Citigroup Patents Granted

Patents granted to Citigroup by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).

  • Patent number: 6552850
    Abstract: The present invention provides a device, method, and system for secure viewing and use of banking and other electronic access devices. The present invention comprises a computer/video display system that includes a computer with a conventional screen that displays a polarized screen image and a polarized partition that allows viewing of the screen by the user positioned in front of the display, while preventing viewing by secondary observers. The present invention operates in conjunction with a standard liquid crystal display (LCD), using the intact polarizer of the LCD. The present invention is intended to be used in conjunction with an automatic teller machine/customer access terminal (ATM/CAT) or personal computer (PC) to allow privacy of information displayed to the ATM/CAT or PC user, without preventing observation of the ATM/CAT or PC user.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 22, 2003
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Edward Dudasik
  • Patent number: 6527171
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a system and method for assisting a visually impaired individual in performing a financial transaction at an automated teller machine, comprising initiating a visually impaired transaction session through a preset event at the automated teller machine; wherein the automated teller machine comprises a touch screen display for displaying operation instructions to a customer and for receiving input from a customer; an output jack for providing signals which can be converted to audible sounds by means of a headset; a bill dispensing mechanism for dispensing a bank not corresponding to a specified amount; a receipt issuing unit for printing a transaction content and for issuing a receipt on which the transaction content is printed; and a controller connected to the card reader, the touch screen display, the output jack, the bill dispensing unit, and the receipt issuing unit, the controller providing signals to the output jack corresponding to information provided on the touch scre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 22, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center Inc.
    Inventors: Robert Brooks, Edward M. R. Dudasik, Stephen M. Gryte, Michael L. Sears
  • Patent number: 6510983
    Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method enabling value stored in an advanced technology memory on a transaction card to be utilized in a magnetic stripe transaction with the card. The invention provides a special transaction number that is encrypted and recorded on the magnetic stripe of the card. The special transaction number comprises the value to be transferred or transaction amount, a personal identification number (“PIN”), and an account number. The special transaction number is recorded in a non-discretionary data field. Further, an indicator character may also be recorded on the magnetic stripe to alert a host system of a financial institution of the existence of the special transaction number. Thus, the special transaction number is read during a magnetic stripe transaction and the value represented by the special transaction number may be utilized to perform the transaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 28, 2003
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Edward Horowitz, Joseph C. Kawan, Henry Lichstein
  • Patent number: 6508397
    Abstract: An enhanced-security automated bank teller machine/customer activated teller (ATM/CAT). The ATM/CAT includes a multi-level security system. The first line of defense is access control to the service area behind the ATM/CAT through the use of an electronic lock on the service area door with an emergency override, which is only operable during non-curfew hours. The second line of defense is a passive infrared (PIR) detector in the service area, and lights and a loudspeaker to deter theft. The third line of defense is an impact sensor panel covering the security chest, which can be cheaply replaced. The fourth line of defense is the steel or composite material security chest and boltwork, which locks so that the door cannot open if the hinge is removed. Furthermore, the location of the lock, the latching bars, and the hinges cannot be ascertained from the outside of the security chest. The fifth line of defense is a glass plate to jam the boltwork closed if an attacker drills through the chest door.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 21, 2003
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Cuong D. Do
  • Patent number: 6502746
    Abstract: A device, system and method for extracting deposited items from a secure enclosure, such as the envelope bin of an ATM/CAT safe, makes use, for example, of computer hardware and software applications, as well as one or more secure access devices, card devices, transponder devices, input devices, control mechanisms, transport bins, and transport devices, to modify or field retrofit an existing ATM/CAT to enable removal of items without opening the safe door. The modified ATM/CAT enables a service person, for example, to enter a retrieval request, which is received by a control device, and the control device automatically opens an access port of shutter of the ATM/CAT safe and automatically activates a transport mechanism to transport items out of the safe to be received by the service person or a secured access bin docked, for example, with the access port.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1999
    Date of Patent: January 7, 2003
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Cuong D. Do, Edward M. R. Dudasik, Michael L. Sears, Xuan S. Bui
  • Patent number: 6496929
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for generation of an RSA modulus having a predetermined portion. The predetermined portion may be the leading digits of the modulus, or split between the leading and trailing digits of the modulus. The resulting RSA modulus has the same security level as conventional RSA moduli, but requires less storage space. Significant performance improvements may be obtained for encryption, decryption, digital signature generation and digital signature verification when using RSA moduli in a specifically chosen format, as the division portion of a modulo operation is accomplished using only multiplication operations, and without using division operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 12, 2002
    Date of Patent: December 17, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, NA
    Inventor: Arjen K. Lenstra
  • Patent number: 6466900
    Abstract: A method and system is provided for making a database stored upon a computer readable medium for use as a computerized multilingual phrase database in a runtime application environment. A database of all application phrases is created in one language with variable place holders reserved in the application phrases for each variable in the phrases. Translations of the created application phrases are created and stored in at least a second phrase database. The first and second phrase databases are exported in a form that can be used in a runtime environment by an application for which the first database and the second database were created.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 27, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: George Lissauer, Victor Che Kwong, Jack Hsiung, Reid Kneeland, Dilip Parekh
  • Patent number: 6464135
    Abstract: The present invention pertains to a system and method for assisting a visually impaired individual in performing a financial transaction at an automated teller machine, comprising initiating a visually impaired transaction session through a preset event at the automated teller machine; wherein the automated teller machine comprises a touch screen display for displaying operation instructions to a customer and for receiving input from a customer; an output jack for providing signals which can be converted to audible sounds by means of a headset; a bill dispensing mechanism for dispensing a bank not corresponding to a specified amount; a receipt issuing unit for printing a transaction content and for issuing a receipt on which the transaction content is printed; and a controller connected to the card reader, the touch screen display, the output jack, the bill dispensing unit, and the receipt issuing unit, the controller providing signals to the output jack corresponding to information provided on the touch scre
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 2000
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Albert E. Cohen, Michael L. Grandcolas, Stephen M. Gryte, Teresa A. Petach, Michael L. Sears
  • Patent number: 6446205
    Abstract: Participants in a cryptosystem select their own elliptic curve and finite field, rather than using a centrally chosen elliptic curve. The curve is chosen from a predetermined set of elliptic curves expressed as Weierstra&bgr; model equations. The public key is based on a participant's unique ID, which must be exchanged during communication setup for non-cryptographic reasons, and a randomly chosen bitstring having a length based on security considerations. The public key can be readily constructed from parameters and mapping functions which are known system-wide and from a small amount of participant dependent data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 10, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 3, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Arjen K. Lenstra
  • Patent number: 6422459
    Abstract: A method and system for batch loading a stored value application of a microprocessor based stored value card includes a stored value card reader/writer connected to a local computer device and a batch-load application running on the same computer device which securely stores load key information and emulates the remote functions of an on-line load transaction. The computer also has a security module for storing load key information and an encryption device. Communication is initiated on the card reader at the local computer device between the stored value application and the batch-load application, and an off-line batch-load transaction is performed in which the load key information is validated and a funding source is also validated. An authorizing message is sent by the batch-load application to the stored value application with data representing a pre-selected monetary value.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph C. Kawan
  • Patent number: 6421729
    Abstract: A system and method for controlling the transmission of information known as “cookies” stored on electronic media to Internet websites accessed by PC users utilizes a “cookie jar” in a server-based virtual wallet for the user. When a website server sends a “cookie” to the user's PC, the virtual wallet stores the cookie only after requesting and receiving the user's permission. When the user accesses the website server again, and the server requests return of the cookie, the virtual wallet sends the cookie only after requesting and receiving the user's permission. Alternatively, the user can preconfigure the virtual wallet with predefined parameters for withholding or sending the cookie when requested by the website server.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 14, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 16, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Cris T. Paltenghe, Lisa Ezrol
  • Patent number: 6417869
    Abstract: A method and system of user interface for a full function computer centered, for example, in a user's living room automatically displays a screen for a control center application folder, for a plurality of bundled applications, from which the user selects an application, such as a home banking application. The system automatically displays a function selection screen for the selected application, from which the user selects an application function, and the system automatically implements the selected function.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 15, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Cuong D. Do
  • Patent number: 6411686
    Abstract: An interactive voice response system provides voice prompts that supply information to a user, request data from the user, and present the user with a plurality of selectable options. The user can first select one or more options by providing one or more letters of the alphabet corresponding to one or more of the selectable options. If the letter or letters that are provided correspond to more than one selectable option, the user further selects one of the options from among the selectable options corresponding to the one or more letters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 27, 2000
    Date of Patent: June 25, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Donna Porter, Lawrence D. Weiss
  • Patent number: 6404890
    Abstract: Techniques are provided for generation of an RSA modulus having a predetermined portion. The predetermined portion may be the leading digits of the modulus, or split between the leading and trailing digits of the modulus. The resulting RSA modulus has the same security level as conventional RSA moduli, but requires less storage space. Significant performance improvements may be obtained for encryption, decryption, digital signature generation and digital signature verification when using RSA moduli in a specifically chosen format, as the division portion of a modulo operation is accomplished using only multiplication operations, and without using division operations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 8, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, NA
    Inventor: Arjen K. Lenstra
  • Patent number: 6403978
    Abstract: A test pattern comprising a first region as an active region of a semiconductor device and a second region as a device isolation region around the first region. Formed on the second region of the substrate is a stepped layer having a different height from the first region. A plurality of parallel critical dimension bars are provided across the first and second regions. The stepped layer is an oxide layer formed at the same time when a device isolation oxide layer is formed on the chip region such that the test pattern according to the present invention has a similar configuration with the actual pattern on the chip region.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 2, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 11, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp USA, Inc.
    Inventor: Jong-Cheol Kim
  • Patent number: 6386662
    Abstract: A depositor accommodating substantially thicker deposits than was possible with prior systems. A pair of plates each having a transport mechanism disposed as part thereof are coupled to a housing so as to abut each other, one above the other, in a rest position. A drive shaft for the transport mechanisms of the upper and lower plates are rotatably coupled to the housing and define an axis of rotation for each plate. The drive shaft for the top plate is disposed at an opposite end from the drive shaft of the bottom plate. A free end of each plate, the end opposite the drive shaft, is elastically coupled to the housing. This allows a substantially thicker deposit envelope to be accepted than was possible with prior systems.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 14, 2002
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Xuan Bui
  • Patent number: 6385652
    Abstract: The present invention provides systems and methods for electronically delivering banking services to end clients and, more particularly, using Internet based technologies as a means of exposing those services. The solution to this problem set forth in this invention is the creation of a common electronic delivery infrastructure and application deployment environment, exposing an institution's entire portfolio of corporate banking services to its clients at a number of different locations at any time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Kenneth R. Brown, John D'Onofrio, James Ellerbee, Jay Gould, Jennifer Holme, Peter J. Lupario, Umesh Marthi
  • Patent number: 6381587
    Abstract: A system for managing requests for services from vendors including a database having contract information for vendors, entitlement information for users and requests for services. The requests are compared with the entitlement information for the requesting user and the contract information for the vendor that supplies the information to determine if the request is approved. If the request is approved, the system generates an associated billing item in the database for the request and the approved request is transmitted to the vendor. The vendor sends an invoice of charges associated with the approved requests which is compared with the associated billing items for the approved requests. Additionally, a method for managing user requests for services from vendors is provided including providing a database for storing contract information for vendors, entitlement information for users and requests for services from a vendor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 2, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: H. Isil Guzelsu
  • Patent number: 6354490
    Abstract: An integrated financial system that includes a single customer account that permits a customer to perform various financial transactions. The account includes at least banking components and brokerage components. A consistent user interface is provided to allow a customer to access the account from different sources including at least an automatic teller machine, a phone and a personal teller transaction. The account is flexible enough to include a variety of other components such as a credit card component, a line of credit component, a secured credit component and a money market component. A system and method for opening a single integrated account for a customer in a single session is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 2000
    Date of Patent: March 12, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Lawrence Weiss, Marylou Dowd
  • Patent number: 6349290
    Abstract: An automated system and method for presenting both interactive and proactive customized and personalized advice for a customer by a financial institution is based on a sophisticated customer profile generated by the system according to an analysis of the customer from a totality of the customer's interaction with the system. The system includes, for example, an advice engine, which is primarily software, that considers numerous sets of system logic, such as legal constraints and statistical facts that affect the customer, and generates the advice. The system also includes a presentation engine which varies the presentation, depending in part on the mode by which the customer accesses the system, but regardless of the mode, presents the advice to the customer in an individualized manner. Additionally, the system includes a context assessment engine, which examines the context of the interaction between the customer and the system and assesses the effectiveness of the advice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 30, 1999
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Edward Horowitz, Mark Ambrose, Michael Fetta, Steve Hakim, Michael Kaufman, David Robinson
  • Patent number: 6336095
    Abstract: A system for open electronic commerce having a customer trusted agent securely communicating with a first money module, and a merchant trusted agent securely communicating with a second money module. Both trusted agents are capable of establishing a first cryptographically secure session, and both money modules are capable of establishing a second cryptographically secure session. The merchant trusted agent transfers electronic merchandise to the customer trusted agent, and the first money module transfers electronic money to the second money module. The money modules inform their trusted agents of the successful completion of payment, and the customer may use the purchased electronic merchandise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: January 1, 2002
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6330862
    Abstract: An improvement in dead lever lugs for mounting on cast metal bolsters for railway trucks is disclosed. The bolster has two side walls. The side walls have angled portions that meet in radii along the junctures of the angled portions. The dead lever lug has two arms joined by a bridge section. Each of the arms has a mounting surface that is shaped to mate with the shape of one of the angled surfaces of the bolster. The mounting surfaces of the dead lever lug arms are separated by a gap. When the dead lever lug is mounted on the bolster, the dead lever lug straddles the juncture of the angled portions of the side wall. One mounting surface of each arm is positioned against one of the angled portions of the side wall and the gap overlies the juncture of the two angled portions of the side wall. With the dead lever lug of the present invention, no flat raised mounting area is needed on the side wall of the bolster.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 13, 2000
    Date of Patent: December 18, 2001
    Assignee: Citicorp USA, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas R. Callahan, Anthony J. Bauer, Charles Moehling, Ronald R. Evers, Brian A. Toussaint
  • Patent number: 6315196
    Abstract: A computerized method and system for automatic deferment of debt on a credit account of a customer of a financial institution includes a credit protector system of the financial institution which receives a request for enrollment for the customer and automatically marks a file for the credit account with information about enrollment for activation of deferment of debt on the account upon verification of an event such as hospitalization, unemployment, disability or family leave of the customer. The account file is also marked with a maximum fee charge date counter which automatically prompts transmittal of a fee charge paid up notice to the customer when the maximum fee charge period expires.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: November 13, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Richard Bachman
  • Patent number: 6293207
    Abstract: A security enclosure with an electronic lock, a concealed hinge door and lock wheel which operates a lock internal to the security enclosure. The electronic lock operates by a key pad into which a required security code may be entered. When the correct code is entered, a solenoid within the enclosure retracts moving a pin which allows the lock wheel to rotate. When the lock wheel is rotated, strike bolts extending into the top and bottom of the enclosure and left and right strike bars extending to the sides of the enclosure are retracted enabling the door to be pulled open. The door construction is such that there are no external hinges which may be drilled out, and the door itself is recessed so that it cannot be pried open. Attempts to turn the lock wheel when the solenoid is engaged have no effect because the wheel cannot be turned without breaking.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 6, 1999
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2001
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Cuong D. Do
  • Patent number: 6292789
    Abstract: A method and system for presentment of bills on a computer network includes a biller account hosted on a server of a bill service provider for receiving a bill file from a biller that includes bill data. The biller account automatically formats a bill for a consumer from the bill data. The bill file from which the bill is automatically formatted includes a bill template and bill content and may also include a temporary resource. A document server coupled to the bill service provider's server receives and automatically stores the formatted bill in a storage location. The formatted bill consists of an electronic mail message, and the storage location is an electronic mailbox. The stored bill is accessed and displayed by the consumer on a consumer terminal coupled to the document server. The consumer may pay the bill through a bill payment processor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 18, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Daniel Schutzer
  • Patent number: 6289324
    Abstract: A financial information and transaction system comprising a host financial computer system, which host system maintains records of user account information; at least one terminal providing a user interface for accessing the host financial computer system, the at least one terminal including a means for transmitting and receiving data corresponding to the user account information, and a smart card interface device; wherein access to the records of user account information are organized in a hierarchy of three or more levels, which hierarchy comprises an initial level, a final level, and one or more intervening levels; wherein the records of user account information are accessed by passing through the hierarchy of three or more levels; and wherein means are provided for allowing access to the final level in the hierarchy by an automated task without passing through the one or more intervening levels is described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 4, 2000
    Date of Patent: September 11, 2001
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Joseph C. Kawan
  • Patent number: 6249770
    Abstract: A method and system for financial spreading and forecasting provides a computerized system for automatically spreading and analyzing historical financial statements and generating financial forecasts. The system receives and stores information about a company, forecast parameters, including, for example, inflation adjustments, exchange rates, last historic year, and historical account data for the company, and automatically generates financial forecasts for the company. Information can be imported to the system and exported from the system, for example, over a network.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 28, 1999
    Date of Patent: June 19, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Austin Erwin, Stuart Fotheringham, Christian McGuinness
  • Patent number: 6226623
    Abstract: A global standard messaging system and process for allowing customers to access a full range of global financial services using a variety of access points. The system includes a global communications network that integrates customer information and makes the information accessible from remote locations. The system includes a comprehensive database assembled from diverse sources and systems and processes for retrieving the information from the central database in a meaningful and practical way. The system includes several levels of access communications as well as built-in flexibility so that it can be accessed by a variety of remote systems of varying degrees of complexity and language. System and process permit rapid communication among worldwide users of the service as may be desired by industries relating to the transfer of finances.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 29, 1998
    Date of Patent: May 1, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Arthur A. Schein, Paul Aron, Dan A. Demeter, Faraz Ataie, Frank Bamberger, John McGlynn, Florence Musalo, Margot Paul, John Poplizio, Lucila (Uchie) Rico, Michael Tsien, Michael Yorke
  • Patent number: 6206284
    Abstract: An automated bank teller machine (ATM) is provided which is characteristically easy to configure, regardless of whether a replenish-from-the-front (RFTF) configuration or a replenish-from-the-rear (RFTR) configuration is chosen. In particular, the ATM according to the present invention includes a security chest module, a top module, and an interface module. These components are common to both configurations can be built and stored in advance, and can be thereafter configured as desired. In another embodiment, an ATM is provided that permits more than one customer to use the ATM at the same time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 16, 1999
    Date of Patent: March 27, 2001
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Cuong Do, Avery Bairamian, Xuan S. Bui, Joe Butryn, Edward M. R. Dudasik, Marc Andino Guzman, Nhut Trung Ha, Mohammed Khan, Mitsuru Tamura, Randal H. Yokomoto
  • Patent number: 6205436
    Abstract: A system for open electronic commerce having a customer trusted agent securely communicating with a first money module, and a merchant trusted agent securely communicating with a second money module. Both trusted agents are capable of establishing a first cryptographically secure session, and both money modules are capable of establishing a second cryptographically secure session. The merchant trusted agent transfers electronic merchandise to the customer trusted agent, and the first money module transfers electronic money to the second money module. The money modules inform their trusted agents of the successful completion of payment, and the customer may use the purchased electronic merchandise.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 21, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6188993
    Abstract: A synthetic currency transaction network which performs transactions with near real time finality of transaction between potential borrowers and potential lenders. Synthetic currency is created by pooling and dividing into shares a portfolio of highly liquid assets and frequent evaluation and disbursements of dividends on those assets so as to hold the value of the synthetic currency share at unity with the underlying currency. The synthetic currency network provides for interfacing users to the synthetic currency transaction network. A database is used for storing and maintaining records and other information of the network. A transaction manager manages network users' accounts and all network transactions. A fund accountant manages network information regarding the synthetic currency. A deposit bank acts as custodian for the portfolio of highly liquid assets which underlie the synthetic currency. An investment manager manages the measure of synthetic currency and directs investment decisions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: February 13, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Alvin Eng, Curtis Brill
  • Patent number: 6175921
    Abstract: A system for open electronic commerce having a customer trusted agent securely communicating with a first money module, and a merchant trusted agent securely communicating with a second money module. Both trusted agents are capable of establishing a first cryptographically secure session, and both money modules are capable of establishing a second cryptographically secure session. The merchant trusted agent transfers electronic merchandise to the customer trusted agent, and the first money module transfers electronic money to the second money module. The money modules inform their trusted agents of the successful completion of payment, and the customer may use the purchased electronic merchandise. A certificate data signed by a trusted authority is stored in a tamper proof electronic processing device, which certificate includes a unique device ID and a public key of the device, in addition to device owner ID data.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 16, 1997
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2001
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6154527
    Abstract: An interactive voice response system provides voice prompts that supply information to a user, request data from the user, and present the user with a plurality of selectable options. The user can first select one or more options by providing one or more letters of the alphabet corresponding to one or more of the selectable options. If the letter or letters that are provided correspond to more than one selectable option, the user further selects one of the options from among the selectable options corresponding to the one or more letters.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: November 28, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Donna Porter, Lawrence D. Weiss
  • Patent number: 6131810
    Abstract: An integrated financial system that includes a single customer account that permits a customer to perform various financial transactions. The account includes at least banking components and brokerage components. A consistent user interface means is provided to allow a customer to access the account from a different sources including at least an automatic teller machine, a phone and a personal teller transaction. The account is flexible enough to include a variety of other components such as a credit card component, a line of credit component, a secured credit component and a money market component. A system and method for opening a single integrated account for a customer in a single session is also described.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: October 17, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Lawrence Weiss, Marylou Dowd
  • Patent number: 6122625
    Abstract: An improved monetary system using electronic media to exchange economic value securely and reliably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 18, 1998
    Date of Patent: September 19, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6112190
    Abstract: This invention describes a method and system for assimilating data, applying reasoning mechanisms, and emulating the thought processes of a credit officer for commercial credit analysis. The system aids a credit officer in the risk assessment and completion of a loan package. The system thereby improves loan turnaround time and customer service, improving loan servicing capacity, quality, and consistency of credit decisions, and reducing costs. The system includes: 1) a conventional data base management system subsystem that manages and collects data via electronic access and end-user data entry; and 2) a decision support expert system that applies a knowledge base and inference engine (collectively known as an assessment model) utilizing an evidence tree and a generalized weighting approach to analyze credit requests.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 29, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Bruce Alan Fletcher, Sandeep Bhat, Ira Didner, Yehudah Freundlich, Richard Kolodziejski, Joseph Schoder, Yagil Ronen
  • Patent number: 6098053
    Abstract: A system and method for performing an on-line ATM/POS transaction utilizing checking or savings account funds over a public access network is disclosed. The invention comprises creating an electronic financial transaction instruction comprising card information and security information that are encrypted for secure transmission over the public access network. The card information identifies a checking or savings account number of a purchaser. The security information identifies a personal identification number associated with the identified account number that authorizes the use of the account number in an on-line ATM/POS transaction. The financial transaction instruction is decrypted by a financial institution and reformatted to form a transaction request suitable for transmission over an on-line ATM/POS transaction system. The transaction request is then processed like a typical ATM or merchant POS on-line ATM/POS transaction.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 26, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 1, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Alan Slater
  • Patent number: 6088686
    Abstract: A user-friendly on-line computerized system operates in real-time thus streamlining the processing of applications for products and services offered by a financial institution. The system automates many steps in the credit and liability review and approval process, performs background credit worthiness evaluations based upon a applicant's credit score, financial information and new or existing relationship with the financial institution, recommends to those applicants who exceed the initial criteria for credit consideration specific credit products with predetermined credit qualified offer amounts, and ensures the required operating (credit/liability) policies are appropriately completed. The system immediately analyzes an applicant's credit bureau history and automated credit scoring, and provides these results to the LBR. The system also takes into account information relating to the applicant's new or existing relationship with the financial institution, if any, into the credit decision request.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1996
    Date of Patent: July 11, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Darcy Walker, Lawrence J. Sussman, Mona Mayr, Charles G. Dean, Jr., Dennis Seib, Richard Musci, Glenn Marino
  • Patent number: 6081790
    Abstract: A system for secure presentment and payment having a first electronic processing device and a second electronic processing device. The first processing device creates a presentment ticket from stored invoice data, and securely transmits the presentment ticket and the invoice data to the second processing device. The second processing device determines which invoices are to be paid and creates a corresponding remittance advice which it securely transmits to said first processing device. The first processing device creates a commercial payment ticket corresponding to the remittance advice and securely transmits it to the second processing device. The second processing device then securely transmits electronic money to the first processing device in an amount corresponding to that specified in the remittance advice.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 20, 1998
    Date of Patent: June 27, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6073119
    Abstract: This invention generally relates to a banking facility layout and a method and system for networked customer and other user interaction with a variety of functions. These functions include access to networks, such as the internet, email capability, options to view information on banking capabilities, access to home banking, and other electronically-related user functions. The invention incorporates a purpose-designed environment that can be integrated into a branch or other banking institution facility. The invention also includes a video wall feature that allows interaction by networked users; users may take control of portions of the wall and add selected information to these portions.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 3, 1997
    Date of Patent: June 6, 2000
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Sylvia Bornemisza-Wahr, Kevin Sy Lam, Frank McCallick, Roy Sinai, Peter Paradiso, Howard A. Schechtman, Kenneth J. Randall, Peter Tompkins, Teresa A. Petach
  • Patent number: 6064969
    Abstract: An investment system includes a computer-implemented annuity system generating annuity proposals for customers. The annuity system includes a memory storing customer information input from a customer and annuity information, and a processor, connected to the memory. The processor retrieves the customer and annuity information from the memory, and generates an annuity proposal responsive to the customer and annuity information. According to the annuity system, the annuity proposal includes one of fixed period installments, life, joint and survivor, joint and contingent and proceeds at interest annuities. The proceeds at interest annuity may also be viewed as a flexible Certificate of Deposit (CD) investment proposal for use by companies providing banking services.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Citicorp Life Insurance Company
    Inventor: Charles R. Haskins
  • Patent number: 6061666
    Abstract: An automatic bank teller machine (ATM) that uses a combination of simple visual cues, large-type visual displays, audio, and a touch-sensitive display screen to facilitate use of the ATM by the blind and visually impaired, while still being useful for the sighted. In particular, the ATM uses a touch-sensitive display screen that has a fixed, easy to locate touch scanning zone. The display screen operates by contacting the screen, with a fingertip, for example, and slidingly moving to a location on the touch scanning zone corresponding to an item to be input, such as one of the numbers 0 to 9, for example.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 17, 1996
    Date of Patent: May 9, 2000
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center
    Inventors: Cuong Do, Michael Merman
  • Patent number: 6058378
    Abstract: A method for integrating a plurality of financial services provided at different geographical locations and in different time zones, and electronic delivering such services directly to a customer facility at any time requested by the customer. Customers connect to the system whenever desired to access each of the services, and messages are stored and routed between the customers and each of the service providers at the respective times when the customers' facilities and the service providers' facilities are operative. The system can interface with a customer's stand-alone personal computer, local area network, and/or mainframe computer. A variety of security functions provide different levels of access to the services for different customers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 7, 1995
    Date of Patent: May 2, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Barry Alan Clark, John D'Onofrio
  • Patent number: 6052276
    Abstract: A computer using a passive backplane internal architecture is provided. In particular, a CPU board is provided that has a plurality of I/O interfaces (e.g., IDE, EIDE, SCSI, wide SCSI, etc.) so as to reduce the need to upgrade the system over time. However, once repair or upgrade is needed, the plug-in board configuration of the computer greatly facilitates such activity, which reduces the need for specialized (and expensive) technicians to maintain the computer. The power supply of the computer is preferably provided on an additional board within the computer. This improves the airflow of cooling air in the computer, thereby enhancing system reliability.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 18, 2000
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Cuong D. Do, Joe Butryn, Nhut Trung Ha, Harold C. Kameya
  • Patent number: 6049782
    Abstract: A system and process for use by a financial institution to facilitate relationship pricing in connection with a single account that includes a plurality of account components, including a checking component, a savings component and a investment component. The system includes software engines operated on specially programmed general purpose computers. The engines are sub-systems that generate input and drive another sub-system or the product processors. The overall function of the engines is to, among other things, allow pricing to be determined based on a customer's total individual or household relationship to the financial institution. The preferred system includes a rate engine, a pricing engine, a linkage engine, a balance engine, and a cycle engine.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 31, 1996
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventors: Sidney Gottesman, Darlene Shuman, Patricia Eletto, Ben Gurdus, Bob Santariello, Jay Murthy, Michael Spivak
  • Patent number: 6047887
    Abstract: An improved monetary system using electronic media to exchange economic value securely and reliably.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 16, 1998
    Date of Patent: April 11, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: 6047067
    Abstract: An electronic-monetary system having (1) banks or financial institutions that are coupled to a money generator device for generating and issuing to subscribing customers electronic money including electronic currency backed by demand deposits and electronic credit authorizations; (2) correspondent banks that accept and distribute the electronic money; (3) a plurality of transaction devices that are used by subscribers for storing electronic money, for performing money transactions with the on-line systems of the participating banks or for exchanging electronic money with other like transaction devices in off-line transactions; (4) teller devices, associated with the issuing and correspondent banks, for process handling and interfacing the transaction devices to the issuing and correspondent banks, and for interfacing between the issuing and correspondent banks themselves; (5) a clearing bank for balancing the electronic money accounts of the different issuing banks; (6) a data communications network for provi
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 19, 1997
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2000
    Assignee: Citibank, N.A.
    Inventor: Sholom S. Rosen
  • Patent number: D471204
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 22, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 4, 2003
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventors: Marylou Dowd, Jennifer Strauss Vos
  • Patent number: D423755
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: April 25, 2000
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Nhut Trung Ha
  • Patent number: D429175
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 20, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 8, 2000
    Assignee: Citicorp Development Center, Inc.
    Inventor: Nhut Trung Ha