that inspection system 26 and / or host system 20 may provide.

  [00124] FIG. 8 shows an example of the subsequent steps, in which the booking system 58 confirms in step 812 that the user has actually boarded the transport (eg, an airplane) and / or that the transport has actually departed. It can respond to data entered from the starting point.

  [00125] At step 814, reservation system 58 sends a message to host system 20 and / or validation system 26 as described above, so that at step 816, host system 20 should pay the traveler. Can operate to perform a refund.

  [00126] In place of or in addition to the reservation system 58, as shown in FIG. 8, an immigration control system 60 operated by a national immigration authority in a given region is a validation system. 26 and / or can operate to communicate with the host system 20 to perform the process.

  [00127] The conditions for granting or not giving automatic approval may depend on predetermined rules that may vary depending on various legal and regulatory requirements.

  [00128] For example, one of the typical requirements is that the purchaser of a product is a qualified person who also takes out the product. Thus, for example, in situations where the qualification is not verified at the time of purchase as a result of the user not registering by the time of purchase, in one embodiment of the present invention, this can be identified from the transaction record maintained in the system. In such a case, at step 542, the system can operate to direct red channel processing (ie, perform non-automatic processing for the user). In this example, transactional entitlements and / or registration verification can be identified from the status of the “registration flag” in the transaction record. As also explained above, optionally depending on local requirements, the “registration” flag for the transaction may be reset if, for example, it is determined that the registration is incomplete after purchase. it can.

  [00129] Although this example uses a "registration" flag as a means of tracking qualification verification, in other examples, verification tracking adds a date stamp to the record, and when the qualification was recorded and the purchase It will be appreciated that this can be achieved by comparing the transaction time.

  [00130] The availability of automatic approval can also affect other factors, such as the value of the purchased product, the type of transaction, the pattern of the transaction, the nationality of the user, and the like. Non-automatic processing can also be requested based on statistics as part of the sampling process.

  [00131] Thus, non-automated processing (red channel processing) may require determination of local automatic processing requirements and / or statistical sample processing. Can be determined if. Thus, the exemplary system provides increased operational flexibility while providing safe and verifiable operation.

  [00132] As described above, rules can be provided for determining approval or rejection (green channel or red channel status). Such rules can be implemented, for example, by providing scoring for various parameters, and validation system 26 or mobile communication device 40 uses the scoring to determine the final score. It can be determined whether it is in the response range of the green channel or the response range of the red channel. For example, different scores can be assigned to travelers based on the traveler's home country, and different scores can be assigned to different product classes and / or different purchase amounts. Such scores can be stored in the validation system 26 and / or in the storage of applications running on the mobile communication device 40. The score can be stored, for example, in one or more lookup tables or other suitable manner, the lookup table being accessed from code associated with various parameters. The lookup table can contain multiple entries, one for each parameter, the first field identifies the parameter (eg, a code or string representing the parameter), and the second field is associated with that parameter. Keep the score.

  [00133] Program code running on one or more processors of validation system 26 or mobile communication device 40 accesses the appropriate lookup table (s) and scores associated with the individual parameters. Can operate to take out. The program code may operate to determine one or more final scores by mathematically combining the individual scores retrieved for the parameters associated with the refund request. For example, for each item for which a refund is required, a score based on the type of item and a score for the amount of the item can be added to the score based on nationality to derive a final final score. In this simple example, scores for related parameters are added together to form a final score, but other mathematical operators (eg, multipliers) can be used to determine one or more final scores. . Comparing the total final score and / or one or more final scores for each item or group of items with the stored value range representing the response of the green channel and red channel, the final score (s) is It can be determined whether it falls within each range. As a result, green or red channel response determinations can be made for all items, individual items, or groups of items as needed.

  [00134] Similar schemes can be used to manage the various stages of automated communication with the user, automated validation and refund processing. For example, the validation system 26 (or host system 20, message interface 24, reservation system 58 or immigration system 60) can maintain a table that can hold scores related to the current status of the user's trip. . For example, whether the user is registered for a tax refund service, has undergone an identification-based qualification check, indicates acceptance of the tax refund service, has made one or more purchases, or checked in for travel You can assign different scores based on whether you have checked your baggage, passed immigration control, boarded a flight, or departed.

[00135] Different travel status stages may have different weights associated with different service operations of the automated tax refund process. Various service operations include, for example: For example, a service usage guide is automatically issued when one or more of the following example stages occur.
• Make travel reservations (eg, air mail) to a certain area.
・ Enter the area.
• When performing a purchase transaction or after.
• Check in an itinerary (e.g. air mail) to leave the area.
・ We are approaching the customs point to leave the area.
Pass through immigration control to board (eg on an airline) and leave the area.
• Leave the area by boarding (eg on an air mail). Or ・ Return home from the area.
For example, when one or more of the following example steps occur, it automatically sends a list of transactions that allow the user to select for validation.
• When performing a transaction or after.
• Check in an itinerary (e.g. air mail) to leave the area.
・ We are approaching the customs point to leave the area.
Pass through immigration control to board (eg on an airline) and leave the area.
• Leave the area by boarding (eg on an air mail). Or ・ Return home from the area.
For example, automatic initiation of validation processing for refund status for one or more transactions when one or more of the following example stages occur.
• When performing a transaction or after.
• Check in an itinerary (e.g. air mail) to leave the area.
・ We are approaching the customs point to leave the area.
Pass through immigration control to board (eg on an airline) and leave the area.
• Leave the area by boarding (eg on an air mail). Or ・ Return home from the area.
For example, automatic processing of a refund following a validation process when one or more of the following example stages occur.
• When performing a transaction or after.
• Check in an itinerary (e.g. air mail) to leave the area.
・ We are approaching the customs point to leave the area.
Pass through immigration control to board (eg on an airline) and leave the area.
• Leave the area by boarding (eg on an air mail). Or ・ Return home from the area.

  [00136] The score can be maintained, for example, in a multi-dimensional table (eg, one axis of a two-dimensional table indicates the travel stage and the other axis indicates service behavior), and the score is validated It is automatically evaluated by program code running on one or more processors of system 26. Such processing capacity may alternatively or in addition to one or more of the transaction station 22, host system (s) 20, reservation system 58, immigration control system 60, or mobile communication device 40 or A plurality can be provided.

  [00137] In the exemplary system described above, transaction records are maintained in the host system (s) 20, and those records are stored in the validation system 26 and / or transaction station 22 (s) or customs station 28 (s). ). However, in another example, transaction records can be kept in the message interface instead or in addition, in which case the message interface is configured as a central server system.

  [00138] Also, although the example described herein shows an automated inspection station 22 in addition to the customs station 16, the customs station 16 may include the functionality of the inspection station 22 and / or instead of a separate inspection station 22. It is good. When the customs station 16 forms an example of the inspection station 22, the user information can be input by a user or a customs officer as appropriate.

  [00139] An embodiment may be implemented as a computer program product for operating one or more processors. The computer program product can take the form of a computer program in a carrier medium. The carrier medium can be a storage medium such as a solid, magnetic, optical, magneto-optical, or other type of storage medium. The carrier medium may be a transmission medium such as broadcast, telephone, computer network, wired, wireless, electrical, electromagnetic optics, or other types of transmission medium.

  [00140] A system and method for providing a service, eg, a tax refund service, has been described. In this system and method, a device verifies whether a mobile communication device identifier is associated with a service registration in response to a mobile communication device identifier of a user's mobile communication device, and the mobile communication device identifier registers with a service. If so, it includes determining predetermined user information associated with the mobile communication device identifier to provide the service.

  [00141] The apparatus can be operatively connected to a remote server comprising a storage that provides an association between information derived from the mobile communication device identifier and predetermined user information. The apparatus can be configured to query a remote server using information derived from the mobile communication device identifier of the mobile communication device. The apparatus can be configured to receive information derived from predetermined user information associated with information derived from a mobile communication device identifier read from a mobile communication device from a remote server. If the mobile communication device identifier is not registered with the service, the device allows the operator to enter predetermined user information about the user and information derived from the entered user information before providing the service. Can be associated with information derived from the mobile communication device identifier.

  [00142] The apparatus may be configured to send information derived from the input user information and the mobile communication device identifier of the mobile communication device to a remote server for storage. The apparatus can comprise a mobile communication device reader operable to read a mobile communication device identifier from the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device reader can have an NFC interface. The mobile communication device is, for example, a mobile phone. The user information may include information identifying the user's nationality, such as a passport country and number or other identifying means. A device or another device, such as a mobile communication device, can operate to send transaction details associated with a mobile communication device identifier to a remote system, such as a host system or validation system. The details of the transaction can be transmitted, for example, via a mobile phone system. The mobile communication device can operate to receive the guidance message and prompt the user to respond to the guidance message using the mobile communication device to receive service. When a user responds to such a guidance message using a mobile communication device, the mobile communication device receives a status message and whether the service is automatically approved or further steps are required for approval It can operate to confirm with the user whether or not.

  [00143] The system can operate to determine that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of an immigration point or a customs validation point, such as captured by the mobile communication device. Uses one or more of GPS coordinate information determination, determination of the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected, determination that the information at the immigration point or customs validation point has been input by the user to the mobile communication device To do. The mobile communication device may receive a guidance message and / or a status message in response to, for example, determining that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of an immigration point or a customs validation point. The mobile communication device can operate to present multiple transactions and allow the user to select a transaction to process with the service. Messaging can be provided using, for example, SMS and / or email. As part of the service provision, for example, issuing a tax refund check using a mobile communication device can be included.

  [00144] The above also describes a computer-implemented system and method for providing a service, where the mobile communication device registered with the host server for the service is valid for that service. Automatically starting at least one service operation of the service in response to being determined to be near the sex test point.

  [00145] Determining that the mobile communication device is near the validation point may include determining that the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected is a cell near the validation point. For example, the mobile communication device can determine that the cell to which it is connected is a cell close to the validity check point. Alternatively, this may be done by a mobile communication network system, which is configured to recognize that the mobile communication device is registered for service. In determining that a mobile communication device is near a validation point, use positioning information obtained from a satellite detected by the mobile communication device that indicates that the mobile communication device is near a validation point. Can do. A determination that the mobile communication device is near the validation point is a location-based wireless connection service (eg, WiFi) detected at the mobile communication device indicating that the mobile communication device is near the validation point. Use) provided by the base station. The determination that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point is based on the fact that the information input by the user to the mobile communication device by at least one of the mobile communication device and the host server is sent to the mobile communication device user at the validation point. Confirming that it matches the information presented can be included.

  [00146] The service operation automatically presents to the user a guidance prompting the use of the service in response to the message received by the mobile communication device, and the mobile communication device automatically informs the user how to use the service. Providing one or more of providing validation status of one or more transactions to the user, providing automatic validation of transactions for services to provide. Before it is determined that the mobile communication device is near the service validation point, the mobile communication device presents the user with a prompt to use the service, and user input to accept the service is provided to the mobile communication device. In response, the server can be operative to send a confirmation message to the host server to confirm acceptance of the service. Before it is determined that the mobile communication device is near the service validation point, the mobile communication device presents one or more transactions to allow the user to select a transaction to process with the service; The mobile communication device may be operative to send a message identifying the transaction selected by the user for processing by the service in response to user input to the mobile communication device. The service operation presents a guide to confirm acceptance of the service to the user, and the mobile communication device hosts a confirmation message for confirming acceptance of the service in response to user input to the mobile communication device accepting the service. The mobile communication device presents one or more transactions to be sent to the server and allows the user to select a transaction to be processed by the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device processes the service in response to a user input to the mobile communication device. One or more of sending a message identifying the transaction selected by the user to do. The message can be implemented using SMS or email. The mobile communication device is, for example, a mobile phone. The service is, for example, a tax refund service.

  [00147] One or more records corresponding to the purchase transaction may be used to present one or more transactions to the user. One or more records can be maintained at the mobile communication device. One or more records may be maintained at the server and provided in a message from the server to the mobile communication device in response to determining that the mobile communication device is near the validation point. The mobile communication device receives the status message and determines whether the transaction selected by the user for processing by the tax refund service is automatically approved or whether further steps are required for approval. Can act to confirm against. Validation points are immigration points or customs validation points. The system automatically checks whether a transaction registered with the tax refund service is eligible for a refund and sends a message to the mobile communication device to automatically activate the tax refund service for one or more of the transactions. Can be operative to let the user know if it is automatically approved and / or if further steps are needed to obtain approval for one or more of the transactions. Records corresponding to purchase transactions registered with the tax refund service can be used to automatically determine refund eligibility.

  [00148] Also described above is a mobile communication device that includes means for outputting information to a user, means for receiving user input, wireless communication means for communicating with a communication network system, storage means, and processing means. The mobile communication device is configured to communicate with a remote server with which the mobile communication device is registered for service provision, wherein the mobile communication device is near the validation point for the service In response to being determined to be automatically presented to the user for guidance to use the service. A computer system for providing automatic validation of a tax refund request for one or more services automatically determines whether a transaction registered with the tax refund service is automatically eligible for a refund. Whether the tax refund service is automatically approved for one or more of the transactions by inspecting and sending a validation status message to the mobile communication device registered with the host server for tax refund service And / or can be operative to notify the user if further procedures are required to obtain approval for one or more of the transactions.

  [00149] Also described above is a system and method for automated processing of tax refunds, which includes a first database in which traveler records of travelers registered for tax refund services are stored; A traveler that is registered with the tax refund service in response to detecting a traveler's trip status indicating that the traveler is preparing to leave the area And a computer server operable to initiate a service operation relating to a tax refund service.

  [00150] The second database is, for example, a travel reservation database of a travel reservation system, where a traveler's travel status is maintained in a travel reservation record in the travel reservation database, and the travel reservation record is stored in a traveler record in the first database. Linked. The second database is, for example, an immigration control database of an immigration control system, and a traveler's travel status is held in a travel reservation record of the immigration control database, and the travel reservation record is linked to a traveler record of the first database. Is done. The initiation of the service operation may include automatically sending a warning message to the traveler's mobile communication device, the mobile communication device being identified in the traveler's traveler record. A warning message is automatically sent to the traveler's mobile communications device in response to the change in traveler status held in the second database indicating that the user is preparing to leave the area. be able to. The warning message may provide information regarding the procedure that the user should take to perform a purchase transaction validation for a tax refund service, for example.

  [00151] The second database record may include a reference to the first database record. The record in the first database can include a reference to the record in the second database. Upon receipt of a request for tax refund validation for one or more purchase transactions by the traveler, an automatic response is determined by determining the traveler's trip status from the second database Depending on the travel status of the traveler, a service operation related to the tax refund service can be started. A traveler's travel status indicating that the traveler is preparing to leave the area may be one of check-in, check-in at a station, port or airport, check-in for luggage, boarding, departure, or There can be multiple.

  [00152] A tax refund system (eg, a host system or validation system) may operate to query a travel system to determine a traveler's status. A tax refund system (e.g., a host system or validation system) may be operative to receive automated updates from the travel system in response to changes in the traveler's travel status. A tax refund system (eg, host system or validation system) may operate to confirm that the registered traveler identity matches the traveler identity for booking the trip. At least one transaction record may identify one or more purchases registered for the traveler's tax refund. The service operation may include automatically initiating a validation process for the traveler's one or more purchases. The service action automatically informs the traveler whether one or more purchases of the traveler are eligible for an automatic refund upon departure, or whether further procedures are required to obtain a refund. Can be included. Further procedures for refunds can include presenting purchases that you want to bring to a customs office. The service operation can include refunding the traveler for purchases that have been validated for refund in response to a predetermined change in the traveler's travel booking status. The predetermined change in the travel reservation status may include changing the travel reservation status to one or more of check-in, check-in at a station, port or airport, check-in for luggage, boarding, departure. it can.

  [00153] In the above description, reference has been made to applications provided to mobile communication devices. Such an application can be configured to be executed as a foreground task and / or a background task in the mobile communication device depending on the function of the mobile communication device. Such an application can be configured to take on each of the above processes to varying degrees. In one example, the mobile communication device application can operate to provide the location process described above and provide information to the user, and the tax refund service itself has been described above with reference to FIGS. For example, all user records and transaction records, stored electronic tax refund checks, etc. provided by the infrastructure are maintained in storage that is part of the infrastructure, such as the TRO host system 20 and / or the message interface 24. The validation process is performed by the validation system 26 via the inspection station 22. In another example, mobile communications equipment can be used to support a greater portion of the tax refund service, which is itself provided by the infrastructure described above with reference to FIGS. For example, transaction records and / or electronic tax refund checks, etc. are held in the mobile communication device storage and managed by the mobile communication device application, and the validation process is in communication with the mobile communication device 40 application. This is done by a validation system 26. The mobile communication device application may be used to determine the location of the mobile communication device using one or more or a combination of GPS, mobile network cell location, and wireless base station location information. In these examples, and other examples where the work sharing that is part of the refund process is different, the mobile communication device identifier or another identifier associated with it is used to record the user record, transaction record, and stored electronic Tax refund checks can be linked so that the entire various stages of the refund process can be tracked by the system.

  [00154] Although the above embodiments have been described in detail, numerous variations and modifications will become apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully appreciated. The following claims should be construed to include all such variations and modifications and equivalents thereof.

Claims (22)

A computer-implemented method of providing a service comprising:
The service is a tax refund service, and the method includes:
Storing a record of one or more purchase transactions in a storage, wherein the one or more transactions are associated with a mobile communication device identifier, the mobile communication device identifier being able to access the storage Steps registered in the service's host system;
In response to determining that a mobile communication device having the mobile communication device identifier is in the vicinity of a validation point for refund using the tax refund service, the host system for the service Automatically starting at least one service action;
Including methods. The determination that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of a validation point,
The mobile communication network system to which the mobile communication device or the mobile communication device is connected determines that the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected is a cell in the vicinity of the validation point;
Positioning information obtained from a satellite indicates that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point, the mobile communication device determines,
The mobile communication device determines that a wireless connection service using location detected by the mobile communication device indicates that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point;
When the information input to the mobile communication device by the user corresponds to the information presented to the user of the mobile communication device at the validation point, at least one of the mobile communication device or the host system determines ,
The method of claim 1, comprising at least one of: The service operation is
The method according to claim 1, comprising sending a message to the mobile communication device to cause the mobile communication device to provide a user with information for using the service. The service operation is
The method according to claim 1, comprising causing an automatic validation of a transaction for the service. The service operation is
5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising providing a user with a status of validation of one or more transactions. Transmitting from the host system to the mobile communication device a message for causing the mobile communication device to present a guide for using the service to the user;
Receiving a confirmation message from the mobile communication device for confirming acceptance of the service informing that a user input to the mobile communication device accepts the service;
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 5, further comprising:   The message that causes the mobile communication device to present a user with the service to use the service is transmitted before the determination that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point for the service. 7. The method of claim 6, wherein: Sending a message from the host system to the mobile communication device to cause the mobile communication device to present one or more transactions to allow the user to select a transaction to process with the service;
Receiving a confirmation message from the mobile communication device informing the transaction selected by the user for processing by the service;
The method according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising:   The message that causes the mobile communication device to submit one or more transactions is transmitted before the determination that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of a validation point for the service. Item 9. The method according to Item 8. A status message confirming to the user whether the transaction selected by the user for processing by the tax refund service is automatically approved, or whether further steps are required for approval, Transmitting from the host system to the mobile communication device;
10. The method according to claim 8 or 9, further comprising:   The method according to claim 1, wherein the validation point is an immigration point or a customs validation point.   The method according to claim 1, wherein the mobile communication device is a mobile phone. A mobile communication device comprising output means for outputting information to a user, means for receiving user input, wireless communication means for communicating with a communication network system, storage means, and processing means,
The mobile communication device is configured to communicate with a registered host system for providing services, the host system including one or more purchase transactions associated with the mobile communication device identifier of the mobile communication device. Have access to the stored records,
The mobile communication device uses the service in response to determining that the mobile communication device having the mobile communication device identifier is in the vicinity of the location where the validity of the refund using the tax refund service is checked. A mobile communication device configured to automatically present to a user guidance for The determination that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of a validation point,
The mobile communication network system to which the mobile communication device or the mobile communication device is connected determines that the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected is a cell in the vicinity of the validation point;
Positioning information obtained from a satellite indicates that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point, the mobile communication device determines,
The mobile communication device determines that a wireless connection service using location detected by the mobile communication device indicates that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point;
When the information input to the mobile communication device by the user corresponds to the information presented to the user of the mobile communication device at the validation point, at least one of the mobile communication device or the host system determines,
14. The mobile communication device according to claim 13, comprising at least one of the following.   15. The mobile communication device according to claim 13 or 14, wherein the guidance provides a user with information about how to use the service. The guidance gives the user the option to confirm acceptance of the service,
The mobile communication device is configured to send a confirmation message to a host server to confirm acceptance of the service in response to user input to the mobile communication device for accepting the service. The mobile communication device according to any one of 13 to 15. The processor of the mobile communication device is:
In order to allow the user to select a transaction to be processed by the service, the output means presents one or more transactions to the mobile communication device and is selected by the user to be processed by the service in response to user input. The mobile communication device according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein the mobile communication device is configured to send a confirmation message identifying the transaction that has been made.   The mobile communication device according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the mobile communication device is a mobile phone. A host system for tax refund service,
The host system is
A record of one or more purchase transactions is stored in storage, wherein the one or more transactions are associated with a mobile communication device identifier, the mobile communication device identifier being a host of the service that can access the storage Registered in the system,
In response to determining that a mobile communication device having the mobile communication device identifier is in the vicinity of a validation point for refund using the tax refund service, the host system for the service A host system operable to automatically initiate at least one service operation. Automatically checks whether transactions registered with the tax refund service are automatically eligible for refunds,
Whether a tax refund service is automatically approved for one or more of the transactions by sending a validation status message to a mobile communication device registered with the host server for the tax refund service, and / or 20. The host of claim 19, further operable to cause the mobile communication device to notify a user whether additional procedures are required to obtain approval for one or more of the transactions. system.   In response to receiving a location message informing that the mobile communication device registered with the host server is determined to be in the vicinity of a validation point, the host system sends the validation status message 21. The host system of claim 20, operable to transmit. The determination that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of a validation point,
Determining that the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected is a cell in the vicinity of the validation point;
Using positioning information obtained from a satellite detected by the mobile communication device, indicating that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point;
Confirming that information entered by the user into the mobile communication device corresponds to information available at the validation point by at least one of the mobile communication device or a computer server, or
Using a location-based wireless connection service detected by the mobile communication device, indicating that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of the validation point;
The host system of claim 21, comprising one or more of:

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