KR20130052577A - Method and application for location-based services - Google Patents

Abstract

A method of providing a location-based service using a mobile communication device registered with the service includes at least one application on the mobile communication device providing information for connecting the mobile communication device to the wireless network at a given location via a base station at that location. Receiving by; Connecting the mobile communication device to a wireless network at that location; And connecting the application through a wireless network and a base station to a system providing a service in which a mobile communication device is registered.

Description

METHOD AND APPLICATION FOR LOCATION-BASED SERVICES}

The present invention relates to providing a location based service.

The service may include a tax refund service for purchase transactions by a user who may be entitled to use the service and may be validated for that service.

Tax refund systems are provided in many countries for travelers. Providing tax-free shopping is attractive to visitors in a country and can help promote tourism. Traditionally, however, management of the tax-free shopping system has been document-based where sellers issue coupons or checks at stores and then customs confirm the export of the goods at the border. While regulations vary from country to country, the traditional form of providing tax-free shopping is a coupon that includes the traveler's details and purchases, after the seller identifies and confirms that the customer is a visitor who is eligible for a tax refund. After issuing a ticket, customs will confirm at the departure location of the country that the item being taken out and the traveler correspond to the item identified in the coupon and the traveler. Refunds can then be made. Tax refund operators work with sellers and customs to facilitate the operation of this process and to manage related paperwork.

However, this treatment can be very labor and cost intensive. There are significant technical difficulties in ensuring that the tax refund system can be operated efficiently and secured at the same time.

The present invention seeks to provide a technical solution to this problem.

Aspects of the invention are defined in the claims.

Aspects of the present invention provide a location based service using a mobile communication device registered for a service. The method includes receiving, at a given location, information for connecting the mobile communication device to a wireless network through a base station at the location by at least one application of the mobile communication device; Connecting the mobile communication device to the wireless network at the location; Connecting the application via the wireless network and the base station to a system providing a service in which the mobile communication device is registered.

Aspects of the present invention provide an application comprising program code for providing a service.

Computer-readable media can carry this application.

Aspects of the present invention provide a mobile communication device comprising this application.

While various aspects of the invention are disclosed in the appended claims, other aspects of the invention are in addition to the combinations explicitly set forth in the appended claims, as well as attached features having the features of the described embodiments and / or independent claims. Any combination of features from the dependent claims.

With reference to the accompanying drawings, embodiments are described by way of example only.
1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary embodiment of a refund system in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention;
2 is a schematic system overview;
3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating functional elements of a mobile communication device;
4-7 are flowcharts of example methods of operation.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention seek to provide simplicity of operation while providing flexibility of use. In an exemplary embodiment, one or more devices, devices, and systems coordinate the processing of purchases and refunds with a mobile communication device that uniquely identifies a user, eg, a traveler, and enables communication with the user. One or more devices, devices, and systems may be operated by the seller and / or tax refund operator (TRO) and / or customs. Exemplary embodiments allow the user and information related to purchases made by the user to be kept centrally secure and accessible using the mobile communication device and one or more other devices.

In addition to providing management of refund operations, the TRO can provide training to users and sellers throughout the process. Through the use of information technology systems, the TRO can ensure the integrity of the system.

1 illustrates an example method, apparatus, and system for managing a refund process. In an exemplary process, shopping and receipt of receipts (issuance 30) are separate from other processes (acquisition 32, authorization 34, and payment 36).

As in the case of credit and debit cards, there may be multiple providers of issuing services and multiple acquirers of transactions and transactions. For example, there may be a plurality of TROs. Various point of sale devices and in-store support for user shopping can be provided.

In an example embodiment, the merchant system may provide issuance of a transaction 30 using a TRO provided POS device and / or software. The host system running the TRO may perform acquisition 32 of tax refund transactions. Validation systems (eg, customer approval systems) may execute a tax refund authorization 34. The host system may execute a refund payment operation 36. An automated kiosk (in other words a validation station or validation terminal) may be provided at the point of departure of the territory and used for various operations, including automatic recognition of the mobile communication device. Refund payments may be processed by a refund desk (operated by TRO) or by a kiosk for instant cash refund, or refunds may be made using automated payments to banks and / or credit card accounts and / or It can be provided using a back-office process by TRO.

The determination of the user's eligibility may be made in the store at the time of the purchase transaction, as described below. However, due to legal requirements in certain territories, determination of eligibility and identity may be moved from the store to the point of departure of the territory.

Exemplary embodiments may provide the simplicity and flexibility of use recognized by users of the system, while also providing security and integrity of operation.

Exemplary embodiments of the invention may utilize one or more techniques to provide for communication between a mobile communication device and another system to support a transaction.

One such technique is the so-called Near Field Communication (NFC) technique. NFC technology is a short-range wireless communication technology that may enable data exchange between devices over approximately short distances, eg, about 0.1 meters. NFC technology is an extension of the proximity-card standard (contactless card, RFID) that allows you to combine the interface and reader of a smart card into a single device. This is compatible with existing contactless infrastructure already in use for public transportation and payment. NFC is primarily intended for use in mobile phones. An example of a mobile phone already exists in the market using NFC technology. NFC read / write devices that include an NFC interface are also available from various manufacturers. In various embodiments, other short range radio technologies based on radio frequency ID (RFID) may also be used, such as Bluetooth.

In one example, when making a purchase transaction, a mobile communication device application (MCD application) installed on a user's mobile communication device (e.g., a mobile phone) is the seller's point of sale terminal and / or the seller's website. Can interact with Digital tax free shopping (TFS) transaction information is sent to the tax refund operator TRO, and user information may be associated with the transmitted information. The user may also optionally pay for the goods using or through the mobile communication device. The user can make additional purchases using the MCD application with additional digital TFS transaction information transmitted in the same manner. Validation and refund steps may be integrated by recognizing a user using a mobile communication device. For example, validation and refund can be done automatically when the user mobile communication device approaches an NFC-enabled customs kiosk or when near the departure point of the territory.

The MCD application may be installed by downloading before or during the first purchase, for example as part of the registration process. This MCD application can not only assist the user during the entire tax refund process but also provide other TRO services. Examples of such services may include issuance, validation, refund and tracking, and seller and other travel information, maps, promotions, online preliminary instructions, markets, direct currency exchange support, online services, loyalty programs, and the like.

A wireless communication base station (eg, WiFi base station) can be used to interface with a user's mobile communication device. For example, a base station can be installed at a location where a user can be expected to use the service, and an application installed on the user's mobile communication device can interact with the base station. The base station may be provided by the TRO or by a vendor or a third party, and may be connected to the TRO host system via the Internet, for example. In one example, one or more standard service set identifiers (SSIDs) may be provided to all base stations provided by or to the TRO service, such that the mobile communication device may, for example, use the aforementioned application, It can be configured to automatically recognize that the base station is provided for service upon detection of the SSID and to automatically connect to the base station, for example using a predetermined password, when within the range of the base station. In one example, the mobile communication device may not be configured to automatically connect to the base station even if the base station and password are known to the mobile communication device or the MCD application on the mobile communication device. For example, an application may advantageously use location-specific information, e.g., a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (captured by a mobile communication device or captured by a camera of the mobile communication device, for example using NFC technology). Or by inputting the SSID and password using proximity data derived from the image of the QR code), the user may be required to input the SSID and password.

For example, a base station may be provided on the seller's premises, and in response to the user's connection to the base station of the mobile communication device, the seller's TRO system or application of the mobile communication device retrieves information to use in connection with the provision of the service. To send a message to the TRO host system. Such information may include, for example, information about the user to be provided to the merchant system. Alternatively, or in addition, messages may be sent to the user's mobile communication device for output to the user. Messages can be sent, for example, by message exchange between the TRO host system and / or the merchant system and the application on the mobile communication device, or by SMS, MMS, or sent from the TRO host system and / or the merchant system to the mobile communication device. May be provided by an email message or the like. The message sent to the user may include information about the service that may be provided, for example steps that need to be taken to use the service, special offers, or direct assistance with the use of the service (eg tax refunds). Services, generation of refund checks, etc.). The messages can be used to inform the user of the possibility of using other services, such as a dynamic currency conversion service.

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention utilize a mobile communication device. The mobile communication device may be, for example, a mobile phone, a PDA, a portable media player, a tablet computer, a webbook, a notebook, or other portable computing device. In an exemplary embodiment, the mobile communication device is used as an intelligent token to identify a user at various stages during tax refund processing. The mobile communication device may, for example, communicate with wireless technologies and MCDs to communicate with other devices and devices such as merchant POS terminals, validation kiosks, and / or customs kiosks and TRO and / or customs systems and / or web based systems. It can be configured using an application. In this example, by presenting the mobile communication device at the time of purchase, the mobile communication device identifier may be provided to the seller's system, eg, the merchant's POS terminal or the merchant's website, using wireless technology, and / Alternatively, information related to the transaction may be delivered to the mobile communication device using wireless technology. Each application provided by the TRO, each operating on a mobile communication device and the seller's system, may control the exchange of information between the mobile communication device and the seller's system, e.g., the merchant's POS terminal or website. Can be.

The determination of whether the user is entitled to a service, for example a tax refund service, may be determined by an operator, for example a seller of the store. This can be done, for example, by determining whether the user has already registered to use the service using the mobile communication device identifier and / or by providing information to the seller to enable the seller to identify the user.

For example, the POS terminal may be operable to query the TRO host system via an intermediate system to determine if the mobile communication device identifier is associated with user identification information.

If the mobile communication device identifier is associated with a user identification, the TRO host system may request that the operator return information identifying the user for identifying the user (e.g., passport information, photos or other biometric information). By transmitting).

If the mobile communication device identifier is not associated with the user identification, the TRO host system may operate to return an appropriate indication of this purpose, and the merchant system may operate to prompt the operator to enter predetermined information identifying the user. Can be. Such predetermined information may include, for example, the passport number and passport issuing country of the user's passport, the identification card number for the user's identity card and the country of issue of the identity card, the driver's license number and driver's license for the user's driver's license. It may include the issuing country. The information entered at the POS terminal is sent to the TRO host system for association with the mobile communication device identifier, so that this information can be used as a means of identifying the user. A user record, including a mobile communication identifier, along with other information (eg, one or more other tokens) that may be used to identify the user may be maintained by the TRO host system.

Alternatively, information may be provided from the mobile communication device in a secured and / or encrypted manner from the mobile communication device to identify the user. For example, an application on a mobile communication device and a seller's terminal may, for example, have a biometric authentication information (e.g., a picture of the user displayable on the mobile communication device) authentic and authenticated on the mobile communication device. It can be used to exchange identifiable information using cryptographic algorithms to ensure that the information is valid.

The merchant system may then be operable to communicate the purchase information associated with the mobile communication device identifier and / or another token associated with the user for generation of a computer record of the transaction, either directly or via the user's mobile communication device. . Such transaction records may include an association between a mobile communication device identifier and / or other token and a transaction identifier for a purchase transaction for one or more purchases. The mobile communication device identifier is subsequently used to access the record of the transaction (s) at the point of departure of the territory directly or via a user record at the time of a later purchase, for example at one or more subsequent trips, for validation of the refund. Can be.

The system and method of an exemplary embodiment of a tax refund system for a given territory will now be described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2 in which one or more TROs associate with a seller and then provide tax refunds to users. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of an example system, and FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram of an example system configuration in which various functional elements are interconnected via a network 15 (eg, the Internet).

The mobile communication device 40 may be set as a token that identifies the user at step 102. This can be done in advance or at the point of entry or burial of the territory. Note that one or more other tokens may be defined for the user. For example, the user can select a token to be used. For example, a user may specify a mobile communication device and one or more other tokens to be used, for example, via a website or at a store or other terminal, or in response to a seller's request. For example, a user may register their details and associate a mobile communication device identifier and one or more additional tokens by registering with a website provided by the TRO. The mobile communication device identifier is one of a mobile phone number for the mobile communication device 40, a SIM number for the mobile communication device 40, an NFC identifier for the mobile communication device, a unique identifier associated with the MCD application of the mobile communication device, and the like. It can be formed from the above.

As part of the registration process, the user also provides personal details such as name, contact information (e.g. address), nationality, passport number, gender, birthday, home phone number, bank account and / or credit card details, etc. You may be asked to do so. The user may also be asked to specify a preferred currency to use abroad.

If the user has not already done so, upon completion of registration, the user can download the aforementioned mobile communication device application along with the identifier and preferences of the traveler embedded in the application. Alternatively, if the application has already been downloaded, the identifier of the traveler and the user's preferences can be updated in the application.

Such downloaded applications may, for example, be capable of information and processing, tax refunds, enabling the location of a WiFi zone where information can be downloaded without roaming charges and automatic connection to the network provided by the WiFi zone. Currency exchange calculator that can provide exchange information from the local currency to the currency selected by the user at a stored or downloadable exchange rate, location information of the store from which the purchase can be made, location information of the validation station from which the tax refund check can be validated It may provide a wide range of functions, including functions to enable a tax refund calculator, etc., to calculate the available tax refunds for a tax refund purchase made by a user.

The TRO can then provide the user with information about refund opportunities and processing. In addition, a user may be issued a specific token (eg, a visitor or a TRO-issued card).

The registration process can be performed, for example, at the point of entry of the territory or after entry into the territory, for example at the store, before reaching the territory. Suitable input stations include, for example, one of a computer processor and memory, a keypad, a keyboard, a touch sensitive screen, a card reader, a machine readable identifier reader, a document scanner, a voice-operated input, a display, a printer, a card recorder, a speaker. One or more types of input / output interfaces and NFC interfaces may be included. The input station may also be provided with fingerprint reading and / or camera technology for verifying biometric information maintained in a user identifier (eg, an ID document such as a passport). In an exemplary embodiment, the mobile communication device itself may be used as an input terminal on a connection via a browser or other application, such as an MCD application downloaded to a mobile communication device.

The mobile communication device identifier may be held (stored) in the memory MEM by the TRO acquisition host server system (host system) 20 together with the user details. Host system 20 may be operated by a TRO and may include one or more server computers, each computer including one or more processors (CPUs) and memory (MEMs), in one location or in a distributed system. Is located. When the mobile communication device identifier and the user's detailed information are transmitted to the host system 20 and recorded in real time, the efficiency of the system is improved.

In one example, user 12 may make a purchase at 104, for example, at a merchant whose mobile communication device is used as a token.

Once the normal store receipt is presented, the user 12 may be queried whether a tax refund is needed (or the user may request a tax refund). If a refund is desired, a second simple transaction can be created by entering a receipt identifier (eg, a receipt number), a purchase item price, and a mobile communication device identifier. In this example, information including two or three items (receipt identifier, purchase price, and mobile communication device identifier) may then be transmitted electronically to the host system 20 by the merchant system 14. have. Merchant system 14 may include one or more computers, each computer including one or more processors (CPUs) and memory (MEM), located in one place or in a distributed system. This function is integrated into the POS terminal where the purchase details can be retrieved directly from the electronic cash register (ECR) 44, thus eliminating the need to re-enter this information. Alternatively, this information may be entered into a standalone terminal such as a web-based issuing application, a card payment terminal not linked to the ECR, or any other application or software not linked to the ECR. These alternatives may require re-entry of the relevant purchase details to allow the customs officer's approval system to confirm the purchase made. One or more POS devices 44 may include, for example, one or more input / output interfaces in the form of one or more of a keypad, keyboard, touch sensitive screen, card reader, scanner, voice-operated input, display, printer, card recorder, speaker. And an NFC interface or other RFID interface 42.

The WiFi base station 54 may be provided at the merchant's premises and, for example, for onward access to the TRO host system 20, for example, on the Internet, as shown in FIG. 2. Can be connected. Alternatively, or in addition, the base station 54 may be connected to the merchant system 14 directly or indirectly (eg, via the Internet). The base station may be assigned a predetermined SSID for the TRO, and the application on the mobile communication device 40 may be programmed to automatically recognize the base station and connect to the base station when it is within base station range. However, different WiFi base stations for different vendors may be detected by the mobile communication device at a given location (eg, each base station for each store in a shopping mall). Thus, in various example embodiments, a connection to a particular base station and / or vendor may be used to detect a specific location using proximity information that can more accurately locate the location of the mobile communication device and enable automatic connection to the appropriate base station. Can be achieved under the control of an MCD application.

In one example, the entrance to the merchant premises can be detected by the mobile communication device when the user enters the premises and an RFID detector zone (eg, RFID loop) that can cause the operation of the MCD application on the mobile communication device. It may include. The MCD application may be operable to read the SSID, password and vendor identifier from the RFID loop to connect the mobile communication device to a wireless network formed by one or more base stations. The MCD application may be configured to automatically connect to the wireless network using the SSID and password and / or automatically connect to the merchant system using the merchant identifier. Alternatively, or in the case of the first use, for example, the MCD application is optional, for example, to confirm the approval of the connection by touching the displayed button or hardware button on the mobile communication device. It may be configured to provide a visual and / or audio prompt to the user prior to inviting the user to do so.

In one example, the user is urged to place the mobile communication device on the NFC interface by, for example, an indication with an integrated NFC interface that stores the SSID and password, thereby allowing the MCD application on the mobile communication device to display the SSID and password and the merchant. It may be operable to read the identifiers and use them to connect to wireless networks and / or merchant systems formed by one or more base stations. In the example described above, the MCD application may be configured to prompt the user to automatically connect to the wireless network or confirm authorization for the connection.

In an example suitable for a mobile communication device that is not provided with NFC or RFID technology, the user can, for example, read a so-called quick readable barcode that encodes a readable one or two dimensional barcode, eg, an SSID and a password and a merchant identifier. Display with a QR) code to capture an image of a barcode or QR code using the camera of the mobile communication device, and the MCD application decodes the barcode or QR code and formed by one or more base stations using the SSID and password. You may be prompted to connect to a wireless network and / or vendor system. In the example described above, the MCD application may be configured to prompt the user to automatically connect to the wireless network or confirm authorization for the connection.

Various combinations of the examples described above may be provided such that a mobile communication device may be used to capture local information at a seller's premises and enable secure connection to a wireless communication network at the seller's premises. Using one of the above mechanisms for retrieval, for example, the SSID and / or password and / or merchant identifier and / or other information can be used to automatically launch an MCD application on the mobile communication device to use that information. It may be used to connect to a wireless network and / or vendor system. After connection to the wireless network, the MCD application may be operable to download an update over the wireless connection without roaming charges, eg, to update the current exchange rate from the seller's local currency to the user's preferred currency provided at registration. The traveler can also immediately tweet or "facebook" his whereabouts.

During shopping, the traveler can use his mobile phone to read the RFID tag for the product to find out the price, using the preferred currency and current currency exchange rates downloaded to the MCD application, using the TRO's reference rate. Can be converted to the price of the preferred currency. The MCD application may also calculate an applicable refund amount if the user desires a tax refund request.

For example, a mobile communication device, or system under control of an MCD application on a mobile communication device, for example, a merchant system 14 connected to a base station 54, responds to the connection of the mobile communication device to the base station, and thus, the TRO. It may be operable to send a message to the host system 20 to retrieve information for use in connection with the provision of the service. Such information may include, for example, information about the user to be provided to the merchant system. Alternatively, or in addition, messages may be sent to the user's mobile communication device for output to the user. The messages can be, for example, by message exchange between the TRO host system and the MCD application on the mobile communication device, or via an SMS, MMS, or email message, or web-based via a website provided by the TRO and / or the seller. Can be provided by exchange. The message sent to the user may include information about the service that may be provided, for example steps that need to be taken to use the service, special offers, or direct assistance with the use of the service (eg tax refunds). Services, generation of refund checks, etc.).

There may be only one TRO in the market. However, if there are a plurality of TROs on the market, there may be a plurality of acquisition system hosts 20. The relationship between the seller and the TRO is a relationship between the seller and the acquirer (example of using a credit / debit card). Each TRO is affiliated with its own seller and is responsible for integrated software for generating point of sale devices and tax refund transactions.

The transaction message may be sent 105, for example, to the TRO host system 20, where further processing may be performed. The transaction message format between the POS and the host system 20 may take the appropriate form as long as it can be unique. In one example, a transaction message sent between merchant system 14 and host system 20 may include a mobile communication device identifier, a receipt identifier (eg, receipt number), a reference to a purchased product, a seller identifier, a TRO identifier. , Time and date stamps, and security hashes (used to prevent unauthorized manipulation). In addition, it may include information about tour guides, promotional codes, or any other data that the TRO wishes to collect.

A separate host system 20 is provided for each TRO so that commercially sensitive information can be maintained separately, since each TRO can only see transactions made by its affiliated sellers. All tax refund transactions generated by the affiliate seller may be stored in a database of the host system 20. The transaction record stored in the memory of the host system 20 may be, for example, a unique transaction identifier for the transaction, a token identifier (eg, a mobile communication device identifier or a token identifier derived therefrom), a receipt identifier (eg, Receipt number), a reference to the purchased product, a seller identifier, and a time and date stamp. The host system 20 may assign a unique transaction identifier (eg, a unique transaction number) to the transaction such that a unique number for tracking the transaction is available within the system during processing. The transaction identifier may be returned to the merchant system and printed on the purchase receipt given to the user, using visible encoding such as plain text and / or barcodes.

A message interface, or web-service based interface using a switch 24, eg, industry standards (e.g., SOAP, WCF, XML over IP), provides an interface for messages to be formatted and / or routed. Can provide. For example, a transaction message may include a transaction identifier (e.g., a transaction number), a token identifier (e.g., a mobile communication device identifier or a token identifier derived therefrom), a receipt identifier (e.g., a receipt number), a purchased item May include one or more of a reference to, a vendor identifier, a TRO identifier, a time and date stamp, and a secure hash (used to prevent unauthorized manipulation). The message interface 24 may be a separate system or may be combined with a validation system (eg, customs approval system) 26 depending on the particular implementation.

In one exemplary embodiment, the message interface 24 includes processing and storage capacity and data accessed by the host system (s) 20 and the validation system (eg, customs approval system) 26. It can be implemented as a server system that can operate to serve as a central repository for, as well as provide message formatting and forwarding. However, in another embodiment, data may be maintained in the TRO host system and accessed by the validation system 26 via a message interface.

Validation system 26 provides an authorization system for authorizing a refund and may be operated by a third party, or on behalf of customs authorities. The validation system 26 may automatically approve or reject the tax refund transaction based on the rules set in the system by the customs. The validation system 26 may also be manually accessed by the customs officer from the customs service station 28.

For example, a self-service validation station (also known as a validation terminal or kiosk) 22 connected to the host system (s) 20 via a standardized web service or via the message interface 24 may Provision has been made to provide at the point of departure (eg at the airside of the airport). This validation station 22 may be configured to recommend presenting a personal identifier (eg, an identity document such as a passport) to be read. Such validation station 22 may include, for example, one or more input interfaces in the form of one or more of a keypad, a keyboard, a touch sensitive screen, a card reader, a scanner, a voice-activated input, and a display, printer, card, for example. One or more output interfaces in the form of one or more of a lighter and a speaker may be provided. NFC interface 42 may be provided. Validation station 22 may also be provided with fingerprint reading and / or camera technology for verifying biometric information maintained on a machine readable user identifier (eg, an ID document such as a passport).

However, in order to be able to use the validation kiosk as suggested above, the user must locate and use the kiosk.

If the mobile communication device is registered with the host server for the tax refund service, an automatic detection that the mobile communication device is in proximity to the point of departure of the territory may be presented to the user using the mobile communication device. It can be used to make it possible. In different examples, this can be accomplished in different ways.

In one example, the MCD application on the mobile communication device 40 may respond to the detection that the mobile communication device is connected to a mobile network cell (indicated by the mobile communication antenna 52) located at or near the departure point. have. The MCD application may be configured to run as a foreground task or to run as a background task at the mobile communication device. In this example, the application may include a file or other record of the mobile network cell corresponding to the point of departure of the territory, the user in response to recognizing that the mobile network cell to which the mobile communication device is currently connected is a cell within that file. May cause the display to urge a tax refund service to be used. This may include, for example, displaying instructions regarding the location of the validation kiosk, or a mobile communication device operating as a kiosk and communicating with a validation system, for example, an SMS messaging, email or web-based service. It may include using directly.

In another example, the MCD application of the mobile communication device 40 may respond to the recognition that the mobile network cell 52 to which the mobile communication device is currently connected is a cell in a file and send a message to the validation service 26. May cause the validation service 26 to return a message to be presented to the user regarding the use of the validation service.

In another example, the mobile communication network 50 recognizes that the mobile communication device 40 currently connected to the mobile network cell 52 located at or near the departure point is a mobile communication device registered with the tax refund service. Mobile communication to notify the host system 20 or the validation service 26 and cause the host system 20 or the validation service to present the user with a recommendation for the use of the tax refund service. Have the device send a message.

As an alternative to, or in addition to using, the mobile network cell 52, the mobile communication device may be a satellite position detector of the mobile communication device 40 (eg, indicating that the mobile communication device 40 is in proximity to a validation location). For example, it may respond to satellite-inferred location information (eg, GPS information) detected by the GPS unit.

As an alternative to using mobile network cells and / or satellite-inferred location information, the mobile communication device may be based on location detected radio detected by the mobile communication device 40 indicating that the mobile communication device is in proximity to the validation point. Respond to a connection service (eg, using WiFi, Bluetooth, or alternative technology). For example, the mobile communication device 40 may respond to the detection that the WiFi base station 54 with the particular network name and / or signature is in proximity to the point of departure. In one particular example, a WiFi hotspot operated by TRO or customs service may be used. For example, in FIG. 2, the WiFi base station 54 is associated with the TRO refund system 56 of the TRO service desk. In this case, the validation process may be performed using a WiFi connection to the mobile communication device.

As described above with respect to the base station 54 in the merchant's premises, the base station 54 associated with the TRO service desk or otherwise in proximity to the point of departure, for example, is onward to the TRO host system 20. For the connection, for example, it may be connected to the Internet. The base station 54 is assigned a predetermined SSID and password for the TRO, so that the application on the mobile communication device 40 automatically recognizes the base station and connects to the base station when connected to the base station and connects to the TRO host via a wireless connection. It can be easily programmed to.

In fact, in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the use of mobile communication devices associated with the seller's premises, WiFi network base stations are provided in different locations in different areas of the airport, so that the user's connection to a particular base station By indicating that it is in a particular portion of the, this can be used to confirm that the user is, for example, on the landside or airside of customs and is entering / leaving the airport. As described in connection with the merchant premises, in various exemplary embodiments, the connection to a particular base station may detect proximity to the appropriate base station by using proximity information to more accurately determine the location of the mobile communication device. It can be achieved under the control of an MCD application that can enable the connection.

In one example, movement from the landside of the airport to the airside can be detected by the mobile communication device as the user passes through the airside and causes an operation of an RFID detector region (e.g., causing an MCD application on the mobile communication device). For example, an RFID loop). The MCD application may be operable to read the SSID and password from the RFID loop to connect the mobile communication device to a wireless network airside formed by one or more base stations. The MCD application may be configured to automatically connect to the wireless network. Alternatively, or in the case of the first use, for example, the MCD application is optional, for example, to confirm the approval of the connection by touching the displayed button or hardware button on the mobile communication device. It may be configured to provide a visual and / or audio prompt to the user prior to inviting the user to do so.

In one example, the user is prompted to place the mobile communication device on the NFC interface, for example by an indication with an integrated NFC interface that stores the SSID and password, so that the MCD application on the mobile communication device reads the SSID and password. And use them to connect to a wireless network formed by one or more base stations. In the example described above, the MCD application may be configured to prompt the user to automatically connect to the wireless network or confirm authorization for the connection.

In an example suitable for a mobile communication device that is not provided with NFC or RFID technology, the user may, for example, display the mobile communication device by a display having a readable barcode or a visual code such as an SSID and a so-called QR code that encodes a password. A camera may be used to capture an image of a barcode or QR code, and the MCD application may be prompted to decode the barcode or QR code to access a wireless network formed by one or more base stations using the SSID and password. In the example described above, the MCD application may be configured to prompt the user to automatically connect to the wireless network or confirm authorization for the connection.

By providing various combinations of the above examples, a mobile communication device can capture local information of a wireless network and enable secure access to the airport's wireless network using information available only at or near the appropriate validation point. Can be used to confirm whether is at or near the validation point. The MCD application may be programmed with geotagging information that automatically recognizes a mobile communication device's connection to a given base station at a given location as confirmation that the location of the mobile communication device is at or near an approved validation location. have. Alternatively, or in addition, in the various examples given above, the MCD may be operable to read identification information that the location of the mobile communication device is at or near an approved validation location.

The MCD application on the mobile communication device 40 may access a validation service for validation of a transaction for tax refund in response to a determination that it is close to a validation point and / or receipt of a message in response to such determination. The MCD application may be provided with an invitation to automatically initiate a connection or to use the service and / or to confirm acceptance of the service. Such presentation may be, for example, by visual and / or audio message.

The invitation may be a simple invitation to use the validation station 22, as mentioned above, and may not require an active response from the user.

In one example, mobile communication device 40 may be used to replace at least some of the functionality of validation station 22.

For example, an MCD application on a mobile communication device may operate to interact with validation service 26 to present one or more transactions for selection by a user to be processed by the service, and in response to user input. The message may be sent to the validation service 26 and / or the host system 20 identifying any transaction selected by the user to be processed by.

Depending on local requirements, the user may be required to provide additional identification. This may be done, if any, using a biometric sensor of the mobile communication device 40, such as a fingerprint read by the fingerprint reader, an image taken using the camera of the mobile communication device, and then by the mobile communication device. Processed and / or sent to the validation service for comparison with stored records.

If such a biometric sensor is not provided to the mobile communication device, or if local regulation requires a separate process, in one example, the validation station 22 may include a personal identifier (e.g., passport, identity card, A driver's eligibility for a tax refund by a machine reading a driver's license, etc.). Validation station 22 may be operable to read the information from the personal identifier and determine eligibility by checking the information against an internal or external database containing information about domestic / non-qualified users. In this case, if the user's nationality or status is not on the list, the user may be considered eligible (negative approval). Alternatively, or in addition, the validation station 22 may be operable to determine eligibility by checking that information against an internal or external database containing information about non-national / eligible users. In this case, if the user's nationality or status is on the list, the user may be considered eligible (positive approval).

As mentioned above, the validation station 22 may also be provided with a fingerprint scanner and / or camera, using biometric information maintained in a machine readable identifier (e.g., an identity document such as a passport). It can be used to verify the identity of the user. A discussion of such biometric information can be found, for example, at the following internet link:

http://www.highprogrammer.com/alan/numbers/mrp.html

If the user's eligibility is determined, the mobile communication device 40 and / or the validation station may be operable to send one or more validation request messages to the validation system 26 via, for example, the message interface 24. have. In response to receipt of the token, validation system 26 will return all transactions suitable for export validation.

In one example, the mobile communication device 40 prompts the user to initiate validation and then sends a validation request message to the validation system 26 (eg, customs via a message interface 24). Authorization system) to request authorization based on both the eligibility of the user having a registered mobile communication identifier and the transaction recorded in association with that user and / or mobile communication identifier.

Validation approval system 26 responds to the validation request message with all transactions (eg, already with tokens) for the user from its own database and / or from host system 20 via message interface 24. All associated transactions), and a rule set may be applied to determine approval or rejection, as described below.

In one example, validation system 26 automatically approves one or more transactions based on established rules (“green channel”), or automatically approves transactions once again based on rules set within validation system 26. It may be set to reject ("red channel").

When the validation system 26 makes a decision on the transaction (approval / rejection), an authorization message (validation request response message) is automatically routed back through the message interface 24 to the appropriate host system 20. This response may be in the form of a web service response and may maintain an electronically approved transaction (including an electronic customs stamp). The host system 20 updates the existing tax refund transaction record for the transaction using an authorization message (approval, rejection, change).

In the exemplary embodiment, the validation system 26 does not operate as a payment authorization host, but rather the host system 20 is a system of record.

Each host system 20 formats a refund message indicating that the transaction has been approved for "green channel" automatic payment and sends it to the requestor (eg, validation station 22 or mobile communication device 40). The TRO that issued the token can be given the first location of the validation station, and the TRO transaction is displayed.

If one or more of the retrieved transactions have an approved code, the user may be granted a "green channel" service for that approved transaction, and may be queried how the refund will be paid. "Green Channel" service means that no further action is required and the refund is approved. If no transactions are approved, the user is given a "red channel" service for at least these transactions (possibly all transactions), and the user is asked to appear to the customs officer for further processing. "Red channel" service means that for at least these transactions (perhaps for all transactions), the user must appear to customs officials for further processing to obtain approval.

If the choice of refund is a payment card (eg a credit card), a refund can be made automatically to the registered payment card. If there is no registered payment card, the validation station 22 or mobile communication device may be configured to specify where a refund should be made.

If the user requested a cash equivalent refund and the user used a mobile communication device 40 or other form of token capable of storing the cash amount, the refund amount may be deposited in the token.

If red channel processing is indicated, validation station 22 or mobile communication device 40 may operate to prompt the user to go to a customs officer, in which case the customs officer uses the mobile communication device identifier to perform the processing. You can start Customs officials may be provided with an approval station 28 that links to or forms part of the validation system 26. However, in another example, the grant station may be separate and / or remote from the validation system 26 and may communicate with the validation system 26 via, for example, the message interface 24.

In response to a user selection of one or more transactions for validation processing, the mobile communication device may be operable to send a validation request message to validation system 26, in response to validation system 26 being authorized. A message may be received that identifies the transaction and the rejected transaction.

Customs officials can then approve or reject each transaction or change the price. Customs officials may use the input device (s) of the approval station 28 to enter the results of their decision. The result of its decision is communicated by the validation system 26 to the appropriate host system 20 via the message interface 24. The host system 20 now includes a tax refund transaction with an authorization code (approved, rejected, changed value).

Validation system 26 may be configured to operate in one or both modes of operation. In one mode of operation, information about a transaction is stored in each host system 20. In the first mode of operation, validation system 26 may be operable to retrieve transaction information from each host system 20 for validation of refunds. The result of the authorization is communicated back to the appropriate host system 20 via the message interface 24. The host system 20 now includes a tax refund transaction with an authorization code (approved, rejected, changed value). In the second mode of operation, validation system 26 maintains a copy of each transaction in its own database, which is associated with a host system identifier as well as an associated token (mobile communication device) identifier. In this case, the validation system 26 also forwards the transaction and authorization code back to the associated host system 20. The difference between the two modes is that in the second mode, the customs approval system maintains a copy of all data from all host systems 20.

The mobile communication device 40 can operate to use messaging using any suitable technology, such as SMS messaging, email or web-based services. Appropriate security protocols may be used to convey information using existing software, equipment, and processing to handle secure financial transactions known as electronic payments. Thus, a standards-based message format can be used to send refund transactions. The use of a standard message format may allow multiple TRO providers, ensuring that customs and tax authorities only have to deal with a single system for approval.

By recording the transaction in host system 20 and / or validation system 26 using at least the transaction identifier and purchase price, and then associating it with a user details record linked to the mobile communication device identifier of host system 20, Validation system 26 retrieves the refund transaction from TRO's host system 20 based on the mobile communication device identifier, displays a "yes / no" response to the refund permission request and displays the result to host system 20. And to transmit to.

In the example shown, communication between the host system (s) 20 and the validation system 26 may be implemented via the message interface 24. Message interface 24 may provide a dedicated network between validation system 26 and host system 20 for one or more TROs. The message interface can be implemented using web services or other online or offline access structures.

In an exemplary embodiment, an automated validation station 22 may be provided that allows for automated preblocking of refund transactions to generate a “red channel / green channel” response without human intervention. Automated pre-blocking processing can be implemented, for example, using the validation station 22 of the point of departure of the territory.

Validation station 22, or an approval system (e.g., validation system 26) that communicates with validation station 22, may be, for example, "red" for expensive purchases and / or specific types of purchases. Rules defining the "channel" requirement may be provided. The “red channel” action may be that the user requires the token, shopping receipt, passport, and purchases to be presented to the customs officer of the customs station 16 for approval.

The validation station 22, or the approval system 26 in communication with the validation station, includes certain criteria such as the country of origin of the traveler's origin, item prices, transaction prices, prices of all transactions, commodity quantities, sellers, and the like. Depending on the logical combination, rules may be provided that define a "green channel" situation that provides automatic approval. In addition, white and black lists for countries or origins, retailers, travelers and the like can be used.

In an exemplary embodiment, the MCD application on the mobile communication device provides a validation station (kiosk) by providing the user with an interface to obtain automatic pre-blocking of refund transactions to generate a "red channel / green channel" response without human intervention. Act to provide the functionality of. Automated pre-blocking processing may be validated upon determining that the mobile communication device is close to the point of departure of the territory.

The mobile communication device application, or validation system (e.g., customs approval system) 26 that communicates with the mobile communication device 40, may, for example, provide a "red channel" for expensive purchases and / or certain types of purchases. "Rules defining the requirements may be provided. The “red channel” action may be that the user requires the token, shopping receipt, passport, and purchases to be presented to the customs officer of the customs station 16 for approval.

The mobile communication device application, or validation system (eg, customs approval system) 26 that communicates with the mobile communication device, includes the country of origin of the traveler's origin, item price, transaction price, price of all transactions, commodity volume, seller Rules may be provided that define a "green channel" situation that provides for automatic approval according to certain criteria and logical combinations of such criteria, and the like. In addition, white and black lists for countries or origins, retailers, travelers and the like can be used.

2 also shows a reservation system 58 and an immigration management system 60. The reservation system 58 may be a travel reservation system, eg, an air reservation system. Such airline reservation systems typically include large scale networked computer systems, including a plurality of processors (CPUs) and memory / storage systems (MEMs). Travel reservation system 58 may monitor the traveler's journey status and update the traveler's status at various stages during the journey. For example, in the first step, the reservation system will include information identifying that the user has made a travel reservation and identifying the user. Thus, within the reservation system, there will be a travel record identifying the particular journey (eg, a flight) that the user has taken and information identifying the user. Information identifying the user may be maintained directly in the travel record or may include a link to the user record. In the example system, the reservation system 58 is also configured to store the user's status regarding the use of the service, eg, tax refund service. Information about the registration of the tax refund service may be stored, for example, in a field of the actual travel reservation record or in a field of a separate user record linked to the travel reservation record. For example, registration for a tax refund service may be maintained as part of a loyalty program record for the airline. It is also envisioned that a traveler's record in host system 20 may include a link to a travel reservation in travel reservation system 58.

By interconnecting the travel reservation system 58 and host system 20 records (e.g., by including appropriate links to the fields of each record of travel reservation system 58 and host system 20), user travel The status can be used automatically to cause the creation of a message to be sent to the user and / or to automatically determine when the user actually departed to provide a final authorization for the tax refund to be made.

For example, the same functionality may be provided using immigration management system 60 that includes one or more processors and appropriate memory and includes records of individual travelers entering or leaving a country. The immigration management system 60 is integrated into the travel reservation system 58 and / or tax refund host system 20 to automatically generate messages to be sent to the user and / or to automatically authorize tax refunds when the user leaves the territory. Can be enabled.

In the description of FIG. 2 above, the reservation system 58 is linked to the host system 20 via the network 15. However, it is noted that the reservation system 58 may also be functionally linked to the validation system 26 in the same manner as described above. In this regard, note that a dotted line link is shown between the reservation system 58 and the message interface 24 of FIG. 2.

3 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the functional components of a mobile communication device, for example a mobile phone such as a smart phone.

As shown in FIG. 3, the mobile communication device 40 includes one or more processors 70 and a memory 72 for storing programs and data. Audio input and output 76 (e.g., speakers and microphone), imaging device (e.g., camera) 77, vibration mechanism 78 for providing vibration notification, touch sensor mechanism for user input ( 80) —the touch sensor lies on the display 74—and various inputs and outputs are provided that include one or more keys 82. Wireless module 84 for wireless communication with a cellular network, NFC module 86 for interacting with near field communication technology, WiFi module 88 for communication with a WiFi base station, for communication using Bluetooth technology Various communication interfaces may be provided including a Bluetooth module 90 and a GPS module 92 for locating a mobile communication device. It will be appreciated that the interaction of the various functional components shown in FIG. 3 is merely illustrated in a schematic manner, and that any suitable conventional configuration of the individual components within the mobile communication device is possible. In an example embodiment, the memory 72 may maintain a downloadable MCD application 75 that may be operable to control the operation of the process to perform the operations described herein.

4-7 provide flow diagrams illustrating an overview of exemplary operations of the system shown in FIGS. 1-3.

In the flowchart, assume that the user has already registered for the service discussed above, recorded the mobile communication device identifier as a token, and downloaded the MCD application to the mobile communication device.

4 shows an example of processing that can be performed at a store where a user makes a purchase. The merchant operator may use as a merchant terminal a POS terminal that interfaces with a merchant web site or a mobile communication device such as a smartphone or tablet computer to conduct a transaction with a user. In this example, a user may interface with a merchant system, including a website, to conduct a desired transaction, and, if appropriate, additionally cause the issuance of tax-free checks by the merchant system or the user's mobile communication device. Communication devices can be used.

As described with reference to FIG. 2, a wireless network may be provided on the seller's premises, for example, via one or more WiFi base stations 54 (FIG. 2), as shown in FIG. 2, for example, The onward connection can be connected to the Internet, for example directly or indirectly (eg, via the Internet) to the TRO host system 20 and / or the merchant system 14.

In step 412, the MCD application on the mobile communication device may operate to establish a link with the seller's premises wireless network, for example, via one of the WiFi base stations. For example, a secure connection may be established using one of the techniques described with reference to FIG. 2. In one example, the entrance to the merchant premises includes an RFID detector zone (eg, an RFID loop) that can be detected by the mobile communication device when the user enters the premises and causes the operation of the MCD application on the mobile communication device. can do. The MCD application may be operable to read the SSID and password from the RFID loop to connect the mobile communication device to a wireless network formed by one or more base stations. In one example, the user is prompted to place the mobile communication device on the NFC interface, for example by an indication with an integrated NFC interface that stores the SSID and password, so that the MCD application on the mobile communication device reads the SSID and password. And use them to connect to a wireless network formed by one or more base stations. In an example suitable for a mobile communication device that is not provided with NFC or RFID technology, the user may use the camera of the mobile communication device by, for example, a display with a readable barcode or a so-called QR code that encodes the SSID and password. To capture an image of a barcode or QR code, and the MCD application may be prompted to decode the barcode or QR code to access a wireless network formed by one or more base stations using the SSID and password. The MCD application may be configured to automatically connect to the wireless network or, alternatively, prompt the user to confirm approval for the connection. A combination of the examples described above is provided so that a mobile communication device can be used to capture local information in a merchant premises and enable secure connection to a wireless communication network in the merchant premises.

At step 414, the MCD application, which may be supplied by the TRO, may operate over a wireless network to establish a secure connection to a merchant system, for example, a merchant application on a merchant terminal. The merchant application may be supplied by the TRO or may include a software interface for connecting to the TRO host. The MCD application can also operate to connect to the TRO host.

At 416, during shopping, the traveler, for example, reads the RFID tag of the product to find out the price of the product, using the preferred currency and current currency exchange rate downloaded to the MCD application, and uses that price as the reference rate of the TRO. By converting to the price of the preferred currency, one can use his mobile phone to support user selection of the product. The MCD application may also calculate an applicable refund amount if the user desires a tax refund request.

At 418, the seller may use the seller terminal to conduct a purchase transaction for the user. The details of the purchase may be retrieved by the seller system using any conventional technology, for example, by the seller scanning the barcode and the seller system retrieving the details of the purchase from the storage of the seller system associated with the barcode, For example, it may be captured by input of a product using a web-based product selection page. Indeed, in an example implementation, the selection of product details may be implemented using a website. The seller can use the seller terminal to initiate or confirm payment for the product. If the payment is made by cash or check, the seller can record this on the payment terminal. Payment by credit card may be made using a conventional payment terminal associated with a merchant terminal. Alternatively, the merchant application on the merchant terminal may be operative to interface with the MCD application on the mobile communication device to convey details of the payment to be made. In one example, the MCD application may then operate to prompt the user to initiate a payment as a web-based payment transaction via the merchant website, for example, using a mobile communication device. The user can use the stored credit card information, for example, to perform a payment in a preferred currency recorded during the registration process or at some later time. The payment terminal will retrieve the most recent exchange rate and convert it to the preferred currency for payment verification. The merchant application on the merchant terminal monitors the merchant website for successful completion of the payment transaction and records the completion of the payment transaction. During a payment transaction, the MCD application and the merchant application may communicate over a wireless connection (eg, WiFi connection).

At 420, the merchant terminal application or the MCD application may prompt the user to indicate whether a tax refund transaction is also required.

If the user selects a tax refund transaction using the mobile communication device, at 422, the MCD application may operate to provide information to the merchant to establish the user's eligibility for receiving tax refund service. The MCD application may include information identifying the user and may include a user identifier recorded in the TRO host. The MCD application may include secure stored information for identifying a user, which may include, for example, a passport number and / or biometric information (eg, a photo) for user identification. In one example, this information may be displayed on the mobile communication device and / or the merchant terminal, along with security information processed by the merchant application as well as the MCD application to confirm the authentication, for example authentication. In the case of the first use, the seller may be asked to further confirm that the passport number and photo correspond to the passport number and photo on the passport or identity document. After confirmation in the case of the first use, the passport number and photo on the mobile communication device can be identified as verified so that this information is used instead of the passport to confirm the identity of the holder of the mobile communication device in the future use. Can be.

Instead of storing the information for identifying the user in the mobile communication device, this can be maintained only in the user record in the TRO host system 20 and supplied from the host system 20 to the merchant terminal. If the user is eligible for service, the merchant application on the merchant terminal and / or the MCD application on the mobile communication device may be operable to send a transaction message to the host system 20. The transaction message may include a receipt identifier (eg, a receipt number), a price of the purchased item, and a mobile communication device identifier. Additional information may also be included in the message, such as, for example, details of the goods purchased.

The host system 20 may be operable to assign a transaction identifier (eg, a transaction number or string) to the transaction and generate a transaction record including the transaction identifier, receipt identifier, purchase price, and mobile communication device identifier. . Additional information may also be included in the transaction record, such as, for example, details of the goods purchased.

That is, an example 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 steps described above:

Transaction identifier;

Receipt identifier;

Purchase price;

Token identifier;

Registration flag;

Product details;

Traveler's details;

Payment target.

At 426, host system 20 may also include a transaction that includes a transaction identifier that may be printed on a purchase receipt printed by merchant system 14 or provided in electronic form to a mobile communication device via a wireless connection. Can be configured to return a response message. The process then ends at 428.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the system described with reference to FIGS. 1-3 when the user approaches the departure point of the territory.

In an example embodiment, the system can automatically operate to determine 512 that the mobile communication device is in the vicinity of a border or customs validation point. This automatic determination of the location of the mobile communication device can be accomplished in a variety of ways as described above.

In one example, the interaction of the mobile communication device 40 with the cellular telephone network to which the mobile communication device is connected may be used to determine the location of the mobile communication device 40. Thus, for example, mobile network 50 or mobile communication device 40 may operate to determine that mobile communication device 40 is in a mobile communication cell associated with a border or customs validation point. This is indicated by mobile network antenna 52 in FIG. 2. This determination is a record indicating that the mobile communication device 40 is registered with the tax refund service, where the mobile network maintains the identity of the mobile communication device 40 in the memory MEM in the mobile communication network system 50. By comparison with The mobile communication network system 50 may then be operable to send a message to the validation system 26 (or host system 20), where the recipient then invites the user to use the tax refund service. And send an invitation message to the mobile communication device 40. As an alternative to the mobile network system 50 recognizing the presence of the mobile communication device and then communicating with the validation system 26 or the host system 20, the MCD application itself on the mobile communication device 40 may be mobile. The identity of a communication network cell is determined by the border or customs validity associated with the border or customs validation point (for example, by comparing that cell identity with a list of cell identities maintained as data for an application on mobile communication device 40). It can be recognized as a cell near the confirmation point. The mobile communication device 40 may then operate to communicate with the validation system 26 or the host system 20 or directly provide a message inviting the user to simply use the tax refund service.

The invitation may take the form of a simple query that invites the user to respond or in the form of more detailed instructions regarding the steps that must be taken to obtain a tax refund. This may include, for example, information about the location of the validation station within the border or customs validation point, the location of the tax refund operator service desk, the location of the customs desk, and the like.

This solicitation message does not necessarily require a response from the user, especially if the message provides guidance of the type just described. However, if the invitation message requires a response and the response is received by the originator (ie, validation system 26 or host system 20) at 516, the response indicates that the user denies service at 518. If so, the process stops at 520.

Alternatively, at 518, if the user requests to continue the tax refund service, at step 522, the validation process may proceed as described with reference to FIG. 6.

6 illustrates an example of an operation for providing validation of a purchase when the mobile communication device accesses a validation service via a wireless communication network.

In step 612, the mobile communication device may be operable to connect to the wireless communication network, for example, via a WiFi base station. As described above, the connection of the mobile communication device to the WiFi network base station of a particular portion of the airport may provide one way to confirm that the user is at the validation site. In one exemplary embodiment, access to a particular base station is achieved under the control of an MCD application that can detect a particular location using proximity information capable of locating the mobile communication device and enable automatic connection to the appropriate base station. Can be. As described above, this may be accomplished by the mobile communication device detecting the RFID detector zone causing the operation of the MCD application on the mobile communication device. The MCD application may be operable to read the SSID and password from the RFID loop to connect the mobile communication device to a wireless network airside formed by one or more base stations. The user is prompted to place the mobile communication device on the NFC interface, for example by an indication with an integrated NFC interface that stores the SSID and password, so that the MCD application on the mobile communication device reads the SSID and password and uses them. To connect to the wireless network formed by the base station. The user captures an image of a barcode or QR code using a camera of the mobile communication device, for example by means of a readable barcode or a so-called QR code that encodes the SSID and password, and the MCD application captures the barcode. Or to decode the QR code to access the wireless network formed by one or more base stations using the SSID and password. The MCD application may be configured to automatically connect to the wireless network or prompt the user to confirm approval for the connection. By providing various combinations of these examples, the mobile communication device captures the local information of the wireless network and enables a secure connection to the airport's wireless network using information available only at or near the appropriate validation point, allowing the user to It can be used to confirm whether it is at or near the validation point. The connection of the mobile communication device to the given base station at the given location can itself determine that the location of the mobile communication device is at or near the approved validation place.

At 614, the MCD application may be operable to access the validation service using the information retained in the MCD application and / or the information read along with the SSID and password for the base station.

At 616, the validation system 26 may be operable to retrieve the purchase transaction using the mobile communication device identifier from the location where the transaction record is stored (eg, at the host system 20 or the message interface 24). As described above, the rules set to determine approval or rejection may be applied. That is, the validation system 26 automatically approves one or more transactions based on the established rules (“green channel”) or automatically rejects the transactions based on the rules set up in the validation system 26 described above. Can be set to "red channel". In the example shown in FIG. 6, the retrieved purchase information may be sent to the mobile communication device and displayed to the user along with the refund status.

At 618, the user may optionally select a purchase for validation using an application on the mobile communication device 40, which selection may be sent from the mobile communication device 40 to the validation system 26. .

At 620, the validation system 26 automatically approves one or more transactions based on the established rules (“green channel”) or automatically accepts the transactions based on the rules set within the validation system 26 described above. It may be set to reject ("red channel").

At 622, the status of the purchase may be returned to the mobile communication device for display to the user along with the refund status.

Steps 618 to 622 may be repeated when requested by the user until at 624, the user is determined to want to proceed with the refund process.

At 624, if the user decides to continue the refund process, and if all purchases are in the green channel state, the refund can be processed at 626 without further action from the user. Alternatively, if at least some of the purchases are in the red channel state, the user may be provided with a message on the MCD indicating the steps to be taken.

FIG. 7 illustrates operations that may be formed on a mobile communication device as part of the processing described with respect to FIG. 6.

For example, at 712, the mobile communication device will receive the invitation message mentioned above. In the current example shown in FIG. 7, assume that the invitation message invites the user to respond to indicate whether the user wants to use the tax refund system. At 714, the mobile communication device responds to user input at the mobile communication device. At 716, if the user declines to use the tax refund service, then at 718, processing stops.

Alternatively, if the user response at 714 confirms the use of the tax refund service (716), then at 720, the mobile communication device will receive the status message described above with respect to FIG. At 722, the user may be prompted to enter a selection of one or more purchases to be processed for tax refund. That is, rather than providing tax refund processing for every purchase, the user can select one or more of the purchases. In this regard, the mobile communication device may be operable to respond to the status message centrally recorded in the central repository and present to the user all purchase transactions retrieved therefrom to allow the user to select one or more of these transactions. At 724, the response from the mobile communication device is sent to the validation system 26.

The conditions that may result in the granting of automatic approval may depend on predefined rules that may vary with various legal and regulatory requirements.

For example, a typical requirement is that the buyer of a product must be a qualified person to take out the product. Thus, for example, in a situation where eligibility is not confirmed at the time of purchase as a result of not being registered by the user at that time, embodiments of the present invention allow it to be identified from a transaction record maintained in the system. In such a case, the system may be operative to indicate red channel processing (ie, non-automatic processing for the user). In the present example, confirmation of eligibility and / or registration at the time of transaction may be confirmed from the state of the "register" flag in the transaction record. As also described above, optionally according to local requirements, the "registration" flag for a transaction may be reset, for example, if it is determined that subsequent registration has not been completed upon purchase.

In the present example, the "register" flag is used as a means of tracking the confirmation of eligibility, but in other examples the tracking of eligibility can be achieved by date stamping records and by comparing the timing of the eligibility record with the purchase transaction time. Will understand.

Other factors such as purchase price, type of transaction, transaction pattern, user's nationality, etc. may affect the availability of automatic authorization. In addition, non-automatic processing may be required on a statistical basis as part of the sampling processing.

Thus, non-automatic processing (red channel processing) may be determined when locally determined requirements for automatic processing are determined not to be satisfied and / or statistical sample processing is required. Thus, the example system provides increased flexibility of operation while still providing secure and verifiable operation.

As mentioned above, rules may be provided for determining approval or rejection (green or red channel status). Such a rule may be implemented, for example, by providing a score for different parameters such that the validation system 26 or mobile communication device 40 uses that score to produce the resulting scored channel response. Or within the range for the red channel response. For example, travelers may be assigned different scores based on their home country, and different scores may be assigned to different classes of goods and / or different purchase amounts. Such scores may be stored in storage for applications running on validation system 26 and / or mobile communication device 40. Scores may be stored, for example, in one or more lookup tables, or in any other suitable manner, where the lookup table is accessed by code associated with various parameters. The lookup table may include a plurality of entries, one for each parameter, wherein the first field identifies the parameter (eg, a code or string representing the parameter) and the second field contains a score associated with it.

Program code, each operating on one or more processors of validation system 26 or mobile communication device 40, may operate to access appropriate lookup table (s) to retrieve scores associated with each parameter. The program code may be operable to determine one or more resulting scores by mathematically combining the individual scores retrieved for the relevant parameters for the refund request. For example, the total outcome score may be derived from the score based on the nationality plus the score based on the type of item and the score for the amount of the item for each item requesting a refund. In this simple example, the scores for the relevant parameters are added together to form the resulting score, but other mathematical operators (eg, multiply) may be used to determine one or more of the resulting scores. The total resulting score and / or one or more resulting scores for each item or group of items are compared to a range of stored values indicative of the green channel and red channel response to determine if the resulting score (s) are within each range. As a result, determination of the green or red channel response can be made with respect to all items, individual items or a group of items, if necessary.

In the example system described above, transaction records are maintained in the host system (s) 20, which are in the validation system 26 and / or transaction station (s) 22 or customs station (s) 28. Is accessed by. However, in another example, the transaction record may alternatively or additionally be maintained at the message interface, where the message interface is configured as a central server system.

Furthermore, in the illustrated example, an automated validation station 22 is shown in addition to the customs station 16, but the customs station 16 may be provided with the functionality of the validation station 22, and / Or a separate validation station 22 may be substituted. Where customs station 16 forms an example of validation station 22, the input of user information may be performed by the user or, if appropriate, by a customs officer.

Embodiments may be implemented in a mobile communication device application in the form of a computer program product for operating one or more processors. The computer program product may be in the form of a computer program on a carrier medium. The carrier medium may be a storage medium such as a solid state, magnetic, optical, magneto-optical or other storage medium. The carrier medium may be a transmission medium such as broadcast, telephone, computer network, wired, wireless, electrical, electromagnetic, optical or any other transmission medium.

Responsive to the mobile communication device identifier for the user's mobile communication device to confirm that the mobile communication device identifier is associated with a registration for the service, and if the mobile communication device identifier is registered with the service, to provide the service A system and method for providing a service, eg, a tax refund service, has been described that includes a device for determining predetermined user information associated with an identifier.

The device may be linked to a remote server that includes a storage device that provides an association between information derived from the mobile communication device identifier and predetermined user information. The device may be configured to query the remote server using information derived from the mobile communication device identifier of the mobile communication device. The device may be configured to receive from the remote server information derived from predetermined user information associated with information derived from the mobile communication device identifier read from the mobile communication device. If the mobile communication device identifier is not registered in the service, the device enables operator input of predetermined user information for the user, and from the mobile communication device identifier and information derived from the input user information before providing the service. It can be configured to cause an association with the derived information.

The device may be configured to transmit the information derived from the mobile communication device identifier of the mobile communication device and the input user information to a remote server for storage. The device may include a mobile communication device reader operable to read a mobile communication device identifier from the mobile communication device. The mobile communication device reader can include an NFC interface. The mobile communication device can be a mobile phone. The user information may include information identifying the user's nationality, such as the country and number of the passport or other source of identity acquisition. The device or separate device, such as a mobile communication device, may be operable to send details of a transaction associated with the mobile communication device identifier to a remote system, eg, a host system or a validation system. The details of the transaction can be transmitted, for example, via a mobile telephone system. The mobile communication device may be operable to receive a solicitation message inviting the user to respond to the solicitation message using the mobile communication device to receive the service. When the user responds to such an invitation message using the mobile communication device, the mobile communication device may be operable to receive a status message confirming to the user whether the service will be automatically approved or additional steps are required for approval. have.

The system may, for example, determine the determination of GPS coordinate information captured by the mobile communication device, the determination of the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected, or the information being entered into the mobile communication device by the user at a border or customs validation point. One or more may be used to determine the proximity of the mobile communication device to a border or customs validation point. The mobile communication device may receive, for example, a solicitation message and / or a status message in response to determining the proximity of the mobile communication device to a border or customs validation point. The mobile communication device may be operable to present a plurality of transactions for selection by the user for processing by the service. Messaging may be provided using, for example, SMS and / or email. Some of the provision of the service may include issuing a tax refund check, for example using a mobile communication device.

A computer-implemented system of providing services, including automatically initiating at least one service action for the service in response to determining that the mobile communication device registered with the host server for the service is close to a validation site for the service; The method was described.

The determination that the mobile communication device is close to the validation place includes the determination that the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected is a cell close to the validation place. For example, the mobile communication device can determine that the cell to which the mobile communication device is connected is a cell close to the validation place. Alternatively, this may be performed by a mobile communication network system, where the mobile communication network system is configured to recognize the mobile communication device as registered for the service. The determination that the mobile communication device is in proximity to the validation place may use satellite-derived location information detected by the mobile communication device indicating that the mobile communication device is in proximity to the validation place. The determination that the mobile communication device is in close proximity to the validation location uses a location-based wireless access service (eg, provided by a WiFi base station) detected by the mobile communication device indicating that the mobile communication device is in proximity to the validation location. It may include. The determination that the mobile communication device is in proximity to the validation place is performed by at least one of the mobile communication device or the host server that the information entered by the user into the mobile communication device corresponds to the information presented to the user of the mobile communication device at the validation place. May include confirmation.

The service act automatically suggests the user to use the service in response to the received message, the mobile communication device automatically providing the user with information about how to use the service, and the one or more And presenting the validation status of the transaction to the user. Before a determination is made that the mobile communication device is close to a validation location for the service, the mobile communication device may be operable to present an invitation to the user to accept the service, and user input to the mobile communication device to accept the service. In response, a confirmation message is sent to the host server to confirm acceptance of the service. Before a determination is made that the mobile communication device is close to a validation location for the service, the mobile communication device may be operable to present one or more transactions for selection by the user to be processed by the service, and the mobile communication device may be Responsive to user input to the mobile communication device, send a message identifying any transaction selected by the user to be processed by the service. The service act is to present a recommendation to the user to confirm acceptance of the service, and send a confirmation message to the host server to confirm acceptance of the service in response to user input to the mobile communication device that the mobile communication device accepts the service. Presenting one or more transactions for selection by the user to be processed by the service, wherein the mobile communication device is selected by the user to be used by the service in response to user input to the mobile communication device. And sending one or more messages identifying the transaction. The message can be implemented using SMS or email. The mobile communication device can be a mobile phone. The service may be a tax refund service.

One or more records corresponding to a purchase transaction may be used to present one or more transactions to the user. One or more records may be maintained on the mobile communication device. One or more records may be maintained at the server and provided to the mobile communication device in a message from the server in response to determining that the mobile communication device is in close proximity to the validation site. The mobile communication device may be operable to receive a status message confirming to the user whether any transaction selected by the user to be processed by the tax refund service will be automatically approved or additional steps will be required for approval. The validation point may be a border or customs validation point. The system automatically validates whether a transaction registered with the tax refund service is eligible for refund, sends a message to the mobile communication device to cause the mobile communication device to automatically approve the tax refund service for the user for one or more transactions, and And / or indicate whether additional steps will be required to obtain approval for one or more transactions. Records corresponding to purchase transactions registered with the tax refund service may be used for automatic eligibility determination for refunds.

A mobile communication device is described 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 comprising: The mobile device is configured to communicate with a remote server to which the mobile device is registered to provide a service, the mobile communication device automatically prompting the user to use the service in response to determining that the mobile communication device is close to a validation place for the service. It is configured to present. A computer system that provides automated validation of a tax refund request for one or more services, validates that a transaction registered with the tax refund service is eligible for refund, and checks the mobile communication device registered with the host server for the tax refund service. Sending a validation status message is automatically operable to cause the mobile device to indicate to the user whether the tax refund service is automatically approved for one or more transactions and / or additional steps are required for one or more transactions.

A system and method for automated processing of tax refunds has been further described, the system comprising: a first database in which a traveler's record of a traveler registered with the tax refund service is stored, and a second database in which travel status for a traveler is stored; And a computer server operable to initiate a service action with respect to the tax refund service for the traveler registered with the tax refund service in response to the detection of the travel status of the traveler indicating that the traveler is preparing to leave the territory.

The second database may be a travel reservation database of the travel reservation system, the travel reservation record in the travel reservation database maintains the travel status for the traveler, and the travel reservation record is linked to the traveler record in the first database. The second database may be an immigration database of the immigration management system, where the travel status record for the traveler is maintained in the travel status record of the immigration management database, and the travel status record is linked to the traveler record in the first database. Initiating a service action includes automatic transmission of a warning message to the traveler's mobile communication device, which is identified by a travel record for the traveler. The alert message may be automatically sent to the traveler's mobile communication device in response to the change in traveler status maintained in the second database indicating that the user is preparing to leave the territory. The alert message may provide information regarding the steps taken by the user, for example, to enforce the validation of the purchase transaction for the tax refund service.

The record of the second database may comprise a reference to the record of the first database. The record of the first database may comprise a reference to the record of the second database. By determining the travel status of the traveler from the second database, an automatic response to the receipt of a tax refund request for one or more purchase transactions by the traveler may be provided, and in response to the travel status of the traveler, a service relating to the tax refund service. The action can be initiated. The travel status of a traveler indicating that the traveler is preparing to leave the territory may include, for example, check-in; Check-in at a station, port or airport; Cargo check-in; on board; It may be one or more of the departures.

The tax refund system (eg, host system or validation system) may operate to query the travel system to determine the traveler's condition. The tax refund system (eg, host system or validation system) may be operable to receive automated updates from the travel system in response to changes in the travel status of the traveler. The tax refund system (eg, host system or validation system) may be operable to check whether the identity of the registered traveler corresponds to the traveler's identity to the travel reservation. The at least one transaction record may identify one or more purchases registered with the tax-exempt refund for the traveler. The service act may include automatic initiation of validation processing for one or more purchases of the traveler. The service action may include automatically indicating to the user whether one or more purchases of the traveler are eligible for an automatic refund upon departure, or whether additional steps are required to obtain a refund. An additional step for the refund may include the presentation of the purchase to be taken out to the customs desk. The service act may include causing a refund to the traveler regarding a purchase validated for the refund in response to a predefined change in the travel booking status of the traveler. Predefined changes in travel reservation status include: check-in; Check-in at a station, port, or airport; Cargo check-in; on board; Change in travel reservation status for one or more of the departures.

In the foregoing description, reference has been made to an application provided to a mobile communication device. Such an application may be configured to run as a foreground task and / or a background task of the mobile communication device, depending on the capabilities of the mobile communication device. Such an application may be configured to employ the various processes described above. In one example, the mobile communication device application may be operable to provide the user with the location processing described above, and to provide information to the user, wherein the tax refund service itself is in the infrastructure described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2. For example, all user and transaction records, stored electronic tax return checks, etc. may be stored in storage as part of its infrastructure, eg, the TRO host system 20 and / or the message interface 24. And the validation process is performed by the validation system 26 via the validation station 22. In another example, a mobile communication device can be used to support even more tax refund services, where the tax refund service itself is provided by the infrastructure described with reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, for example. , Transaction records and / or electronic tax refund checks, etc., are maintained in the storage of the mobile communication device and managed by the application of the mobile communication device, and the validation process is performed by a validation system that communicates with the mobile communication device 40 application ( 26).

An application on the mobile communication device 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 and other examples with different distributions of work as part of the refund process, user records, transaction records, and stored electronic tax refund checks can be linked using a mobile communication device identifier or another identifier associated therewith, The various stages of the refund process can be tracked by the system as a whole.

While the foregoing embodiments have been described in detail, numerous modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art once the above disclosure is fully understood. It is intended that the appended claims be interpreted to include all such alterations and modifications and equivalents thereof.

Claims (18)

A method of providing a location-based service using a mobile communication device registered with the service, the method comprising:
At a location, receiving, by at least one application of the mobile communication device, information for connecting the mobile communication device to a wireless network via a base station at the location;
Connecting the mobile communication device to the wireless network at the location; And
Connecting the application via the wireless network and the base station to a system that provides the service with which the mobile communication device is registered;
≪ / RTI > The method of claim 1,
Receiving the information at the predetermined location may include detecting an SSID and password for connecting the mobile communication device to a wireless network through a base station at the location from an RFID device using an RFID reader of the mobile communication device. How to include. The method of claim 2,
The RFID device is an NFC device and the RFID reader comprises an NFC reader. The method of claim 1,
Receiving the information at the predetermined location may include an SSID and password for connecting the mobile communication device to a wireless network through a base station at the location from a visual code using an imaging device of the mobile communication device. Detecting. 5. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
The service is a tax refund service. The method of claim 5,
The system comprises a host system with which the mobile communication device is registered. The method according to claim 6,
Providing information to the host system for recording refund transactions associated with the mobile communication device. 8. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 7,
Detecting purchase items using the application identifying at least one of a price in a first currency, a price in a second preselected currency, and a tax refund value for a user. 9. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 8,
Detecting an identifier indicating that the base station of the wireless network is at a validation site for validating transactions for a tax refund. 9. The method according to any one of claims 5 to 8,
Using the application, initiating a validation process for a refund of a tax using a validation service in response to an identification that the mobile communication device is connected to a wireless network at a validation place. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 8,
Detecting an identifier for connecting the application to a system providing the service with which the mobile communication device is registered. The method of claim 11,
The identifier is a merchant identifier, and the system is a merchant system of a seller providing at least a portion of the service. The method of claim 12,
And performing a purchase transaction using the application in response to the information received from the merchant system. An application for the mobile communication device registered with a location-based service using a mobile communication device,
An application comprising program code operable to perform the steps of any of claims 1 to 13. A computer readable medium carrying the application of claim 14. A mobile communication device comprising a memory in which the application of claim 14 is stored. 17. The method of claim 16,
A mobile communication device comprising at least one of an RFID interface or an NFC interface. 18. The method according to claim 16 or 17,
And the mobile communication device is a mobile telephone.

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