Smart sign mobile transit fare payment

US8376227B2 · kind B2 · utility

Inventors

• Ayman Hammad · Pleasanton, US
• Phil Dixon · San Diego, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Jan 17, 2012
• Grant date: Feb 19, 2013
• Expiry date: Jan 17, 2032

Classification

• Technology area (CPC G): Physics
• CPC primary: G07F17/42
• WIPO field: IT methods for management
• WIPO sector: Electrical engineering

Abstract

A system and method for facilitating the payment and collection of transit system fares using a mobile device utilizes a smart sign including near field communication (NFC) devices that communicate with a contactless element embedded within a mobile wireless device. Each NFC device is associated with a different transit location. The NFC devices may be included on the same smart sign located at one transit location or on different smart signs located at different transit locations. Alternatively, one NFC device may be included on a smart sign at a departure location and another NFC device may be activated when or after the user enters the transit system to provide proof of fare purchase. The mobile device is positioned proximate the NFC devices to activate the NFC devices and access fare and/or schedule information or purchase a fare.