Enhanced authorization to access transportation hub services

A method for enhanced authorization to access transportation hub services is provided that includes creating, by an electronic device, a token based on credentials of a traveler. Moreover, the method includes displaying the token by the electronic device for scanning for accessing a security service area and determining whether the credentials are valid. In response to determining the credentials are valid, a traveler operating the electronic device is authorized to access the security service area. Otherwise, the traveler is denied access to the security service area.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to transportation hub services, and more particularly, to enhanced authorization to access transportation hub services.

Travelers are known to wait in lengthy time-consuming queues in transportation hubs while traveling for business and recreation. Queue lengths vary with fluctuating traveler volumes, traveler behavior, and resource constraints of transportation hubs, and are known to be particularly burdensome for travelers during or around holiday seasons and during inclement weather. Such burdensome queues may cause travelers to miss, for example, an airplane flight and perhaps a connecting flight resulting in inconvenient, frustrating delays. Additionally, hotels and individuals planning to collect the traveler may need to be notified of delays.

Because travelers are typically close to each other in such queues, travelers are more likely to contract pathogens from each other while in the queue. Such queue conditions may thus present a dangerous health risk for travelers who are vulnerable to lethal pathogens like the coronavirus.

Currently, transportation hub operators use historical traveler data to predict the timing of daily, weekly, and holiday traveler volume surges and allocate resources according to the predictions. However, despite the best efforts of transportation hub operators overcrowded queues continue to develop. Therefore, known techniques for managing transportation hub queues have drawbacks.

Thus, it would be advantageous and an improvement over the relevant technology to provide an apparatus, method and computer-readable readable recording medium capable of enhancing authorization to access transportation hub services to reduce traveler inconvenience and reduce health risks for travelers.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

An aspect of the present disclosure provides a method for enhanced authorization to access transportation hub services that includes creating, by an electronic device, a token based on credentials of a traveler. Moreover, the method includes displaying the token by the electronic device for scanning for accessing a security service area and determining whether the credentials are valid. In response to determining the credentials are valid, the traveler is authorized to access the security service area. Otherwise, the traveler is denied access to the security service area.

An aspect of the present disclosure provides an electronic device for enhancing authorization to access transportation hub services that includes a processor and a memory configured to store data. The electronic device is associated with a network and the memory is in communication with the processor and has instructions stored thereon which, when read and executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to create a token based on credentials of a traveler, display the token for scanning for accessing a security service area, and determine whether the credentials are valid. Moreover, the instructions, when read and executed by the processor, cause the electronic device to authorize the traveler to access the security service area in response to determining the credentials are valid, and deny the traveler access to the security service area in response to determining at least one of the credentials is invalid.

An aspect of the present disclosure provides a non-transitory computer-readable recording medium in an electronic device for enhancing authorization to access transportation hub services. The non-transitory computer-readable recording medium stores instructions which when executed by a hardware processor cause the non-transitory recording medium to perform steps including creating a token based on credentials of a traveler, displaying the token for scanning for accessing a security service area, and determining whether the credentials are valid. Moreover, the instructions which when executed by the hardware processor cause the non-transitory recording medium to perform steps including authorizing the traveler to access the security service area in response to determining the credentials are valid, and denying the traveler access to the security service area in response to determining at least one of the credentials is invalid.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The following detailed description is made with reference to the accompanying drawings and is provided to assist in a comprehensive understanding of various example embodiments of the present disclosure. The following description includes various details to assist in that understanding, but these are to be regarded merely as examples and not for the purpose of limiting the present disclosure as defined by the appended claims and their equivalents. The words and phrases used in the following description are merely used to enable a clear and consistent understanding of the present disclosure. In addition, descriptions of well-known structures, functions, and configurations may have been omitted for clarity and conciseness. Those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that various changes and modifications of the examples described herein can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.

FIG.1is a schematic diagram of an example computing system100for enhancing authorization to access transportation hub services according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown inFIG.1, the main elements of the system100include a computing device10, a computer12, and an access control mechanism (ACM)14communicatively connected via a network16.

InFIG.1, the computing device10can be any wireless hand-held electronic consumer computing device capable of at least downloading applications over the Internet, running the applications, capturing and storing data temporarily and/or permanently, and otherwise performing any and all functions described herein by any computer, computer system, or computing device included in the system100. One example of the computing device10is a smart phone. Other examples include, but are not limited to, a cellular phone, a tablet computer, a phablet computer, a laptop computer, and any type of hand-held consumer electronic device having wired or wireless networking capabilities capable of performing the functions, methods, and/or algorithms described herein. Although the system100includes a single computing device10, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the system100may include any number of computing devices10. Each computing device10is typically associated with a single traveler as described herein. However, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that each computing device10may alternatively be associated with more than one traveler, for example, a husband and wife.

The computer12can be, for example, any type of server or computer implemented as a network server or network computer. The computing device10and computer12may alternatively be referred to as electronic devices or information systems.

The ACM14can be any automated self-service barrier which can obtain data stored in a chip of a document to verify a traveler's identity. For example, biometric template data stored in the chip may be obtained and used to biometrically verify the identity of the traveler. One example of an ACM14is an electronic gate (eGate). After a traveler is successfully authenticated, a physical barrier such as a gate or turnstile opens to permit passage.

The network16may be implemented as a 5G communications network. Alternatively, the network16may be implemented as any wireless network including, but not limited to, 4G, 3G, Wi-Fi, Global System for Mobile (GSM), Enhanced Data for GSM Evolution (EDGE), and any combination of a LAN, a wide area network (WAN) and the Internet. The network16may also be any type of wired network or a combination of wired and wireless networks.

It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the number of computing devices10, computers12, and ACMs14is not limited to the number of computing devices10, computers12, and ACMs14shown inFIG.1.

FIG.2is a more detailed schematic diagram illustrating the computing device10, the computer12, and the ACM14in the system100for enhancing authorization to access transportation hub services according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Transportation hub services include, but are not limited to, security services and modes of transportation. AlthoughFIG.2shows one computing device10, one ACM14, and one computer12, the computing device10, the ACM14, and the computer12in the figure are meant to be representative of additional computing devices10, ACMs14, and computers12that may be included in the system100shown inFIG.1.

The computing device10includes components such as, but not limited to, one or more processors18, a memory20, a communications interface22, a bus24, a camera26, a user interface28, a display30, and a sensing device32. General communication between the components in the computing device10is provided via the bus24.

The processor18executes software instructions, or computer programs, stored in the memory20. As used herein, the term processor is not limited to just those integrated circuits referred to in the art as a processor, but broadly refers to a computer, a microcontroller, a microcomputer, a programmable logic controller, an application specific integrated circuit, and any other programmable circuit capable of executing at least a portion of the functions and/or methods described herein. The above examples are not intended to limit in any way the definition and/or meaning of the term “processor.”

The memory20may be any non-transitory computer-readable recording medium. Non-transitory computer-readable recording media may be any tangible computer-based device implemented in any method or technology for short-term and long-term storage of information or data. Moreover, the non-transitory computer-readable recording media may be implemented using any appropriate combination of alterable, volatile or non-volatile memory or non-alterable, or fixed, memory. The alterable memory, whether volatile or non-volatile, can be implemented using any one or more of static or dynamic RAM (Random Access Memory), a floppy disc and disc drive, a writeable or re-writeable optical disc and disc drive, a hard drive, flash memory or the like. Similarly, the non-alterable or fixed memory can be implemented using any one or more of ROM (Read-Only Memory), PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), and disc drive or the like. Furthermore, the non-transitory computer-readable recording media may be implemented as smart cards, SIMS, any type of physical and/or virtual storage, or any other digital source such as a network or the Internet from which a computing device can read computer programs, applications or executable instructions.

The memory20may be used to store any type of data, for example, data records of travelers. The data records are typically for travelers associated with the computing device10. The data record for each traveler may include data such as, but not limited to, health credentials, reservation credentials, electronic tokens, health questionnaires, messages for prompting travelers to perform an action, biometric modality data, biometric templates, and personal data. Biometric modality data is the data of a biometric modality of a person captured by the computing device10. Biometric modalities include, but are not limited to, voice, face, finger, iris, palm, any other modalities, and any combination of modalities. Biometric modality data may be in any form including, but not limited to, image data and audio data. Image data may be a digital image, a sequence of digital images, or a video. Each digital image is included in a frame. The biometric modality data in the data record may be processed to generate at least one biometric modality template. The memory20may also store an identifier of the computing device10. The identifier may include all numbers, all letters, or may be alphanumeric and may be of any length.

Biometric modality data may be captured in any manner. For example, for voice biometric data the computing device10may record a user speaking. For face biometric data, the camera26may record image data of the face of a user by taking one or more photographs or digital images of the user, or by taking a video of the user. The camera26may record a sequence of digital images at irregular or regular intervals. A video is an example of a sequence of digital images being captured at a regular interval. Captured biometric modality data may be temporarily or permanently stored in the computing device10or in any device capable of communicating with the computing device10via the network16. As used herein, capture means to record temporarily or permanently, any data including, for example, biometric modality data of a person.

The process of verifying the identity of a user is known as a verification transaction. Typically, during a verification transaction a biometric template is generated from biometric modality data of a user captured during the transaction. The generated biometric template is compared against the corresponding record biometric template of the user and a matching score is calculated for the comparison. If the matching score meets or exceeds a threshold score, the identity of the user is verified as true. Alternatively, the captured user biometric modality data may be compared against the corresponding record biometric modality data to verify the identity of the user. An authentication data requirement is the biometric modality data desired to be captured during a verification or identification transaction.

The term “personal data” as used herein includes any demographic information regarding a traveler as well as contact information pertinent to the traveler. Such demographic information includes, but is not limited to, a traveler's name, age, date of birth, street address, email address, citizenship, marital status, and contact information. Contact information can include devices and methods for contacting the traveler.

Additionally, the memory20can be used to store any type of software. As used herein, the term “software” is intended to encompass an executable computer program that exists permanently or temporarily on any non-transitory computer-readable recordable medium that causes the computing device10to perform at least a portion of the functions, methods, and/or algorithms described herein. Application programs are software and include, but are not limited to, operating systems, Internet browser applications, enrolment applications, a travel related application, and any other software and/or any type of instructions associated with algorithms, processes, or operations for controlling the general functions and operations of the computing device10. The travel application can be downloaded from a digital distribution service via the network16using the computing device10or similar device. The software may also include computer programs that implement buffers and use RAM to store temporary data.

When executed by the processor18, the travel related application causes the computing device10to perform operations such as, but not limited to, capturing personal data about a traveler, capturing answers to a health questionnaire, creating a health credential for a traveler, creating a reservation credential for a traveler, creating an electronic token based on the health and reservation credentials for a traveler, displaying the electronic token, displaying an icon that includes a message for performing an action, determining whether or not a health credential was created within a period of time, and determining whether or not a reservation credential is for a current time. One example of the message is “Show QR Code”.

The communications interface22may include various network cards, and circuitry implemented in software and/or hardware to enable wired and/or wireless communications with other computing devices10(not shown), the computer12, and the ACM14via the network16. Communications include, for example, conducting cellular telephone calls and accessing the Internet over the network16. By way of example, the communications interface22may be a digital subscriber line (DSL) card or modem, an integrated services digital network (ISDN) card, a cable modem, or a telephone modem to provide a data communication connection to a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the communications interface22may be a local area network (LAN) card (e.g., for Ethernet™ or an Asynchronous Transfer Model (ATM) network) to provide a data communication connection to a compatible LAN. As yet another example, the communications interface22may be a wire or a cable connecting the computing device10with a LAN, or with accessories such as, but not limited to, other computing devices. Further, the communications interface22may include peripheral interface devices, such as a Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface, a PCMCIA (Personal Computer Memory Card International Association) interface, and the like.

The communications interface22also allows the exchange of information across the network16. The exchange of information may involve the transmission of radio frequency (RF) signals through an antenna (not shown). Moreover, the exchange of information may be between the computing device10, other computing devices10(not shown), the computer12, the ACM14, and other computer systems (not shown) capable of communicating over the network16.

Examples of other computer systems (not shown) include computer systems of service providers such as, but not limited to, financial institutions, medical facilities, national security agencies, merchants, and authenticators. The computing devices10(not shown) may be associated with any traveler or with any type of entity including, but not limited to, commercial and non-commercial entities.

The camera26captures image data. The camera26can be one or more imaging devices configured to record image data of at least a portion of the body of a traveler including any biometric modality of the traveler while utilizing the computing device10. Moreover, the camera26is capable of recording image data under any lighting conditions including infrared light. The camera26may be integrated into the computing device10as one or more front-facing cameras and/or one or more rear facing cameras that each incorporates a sensor, for example and without limitation, a CCD or CMOS sensor. Alternatively, the camera26can be external to the computing device10.

The user interface28and the display30allow interaction between a traveler and the computing device10. The display30may include a visual display or monitor that displays information to a traveler. For example, the display30may be a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), active matrix display, plasma display, or cathode ray tube (CRT). The user interface28may include a keypad, a keyboard, a mouse, an illuminator, a signal emitter, a microphone, and/or speakers.

Moreover, the user interface28and the display30may be integrated into a touch screen display. Accordingly, the display may also be used to show a graphical user interface, which can display various data and provide “forms” that include fields that allow for the entry of information by the user. Touching the screen at locations corresponding to the display of a graphical user interface allows the person to interact with the computing device10to enter data, change settings, control functions, etc. Consequently, when the touch screen is touched, the user interface28communicates this change to the processor18, and settings can be changed or user entered information can be captured and stored in the memory20. The display30may function as an illumination source to apply illumination to an object while image data for the object is captured.

For user interfaces28that include an illuminator, the illuminator may project visible light, infrared light or near infrared light on a biometric modality, and the camera26may detect reflections of the projected light off the biometric modality. The reflections may be off of any number of points on the biometric modality. The detected reflections may be communicated as reflection data to the processor18and the memory20. The processor18may use the reflection data to create at least a three-dimensional model of the biometric modality and a sequence of two-dimensional digital images. For example, the reflections from at least thirty thousand discrete points on the biometric modality may be detected and used to create a three-dimensional model of the biometric modality. Alternatively, or additionally, the camera26may include the illuminator.

The sensing device32may include Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) components or systems for receiving information from other devices in the system100and for transmitting information to other devices in the system100. The sensing device32may alternatively, or additionally, include components with Bluetooth, Near Field Communication (NFC), infrared, or other similar capabilities.

The computer12can be, for example, any type of server or computer implemented as a network server or network computer and can include components similar those described herein with reference to the computing device10. More specifically, the computer12can include components such as, but not limited to, one or more processors34, a memory36, a communications interface38, a bus40, a display42, and a user interface44. General communication between the components in the computer12is provided via the bus40.

The processor34is similar to the processor18described herein with regard to the computing device10. Additionally, the memory36is similar to the memory20described herein with regard to the computing device10. However, the non-alterable or fixed memory can additionally be implemented using an optical ROM disc, such as a CD-ROM or DVD ROM disc. The memory36may be used to store any type of data, for example, traveler data records similar to those described herein for the memory20. Furthermore, the memory36can be used to store any type of software including, for example, the software described herein as being stored in the memory20.

The user interface44is similar to the user interface28described herein with regard to the computing device10. Moreover, the display42and communications interface38are similar to the display30and communications interface22, respectively, described herein with regard to the computing device10.

The ACM14can be any automated self-service barrier which can obtain data stored in a chip of a document and can transmit the obtained data to a computer system, for example, computer12which verifies the identity of the traveler based on the obtained data. Alternatively, the ACM14may verify the identity of the traveler using the obtained data. For example, biometric template data stored in the chip of a document may be obtained and used to biometrically verify a traveler's identity. One example of an ACM is an electronic gate (eGate). The document can be a government issued document, for example, a passport or a driving license.

The data can be obtained from the chip using RFID, Bluetooth, NFC, infrared, or other similar capabilities. After the identity of a traveler is successfully verified, a physical barrier such as a gate or turnstile opens to permit passage into, for example, a security service area.

The ACM14can include components such as, but not limited to, one or more processors46, a memory48, a communications interface50, a bus52, a sensing device54, a display56, a user interface58, and a camera60. General communication between the components in the ACM14is provided via the bus52.

The processor46and memory48are similar to the processor18and memory20, respectively, described herein with regard to the computing device10. Additionally, the memory48may be used to store any type of data, for example, data of a biometric modality captured during a verification transaction, data of a biometric modality of a traveler obtained from a document presented by the traveler, and personal data about travelers. Furthermore, the memory40can be used to store any type of software including the software described herein as being stored in the memory20as well as, for example, software for conducting verification transactions.

The communications interface50, sensing device54, and display56are similar to the communications interface22, sensing device32, and display30, respectively, described herein with regard to the computing device10. The camera60may be similar to the camera26in the computing device10or may be any camera suitable for capturing data of a biometric modality of travelers.

The user interface58can be similar to the user interface28described herein with regard to the computing device10. Additionally, the user interface58includes a scanner for scanning documents presented by travelers. As a result of scanning a document, for example, a passport the ACM14can capture data about the traveler associated with the passport. The ACM14may also scan electronic tokens displayed by the computing device10of a traveler, and the scanned token and/or data related to the token may be communicated to another device included in the system100, for example, the computer12.

It is contemplated by the present disclosure that transportation hubs can be any facility that accommodates a mode of transportation and include, but are not limited to, airports, train stations, and bus depots. Transportation hub services include, but are not limited to, checkpoint security services and modes of transportation. Modes of transportation include, but are not limited to, airplanes, trains, subways, taxis, transportation computer company autos, and buses.

FIG.3is a top view of an example security checkpoint200that can be found in a transportation hub. The security checkpoint200can include, for example, ACMs14, a lane or aisle62corresponding to each ACM14, and a security service area64. The ACMs14may each include a mechanism66for preventing travelers from entering the security service area64. Such mechanisms66include, but are not limited to, a turnstile, an electronic door, and a swing gate.

Each lane or aisle62accommodates a queue of travelers desiring to pass through a respective ACM14to access the security service area64. The security service area64includes a walk-through metal detector68for screening travelers and X-ray machines70for screening traveler carry-on items.

The information shown inFIG.4is the same information shown inFIG.3as described in more detail below. As such, features illustrated inFIG.4that are identical to features illustrated inFIG.3are identified using the same reference numerals used inFIG.3.

FIG.4is a top view of another example security checkpoint300similar to the checkpoint200shown inFIG.3. However, the ACMs14are not located near the security checkpoint64. Rather, each ACM14is located at the entrance to an aisle62. Positioning each ACM14at the entrance to an aisle62allows identifying a traveler without a valid electronic token before the traveler enters a queue. Thus, the number of travelers in a queue is facilitated to be reduced. As a result, traveler delays, inconvenience, and frustration are facilitated to be reduced. Moreover, with fewer travelers in the queue it is easier to practice social distancing to facilitate reducing transmission of pathogens between travelers.

Travelers are known to wait in crowded lengthy time-consuming queues in order to access the security service area64. Queue lengths vary with fluctuating traveler volumes, traveler behavior, and resource constraints of transportation hubs, and are known to be particularly burdensome for travelers during or around holiday seasons and during periods of inclement weather. Such burdensome queues may cause travelers to miss, for example, an airplane flight or a train resulting in inconvenient, frustrating delays. A missed flight may cause travelers to miss connecting flights or trains thus compounding delays, inconvenience and frustration for travelers.

Because travelers are typically close to each other in such queues, travelers are more likely to contract pathogens from each other while in the queue. Such queue conditions may thus present a dangerous health risk for travelers who are vulnerable to lethal pathogens like the coronavirus.

To address these problems, each traveler uses his or her computing device10to create and display an electronic token for scanning by the ACM14. The ACM14can transmit the scanned token and/or data about the token, to the computer12which can determine whether or not the token is valid. If valid, the computer12transmits a message to the ACM14indicating the token is valid and the traveler associated with the token is authorized to pass through the ACM14and access the security service area64. Otherwise, if the token is invalid a message is transmitted to the ACM14indicating the token is invalid and the traveler is not authorized to access the security service area64.

In order to obtain an electronic token, each traveler can be required to obtain a health credential and a reservation credential before arriving at a transportation hub. Alternatively, travelers may obtain the credentials at the transportation hub, but before attempting to pass through an ACM14. The health credential can be obtained by satisfactorily completing a health questionnaire which is a series of questions about the health of the traveler. The questions may enquire about, for example, whether the traveler has been tested for a pathogen and if so the result and date of the test. Additional questions may include, but are not limited to, whether the traveler has a fever and has been in contact with a person infected with a pathogen. If the traveler has been in contact with a person infected with a pathogen, another question may enquire about the length of time since contact. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the questionnaire may include any number of questions and that any question relating to the health of a traveler may be included.

A traveler may use his or her computing device10to download the questionnaire over the network16and to answer the questions. The answers are transmitted to the computer12which determines if the traveler constitutes a health risk to other travelers based on the answers. After determining the traveler does not constitute a health risk, the computer12creates and can transmit an electronic health credential to the computing device10of the traveler.

A traveler is considered a risk to other travelers when an answer indicates he or she may transmit a pathogen like the coronavirus to others. For example, it is recommended that people who may have been in contact with an infected person quarantine for fourteen days. Thus, a person who answers that he or she was in contact with an infected person within fourteen days of the travel date is considered a health risk to others.

It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the health credential be created no more than twenty-four hours before a traveler attempts to access the security service area64. Alternatively, the health credential may be created any period of time before attempting to access the security service area64that inhibits the spread of a pathogen like the coronavirus.

The computing device10of a traveler can also be used to obtain an electronic reservation credential. More specifically, a traveler can operate his or her computing device10to reserve a period of time to wait in a queue and access the security service area64. The period of time may be, for example, fifteen minutes. Alternatively, the period of time may be of any duration that enables travelers to pass through the security checkpoint200without delay while ensuring social distancing and other health safety measures can be practiced. Such health safety measures include, but are not limited to, checking travelers for a fever. After reserving a period of time, the computer12creates and can transmit a reservation credential to the computing device10of the traveler. The reservation credential is valid during the reserved time only.

FIG.5is an enlarged plan view of the computing device10displaying buttons and/or icons. One button and/or icon72includes a message that reads “Scan QR Code”. In response to the “Scan QR Code” icon72being pressed, touched or operated, the computing device10can create an electronic token based on the health credential and the reservation credential of the traveler. The token can include the identifier of the traveler's computing device10, the traveler's email address, and any other information relating to the traveler. Additionally, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the electronic token may be any type of token, including, but not limited to, a QR code and a bar code. The created electronic token can also be displayed by the computing device10. The displayed icon72is typically pressed, touched or operated when the traveler arrives at an ACM14.

The traveler presents the displayed electronic token to the scanner in the ACM14. After scanning the token, the ACM14transmits the scanned token and/or data about the token, to the computer12which determines whether or not the token is valid. If valid, the computer12transmits a message to the ACM14indicating the token is valid and the traveler associated with the token is authorized to access the security service area64. As a result, the mechanism66operates to permit the traveler to enter the security service area64. Additionally, the computing device10may display a message indicating the traveler is authorized to access the security service area when both credentials are valid.

Otherwise, if the token is invalid a message is transmitted to the ACM14indicating the token is invalid and the traveler is not authorized to access the security service area64. As a result, the mechanism66does not operate to permit the traveler into the security service area64. Additionally, the computing device10may display a message indicating the traveler is denied access to the security service area64when the token is invalid. The token is invalid when at least one of the health and reservation credentials is invalid.

Although the ACM14transmits the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computer12after scanning the electronic token, the ACM14may alternatively transmit the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computing device10. Thus, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the computing device10may alternatively determine whether or not the token is valid and as a result that the traveler is authorized or not authorized to access the area64. The computing device10may transmit a message to the ACM14indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to access the area64. After receiving the message, the ACM14operates the mechanism66according to the received message. Additionally, the computing device10may display a message indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to access the security service area64.

Although the icon72includes a message that reads “Scan QR Code”, the icon72may alternatively include a message that reads “Show QR Code” when the token is a QR code or “Scan the bar code” or “Show the Bar Code” when the token is a bar code. Instead of the electronic token being created by the computing device10, in response to the icon72being touched, pressed or operated the computing device10may communicate with the computer12such that the computer12creates the electronic token and transmits the token to the computing device10for display. Although the message is displayed as part of an icon, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the message may alternatively be displayed in any manner, for example, as large bold text across the display30. For such a message, the electronic token may be created when the large bold text is touched or pressed.

FIG.6is an enlarged plan view of the computing device10displaying a QR Code74created in response to pressing, touching or operating the icon72.

FIG.7is an enlarged plan view of the computing device10displaying a message “ACCESS GRANTED”76which indicates that the traveler is authorized to access the security service area64. Alternatively, a message that reads “ACCESS DENIED” may be displayed when the traveler is not authorized to access the security service area64. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the computing device10may alternatively display any message that indicates the traveler is authorized or not authorized to access the security service area64. Such messages may also be displayed when a traveler is authorized, or not authorized, respectively, to board a mode of transportation.

FIG.8is a top view of an example train platform78including a train80on each side of the platform78. Each train80includes standard cars82and a car84reserved for travelers who desire to practice social distancing from other travelers. The trains80may include any number of standard cars82and any number of reserved cars84. Additionally, a scanner86can be located at the entry to each car84. Some airports are known to use trains to transport people to and between terminals. Thus, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the train platform78may be located in an airport or other transportation hub like a train station.

Travelers are required to present a valid electronic credential to access the reserved car84. Thus, as travelers arrive at a scanner86on the platform78he or she touches, presses or operates the icon72to create and display an electronic token which is presented to the scanner86for scanning. Alternatively, the electronic token created for accessing the security service area64may be scanned. The electronic token for entering the security service area64has a finite life, for example, half an hour. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the life of the electronic token for entering the security service area64may be any length of time in which a traveler may conveniently pass through the security checkpoint200and then board a reserved train car84without rushing.

The scanner86transmits the scanned token and/or data about the token, to the computer12which determines whether or not the token is valid. If valid, the computer12transmits a message to the scanner86indicating the token is valid and the traveler associated with the token is authorized to board the car84. Thus, the traveler is permitted to board the car84. Otherwise, if the token is invalid a message is transmitted to the scanner86indicating the token is invalid and authorization to board the car84is denied. Thus, the traveler is not permitted to board the car84

Although the scanner86transmits the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computer12after scanning the electronic token, the scanner86may alternatively transmit the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computing device10. Thus, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the computing device10may alternatively determine whether or not the token is valid and as a result determine that the traveler is authorized or not authorized to board the car84. The computing device10may also transmit a message to the scanner86indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to board the car84. After receiving the message, the scanner86permits or does not permit a traveler to board the car84according to the message. Additionally, the computing device10and/or the scanner86may display a message indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to board the car84.

FIG.9is an example method and algorithm for creating a health credential and a reservation credential.FIG.9illustrates example operations performed when the processor18executes software stored in the memory20and the processor34executes software stored in the memory36to create a health credential and a reservation credential.

The method and algorithm start in step S1, then in step S2, the software executed by the processor18causes the computing device10to record answers to a health questionnaire entered by a traveler and transmit the completed questionnaire to the computer12via the network16. In response to receiving the completed questionnaire, in step S3, the software executed by the processor34causes the computer12to determine if the traveler constitutes a health risk to others based on the completed questionnaire. The computer12determines a traveler does not constitute a health risk when the answers in the completed questionnaire evidence the traveler presents little or no risk of facilitating transmission of a pathogen to others.

Upon determining the traveler constitutes a health risk to others, in step S4, the computer12transmits via the network16to the computing device10a message indicating a health credential will not be created for the traveler. Next, in step S5, the method and algorithm end. However, upon determining the traveler does not constitute a health risk to other travelers, in step S6, the computer12creates a health credential and transmits the health credential to the computing device10via the network16. The computing device10receives the health credential and stores the health credential in the memory20.

In step S7, the software executed by the processor18causes the computing device10to record a time period selected by the traveler for accessing the security service area64and transmits the selected time period to the computer12using the network16. In step S8, the software executed by the processor34causes the computer12to determine if the selected period of time is available by comparing the selected period against available periods of time. If the selected period is not available, in step S7, another period of time is selected. However, if the selected period is available, in step S9, the computer12creates a reservation credential and transmits via the network16the reservation credential to the computing device10for storage therein. Next, in step S5, the method and algorithm end.

Although the health credential is created and received by the computing device10before the reservation credential in the method and algorithm described herein with reference toFIG.9, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the reservation credential may be created and received before the health credential. Moreover, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the time between receiving and storing the health credential in the computing device10and selecting a time for accessing the security service area64may be any period of time.

FIG.10is an example method and algorithm for enhancing authorization to access an area in a transportation hub.FIG.10illustrates example operations performed when the processor18executes software stored in the memory20and the processor34executes software stored in the memory36for enhancing authorization to access an area within a transportation hub, for example, the security service area64.

The method and algorithm start in step S10, and then in step S11the software executed by the processor18causes the computing device10to create an electronic token for the traveler based on the traveler's health and reservation credentials created according to the method and algorithm described herein with reference toFIG.9. More specifically, when the traveler arrives at the ACM14, the traveler touches, presses or operates an icon displayed by the computing device10that causes the computing device10to create an electronic token based on the traveler's health and reservation credentials. The icon may be, for example, an icon that reads “Scan QR Code” or “Show QR Code” when the token is a QR code or “Scan the bar code” or “Show the Bar Code” when the token is a bar code. The electronic token may be any type of token, including, but not limited to, a QR code and a bar code. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that the token may include the traveler's email address, identifier of the computing device10associated with the traveler, and any other information relating to the traveler.

In step S12, the computing device10displays the electronic token for the ACM14to scan, and the ACM14transmits the scanned electronic token and/or data relating to the electronic token, to the computer12using the network16. Next, in step S13, software executed by the processor34causes the computer12to determine whether or not the health credential for the traveler was created within the preceding twenty-four hours. If not, in step S14, the computer12determines the electronic token is invalid so the traveler is not authorized to access the security service area64and then, in step S15, the method and algorithm end. However, if the health credential was created within the preceding twenty-four hours, in step S16, the computer12determines whether or not the traveler's reservation credential is for the current time. If not, in step S14, the computer12determines the electronic token is invalid so the traveler is not authorized to access the security service area64and then, in step S15, the method and algorithm end. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that when the health credential or the reservation credential is invalid, a message may be displayed by the computing device10indicating the traveler is not authorized to access the security service area64.

However, if the computer12determines that the reservation credential is for the current time, the electronic token is considered valid. A message indicating the traveler is authorized to access the security service area64may be displayed by the computing device10. Next, in step S17, the user is authorized to access the security service area64. Next, in step S15, the method and algorithm end.

Although the ACM14transmits the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computer12after scanning the electronic token in the method and algorithm described herein with regard toFIG.10, the ACM14may alternatively transmit the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computing device10. Thus, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the computing device10may alternatively determine whether or not the token is valid and as a result that the traveler is authorized or not authorized to enter the security service area64. The computing device10may transmit a message to the ACM14indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to access the security service area64. After receiving the message, the ACM14operates the mechanism66according to the received message. Additionally, the computing device10may display a message indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to access the security service area64.

FIG.11is an example method and algorithm for enhancing authorization to access a mode of transportation in a transportation hub.FIG.11illustrates other example operations performed when the processor18executes software stored in the memory20and the processor34executes software stored in the memory36for enhancing authorization to access a mode of transportation in a transportation hub, for example, the train80.

The method and algorithm start in step S18, and then in step S19the software executed by the processor18causes the computing device10to display the electronic token created using the method and algorithm described herein with reference toFIG.10. The electronic token is scanned by the ACM14which can transmit the scanned electronic token and/or data relating to the electronic token to the computer12using the network16.

Next, in step S20, software executed by the processor34causes the computer12to determine whether or not the traveler's health credential was created within the preceding twenty-four hours. If not, in step S21, the computer12determines the health credential is invalid so the traveler is denied authorization to board the reserved train car84and then, in step S22, the method and algorithm end. However, if the health credential was created within the preceding twenty-four hours, in step S23, the computer12determines whether or not the traveler's reservation credential is for the current time. If not, in step S21, the computer12determines the electronic token is invalid so the traveler is denied authorization to board the reserved train car84and then, in step S22, the method and algorithm end. It is contemplated by the present disclosure that when the health credential or the reservation credential is invalid, a message may be displayed by the computing device10indicating the traveler is not authorized to board the reserved train car84.

However, if the computer12determines that the reservation credential is for the current time, in step S24, the electronic token is deemed valid so the traveler is authorized to board the reserved train car84. A message indicating the traveler is authorized to board the train84may be displayed by the computing device10. Next, in step S22, the method and algorithm end.

Although the scanner86transmits the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computer12after scanning the electronic token in the method and algorithm described herein with reference toFIG.11, the scanner86may alternatively transmit the scanned token and/or data about the token to the computing device10. Thus, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the computing device10may alternatively determine whether or not the token is valid and as a result determine that the traveler is authorized or not authorized to board the car84. The computing device10may also transmit a message to the scanner86indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to board the car84. After receiving the message, the scanner86permits or does not permit a traveler to board the car84according to the message. Additionally, the computing device10and/or the scanner86may display a message indicating the traveler is authorized or not authorized to board the car84.

Although the health credential is deemed invalid if not created within the preceding twenty-four hours, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the health credential may alternatively be created any period of time before scanning the electronic token by the ACM14that enables reducing traveler inconvenience and frustration and inhibits the spread of a pathogen like the coronavirus. Although the electronic token is created based on the health and reservation credentials as described herein, it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the electronic token may alternatively be created based on any type or combination of credentials and that such credentials may be created from information different than health and reservation information.

Using the methods and algorithms for enhancing authorization to access transportation hub services facilitates reducing travel delays and related traveler inconvenience and frustration, and facilitates reducing the risk that travelers will contract a pathogen like the coronavirus while traveling.

The example methods and algorithms described herein may be conducted entirely by the computing device10, or partly on the computing device10and partly on the computer12using the network16, or partly on the computing device10, the computer12and the ACM14using the network16. Moreover, the example methods described herein may be conducted entirely on other computer systems (not shown) other computing devices10(not shown). Thus, it should be understood that it is contemplated by the present disclosure that the example methods and algorithms described herein may be conducted on any combination of computers, computer systems, and computing devices10(not shown). Furthermore, data described herein as being stored in the memory20may alternatively be stored in any computer system (not shown) or computing device10(not shown) operable to communicate with the computing device10over the network16. Additionally, the example methods described herein may be implemented with any number and organization of computer program components. Thus, the methods and algorithms described herein are not limited to specific computer-executable instructions. Alternative example methods and algorithms may include different computer-executable instructions or components having more or less functionality than described herein.

The example methods and/or algorithms described above should not be considered to imply a fixed order for performing the method and/or algorithm steps. Rather, the method and/or algorithm steps may be performed in any order that is practicable, including simultaneous performance of at least some steps. Moreover, the method and/or algorithm steps may be performed in real time or in near real time. It should be understood that, for any method and/or algorithm described herein, there can be additional, fewer, or alternative steps performed in similar or alternative orders, or in parallel, within the scope of the various embodiments, unless otherwise stated. Furthermore, the invention is not limited to the embodiments of the methods and/or algorithms described above in detail. Rather, other variations of the methods and/or algorithms may be utilized within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.