Communication and proximity authorization systems

• US 6,490,443 B1
• Filed: 08/31/2000
• Issued: 12/03/2002
• Est. Priority Date: 09/02/1999
• Status: Expired due to Term

• Current Assignee: Bryan E. Freeny (Freeny), Charles C. Freeny III (Freeny), James P. Freeny (Freeny)
• Original Assignee: Automated Business Companies
• Inventors: Freeny, Jr., Charles C.
• Primary Examiner(s): Bost, Dwayne
• Assistant Examiner(s): Green, Miguel D.
• Application Number:
  US09/652,077
• Time in Patent Office: 824 Days
• Field of Search: 380/247, 380/258, 340/5.83, 340/5.9, 340/5.91, 340/5.8, 340/5.4, 340/5.41, 194/900, 194/901, 194/902, 379/143, 379/144, 455/90, 455/406, 455/550, 705/64-79, 705/16-18, 705/26, 705/418, 705/13
• US Class Current: 455/406
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/321 using wearable devices
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/322 Aspects of commerce using mobile devices [M-devices]
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/327 Short range or proximity payments by means of M-devices
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 20/40145 Biometric identity checks
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/0284 Time or distance, e.g. usage of parking meters or taximeters
• CPC Class Codes: G06Q 30/0601 Electronic shopping [e-shopping]
• CPC Class Codes: G07B 15/00 Arrangements or apparatus for collecting fares, tolls or entrance fees at one or more control points handling coins or valuable papers, e.g. banknotes, G07D; apparatus for vending or hiring articles or services activated by coins, credit cards, paper currency or the like G07F7/00, G07F17/00
• CPC Class Codes: G07B 15/063 using wireless information transmission between the vehicle and a fixed station identification of vehicles G08G
• CPC Class Codes: G07C 9/37 using biometric data, e.g. fingerprints, iris scans or voice recognition
• CPC Class Codes: H04M 2203/6054 Biometric subscriber identification
• CPC Class Codes: H04M 2207/18 wireless networks
• CPC Class Codes: H04M 3/382 using authorisation codes or passwords
• CPC Class Codes: H04M 3/56 Arrangements for connecting several subscribers to a common circuit, i.e. affording conference facilities video conference systems H04N7/15
• CPC Class Codes: H04W 88/02 Terminal devices
• CPC Class Codes: Y02D 30/70 in wireless communication networks

Abstract

A proximity service unit for providing at least one predetermined service for use with multiple types of wireless devices. The proximity service unit includes a multiple channel wireless transceiver, a proximity unit validation assembly, and a legacy activation unit. The multiple channel wireless transceiver receives at least two signal types, such as infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals. The multiple channel wireless transceiver receives a request authorization code from each of a plurality of respective wireless devices such that the plurality of wireless devices communicate simultaneously with the multiple channel wireless transceiver without air time. The proximity unit validation assembly communicates with the multiple channel wireless transceiver and receives and validates the plurality of request authorization codes received by the multiple channel wireless transceiver. The legacy activation unit receives a service authorization code and provides at least one predetermined service for each wireless device providing the request authorization code resulting in a service authorization code.

Claims

1. A proximity service unit for providing at least one predetermined service for use with multiple types of wireless devices, comprising:

a multiple channel wireless transceiver capable of receiving at least two signal types, the multiple channel wireless transceiver receiving a request authorization code from each of a plurality of respective wireless devices such that the plurality of wireless devices communicate simultaneously with the multiple channel wireless transceiver without air time, each wireless device being capable of communicating the request authorization code when the wireless device is within a predetermined proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver and each request authorization code uniquely identifying the wireless device from which the request authorization code is received;

a proximity unit validation assembly communicating with the multiple channel wireless transceiver receiving and validating the plurality of request authorization codes received by the multiple channel wireless transceiver and outputting a service authorization code in response to each of the request authorization codes upon validating the respective request authorization code; and

a legacy activation unit receiving the service authorization codes and for providing at least one predetermined service for each wireless device providing the request authorization code resulting in a service authorization code.

2. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service provided by the legacy activation unit includes at least one of audio and visual communication services and wherein the legacy activation unit includes a multiple line bus communicating with a multiplexer unit and the multiple channel wireless transceiver so as to permit communication between the multiple channel wireless transceiver and the multiplexer unit, the multiplexer unit connected to a data connection for permitting simultaneous bidirectional communication between the multiple channel wireless transceiver and the data connection so as to provide the at least one of audio and visual communication services for the plurality of respective wireless devices providing the request authorization code resulting in the service authorization code.

3. The proximity service unit of claim 2, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

4. The proximity service unit of claim 3, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

5. The proximity service unit of claim 2, further comprising a biometric unit receiving a biometric signal from an individual and outputting the biometric signal to the proximity unit validation assembly, the proximity unit validation assembly utilizing the biometric signal to validate the respective request authorization code.

6. The proximity service unit of claim 5, wherein the biometric unit includes an iris detection element for generating biometric signals indicative of the iris of the individual.

7. The proximity service unit of claim 5, wherein the biometric unit includes a fingerprint detector for generating biometric signals indicative of the fingerprint of the individual.

8. The proximity service unit of claim 5, wherein the biometric unit is provided on the proximity service unit.

9. The proximity service unit of claim 5, wherein the biometric unit is provided on respective ones of the wireless devices.

10. The proximity service unit of claim 2, further comprising a legacy payment interface unit and an interface control unit, the legacy payment interface unit receiving a signal indicative of a valid payment, and outputting a signal to the interface control unit, the interface control unit outputting a signal to the proximity unit validation assembly to output the service authorization code.

11. The proximity service unit of claim 10, wherein the legacy payment interface unit is a legacy coin payment interface unit determining whether the valid payment has been made by coin.

12. The proximity service unit of claim 10, wherein the legacy payment interface unit is a legacy credit card interface unit determining whether the valid payment has been made by credit card.

13. The proximity service unit of claim 2, wherein at least one additional predetermined service is provided.

14. The proximity service unit of claim 13, wherein the at least one additional predetermined service is selected from a group of services comprising automated teller services, garage door opener services, door lock services, vending machine services, television services, checkout services, live entertainment facilities services, and a mobile transportation service.

15. The proximity service unit of claim 13, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver is capable of receiving a second authorization code from the wireless devices for authorizing the additional predetermined service, the second authorization code uniquely identifying the respective wireless device from which the second authorization code was transmitted.

16. The proximity service unit of claim 15, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the signal strength of the wireless device transmitting the second request authorization code and of the wireless device transmitting the request authorization code, and transmits the second request authorization code to the proximity unit validation assembly if the signal strength of the wireless device transmitting the second request authorization code exceeds a first signal strength, and transmits the request authorization code to the proximity unit validation assembly if the signal strength of the wireless device transmitting the request authorization code exceeds a second signal strength.

17. The proximity service unit of claim 16, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the first signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the second signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

18. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a vehicle toll service.

19. The proximity service unit of claim 18, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

20. The proximity service unit of claim 19, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

21. The proximity service unit of claim 18, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a first signal strength from the wireless devices and a second signal strength from the wireless devices, and wherein the proximity unit validation assembly validates the plurality of request authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the first signal strength, and the proximity unit validation assembly outputs the service authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the second signal strength.

22. The proximity service unit of claim 21, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the first signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the second signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

23. The proximity service unit of claim 18, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a vehicle identification number, and a customer identification data.

24. The proximity service unit of claim 18, wherein the request authorization code is automatically transmitted to the multiple channel wireless transceiver by the wireless device.

25. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a transportation gate service.

26. The proximity service unit of claim 25, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

27. The proximity service unit of claim 26, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

28. The proximity service unit of claim 25, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a first signal strength from the wireless devices and a second signal strength from the wireless devices, and wherein the proximity unit validation assembly validates the plurality of request authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the first signal strength, and the proximity unit validation assembly outputs the service authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the second signal strength.

29. The proximity service unit of claim 28, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the first signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and multiple channels wireless transceiver detects the second signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

30. The proximity service unit of claim 25, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a vehicle identification number, and a customer identification data.

31. The proximity service unit of claim 25, wherein the request authorization code is automatically transmitted to the multiple channel wireless transceiver by the wireless device.

32. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is selected from a group of automated teller services.

33. The proximity service unit of claim 32, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

34. The proximity service unit of claim 32, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

35. The proximity service unit of claim 32, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a first signal strength from the wireless devices and a second signal strength from the wireless devices, and wherein the proximity unit validation assembly validates the plurality of request authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the first signal strength, and the proximity unit validation assembly outputs the service authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the second signal strength.

36. The proximity service unit of claim 35, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the first signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the second signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

37. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a vehicle services, controlling at least a portion for a vehicle.

38. The proximity service unit of claim 37, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

39. The proximity service unit of claim 38, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

40. The proximity service unit of claim 37, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a vehicle identification number, and a customer identification data.

41. The proximity service unit of claim 37, further comprising an antitheft device deactuating the ignition of the vehicle in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver receiving an antitheft code from a remote wireless transmitter.

42. The proximity service unit of claim 37, wherein the request authorization code is automatically transmitted to the multiple channel wireless transceiver by the wireless device.

43. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is at least two services selected from a group of services comprising activating a garage door opener, activating a doorlock, activating a vending machine, and activating a television set.

44. The proximity service unit of claim 43, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

45. The proximity service unit of claim 44, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

46. The proximity service unit of claim 43, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a first signal strength from the wireless devices and a second signal strength from the wireless devices, and wherein the proximity unit validation assembly validates the plurality of request authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the first signal strength, and the proximity unit validation assembly outputs the service authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the second signal strength.

47. The proximity service unit of claim 46, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the first signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the second signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

48. The proximity service unit of claim 43, wherein the request authorization code includes a PIN number.

49. The proximity service unit of claim 43, wherein a list of authorized codes for validating the request authorization codes are stored in a remote database.

50. The proximity service unit of claim 49, wherein the remote database is maintained by an Internet service provider.

51. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is at least two services selected from a group of services comprising activating a gate entry system, activating a POS system, activating a vending machine, and activating a kiosk machine.

52. The proximity service unit of claim 51, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

53. The proximity service unit of claim 52, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

54. The proximity service unit of claim 51, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a first signal strength from the wireless devices and a second signal strength from the wireless devices, and wherein the proximity unit validation assembly validates the plurality of request authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the first signal strength, and the proximity unit validation assembly outputs the service authorization codes in response to the multiple channel wireless transceiver detecting the second signal strength.

55. The proximity service unit of claim 54, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the first signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects the second signal strength in response to the wireless devices being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

56. The proximity service unit of claim 51, wherein the request authorization code includes a PIN number.

57. The proximity service unit of claim 51, wherein a list of authorized codes for validating the request authorization codes are stored in a remote database.

58. The proximity service unit of claim 57, wherein the remote database is maintained by an Internet service provider.

59. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a gasoline dispensing service.

60. The proximity service unit of claim 59, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

61. The proximity service unit of claim 60, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

62. The proximity service unit of claim 59, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a credit data, and a customer identification data.

63. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a vending machine service for at least one of dispensing goods and providing predetermined services.

64. The proximity service unit of claim 63, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

65. The proximity service unit of claim 64, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

66. The proximity service unit of claim 63, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a credit data, and a customer identification data.

67. The proximity service unit of claim 63, wherein the proximity unit validation assembly includes a predetermined set of service provider identification codes stored therein for which the vending machine service was authorized, and wherein the request authorization code includes a service provider identification number and a customer code, the proximity unit validation assembly storing the customer code and utilizing the service provider identification number and the customer code in the request authorization code, and the predetermined set of service provider identification codes in validating the respective request authorization code.

68. The proximity service unit of claim 67, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver receives an authorization code that authorizes the collection of the customer codes from the proximity unit validation assembly.

69. The proximity service unit of claim 67, further comprising a high power transmitter uploading the customer code and the service provider identification number to a service provider for collection after the vending machine service has been provided.

70. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a checkout service for receiving a customer'"'"'s payment for at least one of goods and services.

71. The proximity service unit of claim 70, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

72. The proximity service unit of claim 71, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

73. The proximity service unit of claim 70, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a credit data, and a customer identification data.

74. The proximity service unit of claim 70, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver receives a contest notification signal from at least one of the wireless devices so as to notify the proximity unit validation assembly that the wireless device is in a retail store in which the proximity service unit is disposed, the notification signal uniquely identifying the respective wireless device from which the contest notification signal was transmitted.

75. The proximity service unit of claim 74, wherein the proximity unit validation assembly receives the contest notification signal from the multiple channel wireless transceiver and enters the unique identification of the wireless device into a contest.

76. The proximity service unit of claim 74, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver includes a dual distance signaling feature so as to only detect the contest notification signal from the wireless devices within a first proximity distance from the proximity service unit and to only detect the request authorization code from the wireless devices within a second proximity distance from the proximity service unit and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

77. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a mobile transportation service.

78. The proximity service unit of claim 77 further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

79. The proximity service unit of claim 78, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

80. The proximity service unit of claim 77, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a credit data, and a customer identification data.

81. The proximity service unit of claim 1, wherein the predetermined service is a parking meter service for charging for parking.

82. The proximity service unit of claim 81, further comprising a plurality of multiple channel wireless transceivers with at least two of the multiple channel wireless transceivers being adapted to receive different types of wireless signals from the multiple wireless devices.

83. The proximity service unit of claim 82, wherein the different types of wireless signals are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

84. The proximity service unit of claim 83, wherein the request authorization code includes at least one of a credit data, and a customer identification data.

85. The proximity service unit of claim 81, wherein the proximity unit validation assembly includes a predetermined set of service provider identification codes stored therein for which the parking meter service was authorized, and wherein the request authorization code includes a service provider identification number and a customer code, the proximity unit validation assembly storing the customer code and utilizing the service provider identification number and the customer code in the request authorization code, and the predetermined set of service provider identification codes in validating the respective request authorization code.

86. The proximity service unit of claim 85, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver receives a collection authorization code from a mobile interrogator that authorizes the collection of the customer codes from the proximity unit validation assembly to the mobile interrogator.

87. The proximity service unit of claim 86, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver includes a dual distance signaling feature so as to only detect the mobile interrogator within a first proximity distance from the proximity service unit and to only detect the wireless device within a second proximity distance from the proximity service unit and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

88. The proximity service unit of claim 86, wherein the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a first signal strength and transmits the collection authorization code to the proximity unit validation assembly in response to the mobile interrogator being within a first proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and the multiple channel wireless transceiver detects a second signal strength and transmits the request authorization code to the proximity unit validation assembly in response to the wireless device being within a second proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver, and wherein the first proximity distance is greater than the second proximity distance.

89. The proximity service unit of claim 85, further comprising a high power transmitter uploading the customer code and the service provider identification number to a service provider for collection after the parking meter service has been provided.

90. A proximity authorization unit for use with proximity service units, some of the proximity service units being capable of receiving information via a first signal and some of the proximity service units being capable of receiving information via a second signal, the second signal being different from the first signal, and each of the proximity service units providing a predetermined service when activated in response to receiving a request authorization code, the proximity authorization unit comprising:

a portable housing;

a computer unit supported by the housing and having the request authorization code stored therein; and

a communication unit supported by the housing, the computer unit retrieving the request authorization code and the communication unit outputting the request authorization code on the first signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the first signal, and the communication unit outputting the request authorization code via the second signal to the proximity service units capable of receiving the second signal.

91. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, wherein the communication unit is a low power communication unit not two way connected to a wireless communication network controlled from a central control center.

92. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

93. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number.

94. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, further comprising means for communicating audio and video information in a format perceivable by an individual located adjacent to the portable housing.

95. The proximity authorization unit of claim 94, further comprising means for receiving at least one of audio and video information from the individual, the at least one of audio and video information being transmitted to the communication unit, and wherein the communication unit outputs the audio and video information on the first signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the first signal, and outputs the audio and video information on the second signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the second signal.

96. The proximity authorization unit of claim 94, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

97. The proximity authorization unit of claim 94, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number such that the proximity service unit provides local authorization of the request authorization code.

98. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, wherein the computer unit stores biometric data indicative of an individual authorized to use the proximity authorization unit and further comprising a biometric unit on the portable housing, the biometric unit receiving a biometric signal from an individual, and outputting the biometric signal to the computer unit such that the computer unit receives the biometric signal and compares the biometric signal with the biometric data for preventing unauthorized usage of the proximity authorization unit.

99. The proximity authorization unit of claim 98, wherein the biometric unit outputs the biometric signal to the communication unit, the communication unit outputting the biometric signal on the first signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the first signal, and the communication unit outputting the biometric signal via the second signal to the proximity service units capable of receiving the second signal.

100. The proximity authorization unit of claim 98, wherein the communication unit is a low power communication unit.

101. The proximity authorization unit of claim 98, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

102. The proximity authorization unit of claim 98, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number.

103. The proximity authorization unit of claim 98, further comprising means for communicating audio and video information in a format perceivable by a user located adjacent to the portable housing.

104. The proximity authorization unit of claim 103, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

105. The proximity authorization unit of claim 103, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number such that the proximity service unit provides local authorization of the request authorization code.

106. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, wherein the communication unit is capable of receiving signals indicative of at least one of messages and data, and wherein the proximity authorization unit further comprises means for recording the messages and data and means for playing back the messages and data.

107. The proximity authorization unit of claim 106, wherein the communication unit is a low power communication unit not two way connected to a wireless communication network controlled from a central control center.

108. The proximity authorization unit of claim 106, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

109. The proximity authorization unit of claim 106, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number.

110. The proximity authorization unit of claim 106, further comprising means for communicating audio and video information in a format perceivable by an individual located adjacent to the portable housing.

111. The proximity authorization unit of claim 110, further comprising means for receiving at least one of audio and video information from the individual, the at least one of audio and video information being transmitted to the communication unit, and wherein the communication unit outputs the audio and video information on the first signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the first signal, and outputs the audio and video information on the second signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the second signal.

112. The proximity authorization unit of claim 110, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

113. The proximity authorization unit of claim 110, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number such that the proximity service unit provides local authorization of the request authorization code.

114. The proximity authorization unit of claim 106, wherein the computer unit stores biometric data indicative of an individual authorized to use the proximity authorization unit and further comprising a biometric unit on the portable housing, the biometric unit receiving a biometric signal from an individual, and outputting the biometric signal to the computer unit such that the computer unit receives the biometric signal and compares the biometric signal with the biometric data for preventing unauthorized usage of the proximity authorization unit.

115. The proximity authorization unit of claim 114, wherein the biometric unit outputs the biometric signal to the communication unit, the communication unit outputting the biometric signal on the first signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the first signal, and the communication unit outputting the biometric signal via the second signal to the proximity service units capable of receiving the second signal.

116. The proximity authorization unit of claim 114, wherein the communication unit is a low power communication unit not two way connected to a wireless communication network controlled from a central control center.

117. The proximity authorization unit of claim 114, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

118. The proximity authorization unit of claim 114, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number.

119. The proximity authorization unit of claim 114, further comprising means for communicating audio and video information in a format perceivable by a user located adjacent to the portable housing.

120. The proximity authorization unit of claim 119, wherein the first and second signal are selected from a group comprising infrared region signals, 900 MHz region signals, 1.8 GHz region signals, and 2.4 GHz region signals.

121. The proximity authorization unit of claim 119, wherein the request authorization code includes a customer identification code and a service provider identification number such that the proximity service unit provides local authorization of the request authorization code.

122. The proximity authorization unit of claim 90, wherein the portable housing is configured to be worn by an individual.

123. The proximity authorization unit of claim 122, wherein the portable housing is in the form of a bracelet.

124. The proximity authorization unit of claim 123, further comprising a power reception unit electrically connected to the computer unit and the communication unit, the power reception unit receiving a power signal from at least one of the proximity service units, and in response to receiving the power signal, the power reception unit providing a source of power to the computer unit and the communication unit for a period of time sufficient for the computer unit to retrieve the request authorization code and the communication unit to output the request authorization code on the first signal, and to output the request authorization code on the second signal.

125. The proximity authorization unit of claim 122, further comprising at least one light source positioned on the portable housing, and a light control assembly electrically connected to the light source for selectively actuating and deactuating the light source.

126. The proximity authorization unit of claim 122, further comprising a power reception unit electrically connected to the computer unit and the communication unit, the power reception unit receiving a power signal from at least one of the proximity service units, and in response to receiving the power signal, the power reception unit providing a source of power to the computer unit and the communication unit for a period of time sufficient for the computer unit to retrieve the request authorization code and the communication unit to output the request authorization code on the first signal, and to output the request authorization code on the second signal.

127. The proximity authorization unit of claim 126, wherein the power reception unit is electrically connected to the light control assembly, and wherein upon reception of the power signal by the power reception unit, the power reception unit outputs a signal to the light control assembly to cause the light control assembly to actuate the light source.

128. The proximity authorization unit of claim 126, wherein the communication unit receives a service authorization code from at least one of the proximity service units, the service authorization code indicating that the request authorization code has been validated, and wherein the light control assembly receives a signal from the communication unit in response to the communication unit receiving the service authorization code so as to cause the light control assembly to actuate the light source to indicate to the individual that the request authorization code has been validated.

129. A proximity authorization transaction system, comprising:

a plurality of wireless devices with at least two of the wireless devices being of a different type, at least some of the wireless devices outputting a request authorization code;

a plurality of proximity service units with each of the proximity service units capable of providing a predetermined service, at least two of the proximity service units providing different predetermined services and the at least two of the proximity service units comprising;

a multiple channel wireless transceiver capable of receiving at least two signal types, the multiple channel wireless transceiver receiving the request authorization code from some of the plurality of wireless devices such that the plurality of wireless devices are capable of communicating simultaneously with the multiple channel wireless transceiver without air time, each wireless device being capable of communicating the request authorization code when the wireless device is within a predetermined proximity distance from the multiple channel wireless transceiver and each request authorization code uniquely identifying the wireless device from which the request authorization code is received;

a proximity unit validation assembly communicating with the multiple channel wireless transceiver receiving and validating the plurality of request authorization codes received by the multiple channel wireless transceiver and outputting a service authorization code in response to each of the request authorization codes upon validating the respective request authorization code; and

legacy activation unit and for providing at least one predetermined service for each wireless device providing the request authorization code resulting in a service authorization code.

130. The proximity authorization transaction system of claim 129, wherein some of the proximity service units are capable of receiving information via a first signal and some of the proximity service units are capable of receiving information via a second signal, the second signal being different from the first signal, and wherein at least one of the wireless devices comprises:

a portable housing;

a computer unit supported by the housing and having the request authorization code stored therein; and

a communication unit supported by the housing, the computer unit retrieving the request authorization code and the communication unit outputting the request authorization code on the first signal for communication to the proximity service units capable of receiving the first signal, and the computer unit retrieving the request authorization code and the communication unit outputting the request authorization code via the second signal to the proximity service units capable of receiving the second signal.

131. A proximity service unit for providing at least one predetermined service for use with multiple types of wireless devices, comprising:

a wireless transceiver capable of receiving at least two signal types, the wireless transceiver receiving a request authorization code from each of a plurality of respective wireless devices such that the plurality of wireless devices communicate simultaneously with the wireless transceiver without air time, each wireless device being capable of communicating the request authorization code when the wireless device is within a predetermined proximity distance from the wireless transceiver and each request authorization code uniquely identifying the wireless device from which the request authorization code is received;

a proximity unit validation assembly communicating with the wireless transceiver receiving and validating the plurality of request authorization codes received by the wireless transceiver and outputting a service authorization code in response to each of the request authorization codes upon validating the respective request authorization code;

a legacy activation unit and for providing at least one predetermined service for each wireless device providing the request authorization code resulting in a service authorization code;

an interface control unit; and

a legacy payment interface unit, the legacy payment interface unit receiving a signal indicative of a valid payment, and outputting a signal to the interface control unit, the interface control unit outputting a signal to the proximity unit validation assembly to output the service authorization code.

132. The proximity service unit of claim 131, wherein the proximity unit validation assembly outputs the request authorization code to a third party for validation, and outputs the service authorization code in response to receiving a validation signal from the third party.

133. A method for activating a proximity service unit capable of providing a predetermined service, comprising:

providing a plurality of wireless devices with at least two of the wireless devices being of a different type, each of the wireless devices storing a request authorization code uniquely identifying the wireless device;

providing a plurality of proximity service units with each of the proximity service units capable of providing a predetermined service, at least two of the proximity service units providing different predetermined services;

outputting a request authorization code by at least some of the wireless devices;

receiving, by the proximity service units, the request authorization code from the wireless devices outputting the request authorization code such that the plurality of wireless devices communicate simultaneously with the proximity service unit without air time;

validating by the proximity service units receiving the request authorization code to generate a service authorization code; and

outputting the service authorization code for each request authorization code which is validated.

134. A proximity authorization transaction system, comprising:

a wireless device having a request authorization code stored therein, the wireless device being capable of communicating via a wireless link and a physical link, the wireless device outputting the request authorization code by at least one of the wireless link and the physical link; and

a proximity service unit having a physical adapter element receiving at least a portion of the wireless device to establish the physical link, the proximity service unit capable of providing a predetermined service upon validation of the request authorization code, the proximity service unit capable of communicating with the wireless device via the wireless link and the physical link, and receiving the request authorization code by at least one of the wireless link and the physical link, and the proximity service unit and the wireless device establishing communication by both the wireless link and the physical link as a condition of the validation of the request authorization code.

135. A method for providing a predetermined service, comprising:

providing a wireless device having a request authorization code stored therein, the wireless device capable of communicating via a wireless link and a physical link;

providing a proximity service unit capable of providing a predetermined service upon validation of the request authorization code, the proximity service unit capable of communicating with the wireless device via the wireless link and the physical link, the proximity service unit having a physical adapter element receiving at least a portion of the wireless device to establish the physical link;

outputting, by the wireless device, the request authorization code by at least one of the wireless link and the physical link,

receiving, by the proximity service unit, the request authorization code by at least one of the wireless link and the physical link; and

establishing communication between the proximity service unit and the wireless device by the physical link when the request authorization code is output by the wireless link, and establishing communication by the wireless link when the request authorization code is output by the physical link; and

thereafter validating the request authorization code by the proximity service unit.