Patent Abstract:
A method of electronically authenticating an electronic ticket upon entry to a venue can include displaying a first scannable code on a display of a user device, placing the user device adjacent to a scannable code reader device, scanning the first scannable code of the user device with the scannable code reader device, generating a second scannable code and displaying the second scannable code on the scannable code reader device, scanning the second scannable code with a camera on the user device, generating a user ticket code on the display of the user device, and displaying the user ticket code on the user device to gain admittance into the venue.

Full Description:
BACKGROUND 
       [0001]    Technical Field 
         [0002]    The present application relates to a system and method of authenticating commercial transactions, as well as authenticating electronic tickets for admission to an event. 
         [0003]    Description of Related Art 
         [0004]    Conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication systems are limited in that they are configured with limited one-way communication between an image and scannable code reader. Conventional systems and methods lack the ability to authenticate the originality or validity of a scannable code, such as a quick response (QR) code. 
         [0005]    Hence, there is a need for improved commercial transaction and ticket authentication systems. 
     
    
     
       DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0006]    The novel features believed characteristic of the systems and methods of the present application are set forth in the appended claims. However, the systems and methods themselves, as well as a preferred mode of use, and further objectives and advantages thereof, will best be understood by reference to the following detailed description when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
           [0007]      FIG. 1  illustrates a flowchart diagram of a user account creation process within an Authenticated Scannable Code (ASC) system, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0008]      FIG. 2  illustrates a flowchart of a user retail purchase process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0009]      FIG. 3  illustrates a flowchart diagram of a consumer-to-consumer payer initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0010]      FIG. 4  illustrates a diagram of a consumer-to-consumer payee initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0011]      FIG. 5  illustrates a flowchart of a mobile consumer-to-consumer payer initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0012]      FIG. 6  illustrates a diagram illustrating a mobile consumer-to-consumer payee initiated payment process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0013]      FIG. 7  illustrates a flowchart diagram of a process for a user selling tickets, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0014]      FIG. 8  illustrates a flowchart diagram illustrating a process for social media integration, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0015]      FIG. 9  illustrates a diagram of the data collection within the ASC System; according to an example embodiment; 
           [0016]      FIG. 10  illustrates a front elevation view of a scannable code reader, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0017]      FIG. 11  illustrates a right side elevation view of the scannable code reader, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0018]      FIG. 12  illustrates a back side elevation view of the scannable code reader, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0019]      FIG. 13  illustrates a detailed side sectional view of the scannable code reader of the embodiment of  FIG. 11 , schematically showing the power, electrical, and hardware components, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0020]      FIG. 14  illustrates a detailed back side sectional view of the scannable code reader of the embodiment of  FIG. 12 , schematically showing the power, electrical, and hardware components, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0021]      FIG. 15  illustrates a flowchart of a ticket search process in the ASC system, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0022]      FIG. 16  illustrates a flowchart diagram of a user ticket purchasing process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0023]      FIG. 17  illustrates a diagram of a ticket holder engagement process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0024]      FIG. 18  illustrates a flowchart of a user ticket parameters process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0025]      FIG. 19  illustrates a diagram illustrating a ticket redemption process, according to an example embodiment; 
           [0026]      FIG. 20  illustrates an example of a user device, in conjunction with the ticket redemption process, according to an example embodiment; and 
           [0027]      FIG. 21  illustrates a schematic view of a computer system, according to one example embodiment. 
       
    
    
     DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT 
       [0028]    Illustrative embodiments of the system of the present application are described below. In the interest of clarity, all features of an actual implementation may not be described in this specification. It will of course be appreciated that in the development of any such actual embodiment, numerous implementation-specific decisions must be made to achieve the developer&#39;s specific goals, such as compliance with system-related and business-related constraints, which will vary from one implementation to another. Moreover, it will be appreciated that such a development effort might be complex and time consuming but would nevertheless be a routine undertaking for those of ordinary skill in the art having the benefit of this disclosure. 
         [0029]    In the specification, reference may be made to the spatial relationships between various components and to the spatial orientation of various aspects of components as the devices are depicted in the attached drawings. However, as will be recognized by those skilled in the art after a complete reading of the present application, the devices, members, apparatuses, etc. described herein may be positioned in any desired orientation. Thus, the use of terms such as “above,” “below,” “upper,” “lower,” or other like terms to describe a spatial relationship between various components or to describe the spatial orientation of aspects of such components should be understood to describe a relative relationship between the components or a spatial orientation of aspects of such components, respectively, as the device described herein may be oriented in any desired direction. 
         [0030]    Conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication systems are limited in that they are configured with limited one-way communication between an image and scannable code reader. Conventional systems and methods lack the ability to authenticate the originality or validity of a scannable code, such as a quick response (QR) code. 
         [0031]    Traditional credit and debit cards, checks, and cash require individuals to be in physical possession of the item in order to conduct transactions and are susceptible to theft. Near Field Communication (NFC) technology can pose a threat of theft and fraudulent use by thieves that are in possession of NFC scannable code readers in proximity to an individual&#39;s bank card. Digital ticketing systems, such as those commonly used by airlines, are unable to authenticate the originality or validity of a scannable code. 
         [0032]    Moreover, conventional digital ticketing systems do not provide a means of controlling secondary market transactions by the original vendor. Further, conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication systems are limited in the methods of control of purchaser access to transaction authentication displays. In one conventional commercial transaction and ticket authentication system, a purchaser may view a transaction authentication quick response (QR) code on a device and subsequently take a screenshot picture of the code thereby facilitating the easy transfer of the transaction authentication through means of transferring the screenshot picture from the device. Transfer of transaction authentication codes by purchasers can facilitate fraudulent action, reduce potential vendor profits, and lead to service denials of valid customers. 
         [0033]    In the preferred embodiment, a scannable code is a QR code. In other embodiments the scannable code may be a barcode, or any other scannable image containing embedded information that may be read and interpreted by a camera. It should be appreciated that the exact scannable code is implementation specific. 
         [0034]    Referring to  FIG. 1 , the flowchart diagram depicts a process  100  for creating a user account. In step  102 , a user can first access the Authenticated Scannable Code (ASC) system website using, for example, any electronic device, smartphone, or computer. Upon accessing the venue&#39;s website or ASC website in step  104 , the user may select to create a new account and proceed to a user account creation page. The user may enter appropriate profile and account information in step  106  including, but not limited to: credit card and banking information, demographic information, and social network information, and a digital certificate may then be installed on a device. In some embodiments, a device may be a smartphone or computer. The IP address for the user&#39;s device may be documented in the ASC System database  1000  to authenticate the user&#39;s device  2100  (see  FIG. 20 ) upon future visits to the ASC website. In step  108 , the new user account is created within the ASC System database  1000  and a scannable code  2013   a  (see  FIG. 20 ) is assigned to the user in step  110 . The scannable code  2013   a  is a unique user account scannable code. Once the user has created an account and has been assigned the scannable code  2013   a,  the user may then install and log in to the ASC application, via step  112 , from the user&#39;s device  2100 . One important feature is that the user account is specifically tied to the user device, via digital certificates, IP address 
         [0035]    Referring to  FIG. 2 , the flowchart diagram depicts a user retail purchase transaction process  200 . In step  202 , once the user is in a retail establishment that utilizes the ASC system, the user may approach the retailer cashier with items to purchase. In step  204 , the cashier enters and totals the prices of items to be purchased by user. In step  206 , the user may then open the ASC application on the user&#39;s device  2100  (see  FIG. 20 ) and select the desired method of payment: credit card, debit card, or checking account, to name a few examples. In step  208 , the ASC application displays the scannable code  2013   a  (see  FIG. 20 ) and the camera  2102  (see  FIG. 20 ) on the user&#39;s device is activated. In step  210 , the user presents the user&#39;s device  2100 , displaying the scannable code  2013   a  to the scannable code reader  2000  (see  FIGS. 10-14 ). In step  212 , the scannable code reader  2000  recognizes the user&#39;s scannable code  2013   a  and the ASC System database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ) can transmit a corresponding scannable code  2013   b  to the scannable code reader  2000 . Scannable code  2013   b  is an activation scannable code that is unique to the specific user&#39;s account. In step  216 , the scannable code reader  2000  displays the scannable code  2013   b.  In step  218 , the user scans the scannable code  2013   b  displayed on the scannable code reader  2000  using the ASC application on the user&#39;s device  2100 . The user can scan the scannable code  2013   b  by utilizing the user&#39;s device camera  2102 . In step  220 , the ASC application reads and recognizes the activation scannable code  2013   b  in order to unlock scannable code  2013   c.  Scannable code  2013   c  is the user&#39;s unique digital payment scannable code. In step  222 , the ASC application displays the scannable code  2013   c.  In step  224 , the scannable code reader  2000  scans, reads, recognizes, and accepts the scannable code  2013   c.  In step  226 , the cashier completes the transaction and the user receives a physical or digital receipt, and the user retail purchase transaction process  200  is completed. 
         [0036]    Referring to  FIG. 3 , the flowchart diagram depicts the payer initiated consumer-to-consumer money transfer process  300 . In step  302 , the payer can launch the ASC application on the user&#39;s device  2100  and can elect to make a payment in step  304 . In step  306 , the payer can enter the dollar amount to be paid. In step  308 , the ASC system generates a scannable code  2013   a  which can then transmitted to the payer&#39;s device and, in step  310 , the scannable code  2013   a  can be displayed on the payer&#39;s device display. In step  312 , the payee can launch the ASC application, and, in step  314 , may elect to scan the payment and the payee&#39;s device camera can be activated. In step  316 , the payee scans the scannable code  2013   a  on the payer&#39;s device display, and, in step  318 , the ASC system transfers the funds from the payer to the payee. In step  320 , the payee&#39;s device may display a message confirming the transfer of funds. Lastly in step  322 , the payer&#39;s device may also display a message confirming the transfer of funds. 
         [0037]    Referring to  FIG. 4 , the flowchart diagram depicts the payee initiated consumer-to-consumer money transfer process  400 . In step  402 , the payee launches the ASC application, and the payee may elect to receive a payment in step  404 . In step  406 , the payee enters the dollar amount to be received. In step  408 , the ASC system generates a scannable code  2013   a,  which can then be transmitted to the payee&#39;s device and, in step  410 , the scannable code  2013   a  can be displayed on the payee&#39;s device display. In step  412 , the payer may launch the ASC application, and, in step  414 , may elect to scan the payment, and the payer&#39;s device camera can be activated. In step  416 , the payer scans the payee&#39;s device display, and, in step  418 , the ASC system transfers funds from the payer to the payee. In step  420 , the payee&#39;s device may display a message confirming the transfer of funds. Lastly in step  422 , the payer&#39;s device may also display a message confirming the transfer of funds. 
         [0038]    Referring to  FIG. 5 , the flowchart diagram depicts the payer initiated consumer-to-consumer mobile transfer process  500 . The payer launches the ASC application in step  502 , and the payer can elect to make a payment in step  504 . The payer enters the dollar amount to be paid in step  506 . The ASC system generates a scannable code  2013   a  in step  508 , which can then be transmitted to the payer&#39;s device and the scannable code  2013   a  can be displayed on the payer&#39;s device display in step  510 . The payer may elect to send the scannable code  2013   a  via text or email in step  512 . In step  514 , the payer may select the payee from contacts, or directly input other payee specific data like a mobile number or email address. In step  516 , the payee may receive and select a link provided in a message, for example a text or email message, which may launch the ASC application in step  516 . The payment details may be displayed on the payee&#39;s device and the payee may accept or reject the payment in step  518 . If the payee accepts the payment in step  520 , the ASC System can transfer funds from the payer&#39;s account to payee&#39;s account in step  522 . Once the funds have been transferred, a message confirming the successful transfer of funds may be sent to both parties, for example, being displayed on the payee&#39;s device in step  524 , and the payer&#39;s device in step  526 . 
         [0039]    Referring to  FIG. 6 , the flowchart diagram depicts the payee initiated consumer-to-consumer mobile transfer process  600 . The payee launches the ASC application in step  602 , and the payer can elect to receive a payment in step  604 . The payee enters the dollar amount to be paid in step  606 . The ASC system generates a scannable code  2013   a  in step  608 , which can then be transmitted to the payee&#39;s device and the scannable code  2013   a  can be displayed on payee&#39;s device&#39;s display in step  610 . The payee may then elect to send the scannable code  2013   a  via text or email in step  612 . In step  614 , the payee selects the payer from contacts, or directly inputs mobile number or email address of payer. In step  616 , the payer receives and clicks the link provided in a text or email message. In step  618 , the payment details can be displayed on the payer&#39;s device display and the payer can elect to accept or reject the payment. If the payee accepts the payment in step  620 , the ASC system can transfers funds from the payer&#39;s account to payee&#39;s account in step  622 . Once the funds have been transferred, a message confirming the successful transfer of funds can be displayed on the payee&#39;s device display in step  624 , and the payer&#39;s device display in step  626 . 
         [0040]    The ASC system transaction processes facilitate financial transactions that: are more convenient than cash, have more potential benefits and opportunities for data gathering than credit cards, more secure than both cash and credit cards, and more smart devices in use today are capable of running the ASC application than Near-Field Communication (NFC) based transactions. The ASC system and smart device application enable the exchange or transfer of funds between friends, family, strangers, and businesses and customers without disclosing the user&#39;s sensitive personal credit card or account information. Additionally, these transactions may be conducted in a physical face-to-face situation, or over long distances via a cellular or wireless network. Because of the unique methodology of the ASC system, even if someone were to take a screenshot of a user&#39;s payment code, it would not satisfy the authentication process and the original user&#39;s payment and account information is protected. Even in a situation where a user&#39;s smart device is stolen, without the original user&#39;s ASC system passcode, or fingerprint authentication, the user&#39;s payment and account information is safe within the ASC system application; unlike other items such as cash or credit cards that can also be stolen. 
         [0041]    Referring to  FIG. 7 , which illustrates the process  700  through which users may list previously purchased tickets for sale on the ASC system, venue, or event website. In step  702 , the user can access their ASC account via computer or other device, and in step  704  the user may select the previously purchased tickets which they have since decided to sell. In step  706 , the user can select to dispose of tickets by way of an auction format, or the user may input a set price. Once the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ) receives the user&#39;s input, the user&#39;s tickets may be published on the ASC website as available for purchase, as illustrated in step  708 . 
         [0042]    Referring to  FIG. 8 , a diagram depicts the process  800  through which one user may engage another user using the social media integration capabilities of the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ). In step  802 , the user&#39;s social media data is captured and stored in ASC system database  1000  upon the user completing the new user account process. In step  804 , Facebook, Twitter, and other social media networks may be integrated with the user account. In step  806 , upon user&#39;s purchase of tickets, a posting may be made to their social media page and, in step  808 , the user&#39;s friends and social network contacts may see the posting as well as a message that informs the user&#39;s friends whether there are seats still available next to the user. In step  810 , other ASC system users who are friends with the ticket holder through social media may click on a posting to see available tickets, and purchase any amount of tickets as needed through ticket purchase process  1600  (see  FIG. 16 ). 
         [0043]    Referring to  FIG. 9 , a system integration diagram  900  illustrates how a user can progress and complete various processes. For example, user may select the user account creation process  100 , ticket search process  1500 , ticket purchase process  1600 , engage ticket holder process  1700 , ticket redemption process  1900 , sale of tickets by consumer process  700 , or social media integration process  800 . After the user selects one of the processes, the information and data can be captured in the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ). In step  902 , The ASC system database  1000  may perform a data tracking process to track and gather, among others, user profile/demographic information and purchasing/selling habits and patterns. In step  906 , the user&#39;s data captured in the ASC System database  1000  may then be analyzed and provided to clients, venues, event websites, and the like, in order to refine marketing strategies. 
         [0044]    Referring to  FIGS. 10-14 , one embodiment of a scannable code reader  2000  is illustrated. In a preferred embodiment, the scannable code reader  2000  is encased in a hard shell  2001 . In one embodiment, the scannable code reader  2000  may have front face dimensions of seven inches in height by four inches in width. In a preferred embodiment, the scannable code reader  2000  has a display screen  2002  configured for displaying the scannable code  2013   b  (see  FIG. 20 ). In some embodiments, the display screen  2002  is covered by a protective piece that is made out of a translucent plate  2012 . In other embodiments, the display screen  2002  (see  FIG. 13 ) may be oriented such that the face of the scannable code reader  2000  slopes back at an angle to facilitate specific needs of the embodiment. 
         [0045]    Referring to  FIG. 11 , which illustrates a side view of one embodiment of a scannable code reader  2000 .  FIG. 11  shows the slope of one possible embodiment. The slope may vary in other embodiments in order to facilitate specific needs of the embodiment. In one embodiment, the dimension of the hard shell  2001  may be five and one half inches in length. This dimension may vary in other embodiments. 
         [0046]    Referring to  FIG. 12 , which illustrates a rear view of one embodiment of a scannable code reader  2000 . In one embodiment, the hard shell  2001  has an upper communication port  2003  and lower communication port  2004 . The two communication ports may aid in the transfer of data to and from the scannable code reader  2000  in order to facilitate a user&#39;s desired applications. In one embodiment, a power cable  2005  may be used to provide the necessary power to the scannable code reader  2000 . 
         [0047]    Referring to  FIG. 13 , which illustrates a side view of the inside of an example embodiment of a scannable code reader  2000 . In this example embodiment, the hard shell includes a clear plate  2012 . In some embodiments the clear plate  2012  may be tempered glass. The example embodiment has an upper communication port  2003  and lower communication port  2004 . The example embodiment includes a wireless network adapter  2008  capable of connecting a device to an available wireless network. The communication ports  2003  and  2004  may aid in the transfer of data to and from the scannable code reader in order to facilitate a user&#39;s desired applications. The example embodiment uses a power cable  2005  connected to a power supply to provide the necessary power to the scannable code reader  2000 . A display screen  2006 , capable of displaying scannable codes, facilitates the communication to a user device from the scannable code reader  2000 . An upper camera  2007   a  and a lower camera  2007   b  are capable of reading, scanning, or otherwise interpreting a scannable code displayed on the user&#39;s device. The software and coding needed to operate the scannable code reader may be stored in the circuit board  2011  of the example embodiment. 
         [0048]    Referring to  FIG. 14 , which illustrates a back view of the inside of an example embodiment of a scannable code reader  2000 . In this example embodiment, the hard shell  2001  includes a clear plate  2012 . In some embodiments the clear plate  2012  may be tempered glass. The example embodiment has an upper communication port  2003  and lower communication port  2004 . The example embodiment includes a wireless network adapter  2008  capable of connecting a device to an available wireless network. The communication ports may aid in the transfer of data to and from the scannable code reader in order to facilitate a user&#39;s desired applications. The example embodiment uses a power cable  2005  connected to a power supply to provide the necessary power to the scannable code reader. A display screen  2002 , capable of displaying scannable codes, facilitates the communication to a user device from the scannable code reader. An upper camera  2007   a  and lower camera  2007   b  are capable of reading, scanning, or otherwise interpreting a scannable code displayed on a device facilitates the communication from a user device to the scannable code reader  2000 . The software and coding needed to operate the scannable code reader may be stored in the circuit board  2011  of the example embodiment. 
         [0049]    Referring to  FIG. 15 , a new ticket search process  1500  is illustrated. In step  1502  the user may search the ASC website via computer, or the ASC application via mobile device, for events by, for example, specific name, date, location, or category. In step  1504 , the user may select the desired event or ticket, which they intend to purchase. In step  1506 , the user can see any tickets available for sale through venue or agent, as well as tickets for sale by other users. Step  1508  facilitates the integration of the user&#39;s social network information with the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ), and step  1510  displays an available map of a venue and available seats or tickets indicating where the user&#39;s friends, based on the social network connections and relationships, are located. In some embodiments, step  1512  may sort the available tickets, for example, by: price, location, quantity, proximity to friends, direct purchase from venue or ASC website or application, or purchase from other user. In step  1514 , once the user has identified the seats or tickets the user intends to purchase, the user may select the desired tickets. In step  1516 , the user determines if the tickets are listed for sale by the venue, ASC application, or other users, or if the user will instead engage another user. If the tickets are listed for sale by the venue, ASC application, or other users, the purchaser may proceed to the ticket purchasing process  1600 . However, if the user would like to propose an offer to another ticket holder, who happens to be sitting next to or near the purchaser&#39;s friends, the user may proceed to the engage ticket holder process  1700  via the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ). 
         [0050]    Referring to  FIG. 16 , the ticket purchasing process  1600  is illustrated. In step  1602 , the user may enter their credit card and/or banking information, if not previously done during the user account creation process  100 . In step  1604 , the user can make the selection as to whether the purchased tickets will be for themselves, for others as guests, or for someone else as a gift. In step  1606 , the user can elect that the tickets will be redeemed by the user or by another as a gift. If the user elects, in step  1606 , that the user will be redeeming the tickets, the user may elect, in step  1608 , that the user will be attending the event alone, or as part of a group. If the user elects that he or she will be attending the event alone in step  1608 , the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information in step  1620 . Thereafter, in step  1622 , the ticket data is downloaded from the ASC system database  1000  to the user&#39;s device before the user begins the ticket parameters process  1800  (see  FIG. 18 ). If the user elects in step  1608  that he or she will attend the event as a part of a group, the user may elect if the group will enter the venue together or if the group will enter the venue separately and meet at the seats in step  1610 . If the user elects that the group will enter the event together in step  1610 , the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information in step  1620 . Thereafter, in step  1622 , the ticket data is downloaded from the ASC system database  1000  to the user&#39;s device before the user begins the ticket parameters process  1800 . If the user elects that the group will enter the event separately in step  1610  the user may enter the username, e-mail, and/or mobile number for the other guests in step  1612 , before the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information in step  1620 . Thereafter, in step  1622 , the ticket data is downloaded from the ASC system database  1000  to the user&#39;s device before the user begins the ticket parameters process  1800 . On the other hand, if the user elects in step  1606  that the tickets will be redeemed by others as a gift, the user may enter, in step  1614 , for example, the recipient&#39;s username, e-mail, or mobile number in order to transfer the tickets. In step  1616 , the user may elect to transfer the tickets immediately, or at a later specified date. If the user elects in step  1616  to transfer the tickets immediately, the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information in step  1620 . Thereafter, in step  1622 , the ticket data is downloaded from the ASC System database  1000  to the user&#39;s friend&#39;s device before the user begins the ticket parameters process  1800 . If the user elects in step  1616  to transfer the tickets at a later specified date, the user may enter the specific date when transfer should occur in step  1618 , before the user will review and confirm, for example, the ticket selection, payment information, and transfer information in step  1620 . Thereafter, in step  1622 , the ticket data is downloaded from the ASC system database  1000  to the user&#39;s friend&#39;s device before the user begins the ticket parameters process  1800 . 
         [0051]    Referring to  FIG. 17 , after the user has selected tickets or seats near the user&#39;s friends that have already been purchased by another ticket holder, the user may proceed to the engage ticket holder process  1700  to propose an offer to purchase their tickets. If the ticket holder has not previously provided a minimum price the user may enter payment information and submit an offer to the ticket holder as a prospective purchaser in step  1708 . On the other hand, if the ticket holder has set a minimum price and the ticket holder has made the minimum price viewable to prospective purchasers, the user may enter payment information and submit offer to ticket holder in step  1706 . However, if the ticket holder has set a minimum price, and the ticket holder has not made the minimum price viewable to prospective purchasers, the user may submit a blind bid, or offer, to the ticket holder for the tickets in step  1710 . In step  1712 , if the user&#39;s bid does not meet or exceed the ticket holder&#39;s minimum amount, the user may increase their offer price and re-submit their offer to the ticket holder in step  1714 . If the user&#39;s bid does meet or exceed the ticket holder&#39;s minimum amount in step  1712 , the user&#39;s proposal will proceed to the ticket holder through the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ). Once the user&#39;s proposed offer has met or exceeded the ticket holder&#39;s minimum price requirements, the ASC system database  1000  will generate a notification to the ticket holder in step  1716 , notifying them of the proposed offer to purchase the tickets. After the ticket holder receives the notification in step  1718 , and reviewing the user&#39;s offer, the ticket holder may reject the offer in step  1720 , and the user may begin a new ticket search process  1500 . Alternatively, the ticket holder may receive the notification in step  1718  and accept the user&#39;s offer in step  1720  at which point the ASC system database  1000  may transfer the ticket or tickets from the ticket holder&#39;s account to the user&#39;s account in step  1724 , and transfer the funds to the ticket holder&#39;s account. 
         [0052]    Referring to  FIG. 18 , once the user has completed the ticket purchase process  1600 , the user may begin the ticket parameters process  1800 . In step  1802 , the user may set parameters under which the user would consider selling their tickets. In step  1804 , if the user selects that they are not open to receiving offers, regardless of a prospective purchaser&#39;s proposed offer, no further action is necessary and the transaction is terminated in step  1814 . However, in step  1804 , if the user is open to receiving potential offers, they may then specify whether there is a minimum price the user is willing to accept for their tickets in step  1806 . If the user selects that there is no minimum price in step  1806 , no further action is necessary and the transaction is terminated in step  1814 . If the user selects that a minimum price is required in step  1806 , the user should input the minimum amount required for them to consider selling their tickets in step  1808 . Once the user has input the minimum amount in step  1808 , the user may then select whether the minimum amount is made visible to prospective purchasers, or remains hidden in step  1810 . If the user selects to have the minimum amount made public in step  1810 , the minimum amount may be visible to other users who engage ticket holder through the ASC system in step  1812 . 
         [0053]    Referring to  FIG. 19 , in step  1902 , upon arriving at the venue, the user can open the ASC device application on the user&#39;s device  2100  (see  FIG. 20 ) and select an appropriate ticket for the event. In step  1904 , the ASC application may simultaneously display the scannable code  2013   a  (see  FIG. 20 ), and activate the user device&#39;s camera. The scannable code  2013   a  is a unique user account scannable code. In step  1906 , the user can present the user device  2100 , and display the scannable code  2013   a,  to the scannable code reader  2000  (see  FIGS. 10-14 ). Upon recognition of the scannable code  2013   a  by the scannable code reader  2000  in step  1908 , the ASC system database  1000  (see  FIG. 1 ) transmits the scannable code  2013   b  (see  FIG. 20 ) to the scannable code reader  2000  in step  1910 . The scannable code  2013   b  can be a unique activation scannable code corresponding to the specific user&#39;s account. In step  1912 , the scannable code reader  2000  can display the scannable code  2013   b  on the display screen  2002  of the scannable code reader  2000  (see  FIGS. 10-14 ). In step  1914 , the camera  2102  (see  FIG. 20 ) on the user&#39;s device  2100 , running the ASC application, scans and reads the scannable code  2013   b  displayed on the scannable code reader  2000 , upon which the ASC application recognizes the scannable code  2013   b  presented by the scannable code reader  2000  to unlock the scannable code  2013   c  in step  1916 . The scannable code  2013   c  can be the user&#39;s digital ticket scannable code. In step  1918 , after reading and accepting the scannable code  2013   b,  the ASC device application may display the scannable code  2013   c  to be read and confirmed by the scannable code reader  2000  in step  1920 . In step  1920 , upon confirmation of the scannable code  2013   c  by the scannable code reader  2000 , the user may be granted access to the event venue and may receive a print out of the section and seat details in step  1922 . 
         [0054]    Referring to  FIG. 20 , in this example embodiment a user&#39;s device  2100  may be oriented such that scannable code  2013   a  faces the scannable code reader  2000 . The scannable code  2013   a  is a unique user account scannable code that is assigned to the user when initially setting up an account. The scannable code  2013   a  may be read by the camera  2007   a  or  2007   b  of the scannable code reader  2000 . In one embodiment, the user simply lays the device  2100  face down on the clear plate  2012  of the scannable code reader  2000 . The clear plate  2012  is configured to protect the scannable code reader&#39;s display screen  2002  which may display the scannable code  2013   b.  Scannable code  2013   b  is an activation QR code that is created in response to reading the scannable code  2013   a.  The scannable code  2013   b  can be a unique activation scannable code corresponding to specific ticket within the user&#39;s account specifically associated to the user device  2100 . The scannable code  2013   b  can be read by the camera  2102  on the user&#39;s device  2100  and analyzed by the application. Upon analyzing scannable code  2013   b,  the user&#39;s device  2100  can in turn unlock and display a scannable code  2013   c.  The scannable code  2013   c  is the user&#39;s digital ticket scannable code. The scannable code  2013   c  is read by a camera (such as  2007   a  or  2007   b ) of the scannable code reader  2000  and is affirmed (or possibly rejected) allowing entry of the user to the venue. 
         [0055]    The embodiments of the authenticated QR code system and method include a scannable code reader  2000  that is configured to both scan and read QR codes, as well as the display screen  2002  to display QR codes, and the process, enabled through software, to authenticate QR codes. As described further above, the system can require the user/consumer to create a user account via a company website or Authenticated QR Code System smartphone application, at which point, the user is assigned a unique customer account QR code. The user account can utilize digital certificates in order to associate user accounts with the specific user device (such as a smartphone, for example) or alternatively, can recognize the unique IP address assigned to users electronic device. When a user purchases a ticket, or other digital item, through their device, data of the digital ticket or transaction is immediately downloaded to the user&#39;s device, stored in the software program coding, unable to be viewed directly by the user. In order to redeem the digital ticket or transaction, the user utilizes the Authenticated QR Code System smartphone application. Upon entering a venue for which the user has purchased a digital ticket or transaction, the user can select the appropriate digital ticket or item in the Authenticated QR Code System smartphone application and the user&#39;s unique account QR code is displayed on the smartphone to be read by the scannable code reader  2000 , and the camera  2102  on the device  2100  is activated. Once the Authenticated QR Code Scanner reads the user&#39;s unique account QR code, the system identifies the specific account associated with the account QR code and in turn displays an activation QR code, specific and unique to the user&#39;s account and ticket, to be read by the smartphone application. The smartphone application detects the activation QR code, which unlocks the digital ticket QR code and is displayed on the screen of the smartphone to be read by the scannable code reader  2000 . The scannable code reader  2000  recognizes the ticket QR code as a valid and authenticated digital ticket and the user is admitted to the event or venue. Because the actual digital ticket is downloaded to the user smartphone upon purchase, the Authenticated QR Code smartphone application can function as necessary at the ticketing window, gate, venue, etc., regardless of whether a cellular or WiFi network is available. If a user attempted to take a screenshot, picture, or copy of their unique account QR code and send it to another individual to use, it would be a static image, incapable of interacting with the scannable code reader  2000 , and would be rejected. Providing added security, is the fact that the user is unable to access, view, or transmit the actual ticket QR code until the smartphone application receives the activation QR code provided by the scannable code reader  2000 . 
         [0056]    The ticket authentication system and method described herein provides significant advantages over conventional ticketing systems and methods. For example, the ticket authentication systems and methods disclosed herein enable live entertainment venues, such as a sports stadiums, concerts, live theatre, etc. to regulate and monitor secondary market transactions of tickets that occur subsequent to the original ticket purchase from the venue or licensed agent. The ticket authentication systems and methods can insure that the spectator whom purchases the original ticket from the venue or ticketing agency is the same one that redeems the ticket upon entrance to the event, allowing the venue and spectator to capture the full value of the ticket. Further, because the actual digital ticket is downloaded to the customer smartphone upon purchase, the application on the smartphone can function as necessary at the ticketing gate regardless of whether a cellular or WiFi signal is available. If a customer was to attempt to take a screenshot or picture of their unique account CR code and sent it to someone else for their use, then it would be a static image incapable of interacting with the scannable code reader  2000 , and would be rejected. Security is provided by the prevention of the user from accessing, viewing, or transmitting the actual ticket QR code until it receives the activation QR code provided by the scannable code reader  2000  at the point of entry into the venue. Further benefits include: 1) enabling the monitoring and tracking of a ticket through the life of the ticket; 2) preventing the unauthorized transfer or sale of tickets without the knowledge or approval of the original ticket seller; 3) enabling the easy transfer or sale of surplus tickets among customers, within the terms and conditions specified by the venue; and 4) allowing the transaction to take place without requiring the user to have cellular or WiFi signal on the user&#39;s device. 
         [0057]    Referring now also to  FIG. 21 , a computer system  2101  is schematically illustrated. Computer system  2101  can be configured for performing one or more functions with regard to the operation of the systems and methods further disclosed herein. Further, any processing and analysis can be partly or fully performed by computer system  2101 . 
         [0058]    The system  2101  can include an input/output (I/O) interface  2103 , an analysis engine  2105 , and a database  2107 . Alternative embodiments can combine or distribute the input/output (I/O) interface  2103 , analysis engine  2105 , and database  2107 , as desired. Embodiments of the system  2101  can include one or more computers that include one or more processors and memories configured for performing tasks described herein. This can include, for example, a computer having a central processing unit (CPU) and non-volatile memory that stores software instructions for instructing the CPU to perform at least some of the tasks described herein. This can also include, for example, two or more computers that are in communication via a computer network, where one or more of the computers include a CPU and non-volatile memory, and one or more of the computer&#39;s non-volatile memory stores software instructions for instructing any of the CPU(s) to perform any of the tasks described herein. Thus, while the exemplary embodiment is described in terms of a discrete machine, it should be appreciated that this description is non-limiting, and that the present description applies equally to numerous other arrangements involving one or more machines performing tasks distributed in any way among the one or more machines. It should also be appreciated that such machines need not be dedicated to performing tasks described herein, but instead can be multi-purpose machines, for example computer workstations, that are suitable for also performing other tasks. 
         [0059]    The I/O interface  2103  can provide a communication link between external users, systems, and data sources and components of the system  2101 . The I/O interface  2103  can be configured for allowing one or more users to input information to the system  2101  via any known input device. Examples can include a keyboard, mouse, touch screen, and/or any other desired input device. The I/O interface  2103  can be configured for allowing one or more users to receive information output from the system  2101  via any known output device. Examples can include a display monitor, a printer, phone display, and/or any other desired output device. The I/O interface  2103  can be configured for allowing other systems to communicate with the system  2101 . For example, the I/O interface  2103  can allow one or more remote computer(s) to access information, input information, and/or remotely instruct the system  2101  to perform one or more of the tasks described herein. The I/O interface  2103  can be configured for allowing communication with one or more remote data sources. For example, the I/O interface  2103  can allow one or more remote data source(s) to access information, input information, and/or remotely instruct the system  2101  to perform one or more of the tasks described herein. 
         [0060]    The database  2107  provides persistent data storage for system  2101 . While the term “database” is primarily used, a memory or other suitable data storage arrangement may provide the functionality of the database  2107 . In alternative embodiments, the database  2107  can be integral to or separate from the system  2101  and can operate on one or more computers. The database  2107  preferably provides non-volatile data storage for any information suitable to support the operation of systems and methods described herein, including various types of data discussed further herein. The analysis engine  2105  can include various combinations of one or more processors, memories, and software components. 
         [0061]    The particular embodiments disclosed above are illustrative only, as the system may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the apparatuses described herein without departing from the scope of the embodiment. The components of the system may be integrated or separated. Moreover, the operations of the system may be performed by more, fewer, or other components. 
         [0062]    Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular embodiments disclosed above may be altered or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope and spirit of the application. Accordingly, the protection sought herein is as set forth in the claims below.

Technology Classification (CPC): 6