PORTABLE CONSUMER TRANSACTION DEVICE WITH ON-BOARD POWERED ACCESS CONTROL

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Application Serial No. 61/058,829, filed June 4,

2008, entitled "Photovoltiac Charging of Thin Film Battery on Device," U.S. Application Serial No. 61/058,836, filed June 4, 2008, entitled "Pin Security Entry on Device," U.S. Application Serial No. 61/058,840, filed June 4, 2008, entitled "Active Magnetic Strip on Device," U.S. Application Serial No. 61/058,841, filed June 4, 2008, entitled "Piezoelectric Pads on Device," and U.S. Application Serial No. 61/132,529, filed June 19, 2008, entitled "Real-Time Card Limit on Card Plastic," the entire contents of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present invention relates to a portable consumer transaction device to conduct a financial with a merchant on an account associated with the device. BACKGROUND

Credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, charge cards, and the like are ubiquitous in consumer finance. When a consumer cardholder makes a purchase from a merchant, credit cards may be used to pay for the transaction. With credit cards, cardholders may pay for transactions up to a certain pre-set limit. The credit limit of a card is the maximum dollar amount a cardholder (sometimes referred to as a borrower) may charge on his/her revolving credit account. The credit limit is also known as a "credit line," or "line size." Some credit card issuers (also known as lenders or "issuers") set separate limits for purchases and cash advances. When the total purchase amounts exceed the credit limit of the card, the cardholder is often assessed an "over the limit" fee by the credit card issuing institution (the "issuer"). Spending more than the credit limit will make the account over-limit, which may cause the lender to charge an over-limit fee and/or cancel account privileges.

Cardholders who carry credit cards are often unaware of the balance of a credit card (also referred to as "available credit"), especially when many purchase transactions have taken place. While the cardholder can look up their balances on-line, or via the telephone, many cardholders simply stop using their credit cards, even though they have not charged up their entire credit limit.

Many credit cards allow a cardholder to obtaining cash from a revolving account, usually at an automatic teller machine (ATM). Such cash advances are recorded on billing statements separately from purchases of goods or services. There is usually a limit on the total cash advance

per month (known as the "cash advance limit"), a special fee associated with the transaction, and a higher annual percentage rate (APR) on the cash amount borrowed.

Similarly, cardholders often do not know their the remaining balance of their cash advance limit ("available cash limit"), and are consequently discouraged from taking advantage of the cash advance feature of a credit card.

With prepaid or debit devices, such as prepaid cards or debit cards, the cardholder has pre-funded the account that will pay for the transactions up to the account balance. As such, the account balance is the maximum dollar amount that the cardholder can spend on transactions with merchants until the cardholder puts more money in the account. There is a need for conducting accurate and non- fraudulent transactions between parties that are cost efficient, safe and secure. Conventional technologies used by financial institutions, such as credit cards issued by banks, have difficulties attaining these goals of cost efficiency and security of transactions. These technologies are often prone to fraud, costing the industry significant financial resources. Use of credit cards by non-authorized bearers presents a difficult and costly problem for financial institutions. Technologies used by institutions to prevent fraud include conventional cards that have distinct technologies that check user authenticity. Conventional cards, such as credit cards, bank cards, debit cards and other financial transaction cards are configured with a plastic body that has a unique identification number imprinted on the card. These conventional cards also have a magnetic strip that allows for electronic (magnetic) verification of the authenticity of the card to the financial institution issuing the card.

Conventional cards, such as credit cards, bank cards, debit cards and other financial transaction cards are configured with a plastic body that has a unique identification number imprinted on the card. The cards also have a magnetic strip that allows for a magnetic verification of the authenticity of the card to the financial institution issuing the card. In a typical transaction in which the card is used, a bearer presents the card to a merchant, for example, for purchase of an item. The merchant then takes the card, swipes the card through a magnetic strip card reading device that in turn contacts the issuing financial institution. Through magnetic information placed on the card, the financial institution verifies that the card is active and that there are sufficient funds or credit to complete the transaction. If these checks are satisfactorily performed, an approval is provided to the merchant for the purchase.

In a typical transaction for these cards, a bearer of the card presents the card to a merchant for the purchase of an item. The merchant takes the presented card and swipes the card through a magnetic strip card reading device. The information contained on the magnetic strip of the card is read and transmitted to the issuing financial institution. The financial institution cross

checks its database of active cards to the information received. The financial institution verifies that the card is active and that there are sufficient funds or credit to complete the transaction. If these checks are satisfactorily performed, an approval is provided to the merchant for the purchase. After an approval is provided by the financial institution, the merchant returns the card to the bearer and requires a signature from the bearer, authorizing the transaction. The merchant verifies the signature of the bearer with a signature on the back of the card and the transaction is then complete.

Authorization of the transaction with a conventional card occurs at two points in the transaction. The first authorization occurs at the financial institution that issues the card wherein an electronic database is used to check valid authorization numbers. The second authorization occurs at the merchant where the signature check is performed. The second check performed at the merchant, although well intentioned, is prone to error. Merchants may forget to compare the signature or the signature itself can be forged. Currently, conventional cards do not have a capability to allow a bearer to authorize use of the card.

Conventional cards are merely plastic units with a magnetic strip that in turn does little to verify the authenticity of the bearer. Such conventional cards also have no capability for retaining data that was not placed upon the signature strip, on the bearer name plate, or magnetic strip. Conventional cards do not contain electrical circuits and moreover do not contain power sources to feed needed electricity to electrical circuits. Additionally, there are no technologies used in conventional cards that allow for any power source to be recharged. Moreover, neither a current account balance nor a remaining credit limit for an account is stored on a portable consumer payment device, such as a credit card.

SUMMARY Implementations include a system, method and portable consumer transaction device configured to display either a credit account balance, a remaining credit limit on the credit card, or a prepaid account balance. The portable consumer transaction device, which can have a 'card' form factor, receives a balance request from a button on the device. After retrieving the current account balance, the device can display the current account balance. In an another implementation, a transaction card has a card substrate with a front face and a back face, a photovoltaic layer attached to the substrate; and a thin film battery in electrical communication with the photovoltaic layer wherein the thin film battery is charged by the photovoltaic layer when the photovoltaic layer is exposed to light. The card may further comprise at least one magnetic strip configured to be read by a card reader. The card may

further comprise at least one hologram on at least one of the front and the back face of the card. In other implementations, the card may be further configured with a magnetic strip that is a passive magnetic strip. The card may also be configured such that the magnetic strip is an active magnetic strip connected to at least one of the thin film battery and the photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer may be configured under a surface of the magnetic strip. The card may further be configured such that the photovoltaic layer is connected to the thin film battery through a metallic connection. Moreover, the photovoltaic layer is configured underneath a plastic protection layer.

In an alternative implementation, a method of providing electrical energy to at least one electrical component is provided. The method entails providing a portable consumer financial transaction device, for instance in a 'card' form factor, with a photovoltaic layer and battery connected to the photovoltaic layer, exposing the photovoltaic layer to a light source and producing a current in the photovoltaic layer. The method also provides for charging a battery with the current produced in the photovoltaic layer. In an alternative implementation, the method further comprises discharging the battery to power the at least one electrical component on the card. The method may be accomplished with a thin-film battery. The at least one electrical component may be a microprocessor, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a computer chip, etc. The method may also be accomplished to provide for the retaining of the battery in a charged state after the production of the current in the photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer may charge the battery at all times during exposure to light. Additionally, the photovoltaic layer is positioned within a body of the card. A voltage may be applied to the magnetic strip on the card from the charged battery to enable a card reader to read data encoded in the magnetic strip. The method may also be accomplished such that card electrical components are turned off when the photovoltaic card is not producing a current. The method may further powering a display to indicate to a user of the card a charge status of the battery. Furthermore, the method may include preventing a user from performing functions on the card when the charge status of the battery is below a threshold amount.

In still other implementations, an input system is used to authenticate the bearer of a financial transaction card. An implementation provides a card, having at least one of an active magnetic strip, a contactless radio frequency unit and computer chip, a power source embedded within the card for powering the at least one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip, and a personal identification number input system positioned on the card.

An implementation also provides a power source embedded within the card, the power source connected to one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the card, and a personal identification number ("PIN") input system positioned on the card and connected to the power source and the one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the card. The card may also include at least one hologram on at least one of the front and the back face of the card. In another aspect, the PIN input system can include a computer authentication chip configured to authenticate an input PIN. The power source may be a thin-film battery. The power source may also be a photovoltaic layer connected to a thin film battery. The photovoltaic layer can be configured underneath a plastic protection layer on the card. The card may also be configured such that the PIN input system has a numeric keypad. The keypad may have at least two individual pads and may be a QWERTY keypad. In an alternative aspect, the card can be configured such that the PIN input system is configured to accept, retain and change PINs. The card may also be configured with a signature section on the card. The card may also include a unique identification number on a front of the card.

An alternative aspect provides a method of authenticating a user for a financial transaction. The method includes providing a portable consumer financial transaction device with a personal identification input system, inputting a personal identification code into the personal identification input system, verifying the personal identification code with a pre-stored code, the verifying performed on the device, activating one of an active magnetic strip, a contactless radio frequency unit and computer chip on the device when the personal identification code and the pre-stored code match; and maintaining an inactive status for one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the device when the personal identification code and the pre-stored code do not match. The device may have a sound system and have tactile feedback for allowing a user to identify input. The device may also have an LCD display that will allow a user to identify information input into the device. The device may also provide a battery status indicator, as necessary. The method may further include, in some implementations, entering the pre-stored code into the personal identification input system before the providing of the portable consumer financial transaction device with the personal identification input system. The method may also include, in some implementations, deactivating the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the card when the personal identification code and the pre-stored code match after a predetermined amount of time. The method may further include, in some implementations, permanently deactivating all functions of the portable consumer financial

transaction device after the input personal identification code and the pre-stored code do not match after three attempts. The method may also be configured such that after a predetermined amount of time, such as 2 minutes, the portable consumer financial transaction device functions may be deactivated. In other implementations, there is provided a card having at least one of an active magnetic strip, a contactless radio frequency unit and computer chip, a power source embedded within the card for powering the at least one of, the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip, and a biometric checking system. This implementation may be used to authenticate a user in a timely and cost effective manner, preventing fraud. In one implementation, a portable consumer financial transaction device can have at least one hologram on at least one of the front and the back face of the card. The device may further be configured such that the power source is a thin-film battery. Furthermore, the power source may be a photovoltaic layer connected to a thin film battery. Alternatively, the portable consumer financial transaction device can have a configuration wherein the photovoltaic layer is configured underneath a plastic protection layer on the device, such as where the device is a card or the device includes a card having the plastic protection layer. The device may also be configured to have a signature section on a surface. The device may further have a unique identification number on the front of the device.

Another implementation also provides a methodology of authenticating a user for a financial transaction. The method can include providing a portable consumer financial transaction device with a personal identification input system, inputting a personal identification code into the personal identification input system, verifying the personal identification code with a pre-stored code, the verifying performed on the portable consumer financial transaction device, inputting biometric information into a biometric input system of the portable consumer financial transaction device, verifying the biometric information entered into the biometric input system with pre-stored biometric information of the portable consumer financial transaction device, activating one of an active magnetic strip, a contactless radio frequency unit and computer chip on the card when the personal identification code and the pre-stored code match and the biometric information entered into the biometric input system is successfully verified, and maintaining an inactive status for one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the card when one of the personal identification code and the pre-stored code do not match and the biometric information entered into the biometric input system is not successfully verified.

Implementations may further include at least one of entering the pre- stored code into the personal identification input system before the providing of a portable consumer financial transaction device with the personal identification input system and entering the pre-stored biometric information into the biometric input system. Methods of other implementations may further include deactivating the one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the portable consumer financial transaction device when the personal identification code and the pre-stored code match and the biometric information entered into the biometric input system and the pre-stored biometric information match after a predetermined amount of time. The method may also include deactivating the one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radio frequency unit and the computer chip on the card when the personal identification code and the pre-stored code match after a predetermined amount of time. Additionally, the method may further comprise permanently deactivating all functions of the portable consumer financial transaction device after at least one of the input personal identification code and the pre-stored code do not match after three attempts and the biometric information entered into the biometric input system and the pre-stored biometric information do not match after three attempts.

In an alternative implementation, the method may further include deactivating functions of a portable consumer financial transaction device after at least one of the input personal identification code and the pre-stored code do not match after a predefined number of attempts and the biometric information entered into the biometric input system and the pre-stored biometric information do not match after three attempts.

The method, in other implementations, may also include providing a master unlocking code for the card to activate functions of the card deactivated after deactivating functions of a portable consumer financial transaction device after at least one of the input personal identification code and the pre-stored code do not match after a predefined number of attempts and the biometric information entered into the biometric input system and the pre-stored biometric information do not match after three attempts.

In still further implementations, there is provided a portable consumer Page 4 financial transaction device with two or more surfaces, at least one of an active magnetic strip, a contactless radio frequency unit and computer chip on the portable consumer financial transaction device, a piezo pad configured to produce electricity upon compression by a user for the at least one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radiofrequency unit and a processor or other computing apparatus (i.e., a computer chip) on a card within the portable consumer financial transaction device or on a surface of the portable consumer financial transaction device, and a

personal identification number input system positioned on the portable consumer financial transaction device. Additional aspects provide for a capacitor embedded within a card of the portable consumer financial transaction device, the capacitor connected to the one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radiofrequency unit and the computer chip on the card, and the piezo pad, and a personal identification number input system positioned on the portable consumer financial transaction device and connected to the capacitor and the one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radiofrequency unit and the computing device of the portable consumer financial transaction device.

The apparatus may further include, in other implementations, at least one hologram on at least one surface of the portable consumer financial transaction device. In an alternative implementation, the personal identification number input system includes a computer authentication chip configured to authenticate an input personal identification number. The device may also be configured such that the personal identification number input system comprises a numeric keypad. The numeric keypad may have ten (10) individual pads. The personal identification number input system may be configured to accept, retain and change personal identification numbers.

In an alterative implementation, a portable consumer financial transaction device may be configured to include a signature section on a surface thereof. The device may further include a unique identification number on a surface thereof. A piezo pad may be internally located within a body of the portable consumer financial transaction device or on a front surface thereof.

In an alternative implementation, a method is provided. The method ^Pa ge 5 provides for providing a portable consumer financial transaction device, inputting biometric information into a biometric input system of the portable consumer financial transaction device, verifying the biometric information entered into the biometric input system with pre-stored biometric information of the portable consumer financial transaction device, activating one of an active magnetic strip, a contactless radiofrequency unit and computing device of the portable consumer financial transaction device when the biometric information entered into the biometric input system is successfully verified; and maintaining an inactive status for one of the 'active magnetic strip, the contactless radiofrequency unit and the computer chip on the card when information is not successfully verified by the biometric input system wherein power for the portable consumer financial transaction device is provided by at least one of: (i) a piezo pad configured to produce electricity upon compression by a user; and (ii) a capacitor embedded within the portable consumer financial transaction device. The method, in other implementations, may further include entering the pre-stored biometric information into the biometric input system. The

method, in other implementations, may further include deactivating the one of the active magnetic strip, the contactless radiofrequency unit and the computer chip on the portable consumer financial transaction device when the biometric information entered into the biometric input system and the pre-stored biometric information match after a predetermined amount of time. The method, in other implementations, may further include permanently deactivating all functions of the portable consumer financial transaction device after the biometric information entered into the biometric input system and the pre-stored biometric information do not match after three attempts.

In the foregoing implementations, a portable consumer financial transaction device is contemplated as being in any of a variety of form factors, including a 'smart card', a smart key fob, a cellular telephone, a web enabled portable consumer electronics device, a hand-held computing device, a personal digital assistance, other such thin clients intended by size and weight for consumer hand-carried portability.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIGS. IA-B illustrate an implementation of a debit, gift, prepaid or credit card configured to display the current account balance or remaining credit limit of the card.

FIGS. 2A-B depict an alternate implementation of a card configured to display the current balance or remaining credit limit of the card.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a system implementation to support the display of a current balance or remaining credit limit on a card.

FIG. 4 is an expanded view of a merchant's system implementation to support the display of the current balance or remaining credit limit on a card.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a card- writer process implementation configured to store current account balance or remaining credit limit information on a card after a payment transaction. FIG. 6 illustrates a process implementation that stores current account balance or remaining credit limit information on a card after a payment transaction.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart of a card- writer process implementation that stores current account balance or remaining credit limit information on a card after a partial or entire balance payment.

FIG. 8 illustrates a process implementation to display the current account balance or remaining credit limit information of a card.

Figure 9-1 is an illustration of a front of a financial transaction card. Figure 9-2 is a back view of the financial transaction card of Figure 9-1. Figure 9-3 is a cross-sectional view of Figure 9-2. Figure 9-4 is a partial cross-sectional view of Figure 9-3.

Figure 9-5 is a cut away view of the financial transaction card of Figure 9-1.

Figure 9-6 is a flow chart of a method of generating and storing a charge for a financial transaction card.

Figure 10-1 is an illustration of a front of a financial transaction card. Figure 10-2 is a back view of the financial transaction card of Figure 10-1.

Figure 10-3 is a schematic view of components within the card of Figure 10-1.

Figure 10-4 is a flow chart of a method of activating a financial transaction card.

Figure 10-5 is a flow chart for a method of accessing financial transaction card functions.

Figure 11-1 is an illustration of a front of a financial transaction card. Figure 11-2 is a back view of the financial transaction card of Figure 11-1.

Figure 11-3 is a schematic view of components within the card of Figure 11-1

Figure 11-4 is a flow chart of a method of activating a financial transaction card.

Figure 11-5 is a flow chart of a method of accessing card functions for a financial transaction card. Figure 12-1 is an illustration of a front of a financial transaction card.

Figure 12-2 is a back view of the financial transaction card of Figure 12-1.

Figure 12-3 is a schematic view of components within the card of Figure 12-1.

Figure 12-4 is a flow chart of a method of authenticating a bearer of a financial transaction card. Figure 13 is an exemplary implementation of a front and back of a financial transaction card for use by a consumer useable to conduct a transaction with a merchant, and containing as an identifier for an account issued by an issuer to the consumer, wherein the account is used to pay the merchant for the account.

Figure 14 illustrates an exemplary transaction processing system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In various implementations, a portable consumer transaction device is disclosed herein. The portable consumer financial transaction device is contemplated as being in any of a variety of form factors, including a 'smart card', a smart key fob, a cellular telephone, a web enabled portable consumer electronics device, a hand-held computing device, a personal digital assistance, other such thin clients intended by size and weight for consumer hand-carried portability.

If the portable consumer financial transaction device is in a card form factor, it can be a debit, credit, prepaid, and/or gift card. Other cards by which a consumer can conduct a transaction with a merchant are also contemplated for the portable consumer payment card. The

portable consumer payment card has various components. One such component supplies power to the other components of the portable consumer payment card. For example, the power supply can be a photovoltaic layer in the card, a power storage device, in electrical communication with the photovoltaic layer such that the power storage device stores electrical power produced by the photovoltaic layer when the photovoltaic layer is exposed to light. The power supply can also be a 'piezo pad' configured, upon compression _^ to produce electricity for storage in power supply, such as a thin film capacitor.

Another component of the portable consumer payment card is a component that functions to store information and instructions. The information can include an identifier for an account issued to a card holder for the use of the portable consumer payment card to conduct a transaction on the account with a merchant. This component can be memory, such as nonvolatile memory, SRAM, DRAM, and the like.

Another component of the portable consumer payment card is a component that performs a function of receiving data into the information in the memory of the card. For example, the data can input by way of a receiver of an image of an object that is being pressed against the receiver, where the image is then stored in the memory of the card. The object being received can be a finger print of the card holder such that the image is received via a biometric reader device. The data can be input by one or more button, switches, or depressible sections of a substrate of the card. In this case, the card can be configured such that buttons that are manually depressed in a particular order will to produce a digital access code that can be stored in the card's memory. When the button(s) is/are a piezo pad configured, upon compression _^ to produce electricity, then data input in this fashion will also the electricity being generated to be stored in the power source. Data can also be input to the memory of the card when the card includes a contactless radio frequency unit for wirelessly receiving a digital access code which is then stored in the card's memory.

Another component of the portable consumer payment card is a component, that is in communication with the card's memory and the power supply, and that performs a function of executing the instructions in the memory to control access by the card holder to use of the portable consumer payment card to conduct a transaction on an account associated with the card at a Point of Service terminal (POS) with a merchant.

Yet another component of the portable consumer payment card is a component that outputs the information in card's memory. Such a component can be, for instance, a Light Emitting Diode (LED), a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), a contactless radio frequency unit, a sound rendering device, or a combination of these.

Another component of the portable consumer payment card is an active magnetic strip. The active magnetic strip encodes a data set that includes an identifier for the account issued to the card holder for the use of the portable consumer payment card to conduct the transaction on the account with the merchant. The encoded set of data is readable by an external reader of a Point of Sale terminal (POS) of the merchant only when power is supplied to the active magnetic strip. As such, the access by the card holder to use the card is accomplished by executing the instructions in an access routine stored in the memory, where this execution of instructions can be by a microprocessor, computer chip, or other computing apparatus that is also a component of the card. The execution of the access routine causes the computing device to compare an access portion of the information in the cards' memory to input that was made by the card holder by use of the input device, where the comparison is made to access authorization information in the memory of the card. If this comparison finds a match, then the computing apparatus will cause power to be supplied by power supply to the active magnetic strip. As such, the identifier for the account that is encoded in the data set can be read by the external reader of the POS so that the card holder can then use the portable consumer payment card to conduct the transaction on the account with the merchant.

In another implementation, the computing apparatus of the card executes an account inquiry routine that includes instructions in the card's memory. The account inquiry routine may be initiated by the card holder providing a particular input to the card by the input device. When executed by the computing apparatus, optionally only when power is supplied to the active magnetic strip, the computing apparatus transmits, for instance via a wireless communicator component of the card, a request for a balance of the account. The wireless communicator component can be a contactless radio frequency unit for wirelessly transreceiving. The request can be sent to the POS for relay to a third party (e.g., the issuer of the account to the card holder, the merchant's acquirer, a transaction handler for the issuer and acquirer, etc.) The response to the request can be relayed back to the card for display on an output component of the card and/or for display at the merchant's POS.

In a further implementation, the component that performs the function of receiving data into the information in the memory of the card can have several functions. For example, this component can perform the functions of (i) being a biometric fingerprint reader to receive, and store in the access portion of the information in the memory, an image of a finger print of the cardholder when impressed upon the finger print reader; (ii) being one or more switches which, when manually compressed in a particular order and/or sequence, produces a digital access code for storage in the access portion of the information in the memory; (iii) and be a piezo device

configured, upon the manual compression _^ to produce electricity for storage in the power supply and/or to power components of the portable consumer transaction device.

As mentioned above, displaying a real-time balance or remaining credit limit on a credit card increases the likelihood of transactions on the account of the card by a cardholder. With the account balance or credit limit display solution, card holders would be able to check their balance at any time, generating a higher volume of unplanned or impulse purchases, and potentially a higher use at a POS.

Implementations include a card apparatus, system, method, and computer-readable medium configured to support the real-time display of a current account balance on a debit or pre-paid card, or a remaining credit limit on a credit card. Other implementations may include remote terminals configured to support the real-time display of an account balance or remaining credit limit on the card.

In general, a credit card allows a cardholder to make purchases in which they are later billed. Credit card accounts allow cardholders to carry a balance from one billing cycle to the next; however, credit cardholders pay interest on that balance (i.e., revolving credit). A charge card is a specific kind of credit card. The balance on a charge card account is payable in full when the statement is received, and cannot be rolled over from one billing cycle to the next. For the purposes of this patent, all references to credit accounts include charge accounts, and all references to prepaid accounts also include also gift and debit accounts. In the case of credit, a real-time or current balance is the total amount of money owed (by the cardholder) on a credit card. The current balance may include unpaid balances from previous months, purchases, cash advances, fees, interest, transaction charges, and credits. The current balance is may also be referred to as the "outstanding balance." It is understood by those known in the art that the current balance and the remaining credit limit are related by the following formula: current balance + remaining credit limit = credit limit. Similarly, it is understood by those known in the art that: cash advance limit = current cash advance balance + remaining cash advance limit.

Turning to FIGS. IA-B, these figures depict a credit card 1000 configured to display a real-time balance or remaining credit limit, constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation, or a prepaid card 1000 configured to display a real-time account balance in the corresponding account associated with the prepaid card 1000.

As shown in FIG. IA, the credit card 1000 includes a plastic support 1002, a display

1004, and a button 1006. It is understood that plastic support 1002 may further contain a stamped imprint of a primary account number a customer name, expiration date, and various security

measures such as a hologram or signature panel. Some implementations of plastic support 1002 also have a magnetic stripe containing the personal account number (PAN) and the card expiration date.

Display 1004 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD), light-emitting-diode (LED), organic light-emitting-diode (OLED), surface-conduction electron-emitter display (SED), digital light processing (DLP), interferometric modulator display (IMOD) or any other display known in the art that can be used within the form factor required by the credit card 1000.

Button 1006 may be any sensor button known in the art. It is understood by those familiar in the art that one or more buttons may be implemented. Internal components of credit card 1000 are shown in FIG. IB. Embedded within plastic support 1002, a processor or central processing unit 1008 is electrically coupled to the display 1004, button 1006, Read-Only-Memory (ROM) 1010, Random Access Memory (RAM) 1012, a non-volatile programmable memory 1014, input/output circuitry 1016, and power supply 1020. It is understood by those familiar with the art that some or all of these elements may be embedded together in some combination as an integrated circuit (IC). Implementations may also contain a conductive contact-making element 1018.

Processor 1008 may be any central processing unit, microprocessor, micro-controller, computational device or circuit known in the art.

Read only memory 1010 is embedded with an operating system executed by processor 1008.

Non- volatile programmable memory 1014 is configured to be an application memory device, and may store information such as the primary account number and/or current balance information. Examples of non- volatile programmable memory 1014 include, but not limited to: a magnetic stripe, flash memory, Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), or any other non-volatile computer memory or storage known in the art.

Random access memory 1012 is any temporary memory storage medium element known in the art. Random access memory is usually (but does not have to be) volatile memory.

The processor 1008, the read only memory 1010, the random access memory 1012 and the non- volatile programmable memory 1014 may coupled to one another through an internal bus system. Data can be interchanged between the input/output unit 1016, the processor 1008 and the non- volatile programmable memory 1014. Furthermore, data can be interchanged between the processor 1008 and the non-volatile programmable memory 1014.

Additionally, in some implementations, the input/output circuitry 1016 is further coupled to a conductive contact-making element 1018 being formed in a surface area of the plastic

support 1002. In some implementations, the conductive contact-making element 1018 may be replaced by a radio frequency (RF) transceiver 1018. Radio frequency implementations may typically use any RF transceiver known in the art for use in a radio frequency identifier (RFID) application or commonly used in the Visa "Pay Wave" technology or in a "contactless" payment transaction.

In yet other implementations, a contactless RF transceiver may be embedded in plastic support 1002 in addition to the conductive contact-making element 1018.

The electrically conductive contact-making element 1018 contains area elements that are electrically decoupled from one another, and these are annotated VCC, GND, RST, VPP, CLK and I/O. VCC is the connection for a supply voltage, RST is the connection for a reset signal, CLK is the connection for a clock signal, GND is the ground connection, VPP is the connection for a programming voltage, and I/O forms a connection as a data input/data output. The connection RST is used for application of a start signal for communication. A clock for the smart card processor is supplied from the outside via the connection CLK, with the clock frequency according to the described exemplary implementation being 7.5 MHz. The programming voltage which is applied to the connection VPP is usually a voltage higher than the supply voltage. Bidirectional data transmission takes place via the input/output connection I/O for the actual interchange of useful information with the smart card. Similar data exchange or transmission takes place in contactless implementations. Power supply 1020 may be any electrical power supply, including a battery, fuel cell, long-term capacitor or any other power storage known in the art. Power supply 1020 may be recharged by applying a direct current voltage. A voltage is applied to the credit card 1000 as the supply voltage VCC. Example supply voltages include 5 volts, 3.3 volts, or 1.7 volts.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-B, constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation, an implementation of a credit card 1000 is similar to the implementation of FIGS. IA-B, and may have multiple buttons 1006a-c. It is understood by those known in the art that any number of buttons 1006 may be implemented on a credit card, and that the choice of three buttons 1006 is for illustrative purposes only. Arrow buttons 1006a-b may be used for entering alpha-numeric information such as a personal identification number (PIN) or alpha- numeric code. Some implementations may implement buttons 1006 as part of a numeric pad or alpha-numeric keyboard, but available space on the card is a limitation.

FIG. 3 illustrates a system to support the display of a real-time credit card balance, available credit, cash limit, or available cash balance, constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation. A customer 3100 receives a credit card 1000 from an issuer 3500.

When the consumer 3100 uses the credit card 1000 at a merchant 3200 to pay for a product or service, the merchant 3200 contacts an acquirer 3000 (for example, a commercial bank) to determine whether the primary account number has sufficient available credit to pay for the transaction. The acquirer 3300 forwards the details of the payment transaction to a payment processor 3400 for processing. In some instances, the payment processor 3400 determines whether the transaction should be allowed; in other instances, the payment processor 3400 queries the issuer 3500 to determine whether the credit card has enough available credit to allow the transaction. Payment processor 3400 may be any payment network known in the art, including each transaction handler (th) 1402 as discussed below relative to Figure 14 within a transaction processing system 1400 as an exemplary environment in which an account holder (e.g., a cardholder) can conduct a transaction with a merchant on an account (i.e., a credit or debit card account) issued to the account holder by use of a portable consumer transaction device (e.g., a credit or prepaid card).

Similarly, when the consumer 3100 uses the credit card 1000 at an automatic teller machine (located at the merchant bank or acquirer 3300) to obtain a cash advance, the acquirer 3300 forwards the details of the cash advance to a payment processor 3400 for processing. In some instances, the payment processor 3400 determines whether the transaction should be allowed; in other instances, the payment processor 3400 queries the issuer 3500 to determine whether the credit card has enough available cash balance to allow the transaction. FIG. 4 depicts merchant 3200 in greater detail, where merchant 3200 includes a system to support the display of a real-time credit card balance, available credit, cash limit, or available cash balance constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation.

As shown, in FIG. 4, merchant 3200 comprises a card point-of-sale read/writer 3210 that communicated with a merchant central computer 3230 via the merchant's private network 3220. In some implementations, merchant central computer 3230 may be coupled to hot list storage 3240.

Card point-of-sale read/writer 3210 is any device capable of reading a personal account number off a credit card 1000, and write card balance information to the credit card 1000.

Merchant central computer 3230 is a networked device capable of communicating transaction data with card point-of-sale read/writer 3210 and transmitting the transaction data over network 4100 to acquirer 3300.

Hot list storage 3240 may be any list, database, or memory structure containing either invalid and/or valid primary account numbers.

Operation of these credit card and system implementations are illustrated by way of example and not by way of limitation.

Instructions stored in a non- volatile programmable memory 1014, when executed by a processor 1008, the processor 1009 performs methods and/or processes in a variety of implementations.

FIG. 8 illustrates a process implementation to display the real-time credit card balance, available credit, cash limit, or available cash balance of a credit card (1000 or 2000), constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation. When a user wants to know the balance of credit card (1000, 2000), the user requests the balance through pressing button 1006. The card receives the balance request, block 8002. Alternatively, when the card is a prepaid card, the realtime prepaid account balance of the account is displayed, so that when a user wants to know the balance, the user requests the balance through pressing button 1006, and the card receives the balance request, block 8002.

In card (2000) implementations that utilize a personal identification number (PIN), display 1004 prompts the user for the PIN number, block 8004. The personal identification number may be stored in non- volatile programmable memory 1014 or in a magnetic stripe. At this point, the user may enter a PIN number using buttons 1006a-c.

In some implementations, an error message is displayed when an invalid PIN number is entered, block 8006, and flow returns to block 8004. Upon receipt of a valid PIN number as determined at decision block 8006, the display shows the remaining prepaid balance, block 8008.

In implementations where a credit card 1000 does not use a PIN number, the remaining prepaid balance is displayed 8008 whenever the button 1006 is depressed.

Turning to FIG. 5 is a flow chart of a card-writer process implementation configured to store real-time credit card balance, available credit, cash limit, or available cash balance information on a credit card after a payment, cash withdrawal or other financial transaction, constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation.

When a credit card (1000 or 2000) is presented for payment at a merchant 3200, the primary account number and other data may be read at a card point-of-sale read/writer 3210, block 5002. The card (1000 or 2000) may be presented in a variety of different methods, such as swiping the card (1000 or 2000) or via a contactless ("pay wave") radio-frequency presentation, as are known in the art.

A credit card validation, as is known in the art, is performed using the data retrieved from the credit card (1000 or 2000). In some implementations, merchant central computer 3230

consults with hot list storage 3240 to determine whether the transaction may be validated. In other implementations, merchant central computer 3230 contacts acquirer 3300 to determine whether the transaction is valid. If the transaction is invalid as determined at decision block 5004, an error message is returned at block 5006. When the transaction is valid, flow continues at block 5008.

At block 5008, the payment transaction occurs.

At block 5010, the user is prompted to re-present the credit card (1000 or 2000). In card implementations that use a magnetic strip, the presentation may be accomplished as a swipe of the card (1000 or 2000). During the card swipe, the remaining balance of the credit card (1000 or 2000) is written to the magnetic strip. The amount of the remaining balance may be received from issuer 3500 or payment processor 3400, or calculated by the merchant 3200 using information received from issuer 3500. In some implementations, the card balance is written to track 3 of the magnetic strip. In other implementations, the card balance may be written to a nonvolatile programmable storage media 1014. FIG. 6 illustrates a process implementation that stores real-time credit card balance, available credit, cash limit, or available cash balance on a credit card after a payment transaction, constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation. As part of the payment transaction, primary account number and other information may be provided to merchant 3200, block 6002. Credit card (1000 or 2000) is received from a card point-of-sale read/writer 3210, via the conductive contact-making element 1018 or an embedded radio-frequency antenna embedded within the card (1000 or 2000), block 6002, and written to a magnetic strip or nonvolatile programmable storage memory 1014. In magnetic strip implementations, the card balance may write to track 3 or other tracks. In "smart card" implementations, non-volatile programmable memory 1014 stores the card balance. At certain times, credit card 2000 users may want to add additional funds to their card

2000. In such instances, the balance of credit card 2000 needs to be updated to accurately reflect the total. FIG. 7 depicts a flow chart of a card-writer process 7000 implementation that stores new balance information on a credit card 2000 after a payment, constructed and operative in accordance with an implementation. FIG. 7 assumes that the card reload is occurring at merchant 3200 in communication with issuer 3500; it is understood that the reload card may also occur at other locations.

At first, merchant 3200 receives funds from consumer 3100, block 7002. The amount of the funds may vary, and may be limited by the issuer 3500. The transfer of funds may occur through a variety of different methods, including cash, or various electronic payment methods.

The credit card 2000 is presented to a card point-of-sale read/writer 3210, and the primary account data 7004 is received, block 7004. The card data and new funds are transmitted to the issuer at block 7006.

If the transmission to the issuer 3500 is not confirmed, as determined by decision block 7008, an error is reported at block 7010, and flow returns to block 7006.

When the transmission to the issuer 3500 is successful, process 7000 continues at block 7012.

At block 7012, card point-of-sale read/writer 3210 requests the re -presentation of the card

2000. During the presentation, the new balance of the prepaid card is written to the card 2000. The amount of the new balance may be received as data from payment processor 3400, issuer

3500 or calculated by the merchant 3200 using information received from issuer 3500 or payment processor 3400. In card implementations that use a magnetic strip, the presentation may be accomplished as a swipe of the card 2000. During the card swipe, the remaining balance of the credit card 2000 is written to the magnetic strip. In some implementations, the card balance is written to track 3 of the magnetic strip. In other implementations, the card balance may be written to a non- volatile programmable storage media 1014.

If the card balance write is not confirmed, as determined by decision block 7016, an error is reported at block 7018, and flow returns to block 7012.

When the write is successful, process 7000 ends. Referring now to FIGS. 9-1 through 9-6, implementations disclose a financial transaction card that has a configuration that allows for power to be generated on the card. Such a configuration allows for the power generated on the card to be stored for use by components/circuitry on the card. In addition, implementations of a card allow for power to be generated in an environmentally conscious manner while allowing for low cost of production of the card. Moreover, card implementations described above are sufficiently rugged for continuous use.

Referring to Figure 9-1, a card 100 for conducting financial transactions is illustrated. The card 100 is provided with several discrete sections such that financial transactions may be accomplished in a safe, secure and convenient process. The card 100 is provided with a serial number 102 that allows for identification of the card 100 when the bearer of the card 100 provides it to a merchant. The serial number 102, in the illustrated implementation, is a series of numbers that are unique to the card 100. Although illustrated as having a combination of numbers, letters or a combination of numbers, letters, and symbols, for example, may be used to identify one card 100 from different cards. The serial number 102 is imprinted in the body of the

card 100 such that it may not be altered by a bearer of the card 100. The card 100 is provided with a front face 104 that illustrates the serial number 102. The front face 104 of the card is also configured with a name section 108 and an expiration date section 110. Although listed as an expiration date section 110, an issue date for the card 100 may also be included. A portion 106 of the front face 104 of the card 100 is provided such that light that contacts the portion 106 is converted into electrical energy through a photovoltaic layer 310 described below.

Referring to Figure 9-2, a back surface 200 of the card 100 is illustrated. The back surface 200 of the card 100 is provided with a magnetic strip 202 that is used to identify the card 100 through a magnetic strip reader. In the illustrated implementation, the magnetic strip 202 is a passive magnetic strip that is configured to have a permanently encoded set of data provided by the issuing institution. Although illustrated as a passive magnetic strip 202, the magnetic strip 202 may also be an active magnetic strip that allows the encoded set of data to be read by an external reader only when the magnetic strip 202 is activated through a power source on the card 100. When configured with as an active magnetic strip 200, the strip is a unit that only allows reading of the encoded magnetic data upon successful electronic activation of the magnetic strip 202. Such activation occurs through authentication of the user by the chip 218. The active magnetic strip 202, in the illustrated implementation, is configured from a magnetic oxide strip of material placed upon the card 100, as a non-limiting implementation. Upon receipt of an electronic charge from a power source, the magnetic oxides in the strip of material allow for encoded data contained within the strip, to be detected.

By way of example of the active magnetic strip 202, and not by way of limitation, reference is now made to FIG. 9-3 which shows a cross-sectional view of the card 100 of FIG. 9- 2 seen as a portable consumer payment device, in this case, a credit card 70 in FIG. 9-3. FIG. 9- 4 is a partial cross-sectional view of Figure 9-3. Specifically, an electronically generated bit is produced by a small wire 90 disposed across the path of the active magnetic strip 202 see in FIGS. 9-3 and 9-4 as magnetic strip 72. Each wire 90 is coupled to the energy source or battery 86 which, under control of a power source, will provide electrical current to the wire 90 for a predetermined time period. The amount of current passing through the wire 90 is preferably no more than that sufficient to induce a magnetic flux at the surface of the credit card 70 which is equivalent to, or at least detectable by a card reader 92 as equivalent to, a zero (0) or a one (1) in the magnetic strip. When the electronically generated bit is inactive (not energized), reading the active magnetic strip 202 will indicate that a bit is missing (i.e., neither a zero or one are detected) and that the card is damaged, ineffective or unauthorized. In order to energize the card and complete a coherent transmission, only a single wire is necessary. However, in other

implementations, multiple wires can be used. For example, transaction specific codes may be provided a microprocessor or other computing apparatus, or computer chip that can be incorporated into a substrate forming a part of the credit card 70 or other similar logic circuit. These transaction specific codes can then be provided to the card reader 92 or host device through a series of electronically generated bits positioned adjacent the active strip area or region 80.

A plurality of adjacent of electronically conducting wires 90 may be coupled to a single battery through a series of resistors. The circuit is roughly the equivalent of a plurality of amplifiers which increase the electronic signal being generated by a microprocessor or other computing apparatus, or computer chip that can be incorporated into a substrate forming a part of the credit card 70. As such, the magnetic strip 72 in FIGS. 9-2 and 9-3 is an active magnetic strip that allows a set of data encoded therein to be read by an external reader 92 only when the magnetic strip 72 is activated through a power source on the card 70.

In addition to the magnetic strip 202, a hologram 206 is provided at the back of the card 100 to allow a merchant to visually identify if the card 100 has been officially produced by the issuing institution. A security code feature 208 is also provided at the back of the card 104 for further identification purposes if needed. The card 100 is also provided with a signature block 210 upon which a bearer provides a signature for authentication purposes by a merchant. It should be understood that chip 218 can be an ASIC or other processor capable of executing programmed instructions to perform methods and/or processes.

Referring to Figure 9-5, a cut away section 300 of one implementation of a card 100 taken along the magnetic strip is illustrated. In the illustrated implementation, a photovoltaic layer 310 is positioned under the magnetic strip 202 such that light that hits the magnetic strip 202 and travels through the magnetic strip 202 enters the photovoltaic layer 310. Although shown under the magnetic strip 202, the photovoltaic layer 310 may be placed at any position on or in the card 100 accessible to light incident on the card 100. The photovoltaic layer 310 converts the light that strikes the photovoltaic layer 310 and turns the light into electrical energy that can be stored within the card 100, such as in a thin film battery 302. The thin film battery 302 is provided underneath the photovoltaic layer 310 wherein the electricity produced by the layer is stored in the thin film battery 302. The thin film battery 302 is backed on the opposite side by the plastic substrate 304 of the card 100. Although illustrated as having the photovoltaic layer 310 directly contacting the thin film battery 302 other configurations may be used. An implementation of an alternate non-limiting configuration separates the photovoltaic layer 310 from the thin film battery 302. In this implementation, the photovoltaic layer 310 is connected to

the thin film battery 302 through a metallic or other conductive (e.g. polysilicon) connector. The thin film battery 302 is configured such that it, in turn, provides the electricity stored within the thin film battery 302 to other electrical components that may be included within the card 100. The thin film battery 302 may be positioned on any layer of the card 100 as well as any position along the body of the card 100. In one implementation, the photovoltaic layer 310 may also be positioned underneath, or have a portion positioned underneath, the portion 106 of the front surface 104. Portion 106 may comprise an open window to layer 310 or transport material, as discussed in more detail below.

The photovoltaic layer 310 may also be positioned along a surface of the card 100 as a surface feature of the card 100 or may be internally positioned within the card 100. In an implementation where the photovoltaic layer 310 is located within the body of the card 100, a clear plastic surface may be placed over the top of the photovoltaic layer 310 to protect the photovoltaic layer 310 from abrasion during use of the card 100, such as under portion 106 of the card. The clear plastic surface allows transmission of light through the body of the plastic surface to the photovoltaic layer 310. The clear plastic surface, therefore, increases the overall efficiency of the card 100 when the photovoltaic layer 310 is exposed to amounts of light to charge the thin film battery 302. Materials for the photovoltaic layer 310 may be, as non- limiting examples, amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon and cadmium telluride.

Referring to Figure 9-6, a method 400 for providing electrical energy to a financial transaction card 100 is illustrated. In the method 400, a financial transaction card 100 is provided at 402. As described above, the card 100 is configured with a photovoltaic layer 310 that provides charge to a thin film battery 302. The card 100 is exposed to light, thereby exposing the photovoltaic layer at 404. The charge produced by the photovoltaic layer at 404 is provided to a thin film battery 302 at 406. The charge is regulated as it is provided to the battery 302 to promote battery health. Power may then be retrieved from the battery at 408 to power components within the card 100. The card 100 may also be configured such that components are turned off after a specified time. The card may include a charge indicator to provide a power charge indication at 410, thereby allowing a user to determine the amount of the battery charge. The charge indicator may be an LCD screen, a color indicating charge light or other indicating means. By turning components off, the card 100 helps maintain charge in the thin film battery 302 to avoid excessive battery drain.

The card 100 may include an indicator on the card 100 that allows the user to identify if the thin film battery 302 is sufficiently charged to allow card functions to operate. To this end, the indicator may be controlled by the computer chip or other circuitry designed to monitor

battery voltage or current output. In the another implementation, the battery 302 itself may contain an indicator that allows a user to identify charge status of the battery 302.

The thin film battery 302 may be placed upon the plastic substrate of the card 100 to provide an appropriate cathode current collector, cathode, electrolyte anode, anode current collector and protection layer as non-limiting implementations. The thin film battery 302 preferably provides both a rugged design as well as compactness of design. In implementations, the thin film battery 302 may Include one or more inorganic glass electrolytes. The battery 302 is further configured such that the battery 302 will not degrade upon bending of the card 100 and the contents of the battery 302 will not leak out and cause injury to users upon cutting or breaking of the card 100. The thin film battery 302 is further configured to provide numerous battery charges over the lifetime of the card 100, such that repeated charging and discharging of the battery 302 does not affect the overall card functionality. In implementations, the battery 302 can be a thin film capacitor or other charge storage means.

In certain implementations, card 100 functions may be minimized or turned off when the battery 302 does not have sufficient charge to operate card functions or to operate them for sufficient periods. The battery 302, therefore, may be controlled responsive to a detected charge level.

As described above, a financial transaction card has means that allow for power to be generated on the card. In implementations, the card stores power generated by the card for use by components/circuitry on the card. In implementations, the card generates power in an environmentally conscious manner while allowing for low cost of production. The card 100 is preferably sufficiently rugged for continuous use. Although described as applicable to financial transaction cards, implementations are also applicable to other cards that distribute information. Examples of such cards include personal identification materials/records cards, such as drivers' licenses, government issued identification cards, government issued visas, Social Security cards, and security access cards. These cards may incorporate the implementations described herein to ensure that the bearer is entitled to access information on the card to prevent fraud..

Referring now to FIGS. 10-1 through 10-5, a card 100 for conducting financial transactions is illustrated. The card 100 is provided with individual sections so financial transactions may be accomplished in a safe, secure and convenient process. A serial number 102 is provided on the card 100, wherein the serial number is a unique identifier for the card 100. The serial number 102, in the illustrated implementation, is a series of numbers that are unique to the card 100. Although illustrated as having a series of numbers, a combination of numbers, letters and symbols, for example, may be used to identify one card 100 from different cards. The

serial number 102 is imprinted in the body of the card 100 in the illustrated implementation. The card 100 has a front face 104 that illustrates the serial number 102. The front face 104 of the card 100 is also configured with a name section 108 and an expiration date section 110. Although listed as an expiration date section 110, an issue date for the card 100 may also be included.

Referring to Figure 10-2, a back surface 202 of the card 100 is illustrated. The back surface 202 of the card 100 is provided with a magnetic strip 200 that is used to identify the card 100 through a conventional magnetic strip reader. In the illustrated implementation, the magnetic strip 200 is an active magnetic strip 200 that is configured to have a permanently encoded set of data provided by the issuing institution. An active magnetic strip, as discussed about relative to FIGS. 9-1 through 9-6, allows the encoded set of data to be read only when the magnetic strip 200 is activated through a power source on the card 100 and the card is authenticated. When the magnetic strip 200 is not activated, a conventional card reader will not be able to access data placed upon the magnetic strip 200. In addition to the magnetic strip 200, a hologram 204 is provided at the back of the card

100 to allow a merchant to visually identify if the card 100 has been officially produced by the issuing institution. A security code feature 208 is also provided at the back of the card 104 for further identification purposes if needed. The card 100 is also provided with a signature block 210 upon which a bearer provides a signature for authentication purposes at a merchant. The back surface 202 is also configured with a PIN input system 212 positioned on the card 100. The PIN input system 212 is connected to a power source 214. The card 100 may also have a contactless radio frequency unit 216 and a computer chip 218 for controlling various card components on the card 100. It should be understood that chip 218 can be an ASIC or other processor capable of operating in accordance with programmed instructions. Referring to Figure 10-3, an interconnection diagram 300 illustrating the components of the card 100 is presented. In the illustrated implementation, a power source 214 is connected to a computer chip 218. The power source 214 is configured to supply electrical power to the other components of the interconnection diagram 300 when necessary. The PIN input system 212 is configured with ten individual pads such that a person bearing the card may input numeric or other code information into the chip 218 through the PIN input system 212. Once a series of numbers are input into the chip 218, an internal check is performed between an unlocking numeric combination that is stored in the chip 218 and the numbers that are entered on the PIN input system 212. If the internal check performed indicates that the number inputted to the PIN input system 212 is the same as the unlocking numeric combination that is stored in the chip 218,

then the chip 218 allows power to flow from the power source 214 to the active magnetic strip 200. The active magnetic strip 200 is then electrically powered for a pre-determined amount of time and then de-energized. During the time the magnetic strip 200 is activated, the magnetic strip 200 may be read by a conventional magnetic strip reader. The computer chip 218 may also be configured to permanently lock the active magnetic strip 200 when a predetermined number of incorrect numeric entries are provided to the PIN input system 212. In the illustrated implementation, the computer chip 218 is configured to allow five (5) incorrect numeric entries before permanently locking the active magnetic strip 200. The numeric entries input into the PIN input system 212 are provided in a four (4) set string, however other configurations may be allowed.

In implementations, the power source 214 is a thin film battery that is positioned within the body of the card 100. The thin film battery may be pre-charged before being provided by the issuer to the bearer. The power source 214 may also be charged through a piezo pad 107 as it is compressed by the bearer where power produced by the pad 107 flows through the chip 218 to the power source 214 through the battery meter 213 and the regulation circuit 211. Alternative configurations are also possible, wherein the power source 214 is recharged through a photovoltaic layer placed in or on the card 100. In all situations, the power source 214 provides electrical power to the PIN input system 212, either directly or through chip 218 in a sufficient amount to allow the computer chip 218 and the PIN input system 212 or QWERTY keypad to function for authentication purposes. Alternative configurations are contemplated wherein instead of an active magnetic strip 200, a contactless radio frequency unit 216 may be activated. In a still further alternative configuration, the computer chip 218 may itself provide an authorization code. The power source 214 may also be a capacitor. The card 100 may also have a regulating circuit 211 that is positioned between the power source 214 and the chip 218, for example. The regulating circuit 211 provides power regulation between the generated energy from the piezo pad 107 as it passes through the chip 218 to the power source 214. The card 100 also may include a battery charge meter 213 that indicates the power level of the power source 214. In the illustrated implementation, the battery charge meter 213 is a indicator light that indicates a green (fully) charged status, a yellow (discharging or partial power) status, and red (discharged) status.

If a photovoltaic layer is used to provide electrical energy charging capacity to the power source 214 (rather than, or in addition to the piezo pad 107), the photovoltaic layer may be positioned under the magnetic strip 200 such that light that hits the magnetic strip 200 and travels through the magnetic strip 202 activates the photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer may be

configured to convert the light that impinges upon the photovoltaic layer and turn the light into electrical energy that can be stored within the card power source 214. The power source 214 may be provided underneath the photovoltaic layer wherein the electricity produced by the layer is stored in the power source 214 through the connections between the two components. The power source 214 is backed on the opposite side by the plastic card substrate 206. An implementation of an alternate non-limiting configuration separates the photovoltaic layer from the power source 214. In this further implementation, the photovoltaic layer may be connected to the power source 214 through a metallic or other conductive connector. The power source may be positioned on any layer of the card 100 as well as any position along the body of the card 100.

The piezo pad 107 or the photovoltaic layer may be positioned along any section of the card 100 as a surface feature of the card 100 or may be internally positioned within the card 100. In an implementation, when the piezo pad 107 is located within the body of the card 100, a plastic surface may be placed over the top of piezo pad 107 to protect the piezo pad 107 from abrasion during use of the card 100.

Referring to Figure 10-4, a method 400 of activating a financial transaction 400 received by a user from an issuer is presented. The method 400 includes providing a financial transaction card with a personal identification input system at 402. The card is pre-stored with an activation code before being provided by the issuer to the bearer. This activation code can be selected by the bearer and communicated to the issuer before manufacturing the card or selected by the issuer for separate transmission to the user. Next, after receipt of a card having the pre-stored activation code, the method entails the bearer inputting a code at 404 into the personal identification input system on the card 100 in an attempt to activate the card. After entry of the personal identification code into the card 404, the computer chip 218 checks the pre-stored code against the entered code at 405. If the code on the card is not matched, the card provides the user a notification that an incorrect activation code has been entered at 411. After three unsuccessful attempts by the user, for example, the card is deactivated in 412 by the computer chip 218. If the codes match, then a user is prompted to enter a personal identification code at 406 for use with the card. The individual is then asked a second time to re-input the personal identification code at 408. If the first PIN input at 406 matches the second PIN input at 408, the card is activated at 410. Subsequent uses of the card, after card activation at 410 are provided in Figure 10-5.

Referring to Figure 10-5, a method 500 for accessing card functions for an activated card 100 is provided. A card 100 is provided by a user/bearer at 502 where the card has been

previously activated as provided in Figure 10-4. The bearer either enters a PIN at 504 onto the card 100 or, through interaction of the RF unit 216 with a merchant system, the bearer is prompted to enter a PIN. The entered PIN is cross-checked to a valid PIN stored in the chip 218 of the card 100 at 511. If the PIN is correct, as checked by the chip 218, various card functions, such as activation of a magnetic strip 506 are performed. If the PIN is incorrect, the PIN must be re-entered. If the PIN is incorrect, the user is notified by the card at 512 that the PIN was incorrect and that the user should re-enter the PIN. If, after three (3) attempts the PIN is incorrect, the card 100 may be deactivated for a preset period or permanently at 510. After the magnetic strip is successfully activated at 506, the method allows for deactivation of the magnetic strip at 508 after a preset amount of time, such as two (2) minutes. Time frames for controlling the preset amount of time are controlled by the chip 218.

Although described as applicable to financial transaction cards, implementations are also applicable to other cards that distribute information. Examples of such cards include personal identification materials/records cards, such as drivers' licenses, government issued identification cards, government issued visas, Social Security cards, and security access cards. These cards may incorporate the implementations described herein to ensure that the bearer is entitled to access information on the card to prevent fraud. In addition to the above, an additional security measure may be used in implementations, where the issuing entity may have a master override combination that may be input into the card 100 to allow further attempts at strip activation or may allow for instantaneous strip activation as necessary, thereby minimizing the need to replace a card after deactivation occurs at 510. The override may be determined on a basis of an algorithm or an encryption code.

As described herein, a financial transaction card generates power used by the card and verifies the authenticity of a user. In implementations, the card 100 allows the user to store a PIN to allow authentication of the card 100. The card 100 is cost efficient to produce and rugged. The card 100 presented can be used with conventional card reading apparatus.

In implementations, card 100 stores power generated on the card 100 by components/circuitry on the card 100

Referring now to FIGS. 11-1 through 11-5, a card 100 for conducting financial transactions is illustrated. The card 100 is provided with individual sections so financial transactions may be accomplished in a safe, secure and convenient process. A serial number 102 is provided on the card 100, wherein the serial number is a unique identifier for the card 100. The serial number 102, in the illustrated implementation, is a series of numbers that are unique to the card 100. Although illustrated as having a series of numbers, letters or a combination of

numbers, letters and symbols, for example, may be used to identify one card 100 from different cards. The serial number 102 is imprinted in the body of the card 100 in the illustrated implementation. The card 100 has a front face 104 that illustrates the serial number 102. The front face 104 of the card 100 is also configured with a name section 108 and an expiration date section 110. Although listed as an expiration date section 110, an issue date for the card 100 may also be included.

Referring to Figure 11-2, a back surface 202 of the card 100 is illustrated, i The back surface of the card 100 is provided with a magnetic strip 200 that is used to identify the card 100 through a conventional magnetic strip reader. In the illustrated implementation, the magnetic strip 200 is an active magnetic strip, as discussed about relative to FIGS. 9-1 through 9-6, that is configured to have a permanently encoded set of data provided by the issuing institution. An active magnetic strip allows the encoded set of magnetic data to be read only when the magnetic strip 200 is activated through a power source 302 on the card 100. When the magnetic strip 200 is not activated, a card reader cannot access data encoded in the magnetic strip 200. The active magnetic strip 200, in the illustrated implementation, is configured from a magnetic oxide strip of material placed upon the card 100, as a non- limiting implementation. Upon receipt of an electronic charge from a power source, the magnetic oxides in the strip of material allow for encoded data contained within the strip, to be detected.

In addition to the magnetic strip 200, a hologram 204 Is provided at the back of the card 100 to allow a merchant to visually identify if the card 100 has been officially produced by the issuing institution. A security code feature 208 is also provided at the back of the card 104 for further identification purposes if needed. The card 100 is also provided with a signature block 210 upon which a bearer provides a signature for authentication purposes at a merchant.

The back surface 202 is also configured with a PIN input system 212 positioned on the card 100, The PIN input system 212 powered by the power source 302. The card 100 may also have a contactless radio frequency unit 216 and a computer chip 218 on the card 100.

Referring to Figure 11-3, a connection diagram 300 illustrating various components of the card 100 is presented. In the illustrated implementation, the power source 302 is connected to the piezo pad 106 through the computer chip 218. The power source 302 is configured to supply electrical power to the other components of the connection diagram 300 under control of the chip 218. The PIN input system 212 is configured with ten individual pads such that a person bearing the card 100 may input numeric information into the chip 218 through the PIN input system 212. The individual pads may be piezo pads to power their actuation or may receive their power from the power source 302, Although described as having ten individual pads, the system 212 may

also have a QWERTY pad. Once a series of numbers are input into the chip 2188 through the input system 212, an internal check is performed between an unlocking numeric combination that is stored in the chip 218 and the numbers that are entered on the PIN input pad system 212. If the internal check performed indicates that the number input in the PIN input system 212 is the same as the unlocking numeric combination that is stored in the chip 218, then the chip 218 allows power to flow from the power source 302 to the active magnetic strip 200. The active magnetic strip 200 Is then electrically powered for a pre-determined amount of time and then de- energized. During the time the magnetic strip 200 is activated, the magnetic strip 200 may be read by a conventional magnetic strip reader. Such activation occurs through authentication of the user by the chip 218. The active magnetic strip 200, in the illustrated implementation, is configured from a magnetic oxide strip of material placed upon the card 100, as a non- limiting implementation. Upon receipt of an electronic charge from a power source, the magnetic oxides in the strip of material allow for encoded data contained within the strip, to be detected. When not activated, the active magnetic strip 200 the data encoded in the strip is not readable by conventional magnetic strip readers.

The computer chip 218 may also be configured to permanently lock the active magnetic strip 200 when a predetermined number of incorrect numeric entries are provided to the PIN input system 212. in the illustrated implementation, the computer chip 218 is configured to allow three (3) incorrect numeric entries before permanently locking the active magnetic strip 200. The numeric entries input into the PIN input system 212 are provided in a four (4) set string, however other configurations may be allowed.

In implementations, the power source 302 is a thin film battery that is 9 positioned within the body of the card 100. The thin film battery may be pre- charged before the user receives the card 100, as provided by the issuer. If pads 212 are piezo pads, the power source 302 may also be charged (or recharged) through use of the pads 212 as they are compressed by the bearer. Alternative configurations are also possible, wherein the power source 302 is recharged through a photovoltaic layer placed in or on the card 100. In some implementations, the power source 302 is configured to provide electrical power to the PIN input system 212 in a sufficient amount to allow the computer chip 218 and the PIN input system 212 to function for authentication purposes. Alternative configurations are also provided wherein instead of an active magnetic strip 200, a contactless radio frequency unit 216 may be activated. In a still further alternative configuration, the computer chip 218 may itself provide an authorization code. The piezo pad 106, in a non-limiting implementation, is used to provide power to the card 100. The piezo pad 106 may also be used to recharge the power source 302 through the chip 218. The

piezo pad 106 may be used by a bearer by squeezing the pad 106 positioned on the card 100 to produce an electric current.

If a photovoltaic layer is used to provide electrical energy charging io capacity to the power source 302, the photovoltaic layer may be positioned under the magnetic strip 200 such that light that hits the magnetic strip 200 and travels through the magnetic strip 202 activates the photovoltaic layer. The photovoltaic layer converts the light that impinges upon the photovoltaic layer and turn the light into electrical energy that can be stored within the card power source 302. In implementations, the power source 302 is provided underneath the photovoltaic layer wherein the electricity produced by the layer is stored in the power source 302 through the connections between the two components. The power source 302 is backed on the opposite side by the plastic card substrate 206. An implementation of an alternate non-limiting configuration separates the photovoltaic layer from the power source 302. in this further implementation, the photovoltaic layer may be connected to the power source 302 through a metallic or other conductive connector. The power source 302 may be positioned on any layer of the card 100 as well as any position along the body of the card 100. The photovoltaic layer or the piezo pad 106 may also be configured underneath the front surface, as a non limiting example. The card may also include an LCD display for displaying information to an individual, such as whether the inputs are accepted or to provide query information to the individual. The card may also include a battery indicator to allow an Individual to determine the charge status of the card 100.

The piezo pad 106 or the photovoltaic layer may be positioned along any section of the card 100 as a surface feature of the card 100 or may be internally positioned within the card 100 and may be directly connected to the power source 302. In one implementation, when the piezo pad 106 is located within the body of the card 100, a plastic surface may be placed over the top of piezo pad 106 to protect the piezo pad 106 from abrasion during use of the card 100. In implementations, a biometric input system 209 is also connected to the chip 218 such that when activated, the system 209 may accept and verify biometric information related to a bearer of the card 100 or pass information to chip 218 for verification. The biometric input system 209 in the implementation contains a window that allows a bearers' fingerprint, for example, to be entered into the system 209, The biometric input system 209, in the illustrated non-limiting implementation, uses a CMOS silicon substrate.

Referring to Figure 11-4, a method of activating a financial transaction card 400 is presented. The method 400 is a double authentication process. The method 400 includes providing, at 402, a financial transaction card 100 with a personal identification input system.

The card is pre-stored with an activation code and biometric information before ¹¹ being provided by the issuer to the bearer. The activation code can be selected by the issuer and communicated to the bearer before manufacturing the card. Alternatively, the bearer may choose an activation code arid provide the code to the issuer before manufacture of the card 100. The biometric information Is obtained, for example, from the bearer by scanning a finger at an issuing bank. The data obtained by the scanning is maintained in a secure database and is downloaded onto the card 100 during manufacture. Next, a user enters an activation code 404 into the personal identification input system 212 on the card 100. This code entered at 404 is checked and compared to the code stored at 402 by the computer chip 218. If the codes at 402 and 404 do not match, the user must enter a code again at 404. If three unsuccessful attempts are made by the user, for example, the card is deactivated at step 412 by the computer chip 218. If the two codes at 402 and 404 match, then a user is prompted to enter biometric identification at 406. In this case, a finger scan is performed by the card. The individual is then asked a second time to re-input the biometric identification at 408. If the biometric information from the first biometric entry at 406 or the second biometric entry at 408 do not match the pre-stored biometric information in the card 100, as determined by the chip at 409, then the user must input biometric information again at 406 and 408 until a match is achieved with the pre-stored information of the card 100.

If the card functions are not deactivated at 412, then the card can be used for transactions as described below in connection with Figure 11-5. Specifically, information providing means, such as the active magnetic strip are not prevented from being turned on or used. A contactless radio frequency unit 216 or the computer chip 218 on the card 100 may also be activated if the card 100 is equipped with these features. In addition to the above, an additional security measure may be used in the implementation provided above, where the issuing entity may have a master unlocking combination that may be input into the card 100 through the pad 212 to allow further attempts at card activation.

Referring to Figure 11-5, a method 500 for accessing card functions for an activated card 100 is provided. A card 100 is presented to a merchant at 502 where the card has been previously activated as provided in Figure 11-4. The bearer is requested to enter biometric information at 504 onto the card 100. The number of required entries of biometric information at 504 may be varied, wherein multiple entries of biometric information may be required. The entered biometric information at 504 is cross-checked to valid biometric information stored in the chip 218 of the card 100 at 511. If a match occurs, as checked by the chip 218, the card functions, such as activation of a magnetic strip at 506 are performed. If the biometric information input at 504

does not match the pre-stored biometric information as determined at 511, the ¹² biometric information must be re-entered at 504 after a prompt at 509. If, after three (3) attempts the information does not match, the card 100 may be deactivated for a preset period or permanently at 510. After the magnetic strip is activated at 506, the method allows for deactivation of the magnetic strip after a preset amount of time, such as two (2) minutes at 508. Time frames for controlling the preset amount of time are controlled by the chip 218. A master unlocking combination may be used by an individual for an activated card to allow for instantaneous strip activation as necessary, thereby minimizing the need for replacement cards. By providing the master unlocking code to a bearer, an issuer may allow activation of card features that have been locked due to incorrect biometric input in Figure 11-5. The activation time for the card features activated through Figure 11-5 may be related to the power requirements for card functions so that the power supply for the card 100 is not exhausted during a transaction.

Although described as applicable to financial transaction cards, implementations are also applicable to other cards that distribute information. Such examples include personal identification materials/records such as drivers' licenses, government issued identification cards, government issued visas, Social Security cards, security access cards may incorporate these technologies to ensure that the bearer be entitled to access information on the card to prevent fraud.

As described herein, a financial transaction card 100 generates power used by the card and verifies the authenticity of the user. In implementations, the card 100 allows the user to store a pin, or biometric information to allow authentication of the card 100. The card is cost efficient to produce and rugged and can be used with conventional card reading apparatus.

The implementation also provides a card 100 that has a configuration that allows for the power generated on the card 100 to be stored for use by components/circuitry on the card 100. Referring now to FIGS. 12-1 through 12-5, other implementations are Page 6 illustrated and disclosed as providing a financial transaction card that has a configuration that will allow for authentication of the bearer of the card. In specific implementations, a card is provided that will have a configuration that will allow for the user to store a personal identification number to allow authentication of the card. The card, in one implementation, allows for authentication of the user, while being cost efficient in production.

Referring to Figure 12-1, a card 100 for conducting financial transactions is illustrated. The card 100 is provided with individual sections so financial transactions may be accomplished in a safe, secure and convenient process. A serial number 102 is provided on the card 100, wherein the serial number 102 is a unique identifier for the card 100, The serial number 102, in

the illustrated implementation, is a series of numbers that are unique to the card 100. Although illustrated as having a combination of numbers, letters or a combination of numbers letters and symbols, for example, may be used to identify one card 100 from different cards. The serial number 102 is imprinted in the body of the card 100 in the illustrated implementation. The card 100 has a front face 104 that illustrates the serial number 102. The front face 104 of the card 100 is also configured with a name section 108 and an expiration date section 110. Although listed as an expiration date section 110, an issue date for the card 100 may also be included.

Referring to Figure 12-2, a back surface 202 of the card 100 is illustrated. The back surface 202 of the card 100 is provided with a magnetic strip 200 that is used to identify the card 100 through a conventional magnetic strip reader. In the illustrated implementation, the magnetic strip 200 is an active magnetic strip, as discussed about relative to FIGS. 9-1 through 9-6, that is configured to have a permanently encoded set of data provided by the issuing institution. The magnetic strip 200 is an active magnetic strip that allows the encoded set of magnetic data to be read only when the magnetic strip 200 is activated through a capacitor 209 on the card 100. At times that the magnetic strip 200 is not activated, a conventional card reader will not be able to access data placed upon the magnetic strip 200,

In addition to the magnetic strip 200, a hologram 204 is provided at the ^{Page '7} back of the card 100 to allow a merchant to visually identify if the card 100 has been officially produced by the issuing institution. A security code feature 208 is also provided at the back of the card 104 for further identification purposes, if needed. The card 100 is also provided with a signature block 210 upon which a bearer provides a signature for authentication purposes at a merchant.

The back surface 202 is also configured with a personal identification number input system 212 positioned on the card 100. In the implementation provided, the personal identification number input system 212 is optional. The personal identification number input system 212 is connected to the capacitor 209 and the active magnetic strip 200. The card 100 may also have a contactless radio frequency unit 216 and a computer chip 218 on the card 100.

Referring to Figure 12-3, a connection diagram 300 illustrating the components of the card 100 is presented. In the illustrated implementation, a capacitor 209 is connected to a piezo pad 106 that in turn is connected to a computer chip 218. The capacitor 209 is configured to supply electrical power to the other components of the connection diagram 300 when necessary. Power from the piezo pad 106 may be regulated by a regulator positioned between the capacitor 209 and the piezo pad 106 The personal identification number input system 212 is configured with ten individual pads such that a person bearing the card 100 may input numeric information into the chip 218 through the personal identification number input system 212. The individual

pads may be piezo pads to power their actuation. Once a series of numbers are input into the chip 218, an internal check is performed between an unlocking numeric combination that is stored in the chip 218 and the numbers that are entered on the personal identification number input system 212. If the internal check performed indicates that the number input in the personal identification number input system 212 is the same as the unlocking numeric combination that is stored in the chip 218, then the chip 218 allows power to flow from the power source, such as the piezo pad 106 or the capacitor 209 to the active magnetic strip 200. The card 100 may be configured with either the piezo pad 106 or the capacitor 209 as the power source. The active magnetic strip 200 is electrically powered for a predetermined amount of time and is then de-energized. During the time the magnetic strip 200 is activated, the magnetic strip 200 may be read by a conventional magnetic strip reader. The active magnetic strip 200 is a unit that only allows reading of the encoded magnetic data upon successful electronic activation of the magnetic strip 200. Such activation occurs through authentication of the user by the chip 218. The active magnetic strip 200, in the illustrated implementation, is configured from a magnetic oxide strip of material placed upon the card 100, as a non- limiting implementation. Upon receipt of an electronic charge from a power source, the magnetic oxides in the strip of material allow for encoded data contained within the strip, to be detected.

The computer chip 218 may also be configured to permanently lock the active magnetic strip 200 when a predetermined number of incorrect numeric entries are provided to the personal identification number input system 212. In the illustrated implementation, the computer chip 218 is configured to allow three (3) incorrect numeric entries before permanently locking the active magnetic strip 200. The numeric entries input into the personal identification number Input system 212 are provided in a four (4) set string, however other configurations may be allowed. The computer chip 218, in the illustrated implementation an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), may also be connected to a battery/charge meter, for example, to indicate the charge of the capacitor or other storage that is provided on the card.

The piezo pad 106 is configured to provide electrical power to the Page 9 personal identification number input system 212 in a sufficient amount to allow the computer chip 218 and the personal identification number input system 212 to function for authentication purposes. Alternative configurations are also provided wherein instead of an active magnetic strip 200, a contactless radio frequency unit 216 may be activated. In a still further alternative configuration, the computer chip 218 may itself provide an authorization code.

The capacitor 209 may be provided on any section of the card 100 and connected to the piezo pad 106 for collection of energy from the pad 106. The capacitor 209 is placed internally in

the card to prevent short circuit of any electrical connection. The piezo pad 106 may also be configured underneath the front surface 106, as a non- limiting example.

The piezo pad 106 may be positioned along any section of the card 100 as a surface feature of the card 100 or may be internally positioned within the card 100. In an implementation, when the piezo pad 106 is located within the body of the card 100, a plastic surface may be placed over the top of piezo pad 106 to protect the piezo pad 106 from abrasion during use of the card 100. The piezo pad 106 may also be configured with a biometric input system 450 placed overtop, wherein the piezo pad 106 is embedded within the card 100 in a layered construction and the biometric input system 450 is placed upon the piezo pad 106. The biometric input system 450 may be connected to a separate chip 218, or may have the chip placed within the biometric input system 450 that will verify both pad information and biometric information.

Referring to Figure 12-4, a method of authenticating a user for a financial transaction 400 is presented. The method entails providing a card that contains at least one of a biometric input system

450 or a personal identification number input system 212. In the implementation, the biometric information to be used by the biometric input system 450 is a finger/thumb print. The bearer inputs biometric information at 409 into the biometric input system 450 or numeric information is entered by the user at 409. The data provided at 409 is then verified at 411. When the biometric input system 450 is used, the inputted data is compared to pre-stored biometric information by the biometric input system 450 or the computer chip 218. Biometric information is pre-stored in the card 100 by a bearer scanning a finger, for example, at an issuing bank. The issuing bank will maintain records of biometric information obtained. When the personal identification number input system 212 is used, numeric information inputted at 409 is compared to pre-stored numeric information by the computer chip 218. The biometric input system 450 in the implementation contains a window that allows a users finger print, for example, to be scanned into the system at 409. The biometric input system, at 409 may then check the inputted biometric information with a pre-stored biometric information data set on the card 100, for example stored in the chip 218. If the data stored in the card 100 does not match the Information obtained from the biometric input system 460 or the numeric input system 212, then the card 100 will have an inactive status at 414 for a specified time. If the data, either biometric or numeric, does not match after three tests, for example, the card 100 may be deactivated at 410. If the data match as checked at 411, then the magnetic strip information is activated at 412.

If the strip is activated at 412, then the strip is deactivated at 416 after completion of the transaction or after a pre-defined amount of time has elapsed. The amount/time of activation may also be related to the power requirements for card functions so that the supply of power from the piezo pad 106, for example, is not exhausted during a transaction. The method 400 can then be repeated for subsequent transactions.

An override combination using the pad 212 may also be incorporated into the card 100 to allow further attempts at strip activation at 412, or may allow for instantaneous strip activation as necessary, thereby minimizing the amount of replacement cards that would be necessary if deactivation occurs at 410. The override combination may be provided to the bearer, as an example, from a telephone inquiry center controlled by the issuer.

In implementations, the financial transaction card allows for power to be generated on the card 100 and for verification of the authenticity of a user, in implementations, the authentication of the bearer/user of the card 100 is superior to conventional cards in that biometric information is verified by the card 100. This authentication process is difficult to replicate, and therefore fraud is prevented. The implementation also provides a card 100 that allows for authentication of the user, while being cost efficient in production. The card 100 presented above also can be used with conventional card reading apparatus and is sufficiently rugged for continuous use.

Implementations also provide a card 100 that have a configuration that allow for the power generated on the card 100 to be stored for use by components/circuitry on the card 100.

FIG. 13 shows exemplary implementation of a front and back of a financial transaction card 1302 for use by a consumer to conduct a transaction with a merchant, and bearing an identifier for an account issued by an issuer to the consumer, wherein the account is used to pay the merchant for the transaction. Card 1302 may include an optional shielding element, which allows desired electromagnetic, optical, or radio signals to penetrate while protecting any data encoding areas from physical abuse or damage. The card 1302 may optionally have areas outside of the data encoding areas shielded from physical abuse or otherwise acceptable forms of electromagnetic radiation. Some of the acceptable signals that are allowed to penetrate the shielding and may include, but are not limited to, signals accompanying a magnetic field, RFID signals, IrDA signals, visible light, invisible light, modulated laser, and/or modulated RF communication signals. By way of example and not by way of limitation, a selective shielding element may comprise a clear plastic shield, conformal coatings, an opaque plastic shield, or a clear thin film.

A shown at reference numeral 1300, there is illustrated a magnetic stripe assembly 1310, an antenna and/or transceiver 1320, and electrical contacts 1340. The magnetic stripe assembly 1310 may comprise, in one implementation 1310A, a reprogrammable magnetic stripe 1310B that accepts data and/or commands from a processor and formats and renders that data into a form on a magnetic stripe that is readable by conventional merchant magnetic stripe-reading Point Of Sale (POS) terminals. In this manner, the processor may program a particular account for use in a transaction as a function of user input selecting the account. Alternatively, the processor may erase the magnetic stripe of the assembly 1310, rendering the card useless in the event of its loss or theft. In one implementation shown 1310A, the magnetic stripe assembly 1310B at least partially slidably moves 1310C into and out of an assembly of the card 1302 (partial view shown), allowing the card 1302 to conduct a financial transaction at a point of sale terminal that includes a magnetic stripe reader. In yet another implementation, magnetic strip assembly can be an active magnetic strip, as discussed about relative to FIGS. 9-1 through 9-6, which allows an encoded set of data to be read only from the magnetic strip assembly 1310 when it is activated through a power source. When the magnetic strip assembly 1310 is not activated, a conventional card reader will not be able to access data encoded in the magnetic portion of the magnetic strip assembly 1310.

Also in FIG. 13 is an exemplary implementation of an antenna and/or transceiver 1320. The antenna 1320 may include commonly used loop inductors such as the one shown 1320A or in those shown in related ISO standards for RF-readable smart cards. With such an interface, account data may be translated, modulated and transmitted in a manner acceptable by an RF contactless merchant POS terminal, a 802.11 WiFi or WiMax network, or by a cellular or RF communications network.

External contacts 1340 are also encoding area shown in FIG. 13. With the card 1302 possessing physical contacts such as an array of conductive pads or shapes 1340A, the financial transaction token may be placed in physical contact with a merchant POS terminals, and the external contacts 1340 may establish connectivity to the merchant's financial processing system. The processor may relay account-related information to the merchant POS terminal through the contact interface, thereby allowing the card 1302 to be utilized with the large number of preexisting merchant POS terminals.

Exemplary Transaction Processing System: Figure 14

Referring to Figure 14, a transaction processing system 1400 is seen. Transaction processing system 1400 is an exemplary environment in which an account holder can conduct a transaction with a merchant on an account issued to the account holder by use of a portable

consumer transaction device, as disclosed in various implementations herein. The general environment of Figure 14 include that of a merchant (m) 1410, such as the merchant, who can conduct a transaction for goods and/or services with an account user (au) (e.g., consumer) on an account issued to an account holder (a) 1408 by an issuer (i) 1404, where the processes of paying and being paid for the transaction are coordinated by at least one transaction handler (th) 1402 (e.g., the transaction handler, transaction processor, payment processor).** The transaction includes participation from different entities that are each a component of the transaction processing system 1400.

The transaction processing system 1400 may have at least one of a plurality of transaction handlers (th) 1402 that includes transaction handler (1) 1402 through transaction handler (TH) 1420, where TH can be up to and greater than an eight digit integer.

The transaction processing system 1400 has a plurality of merchants (m) 1410 that includes merchant (1) 1410 through merchant (M) 1410, where M can be up to and greater than an eight digit integer. Merchant (m) 1410 may be a person or entity that sells goods and/or services. Merchant (m) 1410 may also be, for instance, a manufacturer, a distributor, a retailer, a load agent, a drugstore, a grocery store, a gas station, a hardware store, a supermarket, a boutique, a restaurant, or a doctor's office. In a business-to-business setting, the account holder (a) 1408 may be a second merchant (m) 1410 making a purchase from another merchant (m) 1410. Transaction processing system 1400 includes account user (1) 1408 through account user

(AU) 1408, where AU can be as large as a ten digit integer or larger. Each account user (au) conducts a transaction with merchant (m) 1410 for goods and/or services using the account that has been issued by an issuer (i) 1404 to a corresponding account holder (a) 1408. Data from the transaction on the account is collected by the merchant (m) 1410 and forwarded to a corresponding acquirer (a) 1406. Acquirer (a) 1406 forwards the data to transaction handler (th) 1402 who facilitates payment for the transaction from the account issued by the issuer (i) 1404 to account holder (a) 1408.

Transaction processing system 1400 has a plurality of acquirers (q) 1406. Each acquirer (q) 1406 may be assisted in processing one or more transactions by a corresponding agent acquirer (aq) 1406, where 'q' can be an integer from 1 to Q, where aq can be an integer from 1 to AQ, and where Q and AQ can be as large as a eight digit integer or larger. Each acquirer (q) 1406 may be assisted in processing one or more transactions by a corresponding agent acquirer (aq) 1406, where 'q' can be an integer from 1 to Q, where aq can be an integer from 1 to AQ, and where Q and AQ can be as large as a eight digit integer or larger.

The transaction handler (th) 1402 may process a plurality of transactions within the transaction processing system 1400. The transaction handler (th) 1402 can include one or a plurality or networks and switches (ns) 1402. Each network/switch (ns) 1402 can be a mainframe computer in a geographic location different than each other network/switch (ns) 1402, where 'ns' is an integer from one to NS, and where NS can be as large as a four digit integer or larger.

Dedicated communication systems 1420, 1422 (e.g., private communication network(s)) facilitate communication between the transaction handler (th) 1402 and each issuer (i) 1404 and each acquirer (a) 1406. A Network 1412, via e-mail, the World Wide Web, cellular telephony, and/or other optionally public and private communications systems, can facilitate communications 1422a-622e among and between each issuer (i) 1404, each acquirer (a) 1406, each merchant (m) 1410, each account holder (a) 1408, and the transaction handler (th) 1402. Alternatively and optionally, one or more dedicated communication systems 1424, 1426, and 1428 can facilitate respective communications between each acquirer (a) 1406 and each merchant (m) 1410, each merchant (m) and each account holder (a) 1408, and each account holder (a) 1408 and each issuer (i) 1404, respectively.

The Network 1412 may represent any of a variety of suitable means for exchanging data, such as: an Internet, an intranet, an extranet, a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a virtual private network, a satellite communications network, an Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) network, an interactive television network, or any combination of the forgoing. Network 1412 may contain either or both wired and wireless connections for the transmission of signals including electrical, magnetic, and a combination thereof. Examples of such connections are known in the art and include: radio frequency connections, optical connections, etc. To illustrate, the connection for the transmission of signals may be a telephone link, a Digital Subscriber Line, or cable link. Moreover, network 1412 may utilize any of a variety of communication protocols, such as Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP /IP), for example. There may be multiple nodes within the network 1412, each of which may conduct some level of processing on the data transmitted within the transaction processing system 1400.

Users of the transaction processing system 1400 may interact with one another or receive data about one another within the transaction processing system 1400 using any of a variety of communication devices. The communication device may have a processing unit operatively connected to a display and memory such as Random Access Memory ("RAM") and/or Read- Only Memory ("ROM"). The communication device may be combination of hardware and

software that enables an input device such as a keyboard, a mouse, a stylus and touch screen, or the like.

For example, use of the transaction processing system 1400 by the account holder (a)

1408 may include the use of a portable consumer device (PCD). The PCD may be one of the communication devices, or may be used in conjunction with, or as part of, the communication device. The PCD may be in a form factor that can be: a card (e.g., bank card, payment card, financial card, credit card, charge card, debit card, gift card, transit pass, smart card, access card, a payroll card, security card, healthcare card, or telephone card), a tag, a wristwatch, wrist band, a key ring, a fob (e.g., SPEEDP ASS® commercially available from ExxonMobil Corporation), a machine readable medium containing account information, a pager, a cellular telephone, a personal digital assistant, a digital audio player, a computer (e.g., laptop computer), a set-top box, a portable workstation, a minicomputer, or a combination thereof. The PCD may have near field or far field communication capabilities (e.g. , satellite communication or communication to cell sites of a cellular network) for telephony or data transfer such as communication with a global positioning system (GPS). The PCD may support a number of services such as SMS for text messaging and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) for transfer of photographs and videos, electronic mail (email) access.

The PCD may include a computer readable medium. The computer readable medium, such as a magnetic stripe or a memory of a chip or a chipset, may include a volatile, a non- volatile, a read only, or a programmable memory that stores data, such as an account identifier, a consumer identifier, and/or an expiration date. The computer readable medium may including executable instructions that, when executed by a computer, the computer will perform a method. For example, the computer readable memory may include information such as the account number or an account holder (a) 1408's name. Examples of the PCD with memory and executable instructions include: a smart card, a personal digital assistant, a digital audio player, a cellular telephone, a personal computer, or a combination thereof. To illustrate, the PCD may be a financial card that can be used by a consumer to conduct a contactless transaction with a merchant, where the financial card includes a microprocessor, a programmable memory, and a transponder (e.g., transmitter or receiver). The financial card can have near field communication capabilities, such as by one or more radio frequency communications such as are used in a "Blue Tooth" communication wireless protocol for exchanging data over short distances from fixed and mobile devices, thereby creating personal area networks.

Merchant (m) 1410 may utilize at least one POI terminal (e.g., Point of Service or browser enabled consumer cellular telephone); that can communicate with the account user (au) 1408, the acquirer (a) 1406, the transaction handler (th) 1402, or the issuer (i) 1404. A Point of Interaction (POI) can be a physical or virtual communication vehicle that provides the opportunity, through any channel to engage with the consumer for the purposes of providing content, messaging or other communication, related directly or indirectly to the facilitation or execution of a transaction between the merchant (m) 1410 and the consumer. Examples of the POI include: a physical or virtual Point of Service (POS) terminal, the PCD of the consumer, a portable digital assistant, a cellular telephone, paper mail, e-mail, an Internet website rendered via a browser executing on computing device, or a combination of the forgoing. Thus, the POI terminal is in operative communication with the transaction processing system 1400.

The PCD may interface with the POI using a mechanism including any suitable electrical, magnetic, or optical interfacing system such as a contactless system using radio frequency, a magnetic field recognition system, or a contact system such as a magnetic stripe reader. To illustrate, the POI may have a magnetic stripe reader that makes contact with the magnetic stripe of a healthcare card (e.g., Flexible Savings Account card) of the consumer. As such, data encoded in the magnetic stripe on the healthcare card of consumer read and passed to the POI at merchant (m) 1410. These data can include an account identifier of a healthcare account. In another example, the POI may be the PCD of the consumer, such as the cellular telephone of the consumer, where the merchant (m) 1410, or an agent thereof, receives the account identifier of the consumer via a webpage of an interactive website rendered by a browser executing on a World Wide Web (Web) enabled PCD.

Typically, a transaction begins with account user (au) 1408 presenting the portable consumer device to the merchant (m) 1410 to initiate an exchange for resources (e.g., a good or service). The portable consumer device may be associated with an account (e.g., a credit account) of account holder (a) 1408 that was issued to the account holder (a) 1408 by issuer (i) 1404.

Merchant (m) 1410 may use the POI terminal to obtain account information, such as a number of the account of the account holder (a) 1408, from the portable consumer device. The portable consumer device may interface with the POI terminal using a mechanism including any suitable electrical, magnetic, or optical interfacing system such as a contactless system using radio frequency or magnetic field recognition system or contact system such as a magnetic stripe reader. The POI terminal sends a transaction authorization request to the issuer (i) 1404 of the

account associated with the PCD. Alternatively, or in combination, the PCD may communicate with issuer (i) 1404, transaction handler (th) 1402, or acquirer (a) 1406.

Issuer (i) 1404 may authorize the transaction and forward same to the transaction handler (th) 1402. Transaction handler (th) 1402 may also clear the transaction. Authorization includes issuer (i) 1404, or transaction handler (th) 1402 on behalf of issuer (i) 1404, authorizing the transaction in connection with issuer (i) 1404's instructions such as through the use of business rules. The business rules could include instructions or guidelines from the transaction handler (th) 1402, the account holder (a) 1408, the merchant (m) 1410, the acquirer (a) 1406, the issuer (i) 1404, a related financial institution, or combinations thereof. The transaction handler (th) 1402 may, but need not, maintain a log or history of authorized transactions. Once approved, the merchant (m) 1410 may record the authorization, allowing the account user (au) 1408 to receive the good or service from merchant (m) or an agent thereof.

The merchant (m) 1410 may, at discrete periods, such as the end of the day, submit a list of authorized transactions to the acquirer (a) 1406 or other transaction related data for processing through the transaction processing system 1400. The transaction handler (th) 1402 may optionally compare the submitted authorized transaction list with its own log of authorized transactions. The transaction handler (th) 1402 may route authorization transaction amount requests from the corresponding the acquirer (a) 1406 to the corresponding issuer (i) 1404 involved in each transaction. Once the acquirer (a) 1406 receives the payment of the authorized transaction from the issuer (i) 1404, the acquirer (a) 1406 can forward the payment to the merchant (m) 1410 less any transaction costs, such as fees for the processing of the transaction. If the transaction involves a debit or pre-paid card, the acquirer (a) 1406 may choose not to wait for the issuer (i) 1404 to forward the payment prior to paying merchant (m) 1410.

There may be intermittent steps in the foregoing process, some of which may occur simultaneously. For example, the acquirer (a) 1406 can initiate the clearing and settling process, which can result in payment to the acquirer (a) 1406 for the amount of the transaction. The acquirer (a) 1406 may request from the transaction handler (th) 1402 that the transaction be cleared and settled. Clearing includes the exchange of financial information between the issuer (i) 1404 and the acquirer (a) 1406 and settlement includes the exchange of funds. The transaction handler (th) 1402 can provide services in connection with settlement of the transaction. The settlement of a transaction includes depositing an amount of the transaction settlement from a settlement house, such as a settlement bank, which transaction handler (th) 1402 typically chooses, into a clearinghouse bank, such as a clearing bank, that acquirer (a) 1406 typically chooses. The issuer (i) 1404 deposits the same from a clearinghouse bank, such as a

clearing bank, which the issuer (i) 1404 typically chooses, into the settlement house. Thus, a typical transaction involves various entities to request, authorize, and fulfill processing the transaction.

The transaction processing system 1400 will preferably have network components suitable for scaling the number and data payload size of transactions that can be authorized, cleared and settled in both real time and batch processing. These include hardware, software, data elements, and storage network devices for the same. Examples of transaction processing system 1400 include those operated, at least in part, by: American Express Travel Related

Services Company, Inc; MasterCard International, Inc.; Discover Financial Services, Inc.; First Data Corporation; Diners Club International, LTD; Visa Inc.; and agents of the foregoing.

Each of the network/switch (ns) 1402 can include one or more data centers for processing transactions, where each transaction can include up to 100 kilobytes of data or more. The data corresponding to the transaction can include information about the types and quantities of goods and services in the transaction, information about the account holder (a) 1408, the account user (au) 1408, the merchant (m) 1410, tax and incentive treatment(s) of the goods and services, coupons, rebates, rewards, loyalty, discounts, returns, exchanges, cash-back transactions, etc.

By way of example, network/switch (ns) 1402 can include one or more mainframe computers (e.g., one or more IBM mainframe computers) for one or more server farms (e.g., one or more Sun UNIX Super servers), where the mainframe computers and server farms can be in diverse geographic locations.

Each issuer (i) 1404 (or agent issuer (ai) 1404 thereof) and each acquirer (a) 1406 (or agent acquirer (aq) 1406 thereof) can use or more router/switch (e.g., CiscoTM routers/switches) to communicate with each network/switch (ns) 1402 via dedicated communication systems.

Transaction handler (th) 1402 can store information about transactions processed through transaction processing system 1400 in data warehouses such as may be incorporated as part of the plurality of networks/switches 1402. This information can be data mined. The data mining transaction research and modeling can be used for advertising, account holder and merchant loyalty incentives and rewards, fraud detection and prediction, and to develop tools to demonstrate savings and efficiencies made possible by use of the transaction processing system 1400 over paying and being paid by cash, or other traditional payment mechanisms.

The VisaNet® system is an example component of the transaction handler (th) 1402 in the transaction processing system 1400. Presently, the VisaNet® system is operated in part by Visa Inc. As of 2006, the VisaNet® system Inc. was processing around 300 million transaction daily, on over 1 billion accounts used in over 170 countries. Financial instructions numbering

over 16,000 connected through the VisaNet® system to around 30 million merchants (m) 1410. In 2007, around 71 billion transactions for about 4 trillion U.S. dollars were cleared and settled through the VisaNet® system, some of which involved a communication length of around 24,000 miles in around two (2) seconds. The various steps or acts in a method or process may be performed in the order shown, or may be performed in another order. Additionally, one or more process or method steps may be omitted or one or more process or method steps may be added to the methods and processes. An additional step, block, or action may be added in the beginning, end, or intervening existing elements of the methods and processes. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other ways and/or methods for various implements.

Implementation can be in the form of control logic, in a modular or integrated manner, in software or hardware or a combination of both. Thus, the steps of a method, process, or algorithm described in connection with the implementations disclosed herein may be embodied directly in hardware, in a software module executed by a processor, or in a combination of the two. The control logic may be stored in an information storage medium as a plurality of instructions adapted to direct an information processing device to perform a set of steps disclosed in embodiment. Based on the disclosure and teachings provided herein, a person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate other ways and/or methods to implement the present invention. The software components or functions described in this application, may be implemented as software code to be executed by one or more processors using any suitable computer language such as, for example, Java, C++ or Perl using, for example, conventional or object-oriented techniques. The software code may be stored as a series of instructions, or commands on a computer readable medium, such as a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a magnetic medium such as a hard-drive or a floppy disk, or an optical medium such as a CD-ROM. Any such computer readable medium may also reside on or within a single computational apparatus, and may be present on or within different computational apparatuses within a system or network.

Any recitation of "a", "an" or "the" is intended to mean "one or more" unless specifically indicated to the contrary.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from its spirit or essential characteristics. The described implementations are to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead should be determined with

reference to the pending claims along with their full scope or equivalents, and all changes which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims are to be embraced within their full scope.