Patent ID: 12230089

DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Embodiments disclosed herein include all-in-one multi-access devices that provide an access point for opening doors, using credit cards, and other applications, as described below. In addition to providing keyless entry, the all-in-one multi-access devices may also include a digital screen that can display information for credit cards, concert tickets, and airline tickets. In some embodiments, the multi-access device could include an RFID chip for communication with RFID readers. In some embodiments, the display could be a low powered e-ink screen. In some embodiments, the device can include a deployable magnetic strip and/or chip to maintain backwards compatibility with older devices, such as card readers. For example, the device may not have a magnetic strip exposed in a default position, but the magnetic strip could be deployed (either extended out or uncovered, for example) so the user can swipe a card or insert a card at a card reader. In some embodiments, the device may have a deployable card with a chip that could be read by a chip reader at a bank or retailer, for example.

In some embodiments, the all-in-one multi-access device could include a biometric sensor that can read fingerprints or recognize facial features, or other biometric indicators to prevent the device from being used by an unauthorized person. In some embodiments, the all-in-one multi-access device could be programmed with access codes that allow the user to wirelessly unlock doors, such as a door to their home and/or a door to their car.

In some embodiments, the device could be configured to display important information on the display, even when the device is locked. This information could include, for example, critical health information about the user, should the user be in need of emergency medical help. As one example, the device could display information about a user's chronic conditions, medications, or other instructions that may be relevant should the user be incapacitated. In another embodiment, the device could automatically detect that a user is walking into a particular store and show membership information on its display as the user customer walks into that store.

In one embodiment, the device could receive requests from external devices to display particular information. For example, the device could be used to store insurance information that could be requested automatically by a third party. In one embodiment, the device could be pushed a coupon code and display it on the screen when the user walks into a store with such capabilities.

In some embodiments, the all-in-one multi-access devices may approximately emulate the shape, width and length of a conventional credit card. In such embodiments, the credit-card-shaped device may be of uniform thickness, or it may have different regions having different thicknesses. This variable thickness may be necessary in order to accommodate a rechargeable battery as well as all of the different circuits, memories, and other devices required to implement the different functionalities disclosed herein and to gain access to multiple entry points.

As used herein, the term “financial institution” shall mean a bank, a savings and load, a credit union or a credit card company. The term “IEEE 802.11” shall refer to all of the IEEE 802.11 standards, including IEEE 802.11a, IEEE 802.11b, IEEE 802.11g and IEEE 802.11n. The term “lock/unlock” shall refer to locking a lock, unlocking a lock or both locking and unlocking a lock.

FIG.1is a schematic diagram100of a front view of an all-in-one multi-access device102in one embodiment. In many embodiments, the multi-access device102includes an RFID chip (such as RFID chip318shown inFIG.3), that enables contactless payments at merchant terminals equipped with RFID readers by placing the multi-access device close to the RFID reader. Device102includes a side slot106from which a card with a magnetic strip associated with a financial account associated with the user of device102can be deployed by pressing a side button122. Device102includes a top slot104out of which a card with a small integrated circuit chip associated with a financial account associated with the user of device102can be deployed by pressing a top button124. Button122and button124may be physical buttons, buttons that use capacitance sensing, or virtual buttons. Mechanisms for deploying the integrated circuit chip cards and/or the magnetic strip cards are described below with reference toFIG.4. Thus, payments to merchant terminals may be effectuated with multi-access device102in any one of three ways—contactless payments via the RFID reader, chip payments by inserting an integrated chip into a chip reader, and magnetic strip payments via a magnetic strip reader.

Device102includes a jack120(shown here in phantom) with which to charge a battery (shown inFIG.3) that powers device102. Jack120may also provide a hard-wired connection from device102to other devices, for example to transfer data to device102. Device102includes a display130which displays a set of apps. In some embodiments, display130includes a touch screen function as a user interface. In some embodiments, display130is an “electronic paper” display in grayscale to minimize power usage and battery size. Display130features a set of exemplary apps which implement the various functions of device102. In some embodiments, some of these apps are pre-loaded onto device102by the device manufacturer, and some of these apps may have been selectively loaded onto device102by the user.

For example, app108is an app that provides a link between device102and one or more financial accounts, such as a debit or a credit account, associated with the user. This app may be used to make payments to payees such as retailers, restaurants, banks and gas stations. The user may use app108, for example, to make purchases at stores that have virtual pay platforms that are compatible with device102. App114functions as a virtual key that a user may use to unlock doors, start a car or otherwise gain entry to private spaces, such as homes, commercial buildings and offices. In this embodiment, app114can be loaded by the user with a set of codes for wirelessly unlocking doors using an RFID chip (such as RFID chip318shown inFIG.3) and similar access points in a building. In other embodiments, multi-access device302(whether or not it has an RFID chip) may communicate with certain door locks or other entry-point devices without using an RFID chip, for example by using other technologies such as near field communications (NFC) or Bluetooth. In some embodiments, app114may acquire these codes directly from other devices. In other embodiments, these codes may be programmed into device102, for example through a software or firmware update.

App110is a virtual-coupon app through which stores with compatible systems and networks may send store coupons to device102when the user enters the store. App116is a virtual ticketing app which, in some embodiments, displays tickets the user has purchased on display130. In some embodiments, such a displayed ticket includes a barcode that can be read to verify the authenticity of the displayed virtual ticket. In other embodiments, app116allows the user to purchase tickets directly when device102is in communication with a seller of tickets, as it is linked to a financial account of the user. In other embodiments, rather than simply displaying a virtual ticket, app116broadcasts a code corresponding to the purchased ticket for wireless access to an event that requires tickets. In such an embodiment, such a ticket functions as a temporary “key” similar to the function of the virtual key app114.

App112displays, for example, the user's critical health data in an emergency. In some embodiments, the user enters this information through an on-screen keyboard. In some embodiments, authorized third parties, such as a user's primary care physician, can enter and update this information by means of a program in communication with device102. App118contains and displays identifying information for the user. In some embodiments, such identifying information takes the form of a virtual government-issued ID, such as a passport, a driver's license or an employee ID. In some embodiments, government-issued IDs may be securely loaded onto device102at a government office through jack120or they may be loaded wirelessly. In some embodiments, display130is “locked” and none of the apps are accessible to the user until the user “unlocks” it. The user may unlock device102by entering a passcode or passing a facial recognition, fingerprint, or other biometric test. In some embodiments, audio biometric verification means may be used by device102to ensure that the voice commands it receives, to some degree of confidence, come from an authorized user of device102. In other embodiments, the user may simply recite a password.

In the embodiment ofFIG.1, the length and width of device102may match the standard length and width of a credit card, or it may have different dimensions. The thickness of device102may be 2, 3 or 4 times of the standard thickness of a credit card, or anywhere between 2 and 4 (inclusive) times the standard thickness of a credit card. As an example, credit cards may typically have a thickness of approximately 0.75 mm. Therefore, in some embodiments, the thickness of device102may be between 1.5 mm to 3 mm. In other embodiments, some portions of the device could be thicker than 3 mm. In some embodiments, device102may include a loop that may be used to attach it to a key chain. Also, in some embodiments, certain of the functions of device102, such as deployment of door unlocking signals, can occur via voice commands from an authorized user of device102.

FIG.2is a schematic diagram200of a back view of an all-in-one multi-access device202in one embodiment. This view shows an image capture device206. Image capture device206may perform a facial recognition test on the user of device202to make sure he or she is an authorized user of the device. In some embodiments, storage of facial pictures of authorized users of device202occurs when the device is first set up. In some embodiments, image capture device206is a high-resolution camera in communication with facial recognition analysis software.

FIG.2also shows a fingerprint reader208. Fingerprint reader208reads one or more of the fingerprints of the user of device202to ensure that the user is an authorized user of the device. In some embodiments, storage of fingerprints of authorized users of device202may happen when the device is first set up, or it may happen at a later time.

Antenna210, shown inFIG.2, is associated with local wireless communications between device202and compatible devices, including compatible merchant terminals, other compatible all-in-one multi-access devices, and other compatible third-party devices that manage access to an area, such as a smart door. Antenna210may also be used to facilitate communications between device202and a user's laptop, so that the user may, for example, download information onto the device. For example, the user may wish to download updated medical data such as his or her blood pressure, allergies, blood type and current medications. In some embodiments, antenna210uses NFC and/or Bluetooth communication technologies and protocols for these wireless communications.

FIG.2shows a jack220, in phantom. Jack220provides a means with which to charge a battery that powers device202. It may also provide a hard-wired connection to device202from other devices, for example to transfer information from an external device such as a laptop to device202.

Top slot204allows a card containing an integrated circuit chip (shown inFIG.4, for example) associated with a financial account associated with the user of device202to be deployed from device202. In some embodiments, the integrated circuit chip deployed from top slot204can be read by compatible merchant terminals for debiting payments from an associated financial account. Side slot212allows a card containing a magnetic strip (shown inFIG.4) to be deployed, so that payments to retailers that rely on magnetic strip readers can be made using the all-in-one access device202. Mechanisms for deploying the cards containing a chip and/or a magnetic strip are described below.

FIG.3is a schematic diagram300showing internal components of an exemplary all-in-one multi-access device302in one embodiment. In this view, multi-access device302includes a battery320, which stores the energy needed to power device302. Multi-access device302includes a processor308, which acts as a control module for the components of device302. Multi-access device302also includes an RFID chip318, that enables device302to, for example, open doors at facilities such as offices, commercial buildings, garages and parking lots; and to make payments to merchants who have RFID readers in the payment terminals. RFID chip318is in communication with processor308. Also, in many embodiments, RFID chip318is an active RFID chip because it is powered by battery320. In other embodiments, RFID chip320may be a passive RFID chip. Processor308and RFID chip318are configured to allow processor308to enter different access codes into RFID chip. In other embodiments, multi-access device (whether it has or does not have an RFID chip) uses other near-field communications (NFC) technologies to unlock, for example, car doors. In some cases, processor308will enter key codes for certain entry points that rely on RFID technologies such as garages and office buildings, for example, into RFID chip318. The user may also decide to use processor308to enter key codes for other spaces, such as the user's workplace, residential building, office building, garage and/or parking lot, into memory312.

Device302includes an image capture device304for performing a facial recognition test on a user. Device302further includes ID storage306which securely stores and acquires ID information for a user of device302. In some embodiments, ID storage306is in wireless communication with compatible devices at a government office or at an employer's office to securely acquire ID information for a user of device302. Device302includes a connection module316. Connection module316is associated with wired connections to device302, for example, for charging or for making a wired connection between device302and another device. Device302includes a memory312which stores a variety of data and applications, including pre-loaded applications and data that would be typically loaded onto this device and applications and data that have been selectively stored by the user of device302. These apps and the data collectively implement the functions of device302. Device302includes a communications app310for wirelessly exchanging data and instructions via an antenna such as antenna210(shown inFIG.2) between device302and other compatible devices such as compatible merchant terminals, other compatible all-in-one multi-access devices, and other compatible third-party devices that manage access to an area (such as a smart door). In some cases, hotels may enter hotel room codes into the RFID chip via antenna210, communications app310and processor308. In other cases, the hotel may use other NFC technologies for its room door locks. In those cases, the hotel would transmit the necessary room codes to the multi-access device, which would store the codes in its memory312. These codes could then be retrieved for unlocking room doors using NFC technologies.

Device302may include a scanner app314in communication with a fingerprint reader (such as fingerprint reader208) configured to take a fingerprint of a user of device302to ensure that the user is authorized to use device302. In some embodiments, scanner app314feeds fingerprint data of the current user of device302to a fingerprint analysis algorithm running on processor308for comparison to fingerprints of authorized users of device302stored in memory312. In some embodiments, device302may include an image capture app304in communication with an image capture device (such as image capture device206). for comparison with stored images. Image capture app304feeds images received from an image capturing device (such as image capture device206) to an image recognition algorithm running on processor308for comparison to images stored in memory312.

FIG.4is a schematic diagram400of a front view of an all-in-one multi-access device402showing a deployable magnetic strip card426and a deployable chip card442. As noted above with respect toFIG.3, multi-access device402may include an RFID chip such as RFID chip318shown inFIG.3that may be used to communicate with merchant terminals. Generally, all three (magnetic strip, chip and RFID chip) of these devices may be linked to or associated with a financial account or credit card account, in one embodiment. In this embodiment, magnetic strip card426is compatible with merchant terminals or other access management devices that read account information (such as financial account information) or other access information that is encoded magnetically on a magnetic strip428affixed to magnetic strip card426. In this embodiment, magnetic strip card426emerges from a side slot436and is deployed by the user of device402by a push of a side button422.

Several mechanisms may be used to deploy the magnetic strip card426and/or the chip card442. For example, in some embodiments, the slots may be wide enough so that a user can grip the cards and pull them out as needed. Alternatively, the cards may be kept in place with spring-loaded catches. Pushing the cards in would release the cards from the catch, and they would pop out. In those embodiments, button424and button422would not be needed. In other embodiments, the cards may be spring-loaded and held in place by a catch, and pressing button424and button422would cause the catch to retract, thus releasing the cards. The cards could be re-engaged with the catch just by pushing them back in. In yet other embodiments, servomechanisms may be used to deploy or retract the cards at the push of button424and button422. In those embodiments, the servomechanisms would be powered by battery320(shown inFIG.3).

In this embodiment, deployable chip card442is compatible with merchant terminals or other access management devices that read account information (such as financial account information) or other access information that is encoded digitally on an integrated circuit chip444affixed to chip card442. In this embodiment, deployable chip card442emerges from a top slot404and is deployed by the user of device402at the push of a top button424.

In this embodiment, device402includes a jack420(shown here in phantom) with which to charge a battery that powers device402. Jack402may also provide a hard-wired connection to device402for other devices, for example to transfer data to device402. For example, key codes could be input via jack420so that they could be entered into an RFID chip, or they could be transmitted using Bluetooth or other technologies. Device402includes a display430which displays a set of apps such as apps408to418. In some embodiments, display430includes a touch screen function as a user interface. In some embodiments, display430is an “electronic paper” display in grayscale to minimize power usage and battery size.

Display430features a set of exemplary apps which implement the various functions of device402. For example, app408is a virtual pay-type app that provides a link between device402and one or more financial accounts, such as a debit or credit account, associated with the user. The user may use app408, for example, to make purchases at stores with compatible virtual pay platforms with device402. App414is a virtual key-type app through which the user unlocks doors or otherwise gains entry to private spaces, such as cars, homes, commercial buildings, residential buildings, offices, garages, parking lots and other spaces via an RFID chip such as RFID chip318shown inFIG.3. In this embodiment, app414can be loaded by the user with a set of door-specific codes that may be transmitted through a processor (such as processor308) for wirelessly unlocking doors and similar access points in a building. In some embodiments, app414acquires these codes directly from wireless devices that are used for door access. In other embodiments, these codes must be programmed into device402, for example through a software or firmware update. App410is a virtual-coupon app through which stores with compatible systems and networks send store coupons to device402. App416is a virtual ticketing app through which, in some embodiments, tickets the user has purchased are loaded onto device402and may be displayed on display430. In some embodiments, such a displayed ticket includes a barcode that can be read to verify the authenticity of the displayed virtual ticket. In other embodiments, app416allows the user to purchase tickets directly when device402is in communication with a seller of tickets, as it is linked to a financial account of the user. In other embodiments, rather than simply displaying a virtual ticket, app416broadcasts a code corresponding to the purchased ticket for wireless access to an event that requires tickets. In such an embodiment, such a ticket functions as a temporary “key” similar to the function of the virtual key app414.

App412contains and displays critical health information for the user. In some embodiments, the user may enter this information through an on-screen keyboard or by transmitting the information from another device such as a laptop computer, a tablet or a smart phone. In some embodiments, authorized third parties, such as a user's primary care physician, may enter and update this information by means of a program in communication with device402. App418contains and displays identifying information for the user, such as an employee ID or a student ID. In some embodiments, such identifying information takes the form of a virtual government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license. In some embodiments, a virtual government-issued ID or an employee ID may be securely loaded onto device402at a government or other office through jack420or wirelessly.

In some embodiments, a single card that has both a magnetic strip and a chip may be used instead of having two cards. In that case, only a single slot may be needed, such as either top slot404or side slot436. As noted above, multi-access device402may have an RFID chip that could enable payments to merchants that have RFID-enabled terminals.

FIG.5Ais a schematic diagram500of a front view of another all-in-one multi-access device502showing guides534that hold a cover in place, in one embodiment. Sliding a cover over display530protects display530from scratches and other potential damage and prevents the user from accidentally unlocking display530. In this embodiment, the cover, as shown inFIG.5B, provides backwards compatibility for merchant terminals and other access devices with which device502cannot make payments to terminals that do not accept wireless payments from mobile devices.

Display530displays a set of apps. In this embodiment, app508is a virtual pay-type app that provides a link between device502and one or more financial accounts, such as a debit or credit account, associated with the user. The user uses app508, for example, to make purchases at stores with compatible virtual pay platforms with device502. App514is a virtual key-type app through which the user may use an RFID chip to unlock doors or otherwise gain entry to private spaces, such as homes, commercial buildings, residential buildings, offices, garages and parking lots. In other cases, multi-access device502may use near field communications (NFC) technologies or Bluetooth to unlock doors. In this embodiment, app514can be loaded by the user with a set of codes for wirelessly unlocking doors and similar access points in a building. In some embodiments, app514acquires these codes directly from other wireless devices that are used for door access. In other embodiments, these codes must be programmed into device502, for example through a software or firmware update. App510is a virtual-coupon app through which stores with compatible systems and networks could send store coupons to device502. App516is a virtual ticketing app through which, in some embodiments, tickets the user has purchased are loaded onto device502and may be displayed on display530. In some embodiments, such a displayed ticket may include a barcode that can be read to verify the authenticity of the displayed virtual ticket. In other embodiments, app516allows the user to purchase tickets directly when device502is in communication with a seller of tickets, as it is linked to a financial account of the user. In other embodiments, rather than simply displaying a virtual ticket, app516broadcasts a code corresponding to the purchased ticket for wireless access to an event that requires tickets. In such an embodiment, such a ticket functions as a temporary “key” similar to the function of the virtual key app514.

App512may contain and display a user's critical health information. In some embodiments, the user enters this information through an on-screen virtual keyboard. In some embodiments, authorized third parties, such as a user's primary care physician, can enter and update this information by means of a program in communication with device502. App518contains and displays identifying information for the user. In some embodiments, such identifying information takes the form of a virtual government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver's license. In some embodiments, such a virtual government-issued ID is securely loaded onto device502at a government office through, for example, jack520or wirelessly.

Device502includes a jack520(shown here in phantom) with which to charge a battery that powers device502and to provide a hard-wired connection to device502from other devices, for example to transfer information to device502.

FIG.5Bis a schematic diagram550of an exemplary back side of a cover532for an all-in-one multi-access device that also acts as an access card linked to a financial account in one embodiment. In this embodiment, the thickness of cover532may roughly match the thickness of standard credit and debit cards. Thus, cover532provides backwards compatibility for merchant terminals with which the device cannot communicate wirelessly. Cover532includes a magnetic strip552which encodes financial account access information magnetically. In this embodiment, magnetic strip552is compatible with merchant terminals or other access management devices that read account information (such as financial account access information) or other access information that is encoded magnetically on magnetic strip552. Cover532includes an integrated circuit chip554which encodes financial account access information digitally. In this embodiment, chip554is compatible with merchant terminals or other access management devices that read account information (such as financial account access information) or other access information that is encoded digitally on chip554. As noted above with reference toFIG.3, multi-access device502may have an RFID chip to enable payments to merchants that have RFID-enabled terminals.

FIG.6Ais an illustration600of how an emergency medical technician608may access a user's all-in-one multi-access device604to view medical information in one embodiment. In this embodiment, user602is incapacitated due to a medical emergency. In this embodiment, device604is locked. In most embodiments, device606may use a special code provided to EMTs and other medical personnel to unlock device604. Emergency medical technician608uses an emergency information display device606to send a signal to device604which causes device604to display on its screen identifying information and medical information about user602. In this embodiment, user602has stored such information on device604using an app which facilitates the display of this information when triggered by emergency information display device606. Note that in this embodiment, device604is still locked, and only the information that has been so stored by the user is displayed on the display of device604.

FIG.6Bis an illustration640of personal and medical information650an emergency medical technician views using a user's all-in-one multi-access device in one embodiment. In this embodiment, an emergency information display device deployed by the emergency medical technician triggers the display of personal and medical information650on the user's all-in-one multi-access device. Medical and personal information650so displayed includes the user's name652; the user's date of birth654; the user's phone number662; and other medical factors pertaining to care for the user. In illustration640, a medical factor656identifies the user as being diabetic; medical factor658notes that the user suffers from high blood pressure; and a medical factor660identifies the user as asthmatic.

FIG.7Ais an illustration700of a user708communicating wirelessly via an all-in-one multi-access device710with a store702, in one embodiment. In this embodiment, a master local wireless device704associated with store702broadcasts a device search signal706with which to temporarily connect wirelessly via, for example, a WiFi network, to users' devices, such as device710. In this embodiment, a virtual coupon app running on device710mediates the potential connection between master local wireless device704and the user's device710. If the virtual coupon app allows such a connection, then the user's device710sends a return signal712to master local wireless device704. This then triggers master local wireless device704to send current store information, such as coupons, over the store's WiFi network, to the user's device710for display to user708. In some embodiments, after master local wireless device704sends this information to device710, it terminates the local wireless connection to device710.

In some embodiments, user708programs a virtual coupon app to allow connections to some stores (for example, for the receipt of store coupons) and not for others. In some embodiments, upon the receipt of search signal706by device710, device710posts a message to the user asking if she would like to connect to master wireless device704for the receipt of coupons and other current store information. In some embodiments, such a connection between master local wireless device704and device710may occur over the store's WiFi network or other appropriate network.

In an alternative embodiment, rather than device710displaying store information (such as coupons) based upon a local wireless connection between device710and a master device associated with store702, device710may display store information (such as member identification information for the store) using other triggers. In some embodiments, such a trigger could be the GPS location of the store. In this embodiment, user708has programmed device710so that when its GPS coordinates match the GPS coordinates of the store, within pre-defined limits, member identification information for the store may be displayed on a display of device710.

FIG.7Bis an illustration740of exemplary coupons750a user may view upon entering a store using their all-in-one multi-access device in one embodiment. In this embodiment, using an app operating on device704, the store sends coupons750to the user's device when the store has detected that the user has entered the store. For example, it may do so by establishing a local wireless connection over the store's WiFi network between the user's device and a store device. In illustration740, coupons750include a coupon752for sweaters; a coupon754for boots; and a coupon756for coats.

FIG.8Ais an illustration800of a user802using an all-in-one multi-access device804to wirelessly make a purchase, in one embodiment. In this embodiment, user802uses an RFID chip in her multi-access device804to communicate with an RFID reader installed in the merchant's terminal814to wirelessly make a purchase at a store. For context, a store employee812is shown in illustration800. In this embodiment, a virtual pay app running on device804mediates this wireless purchase. In this embodiment, the virtual pay app stores the necessary financial account information to allow user802to consummate the wireless purchase.

In some embodiments, this financial account information is loaded into the virtual pay app806when the device receives a deployable chip card and/or a deployable magnetic strip provided by an affiliate of the financial institution itself, or when virtual pay app806is authorized by the financial institution in the case of an RFID chip-enabled embodiment. In some embodiments, the user can load these financial credentials into the virtual pay app by wirelessly transferring these credentials from a different device associated with the financial account, for example a smartphone to which the user has assigned a debit card for the financial account.

In this embodiment, user802indicates, for example by using a touchscreen on device802, that she would like to use the virtual payment app to make this purchase. Device804then wirelessly sends a connection signal816using an RFID chip, for example, initiating this purchase to a mobile pay platform running on merchant terminal814. Upon receipt of user802's financial account credentials stored by the virtual payment app, the mobile pay platform verifies and then debits the associated financial account of user802.

FIG.8Bis an illustration850of a screen showing information displayed by a virtual payment app806running on an all-in-one multi-access device during a wireless purchase in one embodiment. In this embodiment, such information includes an amount of the proposed purchase808and an account number810associated with user804.

FIG.9Ais an illustration900of a user902wirelessly acquiring a key code on his all-in-one multi-access device904in one embodiment. In this example, user902has registered for a room in a hotel and wishes to store a key code for this room on device904. For context, illustration900shows a hotel employee924. A hotel device920, which in some embodiments is a computer, and device904initiate a local wireless connection906which may occur via an RFID chip such as chip318shown inFIG.3or via other communications technologies such as Bluetooth or IEEE 802.11. Connection906is mediated by a virtual key app running on device904. When hotel device920and device904verify the integrity of wireless connection906, hotel device920transfers a key code for the rented room via a transfer signal922so that the RFID chip may receive a code that would unlock the specific hotel room door rented to user902. In this embodiment, such a key code would be transmitted by user902via an RFID chip such as RFID chip318shown inFIG.3to unlock the door to the hotel room assigned to the user. In other embodiments, multi-access device904may use other near field communications technologies that are compatible with the hotel's door lock system.

FIG.9Bis an illustration950of a screen showing information displayed on a screen908by a virtual key app912running on an all-in-one multi-access device904while it acquires a key code in one embodiment. In this embodiment, such information includes a designation910for this particular key code. In this embodiment, because the user stores multiple key codes on device904, each separate key code requires its own designation. When the user wishes to unlock the door of his rented room, he selects this designated key from his all-in-one multi-access device. That device transmits this key code to the door of his room, which then unlocks the door upon receipt of this code.

The embodiments illustrated inFIGS.7A,7B,8A,8B,9A and9Bthat use RFID technology perform best if the RFID chip is an active RFID chip that is powered by a battery, since active RFID chip generally have a longer range than passive RFID chips. However, as noted above, other technologies that are compatible with the hotel's systems, such as NFC or Bluetooth, may be used.

FIG.10Ais a schematic diagram1000showing how a user loads a virtual ticket1010onto his or her all-in-one multi-access device1018in one embodiment. In this embodiment, a ticket selling company1002sells tickets to an event online via a ticketing server1004connected to the Internet, for example. The user uses a laptop1006, also connected to the Internet, running a company-specific app1008to connect to server1004to purchase a virtual ticket1010to the event.

In this embodiment, the user can then wirelessly transfer virtual ticket1010to device1018via a virtual ticketing app1016running on device1018. Upon initiation by the user, device1018and laptop1006initiate a local wireless connection. In some embodiments, such a local wireless connection may occur via Bluetooth or NFC protocols. Then, the user can transfer the credentials associated with virtual ticket1010to a virtual ticket generated and stored by virtual ticketing app1016.

In some embodiments, virtual ticketing app1016, upon request by the user, displays on a screen1012of device1018a facsimile of a paper ticket that includes event and ticket purchase information. In some embodiments, virtual ticket app1016broadcasts a code corresponding to the purchased ticket for wireless access to the event.

FIG.10Bis an illustration1050of a screen1024showing a virtual ticket1022loaded onto an all-in-one multi-access device in one embodiment. In this embodiment, laptop1006has loaded ticket1022onto the multi-access device using the method outlined with reference toFIG.10A. In some embodiments, the user may then display virtual ticket1022to gain access to a private event.

Although in the example shown inFIG.10A, a virtual ticket is loaded onto all-in-one multi-access device1018, a similar process could be undertaken to load financial credentials associated with the user into a virtual pay app running on device1018. In an alternative embodiment, rather than loading financial credentials into a virtual pay app, a defined amount of money credits (for example, $50) could be loaded onto device1018for the user to spend. In a further alternative embodiment, rather than laptop1006loading a defined amount of money credits onto device1018, loading money credits could be done from another device. For example, another all-in-one multi-access device that also has a virtual payment app and using its user's own financial credentials, could load a defined amount of money onto device1018via a wireless. In some embodiments, such a connection could be implemented using Bluetooth or NFC protocols, or could be accomplished remotely over the Internet.

FIG.11Ais a schematic diagram1100of a perspective view from the front of a credit-card-shaped embodiment of an all-in-one multi-access device1102. In this embodiment, multi-access device1102may comprise distinct regions, including a main body screen region1154, a magnetic strip region1152, and a chip region1150.

For purposes of understanding the different regions of the device, reference is made to the device's outer edges, including a first (or top) edge1180, a second (or right) edge1182, a third (or bottom) edge1184, and a fourth (or left) edge1186. Additionally, reference is made to a first inner boundary1106and a second inner boundary1108. These inner boundaries correspond to regions where the thickness of the device may change.

Chip region1150extends from a first edge1180at the top of all-in-one multi-access device1102inwards to second interior boundary1108. Chip region1150also extends from second edge1182to the opposing fourth edge1186. Magnetic strip region1152extends from second edge1182inwards to first interior boundary1106. Magnetic strip region1152also extends from first edge1180to the opposing third edge1184. As seen inFIG.11A, there may be an overlap of chip region1150and magnetic strip region1152in a corner of multi-access device1102, adjacent where first edge1180and second edge1182meet.

Main body region1154comprises a region of multi-access device1102that extends between fourth edge1186and first interior boundary1106along a width of the device, and between third edge1184and second interior boundary1108along a part of the length of the device.

Main body region1154includes a display screen1156. In this example, display screen1156shows exemplary apps, such as app1130, app1132, app1134, app1136, app1138and app1140. In this example, app1130is a virtual pay app that provides the link between device1102and one or more financial accounts associated with the user. App1136is a virtual key app that a user could use to unlock locks at doors or otherwise gain entry to physical places such as cars, buildings garages, parking lots, homes and offices, using codes previously loaded into the multi-access device. App1132may be a virtual-coupon app through which stores with compatible systems and networks could transmit store coupons and sales information to device1102. App1134may contain and display a user's personal critical health information. App1138may be a virtual ticketing app that displays virtual tickets that, for example, a user may have purchased using app1138to gain entry to entertainment or transportation venues. App1140may contain and display identifying or useful information such as a driver's license, a passport, a visa, a car registration, an employee ID or an insurance card.

In this embodiment, multi-access device1102may include a communications antenna1146(shown inFIG.11Ain phantom) for wirelessly exchanging data and instructions between device1102and other compatible devices such as merchant terminals and devices that manage access to physical spaces, for example. Multi-access device1102may also include an RFID chip, such as RFID chip318shown inFIG.3, which could be used to make purchases at RFID reader-enabled merchant terminals. In this embodiment, device1102includes a rechargeable battery1142(shown in phantom) which provides power to operate multi-access device1102and a jack1144which provides the connection for charging battery1142. In some embodiments, battery1142may be charged using induction coupling (in which cases jack1144may not be needed). In other embodiments, battery1142is a replaceable battery rather than a rechargeable battery (in which case jack1144may also not be needed). In yet other embodiments, the components in multi-access device1102may be powered by an RFID power supply circuit. Main body screen region1154may also include other components shown inFIG.2andFIG.3.

Magnetic strip region1152includes a magnetic strip1104. It has the thickness required to allow magnetic strip region1152to slide through a magnetic strip reader at a merchant terminal. Chip region1150includes a chip1110, which has the thickness required to insert the chip region1150into a chip reader at a merchant terminal.

In the embodiment ofFIG.11A, the length and width of the device generally match the length and width of a conventional credit card. In some embodiments, multi-access device1102has a roughly uniform thickness, while in other embodiments, multi-access device may have different thicknesses. In the embodiment shown inFIG.11A, the three regions of multi-access device1102may have different thicknesses. Specifically, the thickness of both chip region1150and magnetic strip region1152may be substantially less than the thickness of main body region1154.

As noted above, in some embodiments, chip region1150has a thickness that is selected so that chip region1150can slide into a conventional chip reader. Likewise, as also noted above, magnetic strip region1152has a thickness that is selected so that magnetic strip region1152can slide into a conventional magnetic strip reader. In some embodiments, the thicknesses of chip region1150and magnetic strip region1152may match the thickness of a conventional credit card. By contrast, the thickness of main body screen region1154may be selected to physically accommodate all of the various components, such as a battery, an antenna, and a memory, as well as the other components described above.

FIG.11Bis an exemplary illustration1170of an end view of the multi-access device ofFIG.11A, as seen from the bottom, in an embodiment. In this embodiment, the magnetic strip region1152has a thickness that is substantially less that the thickness of the main body screen region1154. Thus, in this embodiment, main body screen region1154has a thickness T11120that is substantially greater than the thickness T21122of the magnetic strip region1152.

In this embodiment, thickness T2 substantially matches the thickness of a conventional credit card. For example, in one embodiment, thickness T2 may be within approximately 10% of the thickness of a conventional credit card. As described above, a conventional credit card may have an approximate thickness of 0.75 mm.FIG.11Balso identifies the width W1126of multi-access device1102.

FIG.11Cis an exemplary illustration1190of a side view from the right side of device1102. This view shows that the thickness T31124of device1102may be less in the chip region1150than in the main body screen region1154. Thus, in this embodiment main body screen region1154has a thickness T1 that is substantially greater than the thickness T3 of chip region1150. In some embodiments, thickness T3 of chip region1150substantially matches the thickness of a conventional credit card. For example, in one embodiment, thickness T3 may be within approximately 10% of the thickness of a conventional credit card.FIG.11calso identifies the length L1128of multi-access device1102.

Although the embodiments show a device with regions having different thicknesses, in other embodiments a multi-access device could have a substantially constant thickness everywhere. Moreover, to ensure that the device may be backwards compatible with magnetic strip readers and chip readers, the thickness of a device with a uniform thickness may be approximately equal to the thickness of a conventional credit card. In such embodiments, the features of the device may be selected to ensure that the necessary components to perform those features can fit into a main body region with a thickness approximately matching that of a conventional credit card.

While various embodiments have been described above, the description is intended to be exemplary, rather than limiting and it will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art that many more embodiments and implementations are possible that are within the scope of the invention. Accordingly, the invention is not to be restricted except in light of the attached claims and their equivalents. Also, various modifications and changes may be made within the scope of the attached claims.