WO2003077076A2

WO2003077076A2 - Automated cashier machine

Info

Publication number: WO2003077076A2
Application number: PCT/US2003/007236
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kirk Sanford
Original assignee: Global Cash Access
Priority date: 2002-03-06
Filing date: 2003-03-06
Publication date: 2003-09-18
Also published as: AU2003228300A1; WO2003077076A3; AU2003228300A8

Abstract

A check cashing function is selected at the automated cashier machine (12). Identifying information is received for a user and the identifying information is verified (22). Facial biometrics are used to verify the image (22). A requested amount for withdraw is received and disbursed after the image is verified.

Description

AUTOMATED CASHIER MACHINE

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS [0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 60/362,354, filed on March 6, 2002. The U.S. Provisional Patent Application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety for all purposes.

1. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates in general to money distribution and more specifically, to a method and system for cashing a check using an automated cashier machine.

2. DESCRIPTION OF PRIOR ART

[0003] A check owner may cash a check in many ways. For example, a check owner may typically cash a check at an institution. If the receiving institution chooses to accept the check, the institution disperses the amount of the check to the check owner. However, the process of cashing a check may be tedious and time consuming. For example, the institution will typically require at least one form of identification from the user before dispersing the check amount to the user. Further, the check owner must present an ID every time a check is cashed. Additionally, the check owner must find an institution that will cash a check. In contrast to Automated Teller Machines (ATMs), which are easily accessible, institutions that cash checks are not as prevalent and easy to find. Thus, every time the check owner wants to cash a check, the same process of going to the institution, filling out the check, and presenting an ID has to be followed. [0004] As mentioned above, ATMs may provide a user with convenient access to cash. However, a user may only withdrawal cash if the user has an ATM card and pin number. Thus, a user without an ATM card or pin number cannot withdrawal cash from the ATM machine. Further, a check owner may not cash a check at an ATM machine even if the owner had an ATM card and pin number. A check owner has to cash a check at an institution that cashes checks. [0005] One example of an institution that cashes checks is a gaming establishment. Gaming establishments provide betting games and want to provide customers with easy access to as much money as possible. Thus, ATM machines are provided throughout the establishment allowing a customer easy access to money using an ATM card. A casino cage is also provided where a customer may cash a check. However, as stated above, the customer would have to show an ID and fill out the check. Typically, a gaming establishment only provides one or two casino cages compared to the numerous ATMs. Thus, long lines can form at the cage that can deter potential customers from going through the process of cashing a check while ATM machines remain unused because they are faster and dispersed throughout the establishment. Accordingly, an establishment may lose a potential customer's business because a customer may not want to go through the tedious process of cashing a check.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION [0006] The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for cashing a check using an automated cashier machine. In one embodiment, a check cashing function is selected at the automated cashier machine. Identifying information is received for a user and the identifying information is verified. Once the information is verified, an identifying image of the user is taken and then verified. In one embodiment, facial biometrics is used to verify the image. A requested amount for withdraw is received and disbursed after the image is verified. [0007] In one embodiment, a method for cashing a check at an automated cashier machine (ACM) using a profile of a user is provided. The method comprises: receiving a request for cashing the check at the ACM; taking an identifying image of the user; verifying the identifying image of the user with the profile of the user and either approving or disapproving the request based upon the verification; obtaining an amount for withdrawal if the verification is approved; and dispensing the amount for withdrawal to the user.

[0008] A further understanding of the major advantages Of the invention herein may be realized by reference to the remaining portions of the specification and the attached drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS [0009] Fig. 1 illustrates a simplified system for cashing a check using an automated cashier machine (ACM) according to one embodiment;

[0010] Fig. 2 illustrates an embodiment of a method for cashing a check using the automated cashier machine; [0011] Fig. 3 illustrates a method generating a physical check according to one embodiment; and

[0012] Fig.4 illustrates a method for enrolling a customer in the ACM system according to one embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] In Fig. 1, a system 10 for cashing a check using an automated cashier machine (ACM) 12 is provided according to one embodiment of the present invention. In one embodiment, system 10 includes automated cashier machine (ACM) 12, a cashier system 14, a server 20, and a ACM computer system 18. [0014] System 10 is linked together via a communication conduit or channel. The communication channel may be wireless, telephonic, or any other communication system. Additionally, the channel may be via the global internetwork of networks generally referred to as the Internet. A communication channel may also be a combination of communication types. ACM 12, cashier system 14, and ACM computer system 18 are coupled directly and/or indirectly to each other through the server 20. Also, it will be apparent to one skilled in the art that there can be one server, multiple servers, or no server.

[0015] Automated cashier machine 12 is capable of receiving a request for cashing a check, taking a picture of a person, and dispensing money. In a specific embodiment, cashier machine 12 is an ATM machine capable of taking a picture of a person. [0016] In one embodiment, ACM 12 includes an input device, such as keypad or touchscreen, where a user enters identifying information that uniquely identifies the user. For example, identifying information includes at least one of a social security number or a part of a social security number, a driver's license number, a passport number, a date of birth, or an account number. In another embodiment, ACM 12 includes a check reader that reads identifying information from a check, such as an account number. The check reader may include a MICR (Magnetic Ink Character Recognition) reader that reads a user's account number from the check. Additionally, the check reader may read other identifying information from the check, such as a name, phone number, or address. Identifying information uniquely identifies the user but the information does not need to be kept secret because an identifying image is taken as an extra security measure. Verifying the identifying image ensures that the user requesting a transaction is the authorized user. [0017] ACM 12 also includes a picture taking device, display device, and cash dispenser. A picture taking device may be any device capable of taking a picture such as a digital camera, traditional camera, or Internet web camera.

[0018] Server 20 is capable of receiving and forwarding communications to and from components of the system 10. In one embodiment, server 20 is a web server.

[0019] ACM computer system 18 may be any system capable of verifying the picture taken by ACM 12. ACM computer system 18 may be separate from ACM 12 or may be part of ACM 12. In one embodiment, ACM computer system 18 includes a processor and memory. The processor may be, for example, a computer, work station, mainframe, pocket PC, personal digital assistant, etc. The processor also preferably includes or is in communication with a verification process 22 and database 24. Verification process 22 communicates with database 24 in order to verify that the picture taken by ACM 12 matches a profile or picture of the user in database 24. A profile may include an image of the user or a corresponding entry representing the image that is used to verify the picture taken by ACM 12. Additionally, a profile may include identifying information about the user, such as a driver's license number, passport number, social security number, and customer account number. [0020] In one embodiment, verification process 22 employs an algorithm based on facial biometrics. In a specific embodiment, facial biometrics mapping using a sophisticated algorithm based on Principal Component Analysis (PCA) by Viisage Technology Inc. is used. The PCA uses software that translates the characteristics of the face of the user into a unique set of numbers, which can be referred to as an Eigenface. The Eigenface is sent to verification process 22, which compares the unique set of numbers to a pre-existing profile or Eigenface for the user in database 24. A match of the user's image or Eigenface to the user's profile associated with the user's identifying information may be conducted. [0021] Also, a person of skill in the art will appreciate other methods of verifying a user's identifying image. For example, in another specific embodiment, facial biometrics mapping using Visionics Corp. Facelt« product may be used. The product maps an individual's identity into a complex mathematical formula called a faceprint. Local Feature Analysis (LFA) is used to represent facial images in terms of local statistically derived building blocks. LFA then compares faceprints and verifies a user's picture. Other methods of verification known in the art may also be used, such as iris, voice signature, and fingerprint technology. [0022] Verification process 22 may use any aspects of the profile in verifying that the user that requested the transaction matches the user profile. For example, verification process 22 may verify just the picture of the user or verify the picture and the social security number of the user.

[0023] Verification process 22 also determines if a user's transaction should be authorized after process 22 verifies the identity of the user. For example, process 22 may check a rating of the user's account maintained in database 24 and determine if the user's requested transaction should be authorized based on the user's account. Factors used in the determination may include if the user's account is in good standing, the previous transactions of the user, and credit checks of the user. In another embodiment, ACM computer system 18 interacts with a financial institution or authorizing service that authorizes the user's requested transaction.

[0024] In one embodiment, ACM computer system 18 further includes a check writing system capable of generating a check. In a specific embodiment, the check writing system is a laser MICR system capable of generating a MICR representing an account number on the check. In one embodiment, the account number is the customer's account number. Additionally, the check writer system may include processes capable of generating a check containing, for example, the customer account number, the signature of the customer, the amount represented on the original check, an ACM computer system authorization code, and other personal information about the customer (i.e., address, ID number, etc.). The check writer system preferably generates a check capable of being deposited at the financial institution.

[0025] In another embodiment, ACM computer system 18 supports Electronic Checks. An electronic check directly debits a users account without using a physical check. [0026] Cashier system 14 may be any system capable of enrolling a user into ACM computer system 18. In one embodiment, cashier system 14 may include a check reader, check writer, and computer. The check writer may also be similar to the check writer of ACM computer system 18. The computer may be any computing device capable of communicating with ACM computer system 18. Cashier system 14 may also include a human operator to facilitate enrolling the user in ACM computer system 18. In one embodiment, the check number is inputted into cashier system 14 instead of using a check reader to read the check.

[0027] Referring to Fig. 2, a method for cashing a check using the ACM system according to one embodiment is provided. The method may be used to obtain cash or any item of value, such as a money order, check, travelers check, credit from an institution, gaming chips, etc., from ACM 12. In step S200, a user requests a check cashing option at ACM 12. [0028] In step S202, identifying information is received from the user. In one embodiment, identifying information is inputted by the user through the input device. For example, identifying information is at least a part of the user's social security number and the user's date of birth. In another embodiment, the user inserts a check and identifying information is read from the check by the check reader.

[0029] In step S204, the method determines if the identifying information matches a user account. In one embodiment, verification process 22 communicates with database 24 to determine if the customer's identifying information is found in database 24. If the user has multiple accounts, the user can be prompted to choose which account is applicable for the transaction. In addition to determining if the user has an account, information may be retrieved that indicates a standing for the user. For example, the user may be in a good or bad standing. Based on the standing, certain restrictions may be placed on the user's transaction. The user may be required to enter more information, such as a full social security number or be restricted to an account that can be withdrawn. [0030] If the identifying information is not found in database 24, the customer is notified that a picture must be taken for enrollment purposes in step S206. In step S208, a picture of the user is taken. A receipt is then printed and the user is provided instructions indicating that the user must enroll in the ACM system at cashier system 14, hereinafter described in step S210. [0031] If the identifying information is found in database 24, the user is notified a picture is going to be taken and the picture is taken in step S212.

[0032] In step S214, the method verifies the picture that was taken. Facial biometrics is used to verify the picture that was taken to a user profile on record. If the picture is not verified, a receipt is printed and instructions are provided to the user sending the user to cashier system 16 for re-enrollment in step S216. If the picture was verified, in one embodiment, other requirements may be tested in step S218. For example, the method verifies if a valid signature is found in database 24 or if the identifying information is correct. [0033] If the other requirements are not met, a receipt is printed and instructions are provided to the user sending the user to cashier system 16 for re-enrollment in step S216. If the other requirements are met, consent for the use of a digital signature on file is received from the user in step S218.

[0034] In step S220, the customer is prompted to enter an amount for withdrawal. The customer may also be notified of any applicable service fees and the customer must agree to these service fees to proceed. [0035] In step S222, the method determines if the amount is greater than a limit for withdrawal amounts for ACM 12. Also, if any restrictions were determined for the user, the withdrawal limit may be affected or changed. If the amount is greater than the limit for withdrawal the method reiterates to step S222, where a user enters another withdrawal amount. If the amount is not greater than the limit, the check transaction is processed in step S224. In one embodiment, the transaction including the amount for withdrawal is sent to ACM computer system 18 for authorization. In another embodiment, the transaction may be sent to a financial institution or third party for authorization. Also, the transaction may be processed without authorization. In this case, authorization may be given for factors such as whether a user's account is in good standing in place of authorization from a financial institution.

[0036] In step S226, the method determines if the transaction was authorized. If the transaction is authorized, the amount for withdrawal is dispensed and a receipt is printed in step S228. Additionally, a physical check may be generated or an electronic check may be used. The customer may also be informed that an on-file digital signature is being used. [0037] If the transaction was not authorized, the user is notified that a transaction was denied in step S230.

[0038] Referring to Fig. 3, a method for generating a physical check for deposit at a financial institution is illustrated according to one embodiment. In step S300, ACM computer system 18 receives a verification request. Once the transaction is approved, ACM computer system 18 generates a physical check sufficient for deposit at a financial institution in step S301. In the specific embodiment, a laser MICR system is used to regenerate the MICR of the original check. Additionally, the customer account number, digital signature of the customer, amount of the check, the ACM computer system authorization code, and other personal information about the customer can be imprinted on the check. The check is then sent to financial institution and deposited in step S302. Once the check is cleared, all funds on the check are returned to ACM computer system 18 for collections in step S303. [0039] Additionally, an electronic check may be used. la this example, an electronic check is generated and sent to a financial institution and the user's account is debited. [0040] Fig. 4 illustrates a method for enrolling a customer in ACM system 18 at cashier system 14 according to one embodiment. If a customer is given instructions that enrollment or re-enrollment is necessary, the customer may then proceed to cashier 14 for enrollment in ACM system 18. In another embodiment, the customer may first proceed to cashier 14 to enroll in ACM system 18 without first accessing ACM 12. In this case, the customer provides identifying information for the check and has a picture taken at the cashier similar to the steps shown in Fig. 2.

[0041] In step S400, identifying information is read from the check at cashier 14 using a check reader. In a specific embodiment, the MICR of the check is read using a MICR reader connected to the ACM computer system 18. In another embodiment, identifying information may be directly received from the user instead of from a check. In step S401, computer system 18 determines if a picture of the customer has previously been taken. If not, an identifying image of the customer is taken in step S402. Ifthe customer has already had a picture taken, the picture and the customer account information may be retrieved from database 24 of ACM computer system 18 and shown on the display screen of a cashier computer in step S403.

[0042] Cashier 14 then requests a valid customer picture ID from the user in step S404. A valid customer picture ID may be, for example, any government issued ID such as a driver's license, passport, etc. In step S405, cashier 14 compares the ID to the retrieved picture on the screen and validates the picture if there is a match. Ifthe picture ID is not validated, the enrollment process ends in step S406. Ifthe picture ID is validated with the screen picture, the customer may request a withdrawal amount in step S407. The withdrawal amount may be for cash or any item of value, such as a traveler's check, credit at the casino or gambling chips. The transaction is then sent to ACM computer system 18 for approval in step S408. [0043] The method determines ifthe transaction was approved in step S409. If ACM computer system 18 disapproves the transaction, the customer may re-enroll in the system in step S410. Ifthe transaction is approved, cashier computer system 14 generates a physical check sufficient for deposit at financial institution 16 using a check writer system, such as a laser MICR system in step S411. The new check may, for example, contain the MICR information, the cashier's name on the "pay to" line, the customer account number, the amount of the check, an ACM authorization code, and other personal information about the customer (i.e., address, ID number, etc.). In step S412, a signature of the customer is obtained on the check and an electronic signature is captured. The amount of the withdrawal is then disbursed to the customer in step S413. In another embodiment, an electronic check may be generated in place of a physical check instead of generating a physical check. [0044] The above description is illustrated but not restrictive. Many variations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon review of this disclosure. The scope of the invention should, therefore, be determined not with reference to the above description, but instead should be determined with reference to the pending claims along with their full scope or equivalence.

Claims

WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A method for cashing a check at an automated cashier machine (ACM) using a profile of a user, the method comprising: receiving a request for cashing the check at the ACM; taking an identifying image of the user; verifying the identifying image of the user with the profile of the user and either approving or disapproving the request based upon the verification; obtaining an amount for withdrawal ifthe verification is approved; and dispensing the amount for withdrawal to the user.

2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the identifying image of the user is a picture of the user.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein the profile comprises a picture of the user.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein verifying the identifying image comprises matching the profile picture and identifying image picture.

5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising receiving identifying information from the user.

6. The method of claim 5, wherein the identifying information uniquely identifies the user.

7. The method of claim 5, wherein the identifying information is received from a check from the user.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the identifying information from the check comprises an account number.

9. The method of claim 5, wherein the identifying information comprises at least one of a date of birth, at least part of a social security number, a driver's license number, and a passport number.

10. The method of claim 5, wherein the profile includes identifying information.

11. The method of claim 10, wherein the profile identifying information comprises at least one of a driver's license number, at least part of a social security number, a BIN number, a passport number, and a customer account number.

12. The method of claim 10, further comprising verifying the identifying information from the user to the profile identifying information.

13. The method of claim 1, wherein verifying the identifying image comprises verifying the identifying image using facial biometrics.

14. The method of claim 1, further comprising authorizing the amount for withdrawal.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein authorizing the amount for withdrawal comprises: determining if an account for the user is in good standing; and authorizing the amount for withdrawal ifthe account is in good standing.

16. The method of claim 1 , further comprising using an electronic check for the amount of the withdrawal.

17. The method of claim 16, further comprising receiving funds for the electronic check.

18. The method of claim 1 , further comprising generating a physical check for the amount of the withdrawal, wherein the check is sufficient for deposit at a financial institution.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising using an electronic signature of the user on the physical check.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising receiving funds for the check from the financial institution.

21. The method of claim 1 , further comprising enrolling a user.

22. The method of claim 1 , wherein the amount for withdrawal comprises cash.

23. The method of claim 1 , wherein the amount for withdrawal comprises an item of value.

24. A method for cashing a check at an automated cashier machine (ACM) for a user, the method comprising: receiving a request for cashing the check at the ACM; receiving identifying information from the user; verifying the identifying information for the user; ifthe identifying information is verified, taking an identifying image of the user; verifying the identifying image of the user to a user profile associated with the identifying information and either approving or disapproving the request based upon the . verification; obtaining an amount for withdrawal ifthe verification is approved; and dispensing the amount for withdrawal to the user.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the identifying image of the user is a picture of the user.

26. The method of claim 25, wherein the profile comprises a picture of the user.

27. The method of claim 29, wherein verifying the identifying image comprises matching the profile picture and identifying image picture.

28. The method of claim 24, wherein the identifying information uniquely identifies the user.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the identifying information comprises at least one of a date of birth, at least part of a social security number, a driver's license number, and a passport number.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein the identifying information is received from a check from the user.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the check information comprises an account number.

32. The method of claim 24, wherein verifying the identifying image comprises verifying the identifying image using facial biometrics.

33. The method of claim 24, further comprising authorizing the amount for withdrawal.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein authorizing the amount for withdrawal comprises determining if an account for the user is in good standing; and authorizing the amount for withdrawal ifthe account is in good standing.

35. The method of claim 24, further comprising generating an electronic check for the amount of the withdrawal.

36. The method of claim 35, further comprising receiving funds for the check.

37. The method of claim 24, further comprising generating a physical check for the amount of the withdrawal, wherein the check is sufficient for deposit at a financial institution.

38. The method of claim 37, further comprising using an electronic signature of the user on the physical check.

39. The method of claim 37, further comprising receiving funds for the check from the financial institution.

40. The method of claim 24, further comprising enrolling a user.

41. The method of claim 24, wherein the amount for withdrawal comprises cash.

42. The method of claim 24, wherein the amount for withdrawal comprises an item of value.

43. A system for cashing a check of a user, the system comprising:. an automated cashier machine (ACM) configured to receive a request for cashing the check and take an identifying image of the user; and an ACM system configured to verify the identifying image of the user and approve or disapprove the request, wherein the ACM is configured to dispense money ifthe transaction was approved.

44. The system of claim43, wherein the ACM is configured to receive identifying information from the user.

45. The system of claim 43, wherein the ACM computer system is configured to verify the user's identifying information.

46. The system of claim 43, wherein the ACM computer system comprises a verification process.

47 The system of claim 46, wherein the verification process uses biometric analysis to verify the identifying image to the profile of the user.

48. The system of claim 43, wherein the ACM computer system comprises a database, wherein the database stores the profile of the user.

49. The system of claim 43, wherein the ACM computer system is configured to generate a physical check sufficient for deposit at a financial institution.

50. The system of claim 43, wherein the physical check comprises a digital signature for the user.

51. The system of claim 43 , wherein the ACM computer system is configured to generate an electronic check.