Classifications

• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
  • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
  • G06Q30/00—Commerce
  • G06Q30/06—Buying, selling or leasing transactions
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
  • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
  • G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
  • G06Q20/04—Payment circuits
• • G—PHYSICS
  • G06—COMPUTING; CALCULATING OR COUNTING
  • G06Q—INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY [ICT] SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES; SYSTEMS OR METHODS SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR ADMINISTRATIVE, COMMERCIAL, FINANCIAL, MANAGERIAL OR SUPERVISORY PURPOSES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
  • G06Q20/00—Payment architectures, schemes or protocols
  • G06Q20/22—Payment schemes or models
  • G06Q20/24—Credit schemes, i.e. "pay after"

Definitions

• the invention relates to the field of electronic commerce.
• Factoring includes buying and selling accounts receivable and credit insuring.
• Accounts receivable are purchased based upon the assumption that the accounts receivable are valid and collectable.
• Accounts receivable are sold in order to quickly obtain cash for cash flow purposes, rather than to retain them as receivable.
• Accounts receivable are also frequently used as an asset upon which to borrow money, in order to finance other unrelated transactions.
• Credit insuring occurs when an entity insures payment of an account receivable for a vendor, so that if the buyer does not pay, the insurer will.
• Cards are also available for relatively small purchases and operate by having a financial institution issue the credit card, and a vendor bank provide the cardholder with a revolving line of credit that can be used to buy goods from sellers who accept the credit card. This allows the cardholder to pay for credit card purchases over a period of time at an interest rate set by the vendor bank.
• Other types of credit devices are travel and entertainment cards, which unlike credit cards, are considered to be open-ended credit with payment in full due at the time of billing, no extension of revolving credit to the buyer is provided by use of these cards, or cardholder.
• Credit, travel and entertainment cards provide a uniform level of risk assessment to the seller and the seller pays a pre-determined interchange fee regardless of the actual credit risk presented by the buyer.
• Commercial transaction are evolving to include electronic communication of financial transactions.
• Electronic commerce includes using electronic networks as a marketplace for business and consumer transactions.
• Electronic commerce services can include electronic brokerages, distributorships or clearinghouses that facilitate trade with electronic interchange media, such as public networks, for example the Internet, or proprietary access networks.
• Electronic commerce does not currently offer financial services to sellers, such as payment and credit assessments of buyers, electronic factoring and credit insuring of transactions. This need is usually fulfilled by relying on traditional techniques of credit analysis and payment before a transaction can be completed.
• U.S. Patent No. 4,992,940 to Dworkin entitled “System and Method for Automated Selection of Equipment for Purchase Through Input of User Desired Specifications”
• U.S. Patent No. 5,732,400, to Mandler, et al. entitled “System and Method for a Risk-Based Purchase of Goods”
• U.S. Patent No. 5,732,400, to Mandler, et al. entitled “System and Method for a Risk-Based Purchase of Goods”
• U.S. Patent No. 5,717,923, to Dedrick, entitled “Method and Apparatus for Dynamically Customizing Electronic Information to Individual End Users,” discloses maintaining a personal profile database to store consumer information and a consent adapter to compare electronic information received by a client system to consumer information in the personal profile database.
• U.S. Patent No. 5,717,989, to Tozzoli, et al., entitled “Full Service Trade System,” discloses storing criteria specified by a funder relative to trade transactions for buyers and sellers and comparing the criteria with a proposed purchase order in order to determine whether the system can generate a payment guarantee on behalf of the funder for the buyer to the seller.
• U.S. Patent No. 5,826,241 to Stein, et al., entitled “Computerized System for Making Payments and Authenticating Transactions Over the Internet,” discloses a payment system that provides cardholder accounts for first and second Internet users and making queries to the first user on whether to proceed with payment to the second user.
• U.S. Patent No. 5,664,1 15, to Fraser, entitle d"Interactive Computer System to Match Buyers and Sellers of Real Estate, Businesses and Other Property Using the Internet discloses automatically connecting sellers of property with potential buyers, preferably over the Internet, wherein the host system stores records regarding the properties and can be searched by potential buyers, and the system permits evaluation of potential buyers to screen them.
• the invention comprises a method and system for electronic factoring.
• the inventive system overcomes all of the limitations of the prior art and addresses the need for an electronic commerce version for factoring.
• the system enables buyers to purchase goods from vendors with a third party guarantee to the vendor via electronic factoring that guarantees the payment.
• electronic factoring including credit insurance, is performed in an efficient manner.
• the invention enables buyers to obtain goods and services immediately without having to pay for them at the time of the transaction.
• the invention also comprises a credit database set up for all users that assigns a credit limit to the customers for credit as well as a credit instrument for guarantee of payment to vendors. Payment is guaranteed through a banking partner, the guaranteeing financial institution, who guarantees all receivables that are created through the sales on the platform (entitled "ProfitScape” in the Figures) to ensure payment and security of the transaction.
• the system tracks and maintains a database that details credit dollar amounts available and account activity for each user.
• the invention defines a credit-worthy marketplace that enables users, who become members, to purchase goods and services on credit based on their respective financial positions which have been evaluated by the guaranteeing financial institution.
• the method comprises the steps of providing an electronic platform for guaranteeing payment of receivables; inputting information from users into a profile database upon the electronic platform; assigning buyers a credit limit; and guaranteeing payment to vendors for users who purchase from the vendor. Additionally, the method comprises linking at least two users, the users being either buyers, vendors, international licensees, or financial institutions for guaranteeing payment via the platform. Guaranteeing payment to vendors preferably comprises aligning the platform with a guaranteeing financial institution. Aligning the platform with a guaranteeing financial institution preferably comprises aligning the platform with that institution in order to perform a factoring-type such as credit insuring, full-factoring, or lending.
• a factoring-type such as credit insuring, full-factoring, or lending.
• the electronic factoring method can further comprise the steps of producing a symbol to represent each user's profile and exchanging information between users via the symbol on the electronic platform.
• Guaranteeing payment to vendors can comprise electronically sending the vendor the user's symbol in order to show the vendor that payment is guaranteed by the platform.
• the method can further comprise the steps of electronically sending the user's symbol to the guaranteeing financial institution and sending a guarantee of compensation from the guaranteeing financial institution to the vendor.
• Guaranteeing payment to vendors can comprise the steps of issuing each user an identifying card showing membership on the platform; purchasing from the vendor with the identifying card; and accessing the user's credit availability via the platform with the identifying card.
• Providing an electronic platform preferably comprises providing an Internet web site having the platform for users to access, and optionally comprises the step of providing Internet web site links for users to access other users' web sites.
• the step of inputting information from users into a profile database preferably comprises the steps of inputting data such as name, address, contact information, primary industry, credit insured amount, payment history, credit usage, target marketplace, products offered, services offered, inventory, buying trend data, and Internet usage data.
• the electronic factoring method further can comprise the steps of verifying a user as a member of the platform and purchasing from the vendor.
• Purchasing from the vendor can comprise first searching the profile database with a search engine, from the vendor preferably comprises purchasing from the vendor with a line of credit within the credit limit established by the profile database.
• Guaranteeing payment to vendors can comprise the steps of reassigning the receivable to the guaranteeing financial institution; making payment to the platform; and forwarding payment from the platform to the vendor. Guaranteeing payment to vendors can alternatively comprise reassigning the receivable to the guaranteeing financial institution; making payment to the guaranteeing financial institution; and forwarding payment from the guaranteeing financial institution to the vendor.
• guaranteeing payment to vendors comprises accessing the platform directly by the vendor for verification of credit availability and forwarding payment to the vendor upon accessing the guaranteeing financial institution directly by the vendor for verification of credit availability and forwarding payment to the vendor upon verification.
• guaranteeing payment to vendors comprises accessing the guaranteeing financial institution directly by the vendor for verification of credit availability and forwarding payment to the vendor upon verification.
• Still another embodiment of guaranteeing payment to vendors comprises accessing the platform for verification of credit availability; paying the guaranteeing financial institution for purchases; and forwarding payment from the guaranteeing financial institution to the platform and vendor bank so that the vendor bank can credit the vendor.
• the electronic factoring method also can comprise the steps of maintaining user credit records on the platform and periodically reviewing credit records by the financial institution for buyer credit availability.
• Linking at least two users can comprise the steps of creating offers by the vendor; sending the offers to an offer database on the platform for storage; comparing the offer database with the user profiles in the profile database; creating a list of matching offers and user profiles; and offering users those offers that match the user's profile upon log-in.
• the invention also comprises a method of electronic factoring comprising the steps of assigning buyers a credit limit upon a guaranteeing platform; verifying the buyer's identification as a member of the guaranteeing platform; verifying the buyer's credit amount when the buyer attempts to make a purchase; subtracting the purchase amount from the buyer's available credit limit upon making a verified purchase; notifying the vendor of the purchase order; reassigning the receivable to a guaranteeing financial institution via the guaranteeing platform; billing the buyer for the purchase order; and forwarding payment to the vendor.
• Forwarding payment to the vendor optionally comprises forwarding payment to the vendor from either the buyer, the guaranteeing financial institution, or the guaranteeing platform.
• the invention also comprises an electronic factoring system for guaranteeing payment of receivables and comprises an electronic platform; a profile database upon the electronic platform for inputting information from users; means for assigning buyers a credit limit; and means for guaranteeing payment to vendors for users who purchase from the vendor.
• the electronic factoring system can additionally comprise means for linking at least two users wherein the users consist of buyers, vendors, international licensees, and financial institutions for guaranteeing payment via the platform.
• Means for guaranteeing payment to vendors may comprise means for aligning the platform with a guaranteeing financial institution, and wherein said means for aligning the platform with a guaranteeing financial institution comprises aligning with a guaranteeing financial institution so that that institution can perform factoring such as credit insuring, full-factoring, or lending.
• the electronic system can further comprise means for producing a symbol to represent each user's profile, and means for exchanging information between users via the symbol on the electronic platform.
• Means for guaranteeing payment to vendors can comprise means for electronically sending the vendor the user's symbol in order to show the vendor that payment is guaranteed by the platform.
• the system can comprise means for electronically sending the user's symbol to the guaranteeing financial institution and means for sending a guarantee of compensation from the guaranteeing financial institution to the vendor.
• Means for guaranteeing payment to vendors can alternatively comprise an identifying card issued to each user showing membership on the platform; means for purchasing from the vendor with the identifying card, and means for accessing the user's credit availability via the platform with the identifying card.
• the electronic platform of the electronic factoring system may comprise an Internet web site having the platform available for users to access.
• the Internet web site can further comprise links for users to access other users' web sites.
• the profile database of the electronic factoring system may comprise a profile database for inputting data from users. This data can consist of any of the following: name, address, contact information, primary industry, credit insured amount, payment history, credit usage, target marketplace, products offered, services offered, inventory, buying trend data, and Internet usage data.
• the electronic factoring system can further comprise means for verifying a user as a member of the platform and means for purchasing from the vendor.
• Means for purchasing from the vendor can comprise means for first searching the profile database with a search engine.
• Means for purchasing from the vendor preferably comprises means for purchasing from the vendor with a line of credit within the credit limit established by the profile database.
• Means for guaranteeing payment to vendors can comprise means for reassigning the receivable to the guaranteeing financial institution; means for making payment to the platform; and means for forwarding payment from the platform to the vendor.
• means for guaranteeing payment to vendors comprises means for reassigning the receivable to the guaranteeing financial institution; means for making payment to the guaranteeing financial institution; and means for forwarding payment from the guaranteeing financial institution to the vendor.
• means for guaranteeing payment to vendor comprises means for accessing the platform directly by the vendor for verification of credit availability and means for forwarding payment to the vendor upon verification.
• the means for guaranteeing payment to vendors comprises means for accessing the guaranteeing financial institution directly by the vendor for verification of credit availability and means for forwarding payment to the vendor upon verification.
• the means for guaranteeing payment to vendors comprises means for accessing the platform for verification of credit availability; means for paying the guaranteeing financial institution for purchase; and means for forwarding payment from the guaranteeing financial institution to the platform and vendor bank so that the vendor bank can credit the vendor.
• the electronic factoring system can further comprise means for maintaining user credit records on the platform and means for periodically reviewing credit records by the financial institution for buyer credit availability.
• Means for linking at least two users can comprise means for creating offers by the vendor; means for sending the offers to an offer database on the platform for storage; means for comparing the offer database with the user profiles in the profile database; means for creating a list of matching offers and user profiles; and means for offering users those offers that match the user's profile upon login.
• the invention also comprises an electronic factoring system for guaranteeing payment of receivables comprising means for assigning buyers a credit limit upon a guaranteeing platform; means for verifying the buyer's identification as a member of the guaranteeing platform; means for verifying the buyer's credit amount when the buyer attempts to make a purchase; means for subtracting the purchase amount from the buyer's available credit limit upon making a verified purchase; means for notifying the vendor of the purchase order; means for reassigning the receivable to a guaranteeing financial institution via the guaranteeing platform; means for billing the buyer for the purchase order; and means for forwarding payment to the vendor.
• Means for forwarding payment to the vendor can comprise means for forwarding payment to the vendor from either the buyer, the guaranteeing financial institution, or the guaranteeing platform.
• One aspect of the invention can provide unique profiled information that is delivered through an electronic system using software agents that enable credit and/or a guarantee of compensation to vendors for buyers.
• Another aspect of the invention can include a unique database profile which is created incorporating specific sales and product information detailing what each user has to sell, terms, company history, unique product information, and the category of transaction, be it either a retail or wholesale target market.
• Another aspect of the invention can provide unique profiled information and open access to both buyers and vendors to find information and make purchases guaranteed for payment. Yet another aspect of the invention can enable users to find unique information that matches their targeted request and enables them to purchase and consummate transactions electronically.
• Yet another aspect of the invention comprises amethod of conducting electronic commerce, the method comprising: receiving an electronic authorization request from a vendor for a payment guarantee, wherein the authorization request identifies a transaction amount between the vendor and a buyer; and electronically transmitting to the vendor a guarantee of payment for the transaction amount, wherein the guarantee is conditional to the occurrence of one or more events.
• One of the events may be the receipt of an invoice from the vendor.
• a transaction fee may be charged regardless of the occurrence of the conditions. The transaction fee can be based at least in part upon either the transaction fee or a payment due date.
• the method may also comprise: receiving an invoice from the seller, wherein the invoice identifies an actual transaction amount of a transaction between the buyer and the seller; storing the actual transaction amount in a database; and transmitting the invoice to a guarantor.
• the method may also comprise gauranteeing payment based at least in part upon a credit limit of the buyer.
• the method may also comprise receiving an invoice from the seller, wherein the invoice identifies a payment due date; and determining, based at least in part upon the due date, a fee that is due by the seller.
• the method may also comprise receiving payment from the buyer; and sending payment to the vendor subsequent to subtracting the determined fee.
• Gauranteeing payment may comprise insuring payment by the seller or purchasing a receivable from the vendor.
• Another aspect of the invention comprises a system for conducting electronic commerce, the system comprising: means for receiving an electronic authorization request from a vendor for a payment guarantee, wherein the authorization request identifies a transaction amount between the vendor and a buyer; and means for electronically transmitting to the vendor a guarantee of payment for the transaction amount, wherein the guarantee is conditional to the occurrence of one or more events.
• Fig. 1 A is a block diagram of a first embodiment of the invention showing the flow of purchase and fulfillment between buyer and vendor using the electronic commerce web site platform of the invention
• Fig. IB is a block diagram of a second embodiment of the invention showing the flow of purchase and fulfillment between buyer and vendor using the electronic commerce web site platform;
• Fig. IC is a block diagram of a third embodiment of the invention showing the flow of purchase and fulfillment between buyer and vendor using the electronic commerce web site platform;
• Fig. 2 is a block diagram of another embodiment of the invention wherein the buyer makes payment directly to the guaranteeing institution;
• Fig. 3 is a block diagram of the post-shopping experience for a user of the invention
• Fig. 4 is a block diagram of the functions that an existing customer or new user proceeds through when visiting the web site platform of the invention
• Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the functions that a user proceeds through with customer service
• Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing a user searching the database of the invention and consummating a transaction with a link to other web sites;
• Figs. 7a-7e demonstrate the algorithmic methods of communication for the various embodiments of the invention.
• Fig. 8 is a flow diagram showing the first international licensee embodiment of the invention in the first page
• Fig. 9 is a flow diagram showing the first international licensee embodiment of the invention in the second stage;
• Fig. 10 is a flow diagram of a second international licensee embodiment of the invention in the first stage wherein the financial institution of guarantee works directly with the international licensee;
• Fig. 1 1 is a flow diagram of a second international licensee embodiment of the invention in the second stage;
• Fig. 12 is a third international licensee embodiment of the invention;
• Fig. 13 is a fourth international licensee embodiment of the invention;
• Fig. 14 is a flow chart showing the connection being made between user and vendor
• Fig. 15 is a flow chart showing the user application for credit
• Fig. 16 is a flow chart showing the user log-in to the invention
• Fig. 17 is a flow chart showing the user making a purchase through the methodology of the invention
• Fig. 18 is a flow diagram of an alternative embodiment of the invention wherein both a guarantor bank and a vendor bank are used in the process;
• Fig. 19 is a flow diagram of another alternative embodiment of the invention wherein both a guarantor bank and vendor bank are used;
• Fig. 20 is a flow diagram of the preferred user login to a web site according to the invention.
• Fig. 21 is a flow diagram of the preferred purchase transaction according to the invention.
• Fig. 22 is a flow diagram of a first interaction with two guarantor banks
• Fig. 23 is a flow diagram of a second interaction with two guarantor banks
• Fig. 24 is a flow diagram of a preferred lockbox of the invention.
• Fig. 25 is an illustrative approval screen in a web page according to the invention prior to submission
• Fig. 26 is an illustrative approval screen in a web page according to the invention after submission
• Fig. 27 is an illustrative edit screen
• Fig. 28 is a top-level flow diagram of the preferred web site of the invention in conjunction with customer web sites;
• Fig. 29 is an illustrative purchase screen
• Fig. 30 is an illustrative invoice screen
• Fig. 31 is an illustrative payment screen
• Fig. 31 A is an illustrative first confirmation screen
• Fig. 3 IB is an illustrative second confirmation screen
• Fig. 32 is a flowchart illustrating vendor recruitment
• Fig. 33 is a flowchart illustrating buyer recruitment
• Fig. 34 is a flowchart illustrating an exemplary trade show purchase
• Fig. 35 is a flowchart illustrating shipment of a trade show purchase
• Fig. 36 is an exemplary network that may be used in conjunction with electronic platform of the invention
• Fig. 37 is yet another exemplary network that may be used in conjunction with the electronic platform of the invention
• Figs. 38, 39, and 40 are each a diagram illustrating the contents of selected fields of the database during an exemplary transaction; and Fig. 41 is a screen display showing an exemplary report that is presented that shows the transaction history for a user of the electronic platform of Figs. IA, I B, IC and 2.
• the invention comprises a payment or credit arrangement process wherein payment of all transactions are guaranteed through a platform, and aligned guaranteeing financial institution (or guarantor bank). All users, whether buyers or sellers (“vendors") are put into a profile database that defines their credit amount, credit used, and credit available. A unique number is then assigned to each user that will be used as an identifying symbol to be held in the electronic database. This symbol, or digital representation thereof, represents a profile enabling users to obtain and utilize credit to facilitate purchases of goods, services, and other intangibles through the system.
• the information and implementation of the invention is preferably distributed electronically over data lines into a worldwide web platform to facilitate users' purchase transactions or vendors' sales needs.
• the digitally produced symbol is delivered electronically via data lines to find targeted information, and enables the buyer to purchase goods, services, or other intangibles ordered through the system.
• a search engine is used to locate the required information over a network of profiled vendors. The same process operates in reverse to also link vendors to buyers.
• Information using software agents can be accessed electronically based on an Alchemy model that enables users to seek and match their specific requests.
• the unique symbol that is assigned for the vendor's profile, as well as a specific symbol representing the targeted audience of buyers, with additional symbols or digital representations for other information allows for an efficient and easy-to-use exchange of information. Additionally, proprietary profiles can be maintained to facilitate electronic commerce for users within the database to exchange information and to target specific information to a targeted audience.
• Vendors benefit by reaching buyers through the system and offering credit to purchase their goods, services, or other intangibles. Competing advertising members can use the system to reach the attention of users who wish to seek information residing on the system as well. Vendors can use the credit system to sell to buyers within the profile database to ensure future payment of goods that are sold on a time-delay process unique to each of the profiled users.
• the user can deliver a promise of compensation to be paid immediately, or in the future.
• the electronic database transmits digital information electronically to those users who are seeking to receive compensation in exchange for releasing the items that the user/buyer has requested.
• the digitally produced symbol simultaneously instructs a third party to deliver a guarantee of compensation on behalf of each user.
• the third party guarantees compensation to the vendor in the form of either credit insuring, full-factoring, or lending based upon accounts receivable.
• the platform streamlines the buying process and saves time by alleviating the need for C.O.D., prepayment with a Visa or MasterCard and excessive paperwork necessary for approval through multiple factoring banks.
• the vendor will need their money before they can ship the order: perhaps the money is needed to produce the order. In this case, called factoring, the vendor pays a higher fee to ProfitScape in order to obtain their money early.
• the vendor sells the receivable to the factor: once payment is made, the payment will be sent to the factor. This is done with or without the knowledge of the cardholder. Actors
• the following table documents some of the roles played by users of the system and a summary of how users interact with the system.
• a role or actor refers to one, possibly of many, motivations driving a user to interact with the system. The same user may have different roles at different times.
• a use-case is a single scenario depicting how users are interacting with the system to achieve a specific goal.
• This case depicts the card issuer receiving a large number of proposed cardholders from a third party.
• the card issuer eliminates duplicates, creates the cardholder accounts, and submits their information to a guarantor for credit line approval.
• an association submits a file to the card issuer, who in turn attempts to submit the file to the system.
• the system verifies file contents (headers, counts, formats, etc). The entire file is either accepted or rejected. If accepted, the file creates a batch in the database for processing.
• the card issuer processes batch, creating cardholder accounts where needed and marking each batch entry with the account number. Existing accounts are left alone, since the original association receives the fee (if any) for sourcing those records.
• the system marks any created cardholder records with the association as the source. In some cases the association will receive a permanent fee percentage of all transactions.
• the system generates batches for guarantors for credit line approvals.
• the card issuer submits credit line request batches to one or more guarantors. In response, guarantors submit a credit line response batch to the card issuer.
• the card issuer processes credit line batch, updating customer records.
• the card issuer prints a processing report (to printer or file) for the association to track results.
• Cards are then ready to be issued or other responses are generated.
• customer service representatives for the card issuer can contact the applicant to counsel them towards getting approval, possibly from a different guarantor.
• Process Vendor Batch Associations can submit large groups of vendor records. Also, Vendors may sign themselves up for the service. Web portals may submit vendor batches as well. An exemplary process is set forth below that describes a process for creating new vendor accounts.
• An association or some other verified source submits a file to the card issuer.
• a CSR representative for the card issuer verifies file contents and either accepts or rejects the entire file. If accepted, a New Vendor Accounts batch is created, waiting to be processed.
• the card issuer processes file, creating vendor accounts where needed, and marking each batch record with the account number and status. In one embodiment, existing accounts are left alone. Letters are then issued to vendor informing them of their account, status, and usage procedures. Create Cardholder
• the card issuer can create a single cardholder account at a time as well as the batch pre- approved process. Issuing Cards
• One or more cards are issued to specific people within a company.
• the credit line authorization of a company can be divided among one or multiple card users. Even with multiple cards, the total authorization will not exceed the total credit line of a company.
• a company can: (i) authorize the entire credit amount to one person on one card; (ii) divide the entire credit amount among multiple people, each having their own card; (iii) allow a "key signatory" to access to the entire credit amount on a card, plus divide the entire credit amount among multiple people, each having their own card, or (iv) authorize the entire credit amount to multiple people, each having their own cards.
• cards may be issued in large batches, sent out for embossing, or one at a time like temporary cards at a trade show. Again, batches are created, edited, posted.
• the card can be co-branded by a credit card provider.
• the user can request to use the card as a credit card, or, alternatively, as a card as is described for use with the embodiments of the invention shown in Figures 1-41.
• the card is associated with at least two credit limits: the first credit limit identifying a credit limit with respect to the credit card provider and a second credit limit associated with the use of the card in conjunction with the system shown in Figures 1 -41.
• the card contains two sets of account information: a first set is associated with the credit card provider and a second set is associated with respect to the use of the card in conjunction with the system shown in Figures 1-41. Tradeshow
• custom cards are issued as part of a tradeshow.
• the cards have identifying information displayed on the card thereby serving as a badge.
• the card may be activated by providing the credit vendor a credit application and requesting the credit vendor to activate the card. Once activated, the credit vendor provides an insignia to the buyer. The buyer places the insignia on or near the card via an adhesive. The insignia identifies to sellers that the buyer has at least a threshold level of credit.
• the buyer upon approving the buyer's application for a card, the buyer is provided a card having a certain color that is different than the individuals that have not been approved to receive credit. Create Vendor
• the card issuer can create a single vendor account at a time as well as part of the batch pre- approved process.
• Purchase Guarantee Payment The following describes a process of guaranteeing payment for a transaction. First, a cardholder places order, e.g., verbal, PO, with a vendor.
• the vendor submits authorization request to ProfitScape/system (card #, expiration name, name, amount, PO).
• the system verifies credit balance, issues authorization code, decline, pending, or other response message.
• Exemplary response codes may be found in the Visa 2 Specification.
• a PENDING response is issued and submitted to the guarantor.
• the guarantor can approval the transaction and/or or increase the cardholder's credit limit.
• the card issuer can generate reports of PENDING authorizations to ensure that they are being answered in a timely manner.
• the vendor ships goods, sends invoice to the card issuer with an authorization code.
• the vendor sends an invoice to the cardholder requesting the cardholder to remit payment to the guarantor, or alternatively, the card issuer.
• the card issuer has online forms for vendors to submit invoices.
• the vendor incurs a payment term guarantee fee at the time of approval of the transaction.
• Each vendor obtains an approval for a specific buyer (i.e., one cardholder).
• Each approval can cover multiple invoices for a specific buyer (i.e., one cardholder).
• Each approval incurs a fee, relative to the total invoice amount. If an invoice is larger than the approved amount (e.g., due to taxes or shipping fees), a 2'/2% fee (or more depending on length of terms) may be automatically charged against the extra amount.
• Receive Invoice After shipping the goods, the vendor sends the invoice to both the cardholder and to the card issuer. After the card issuer receives invoice(s), each invoice is marked with the authorization code. The invoice specifies the payment terms.
• a selected fee may be charged by the card issuer for the service of guaranteeing the total approved amount.
• the fees are accessed on the basis of the total invoice amount, including tax and shipping charges.
• the fee schedule varies according to the length of time until the payment is due. The following table illustrates an exemplary fee schedule.
• the vendor should include a summary sheet having totals for verification.
• the card issuer inputs an authorization code to find the transaction in the database, and then inputs the invoice number and total.
• the card issuer logs the invoice and sends the invoice to the guarantor of the transaction both physically and as an electronic item. Guarantor Receives Payments
• Payments are received by the guarantor, which sends an electronic log of settlements to the card issuer. It is noted that in one embodiment, the buyer sends the payments directly to the card issuer.
• the system creates the appropriate payment transactions and computes the guarantor's fee, creating a transaction object in the platform for that as well.
• the card issuer applies payments to the invoice.
• the guarantor takes a fee, based on the total amount of the invoice, and then send the payments on to the card issuer.
• One payment may be applied to multiple invoices. A partial payment may be applied to an invoice.
• the card issuer distributes to the vendor the payment, less fees any transaction fees.
• the vendor receives the payment, less fees, based on the total amount of the INVOICE (not the amount received).
• the vendor may bill the buyer for the difference between the total invoice and the amount remitted. In the event the payment is less than the total invoice amount due to payment terms (e.g., 2%/10 Net 30), the vendor is responsible for issuing a credit for the buyer.
• a payables batch is created in the system. After editing, the batch is sent to a A/P system to actually print checks. Optionally, the card issuer can print the checks. Cycle End Processing
• the vendors each receive a cycle-end statement summarizing all transactions and providing updated information. This marks a regular contact point, where marketing materials may be included with the mailing. Some may elect to receive such transmissions electronically, e.g., CD-ROM, diskette, ftp, email. Issue Cards (Batch. Single. Re-issue)
• Cards may be issued in large batches, sent out for embossing, or one at a time.
• the buyer is responsible for paying for the goods and services that have been purchased from the seller within a predetermined time period, e g., 30, 60, 90 days.
• a predetermined time period e g. 30, 60, 90 days.
• the start of the due date time period is triggered after the seller transmits the goods to the buyer or, alternatively, after the seller performs services for the buyer.
• the buyer may defer payment by paying a selected fee.
• the recipient of the selected fee pays all or some of the funds that are owed by the buyer.
• the buyer may request the credit vendor to defer payment to the re-factor company.
• the credit vendor pays the seller after the predetermined time period.
• the credit vendor transmits a selected fee to the re-factor company for the re-factor company's involvement with the initial transaction between the buyer and the seller.
• the re- factor company can accept delayed payment and in return for the delayed payment, charge the fee and pay the credit vendor prior to the expiration of the predetermined time periods, e.g., 30, 60, 90 days.
• the credit vendor then pays the seller the monies owed the seller by the buyer minus any transaction fees.
• the buyer may request the credit vendor to receive delayed payment for a fee. In return for the fee, the credit vendor pays the seller prior to the expiration of the predetermined time period.
• buyers and sellers may retrieve their account information from the credit server.
• Account information can include: credit limits, past transactions, billing information, etc.
• the credit vendor maintains a server computer that is operably connected to a network.
• the network may include any type of electronically connected group of computers including, for instance, the following networks: Internet, Intranet, Local Area Networks (LAN) or Wide Area Networks (WAN).
• the connectivity to the network may be, for example, remote modem, Ethernet (IEEE 802.3), Token Ring (IEEE 802.5), Fiber Distributed Datalink Interface (FDDI) or Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM).
• computing devices may be desktop, server, portable, hand-held, set-top, or any other desired type of configuration.
• an Internet includes network variations such as public internet, a private internet, a secure internet, a private network, a public network, a value-added network, an intranet, and the like.
• the client computer can retrieve account information.
• An exemplary report showing account information is shown in Figure 41.
• the server computer allows the user to contest certain transactions that are identified in the account information.
• the contesting party is afforded an opportunity to associate one or more messages with the contest.
• each transaction has an electronic storage bin to hold communications between the buyer and the seller for the selected transaction.
• the message is automatically transmitted via electronic mail to an agent for the seller and stored in the electronic storage bin. Furthermore, in one embodiment, if the transaction is contested by the seller, the message is automatically transmitted via electronic mail to an agent for the buyer and stored in the electronic storage bin.
• the contesting party is presented with an opportunity to reply via electronic mail. Using the storage bin, the communication history between the buyer and seller may be reviewed. Furthermore, in one embodiment of the invention, the non-contesting party can change the terms of the transaction to end the dispute.
• a buyer is afforded an opportunity to delay payment with respect to one or more of the transactions.
• the buyer is presented a selectable icon proximate to each of the transactions for which that buyer owes payment.
• the user indicates a request to extend the due date for paying the due fees.
• the server computer adjusts the due date for the transactions and assigns a due date extension fee to the buyer's account. Furthermore, at a predetermined point, the server computer pays the seller the monies that are owed to seller by the buyer.
• a seller is afforded an opportunity to receive payment prior to agreed upon terms with the credit vendor.
• the seller when the seller views past transactions, the seller is presented with a selectable icon proximate to each of the transactions in which the seller is to receive payment. By selecting the selected icon, the seller indicates a request to receive payment for the funds immediately.
• the server computer pays the seller the monies owed minus an advance fee. It is noted that since a buyer may also be a seller to other buyers, the buyer and seller reporting screens may be integrated into a single screen display.
• Fig. I A is a flow diagram of a first embodiment of the invention showing the purchase and fulfillment between a buyer, vendor and guaranteeing financial institution using the method of the invention.
• the buyer makes a purchase from the vendor with a guaranteed credit line as established in the profile database 10.
• the purchase order is then being forwarded to the vendor for fulfillment 12.
• the receivable is reassigned to the guaranteeing financial institution for a guarantee of the receivables 14, the purchase order is returned to the buyer for the buyer's records 16.
• the vendor ships the order with a copy of the invoice and terms back to the buyer 18, for example, net 30, net 60, or net 90.
• the vendor sends shipment confirmation and a copy of the invoice to the platform for the invention, which in one embodiment, is entitled "ProfitScape” (hereinafter referred to as the platform), on an e-commerce web site 20.
• the buyer makes payment to the platform based upon the vendor terms 22, and the platform forwards payment to the vendor 24, minus a negotiated percentage.
• the platform profile database maintains credit records and transfers all monies from the buyer to the vendor minus a negotiated percentage or transaction fee, for example 8-12% of the transaction.
• the guaranteeing financial institution will review the accounts periodically, for example every 90 days, for buyer credit line limits. Also periodically, for example every 30 days, the platform reconciles with the guaranteeing financial institution for a percentage of all gross revenue of the platform's guaranteed electronic commerce transactions.
• Fig. I B is another embodiment of the invention.
• Fig. I B is a flow diagram of a second embodiment of the invention showing the purchase and fulfillment between a buyer, seller and a credit vendor. It is noted that although only one buyer is shown, the electronic platform can be used in connection with large numbers of buyers.
• a buyer provides credit information via an application to a credit vendor.
• the credit vendor forwards the information to a re-factor company.
• the re-factor company evaluates the credit information and determines a credit limit for the buyer.
• the re-factor company transmits the credit limit for the buyer to the credit vendor.
• the credit vendor transmits one or more cards to the buyer.
• the card has an electronic strip having a magnetically imprinted card number.
• the card may have an associated personal identification number.
• the buyer contacts a seller and offers to purchase goods or services that are provided by the seller.
• the buyer provides the seller their card or alternatively the buyer's account information.
• the seller provides the credit vendor, via a transaction device, the transaction information.
• the transaction device can include: a computer, a hand held device, a cash register, or other electronic device.
• the transaction information comprises a merchant identifier, the buyer account number (the card number), the name on the card, an expiration date that is associated with the card, and an estimated transaction amount.
• the credit vendor determines whether the transaction amount would cause the buyer to spend in excess of the buyer's credit limit. Assuming the buyer has sufficient credit, the process moves to a step 57 wherein the credit vendor transmits approval to the seller computer for the transaction. Furthermore, the credit vendor records the transaction information to facilitate evaluating further purchases of the buyer.
• the seller ships the goods or performs the services specified by the contract.
• the seller receives from the credit vendor the right to receive payment no later than a predetermined period.
• the predetermined period is no later than 180 days or whenever the re-factor company receives payment, whichever is sooner.
• the buyer makes payment to the re-factor company.
• the re-factor company pays the credit vendor minus a first transaction fee.
• the re-factor company pays the seller minus a second transaction fee. It is noted that in one embodiment of the invention, for a predetermined fee, the seller can borrow against the guaranteed received payment.
• Fig. IC is a flow diagram of a third embodiment of the invention showing the purchase and fulfillment between a buyer, vendor and guaranteeing financial institution. It is noted that although only one buyer is shown, the invention can be used in connection with large numbers of buyers.
• a buyer provides credit information via an application to a credit vendor.
• the credit vendor forwards the information to a credit insurer.
• the credit insurer evaluates the credit information and determines whether it will insure the transaction.
• the credit insurer transmits the credit limit for the buyer to the credit vendor.
• the credit vendor may transmit one or more cards to the buyer.
• the buyer contacts a seller and offers to purchase goods or services that are provided by the seller.
• the buyer Upon agreeing to the terms of a deal, the buyer provides the seller their card or alternatively provides the buyers account information.
• the seller provides the credit vendor, via a transaction device, the transaction information.
• the transaction information comprises a merchant identifier, the buyer account number (the card number), the name on the card, an expiration date that is associated with the card, and an estimated transaction amount.
• the credit vendor determines whether the transaction amount would cause the buyer to spend in excess of the buyer's credit limit. Assuming the buyer has sufficient credit, the process moves to a step 76 wherein the credit vendor transmits approval to the seller's transaction device.
• the credit vendor records the transaction information to facilitate evaluating further purchases of the buyer.
• the seller ships the goods or performs the services specified by the contract.
• the seller receives from the credit vendor the right to receive payment no later than a predetermined period.
• the predetermined period is no later than 180 days or whenever the credit vendor receives payment, whichever is sooner.
• the buyer makes payment to the credit vendor. It is noted that in one embodiment of the invention, for a predetermined fee, the seller can borrow against the guaranteed received payment.
• the credit vendor pays the seller.
• Fig. 2 is another embodiment of the invention. In Fig. 2, the buyer makes a purchase through the guaranteeing financial institution with a guaranteed credit line 26.
• the vendor then obtains from the guaranteeing financial institution an authorization code for the amount of the intended purchase, including tax and shipping if known. Once authorization is obtained (usually within seconds), the vendor may ship the order knowing that payment is guaranteed. The purchase order is then forwarded to the vendor for fulfillment 28 and the purchase order is then returned to the buyer for the buyer's records 30. Then the vendor ships the order with a copy of the invoice and terms to the buyer 32, and the vendor sends shipment confirmation and a copy of the invoice to the guaranteeing financial institution 34. In one embodiment, the vendor notes on the buyer's copy of the invoice to remit payment to the guaranteeing financial institution 34.
• Fig. 3 is a block diagram demonstrating the post-shopping experience of the buyer using the methodology of the invention.
• the user first shops and then views their order, and before checking out, chooses a form of payment, be it either a credit card, or through the platform of the invention. If a credit card is chosen as the method of payment, the transaction proceeds through the platform of the invention. If the user is enrolled in the platform of the invention, their transaction is guaranteed. The user is also offered the choice of joining and becoming a member of the platform.
• Fig. 4 shows the process that a user proceeds through when first logging on to the platform of the invention.
• the new user applies for membership and a line of credit with guaranteed receivables 42.
• An existing user is shown logging in with their user name and password 44, and the existing customer or new user is forwarded to the appropriate web sites for purchases 46.
• Applications for credit and guarantees are forwarded to the financial institution for review 48. If the application for credit has been denied, the customer is then notified 50. If the application for credit has been approved, the customer is assigned a guaranteed credit limit 52, as well as an "ID" and is then entered into the user profile database.
• Fig. 5 is a block diagram demonstrating an approved customer 54 being forwarded to customer service so that customer service can gather information 56 and create a user database profile on their company, products, target market, history, terms, etc.
• Example data collected for the user's profile includes: name, address, contact information, primary industry, credit insured amount, payment history, credit usage, target marketplace, products offered, services offered, inventory, buying trend data, and Internet usage data.
• Fig. 6 is a block diagram demonstrating a user searching the profile database.
• a user queries the database through a search engine for specific information 58. Data is searched from the database and returned to the user 60. Then the user accesses a web site from a returned data link 62, and the user consummates an electronic commerce transaction 64 such as that shown in Fig. 1.
• Fig. 7 shows the algorithm methods for the various embodiments of the invention.
• the buyer, seller, and guaranteeing institution cannot communicate with each other but only with the platform for the invention.
• the buyer and seller only communicate with the guaranteeing institution and not with each other.
• the buyer and guaranteeing institution can each only communicate with the seller, but the seller can communicate with either or both of the buyer and guaranteeing institution.
• the seller and the guaranteeing institution can each only communicate with the buyer, but the buyer can communicate with either or both of them.
• Fig. 8 shows a flow diagram of an embodiment of the invention wherein the method of the invention includes an international licensee.
• a user applies for a credit line through the international licensee 66.
• an application is entered into the database of the invention 68, and that application is forwarded to the guaranteeing financial institution 70.
• the applicant who is approved is assigned a line of credit and a user ID, and the database is then updated with their information 72.
• the user and licensee are then notified 74.
• the process proceeds as shown in Fig. 9. If the application is denied, the applicant and licensee are notified accordingly 76.
• Fig. 9 demonstrates the process that proceeds after the applicant has been approved in Fig.
• Fig. 10 is a flow diagram for a second embodiment of the international licensee application of the invention. First the user applies for a credit line through an international licensee 88. Then the application is forwarded to the guaranteeing financial institution 90. If the application is approved, the applicant is then assigned a line of credit and a user ID 92. The user and licensee are then notified. At this point, the process proceeds as shown in Fig. 1 1. If the application is denied, the applicant and licensee are accordingly notified 94.
• Fig. 1 1 represents the next stage in the process after having completed those steps in Fig. 10.
• the international buyer accesses the marketplace through a licensee 96 and the platform buyer makes an international purchase 98 on the platform of the invention with the user ID. Then the user ID and credit availability are checked through the guaranteeing financial institution 100. The seller receives the order with the guaranteed receivables 102, the transaction is completed and the order is shipped to the buyer 104.
• Fig. 12 is a third embodiment of the international licensee application of the invention.
• the guaranteed buyer makes a purchase from a vendor on an international licensee platform 106.
• the user ID and password are passed to a module 108 which allows the communication with the database of the invention, and the ID and credit availability are checked through the database, as well as the guaranteeing financial institution 1 10 and 1 10'.
• the vendor web site receives verification 1 12, and the transaction is completed and the order is then shipped to the buyer 1 14.
• Fig. 13 is a fourth embodiment of the international licensee application of the invention wherein the communication occurs directly with the guaranteeing financial institution.
• the guaranteed buyer makes purchases from a vendor on the international licensee platform 1 16.
• the user ID and password are passed to a module which allows communication with the database of the invention 1 18.
• the user ID and credit availability are checked through the guaranteeing financial institution 120.
• the vendor web site receives verification 122, and the transaction is completed and the order is then shipped to the buyer 124.
• Fig. 14 is a flow chart demonstrating vendors' direct marketing to existing registered users (buyers) of the invention.
• the buyer logs on and sees offers being retrieved from the database, and chooses whether or not to accept the offer. If the offer is accepted, the transaction is concluded. If the offer is not accepted, the user continues on through the web site.
• the vendor creates offers and then sends them to the database for storage.
• the vendor then creates a user profile from the information off of the database.
• the database compares the profile created by the vendor with existing customer profiles.
• the invention then creates a list of matching users who wish to see offers of this type and proceeds to offer them to those users the next time that they log on.
• Fig. 15 is a flow chart showing the user applying for credit with the methodology of the invention.
• the user first applies for a credit line, and that information is then added to the database.
• the information is then submitted to a financial institution and the financial institution either approves or disapproves the credit application. If the application is not approved, the user is informed of the result. If the application is approved, the amount of credit is recorded for the user and the user is accordingly informed of approval and the amount of credit.
• a "net 30 card” This card is similar in appearance to a credit card. Should the applicant be approved for the net 30 card, then they will be able to purchase goods and services immediately, and upon receipt the guaranteeing institution or platform of the invention will guarantee payment within thirty days to the vendor. The applicant can apply for the card either manually or electronically.
• Information received from the candidate is then entered into a database which is forwarded to a guaranteeing financial institution.
• the guaranteeing financial institution reviews the application information and issues an insured line of credit if the applicant is approved. Once the applicant is approved, the guaranteeing financial institution notifies the platform of the insured credit line and guarantees payment of receivables. Then the net 30 card is issued to the applicant, who is now a registered user of the platform of the invention. The user's transactions are then checked through the platform profile database for available credit and amounts adjusted. At the end of each day, the platform of the invention keeps the guaranteeing financial institution updated on all user accounts' status. This methodology insures the vendor's receivables.
• Fig. 16 is a flow chart demonstrating the steps that a user proceeds through in logging on to the web site containing the platform of the invention.
• the user first arrives at the public Web site and enters their login ID. The site then compares their ID and password to those recorded in the database. If the log-in is not valid, then the user is refused access and is returned to the public Web site. If the log-in is valid, then the user preferences are retrieved from the database and are customized to provide a personalized page displayed to the user. The user then continues with member-only options within the system.
• Fig. 17 is a flow chart demonstrating a user making a purchase using the methodology of the invention.
• the user first attempts to conclude the transaction and the platform of the invention ascertains the user's identity and compares their transaction with an available credit balance stored in the database. If their available balance is not adequate, then the transaction is denied. If the available balance is adequate, then the transaction proceeds and the invention subtracts the transaction total from the available balance, and the order is confirmed to the user, the vendor is notified of the purchase order, and the user receives a copy of the purchase order.
• the receivables are reassigned to the financial institution and the vendor receives notification of the purchase order and fulfills the purchase order.
• the financial institution receives notification of that reassignment.
• the vendor notifies the platform of the fulfillment of the order and has sent the user the merchandise, the user is then billed. If the user does not pay the bill, then the financial institution is notified who then pays the platform who in turn pays the vendor. If the user does pay the bill, then their payment is added to the available credit in their account.
• Fig. 18 is a flow diagram of a third embodiment of the invention.
• the buyer selects the platform guaranteed receivables method as the method of payment 126.
• the e-commerce backend forwards purchase information to the platform profile database 128. Available credit is checked from the user's profile and new applicants are processed 130. Then the profile database is updated accordingly 132. The buyer is notified and if approved, the vendor, or seller, is also notified to ship 134 and 134'. Then the buyer makes payment to the guarantor bank according to the terms set forth by the vendor, or seller 138.
• the profile database is then updated accordingly 140.
• the guarantor bank processes the payment and forwards payment to the platform and vendor bank 142. Then the vendor bank credits the vendor, or seller 144.
• Fig. 19 is a flow diagram of a fourth embodiment of the invention.
• the buyer selects the platform guaranteed receivables method as the method of payment 146.
• the e-commerce backend forwards purchase information to a processor 148.
• the processor forwards information to the guaranteed receivables issuer which is the platform of the invention 150.
• the available credit is checked, new applicants are processed, and the profile database is updated accordingly 152.
• the buyer is notified of either approval or rejection of their application 154. If approved, the vendor, or seller, is notified to ship.
• the buyer makes payments to the guarantor bank lock box according to the terms set forth by the vendor, or seller 156.
• the database and credit limit are updated accordingly 158.
• the guarantor bank processes payment and forwards payment to the platform and vendor bank 160.
• Figs. 20-40 further illustrate the invention as noted in the brief figure descriptions, above.
• the embodiments presented in the figures are not meant to limit the applications of the invention.
• the methodology of the invention has application in buying and selling, as well as lending based upon accounts receivables, in addition to credit insuring purchases.
• the platform comprises one or more computer implemented modules.
• each of the modules comprise various sub-routines, procedures, definitional statements, and macros.
• Each of the modules are typically separately compiled and linked into a single executable program.
• the modules may be arbitrarily redistributed to one of the other modules, combined together in a single module, or made available in a shareable dynamic link library.
• one or more of the modules may be designed using hardware.
• the modules may be written in any programming language such as C, C++, BASIC, Pascal, Java, and FORTRAN and ran under the well-known operating system.
• C, C++, BASIC, Pascal, Java, and FORTRAN are industry standard programming languages for which many commercial compilers can be used to create executable code.
• the company class provides a common base class for the four types of companies involved in the system: Merchants, Cardholders, Factors, and Guarantors.
• the Code class represents all fields that store a coded value, referenced within the Codes table.
• CompanyName represents a single company name, which may be one of many names a company goes by.
• CompanyName name String The company name.
• Address provides a postal address.
• the Contact class represents a person and their contact information as well as a company's primary contact information.
• the Merchant class provides information regarding a single merchant within the system.
• the MerchantHome class provides methods for creating, finding, and deleting Merchants.
• the cardholder class represents a single cardholder within the system.
• the CardholderHome class provides methods for creating, finding, and deleting Cardholders.
• the Card class represents a single card issued to a Cardholder.
• the Guarantor class represents a guarantor, such as GMAC.
• the GuarantorHome class provides methods for creating, finding, and deleting Guarantors.
• the factor class represents a single factor.
• the FactorHome class provides methods for creating, finding, and deleting Factors.
• the Association Class represents a company with a business relationship.
• the AssociatonHome class provides methods for creating, finding, and deleting associations.
• the transaction class represents a transaction.
• the TransactionHome class provides methods for creating, finding, and deleting
• Transactions Various other classes may be used to represent other portions of the system such as merchant invoices, cardholder payment, and a merchant statement/check.
• Database Schema It is noted that a number of different database schemas may be used with respect to the platform profile database. Set forth below are exemplary tables that may be used in conjunction with one embodiment of the platform profile database.
• Table 2 User Groups (Map a user to a set of zero or more groups)
• CTRY CHARACTER (2 ) BFNAM CHARACTER (30) , BLNAM CHARACTER (30) , BPHN CHARACTER (20 ) ,
• BKCTY CHARACTER ( 25 ) BKST CHARACTER ( 2 ) ,
• NAM CHAR (100) NOT NULL, ⁇ name ⁇ CNAM CHAR (100)
• PRIMARY KEY CONSTRAINT N30CACCMTRMPK, UNIQUE (NTWRKID, TRMADDR) CONSTRAINT N30CACCMTRM2 , FOREIGN KEY (ACCMID) REFERENCES N30TACCM (ID) , FOREIGN KEY (NTWRKID) REFERENCES N30TNTWRK (ID) ) LOCK MODE ROW;
• ACCTRNID INT8 NOT NULL, ⁇ auth tran id ⁇
• CRTSRVR CHAR (15) NOT NULL, ⁇ create server ⁇ CRTCLNT CHAR (15) NOT NULL, create client ⁇ CHGUSRID CHAR (15) NOT NULL, change by user ⁇ CHGDTTM DATETIME change datetime ⁇
• CHGSRVR CHAR (15) NOT NULL, change server ⁇ CHGCLNT CHAR (15) NOT NULL, change client ⁇
• Table 33 NET30/Account Transaction Master Table
• dttm as tdttm
• CRTUSRID CHAR (15) NOT NULL, ⁇ create user id ⁇ CRTDTTM DATETIME ⁇ create datetime ⁇ YEAR TO SECOND NOT NULL, CRTSRVR CHAR (15) NOT NULL, create server ⁇ CRTCLNT CHAR (15) NOT NULL, create client ⁇ CHGUSRID CHAR (15) NOT NULL, change by user ⁇ CHGDTTM DATETIME change datetime ⁇
• CHGSRVR CHAR (15) NOT NULL, ⁇ change server ⁇ CHGCLNT CHAR (15) NOT NULL, ⁇ change client ⁇
• CNAM2 CHARACTER (35) , CNUM2 CHARACTER (16) , CNAM3 CHARACTER (35) , CNUM3 CHARACTER (16) , BKNAM CHARACTER (30) ,
• BKCON CHARACTER (30) , BKADR CHARACTER (40) , CKGNUM CHARACTER (20) , BKCTY CHARACTER (25) , BKST CHARACTER (2) ,
• BKZIP CHARACTER 10
• BKPHO CHARACTER 20
• BKCTRY CHARACTER (2)
• SAVNUM CHARACTER 20
• B1NAM CHARACTER 3 0
• CRTSRVR CHARACTER (15) NOT NULL
• ⁇ create server ⁇ CRTCLNT CHARACTER (15) NOT NULL
• ⁇ create client ⁇ CHGUSRID CHARACTER (15) NOT NULL
• ⁇ change by user ⁇ CHGDTTM DATETIME ⁇ change datetime ⁇
• CHGSRVR CHARACTER (15) NOT NULL
• ⁇ change server ⁇ CHGCLNT CHARACTER (15) NOT NULL
• ⁇ change client ⁇ PRIMARY KEY ( ID) ) lock mode row
• PADR1 CHARACTER (30 )
• FOREIGN KEY (ACCGID) REFERENCES N30TACCG(ID) CONSTRAINT N30CACCCHLRFK1 , FOREIGN KEY (ACCCHID) REFERENCES N30TACCCH (ID) CONSTRAINT N30CACCCHLRFK2 , FOREIGN KEY (CDCHLRSID) REFERENCES N30TCDCHLRS ( ID) CONSTRAINT N30CACCCHLRFK3 ) LOCK MODE ROW,
• INSERT INTO N30TCDSL ⁇ T ID, DESC
• VALUES 40, "See At Show”
• INSERT INTO N30TCDSLSST ID, DESC
• VALUES 50, "Need decision maker”
• INSERT INTO N30TCDASTR ID, DESC
• INSERT INTO N30TCDASTR ID, DESC
• INSERT INTO N30TCDASTR ID, DESC
• INSERT INTO N30TCDASTR ID, DESC
• PRIMARY KEY CONSTRAINT N30C ⁇ ASCRPRELPK, FOREIGN KEY (PSASCRPID) REFERENCES N30TSASCRP (ID) CONSTRAINT N30CSASCRPRELFK1, FOREIGN KEY (CSASCRPID) REFERENCES N30TSASCRP (ID) CONSTRAINT N30CSASCRPRELFK2
• FOREIGN KEY AGNUSRID
• REFERENCES SYSTUSR ID
• INSERT INTO SYSTID NM , LSTID
• VALUES "N30TSAASGN” , 1000 ) ;
• CRTUSRID CHAR (15) NOT NULL , CRTDTTM DATETIME YEAR TO SECOND NOT NULL , CRTSRVR CHAR (15) NOT NULL , CRTCLNT CHAR (15) NOT NULL , CHGUSRID CHAR (15) NOT NULL ,

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• 2001
  • 2001-02-12 WO PCT/US2001/004515 patent/WO2001058242A2/fr active Search and Examination
  • 2001-02-12 AU AU2001236941A patent/AU2001236941A1/en not_active Abandoned

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