TW202319981A - Payment system, payment method, and program product including a payment request acceptance means, a specifying means and a payment processing execution means - Google Patents

Abstract

Improving user convenience. A payment request acceptance means (101) of a payment system (S) is to accept a payment request relating to a first user who holds a plurality of payment means having specified mutually-different usage conditions. A specifying means (108) is to specify, when a payment request has been accepted, a payment means that satisfies a usage condition from among a plurality of payment means. A payment processing execution means (102) is to execute payment processing based on the priority of each of the plurality of payment means in the case where a plurality of payment means is specified by the specifying means (108).

Description

Billing system, billing method, and program product

This disclosure relates to the checkout system, checkout method, and program product.

Conventionally, techniques for setting usage conditions for payment means such as electronic money have been known. For example, it is recorded in Patent Document 1 that the types of available services have limited dedicated credits and more general credits than the services that can be used by dedicated credits, and are recorded in the terminal. The general-purpose credits are converted into private credits, and then transferred to other users. Patent Document 2 states that when subsidy is paid to life protectors, in order to prevent it from being used for a purpose that deviates from the original purpose, when using electronic points, it is determined whether it meets the purpose of use, and it is limited. The purpose of using electronic points.

Patent Document 3 describes that general electronic money whose usage purpose is not limited, such as usable stores, usable stores, product types, or products, and specific electronic money whose usage purpose is limited are recorded in the IC card. In Patent Document 4, it is described that only the settlement of the purpose of use for which the electronic money is set is enabled so that the electronic money cannot be used for other purposes. In Patent Document 5, it is described that a closed currency that can only purchase specific commodities, and an open currency that does not limit the commodities that can be purchased. It is recorded in Patent Document 6 that when parents give pocket money to a child, they give him electronic money for which the purpose of use has been limited. [Prior Art Literature] [Patent Document]

[Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2017-111564 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2015-097053 [Patent Document 3] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-353397 [Patent Document 4] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2004-102726 [Patent Document 5] Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2002-109429 [Patent Document 6] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 9-293108

[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]

For the payment means such as Patent Documents 1-6, various utilization conditions can be specified. If there are a plurality of payment methods for which different usage conditions are prescribed, there is a possibility that a plurality of payment methods are used in a store visited by the user. For example, it is assumed that there are checkout means available only for food, checkout means available only at specific stores, and checkout means available only during the daytime. When the user purchases food at a specific store during the daytime, all of these payment means can be used.

However, if an appropriate priority is not set for each payment method, a payment method that the user does not want to use may be used, and thus the user's convenience cannot be improved. For example, in the above example, even if the user does not want to use the payment means that can only be used for food but wants to save, if the payment means is used, the user's convenience will be reduced. Conversely, if the payment method that the user wants to use cannot be used, the user's convenience will also be reduced.

One of the purposes of this disclosure is to improve user convenience. [Means to solve the problem]

The billing system described in this disclosure includes: billing request accepting means for accepting the billing request of the first user who has a plurality of billing means that have stipulated mutually different usage conditions. ; and specific means, which are used to specify a previous payment method that satisfies the conditions for using the previous payment from among the plurality of previous payment methods when the previous payment request has been accepted; and the payment processing execution method, which is In the case of specifying a plurality of preceding settlement means by specifying the preceding means, the settlement process is executed based on the priority of each of the plurality of settlement means. [Invention effect]

According to this disclosure, user convenience can be improved.

[1. First Embodiment]

An example of an embodiment of the payment system described in this disclosure, which is the first embodiment, will be described.

[1-1. Overall configuration of checkout system] Fig. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the checkout system according to the first embodiment. For example, the checkout system S includes: a server 10 , a user terminal 20 , and a store terminal 30 . The network N is any network such as the Internet or a LAN. The checkout system S only needs to include at least one computer, and is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1 .

The server 10 is a server computer. The control unit 11 includes at least one processor. The memory unit 12 includes a volatile memory such as RAM and a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk. The communication unit 13 includes at least one of a communication interface for wired communication and a communication interface for wireless communication.

The user terminal 20 is a user's computer. For example, the user terminal 20 is a smart phone, a tablet terminal, a wearable terminal, or a personal computer. The physical configurations of the control unit 21 , the memory unit 22 and the communication unit 23 are the same as those of the control unit 11 , the memory unit 12 and the communication unit 13 respectively. The operation unit 24 is an input device such as a touch panel. The display unit 25 is a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display.

The store terminal 30 is a computer of the store. For example, the store terminal 30 is a POS terminal, a personal computer, a tablet terminal, or a smart phone. The physical constitution of control unit 31, storage unit 32, communication unit 33, operation unit 34 and display unit 35 is identical to control unit 11, storage unit 12, communication unit 13, operation unit 24 and display unit 25 respectively. A barcode reader, a reader-writer, or a reading device 36 belonging to a camera is connected to the store terminal 30 . The reading device 36 may also be included in the store terminal 30 .

In addition, the programs stored in each of the storage units 12, 22, and 32 can also be supplied via the network N. In addition, the program memorized in the computer-readable information storage medium can also be used to read the required reading part (such as an optical disc drive or a memory card slot) for reading the information storage medium, or used to communicate with the computer. An I/O unit (for example, a USB port) required for the I/O of data from an external device is provided.

[1-2. Outline of the first embodiment] In the billing system S, a billing service is provided to each of a plurality of users. Checkout service refers to the service of providing electronic checkout. Electronic checkout, sometimes called cashless checkout. Each user has its own user terminal 20 . The checkout service can be used in at least one store. When the checkout service can be used at a plurality of stores, each store has at least one store terminal 30 .

In the first embodiment, a case where online electronic money called electronic cash is equivalent to payment means is described. Therefore, what is described as electronic cash can be replaced by payment means. The payment method that can be used in the payment service can be of any type, such as: credit card, charge card, electronic money, point, bank account, electronic wallet, virtual currency, or a combination of these. Codes such as barcodes or QR codes or coupons are equivalent to payment means. That is, in the billing service, any type of so-called prepaid billing means, postpaid billing means, or billing type billing means can be used. Details will be described later, but in the first embodiment, the store payment means given as a gift to the user is not a coupon or the like, but a prepaid payment with a balance such as electronic cash. means.

In the first embodiment, the case where the payment service is used from the payment application installed in the user terminal 20 is described, but the payment service can be used from any medium other than the payment application. For example, the payment service can also be used by means of an IC chip, an IC card, or a magnetic card included in the user terminal 20 . In addition, for example, it is also possible to use the checkout service only by biometric authentication such as face authentication without using the user terminal 20 or a card. For example, after the user completes predetermined use registration from the checkout application program, and logs in to the checkout service by inputting the user ID and password, the checkout service becomes available.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a checkout application program. Once the user logs in to the checkout service, the main screen G1 of the checkout application is displayed on the display unit 25 . On the main screen G1, a code C10 necessary for using the payment method set as the payment source is displayed. In the first embodiment, although the case where electronic cash is set as the payment source is described, the payment source can be changed to other settlement means such as a credit card or a bank account.

For example, in a checkout application, not only checkout using electronic cash can be performed, but also electronic cash can be sent to other users. The user can switch the functions of the checkout application program by selecting the buttons B11 and B12. In the first embodiment, since the case where the user uses electronic cash at a store is described, FIG. 2 shows a state where the button B11 is selected. A store is a franchise store for checkout services. The store can be of any type, for example, a retail store such as a convenience store, or a food and beverage store such as a restaurant.

The user causes the main screen G1 to be displayed on the display unit 25 when a fee is to be paid at the store. For example, once the store clerk reads the code C10 with the reading device 36, a predetermined checkout process will be executed between the store terminal 30 and the server 10. For the settlement process itself, various known processes can be used. In the first embodiment, since electronic cash is set as the source of payment, a process of reducing the balance of electronic cash is executed in the settlement process.

When the checkout process is completed, a checkout completion screen G2 indicating that the checkout process is completed is displayed on the display unit 25 . In FIG. 2, when it is necessary to distinguish each checkout completion screen G2, an English alphabet is written at the end of the symbol of G2. This is also true for other schemas. The checkout completion screen G2A is displayed when the user checks out at "XXX Convenience Store". The checkout completion screen G2B is displayed when the user checks out in "YYY Store".

In the first embodiment, when the user checks out at a specific store, electronic cash for the store is given to the user. For example, when the user checks out at "XXX Convenience Store", electronic cash for "XXX Convenience Store" is given. This electronic cash can only be used in "XXX Convenience Store". Hereinafter, electronic cash for specific stores is referred to as electronic cash for stores. Universal electronic cash that can be used in all franchise stores is called universal electronic cash. When there is no need to distinguish between electronic cash for stores and general electronic cash, it is simply called electronic cash.

For example, when the user uses a store that is holding a sale, electronic cash for the store of the store is given to the user. In the example in Figure 2, "XXX Convenience Store" is holding a sales promotion. As shown in the checkout completion screen G2A, once the user uses "XXX Convenience Store", electronic cash for the store of "XXX Convenience Store" is given. On the other hand, the "YYY Store" department did not hold promotional activities. As shown in the checkout completion screen G2B, even if the user uses the "YYY store", electronic cash for the store will not be given. Electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store" stores can be used for the next purchase at "XXX Convenience Store". Electronic cash for shops can also be awarded together with other gifts such as points.

Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of a checkout application in a case where electronic cash for a store has been given. As shown in FIG. 3 , the balance of general-purpose electronic cash and the balance of electronic cash for stores are displayed on the main screen G1 . In the first embodiment, in order to simplify the description, the electronic cash for stores of "XXX Convenience Store" was taken as an example, but electronic cash for stores of other stores may also exist. In this case, in order to be able to specify the balance of the store electronic cash at which store it is, it is also possible to display such as "the store electronic cash of XXX convenience store" or "the store electronic cash of ZZZ coffee".

For example, when the user visits "XXX Convenience Store" and reads the code C10, as shown in the checkout completion screen G2C, the checkout process using electronic cash for the store is executed. In the first embodiment, at stores where electronic cash for stores can be used, electronic cash for stores is used with priority over general-purpose electronic cash. In cases where using electronic cash at stores alone is not enough, general-purpose electronic cash will be used in combination. G2C, the checkout completion screen, shows a case where a product worth 800 yen is purchased while the balance of electronic cash at the store is 100 yen. In this case, the full 100 won of electronic cash at the store is used, and the shortfall of 700 won is used for general electronic cash.

Once the user uses store electronic cash at "XXX Convenience Store", the store electronic cash of "XXX Convenience Store" will be given again. As shown in the checkout completion screen G2D, when the user visits "YYY Store" and reads the code C10, only general-purpose electronic cash will be used because the electronic cash at the store of "XXX Convenience Store" cannot be used. . In addition, in "XXX Convenience Store", the user can also specify whether to use electronic cash for stores, and whether to use electronic cash for stores and general-purpose electronic cash together can also be specified by the user.

As described above, in the first embodiment, once the user uses electronic cash at a specific store, electronic cash for the store of the store is given as a present to the user. Electronic cash for stores can only be used at the store where the user has used electronic cash. Therefore, the user visits the same store again in order to use the electronic cash for the store given as a gift. That is, the user can be given an incentive to visit the store again. Hereinafter, details of the first embodiment will be described.

[1-3. Functions realized in the first embodiment] Fig. 4 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functions realized in the first embodiment.

[1-3-1. Functions implemented in the server] The data storage unit 100 is realized mainly by the storage unit 12 . Each of the billing request accepting unit 101 , the billing processing executing unit 102 , the usage gift granting unit 103 , and the usage restricting unit 104 is realized mainly by the control unit 11 .

[Data Memory Department] The data storage unit 100 stores the data required to provide the user with checkout service. For example, the data storage unit 100 stores the user database DB.

Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a user database DB. The user database DB is a database in which information about users is stored. For example, user ID, password, user name, code ID, electronic cash information, and use history information are stored in the user database DB. Once a certain user completes the login, a new record will be created in the user database DB, and information such as the user ID of the user will be stored.

User ID is an example of user identification information that can identify a user. Therefore, what is described as user ID can be replaced with user identification information. User identification information can be arbitrary information, and other information such as email addresses or phone numbers can also be used. A user ID is also called an account number. User ID and password are used to log in to the checkout service.

In this embodiment, in order to identify the user who requested the payment processing, it is necessary to include some kind of user identification information in the code C10. Although the user ID may also be included in the code C10, in this embodiment, the case where the code ID is included in the code C10 will be described. Code ID is a kind of user identification information. The code ID is information different from the user ID. For example, the code ID is represented by a numerical value, a character, or a combination of these.

The code ID can be issued at any timing. The code ID can also be set with an expiration date. For example, a code ID is issued when the application is started, when the expiration date expires, or when a user instructs reissue. The issuing method itself of the code ID may be any method. Code IDs are issued in such a way that they do not overlap with other code IDs within the validity period. For example, code IDs are issued randomly.

Electronic cash information refers to information about electronic cash held by users. For example, the electronic cash information includes the balance of general-purpose electronic cash, the store ID of a store that can use electronic cash for stores, and the balance of electronic cash for stores. The balance of the electronic cash for stores is associated with the store ID of the store that can use the electronic cash for stores. The store ID is an example of store identification information that can identify a store. The store identification information may also be information other than the store ID, and may also be, for example, the email address or phone number of the store.

In the example shown in FIG. 5 , the user "Taro Yamada" holds general-purpose electronic cash for 3,500 yen and store electronic cash for 100 yen for a store identified by the store ID "s00001". The user "Kimura Hanako" in Fig. 5 holds the general-purpose electronic cash of 2340 yen, the store electronic cash of 400 yen for the store identified by the store ID "s00001", and the electronic cash for the store identified by the store ID Electronic cash for 700 yen at the store recognized by "s00002". The user "Suzuki Hideo" holds 8,700 yen of general-purpose electronic cash, but does not hold electronic cash for stores.

In the examples in Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, for the sake of simplicity of explanation, an example of electronic cash for a certain store is taken as an example, but it is also possible for each user to hold a plurality of electronic cash for stores like the user "Kimura Hanako". electronic cash. For example, an upper limit can also be set for the amount of electronic cash used in stores that a user can keep. For example, an upper limit can also be set for the balance of electronic cash in each store. The upper limit value of the balance may be a common value for all electronic cash used in stores, or may be determined to be a different value for electronic cash used in each store.

Although it was described in the first embodiment that once the checkout service is used in a certain store, the balance of the store's electronic cash for the store will increase, but the balance of the store's electronic cash can also be obtained by other means. increase by any method. For example, it can also be used as a gift when visiting a certain store, so that the balance of electronic cash in the store can be increased. Known methods can be used to detect the method of coming to the store. For example, check-in using codes such as barcodes or two-dimensional codes, check-in using short-range wireless communication, and using positions detected by GPS, etc. Registration of information, or registration using biometric authentication such as face authentication.

For example, other settlement means such as credit cards can also be used to add value to electronic cash used in stores. In this case, the value-adding of electronic cash for stores can also be carried out under more favorable conditions than that of general-purpose electronic cash. For example, in the case of general-purpose electronic cash, in order to add 1,000 yen, it is necessary to settle the same amount of 1,000 yen with other payment means such as a credit card. In the case of adding value to electronic cash for stores, even if it is added value of 1,000 won, a bonus of 200 won may be generated, and an added value of 1,200 won may be performed. The bonus may also be a fixed amount, or an amount corresponding to the settlement amount.

For example, it is also possible to convert the balance of other payment methods such as electronic money or points into electronic cash for stores. The conversion method itself can use various known methods, for example: a method of converting certain points into other points, a method of converting points into electronic money, or a method of converting electronic money into points . In the case of converting the balance of other payment methods into electronic cash for stores, bonuses can also be generated, and vice versa can generate a predetermined handling fee. In addition, for example, electronic cash can also be given to stores as gifts for the use of services other than checkout services (such as e-commerce transaction services, travel reservation services, communication services, or financial services).

In addition, the electronic cash information may also include other information other than the information illustrated in FIG. 5 , and may also include, for example, an electronic cash ID. The electronic cash ID is an example of electronic cash identification information that can identify electronic cash. The electronic cash identification information may also be information other than the electronic cash ID, and may also be, for example, the electronic cash number. In the case that a certain user holds a plurality of electronic cash, each electronic cash can be identified by the electronic cash identification information. If a user holds general-purpose electronic cash and store-use electronic cash, the general-purpose electronic cash and store-use electronic cash can be identified based on the electronic cash identification information of general-purpose electronic cash and the electronic cash identification information of store-use electronic cash. All cash.

The use history information is information about the use history of the billing service. For example, the use history information includes the date and time of use, store identification information that can identify the store used, information that can identify the payment method used, and the amount of use. In the case where the server 10 can obtain product information that can identify the product purchased by the user, the use history information may also include the product information. When a certain user uses the checkout service, the use history information of the user is updated.

In addition, the information stored in the user database DB is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5 . For example, information on payment means other than electronic cash may be stored in the user database DB. For example, when the payment means is a credit card, the payment means information includes the credit card number, expiration date, and nominal person information. When the payment means is electronic money, the payment means information includes an electronic money ID for identifying the electronic money and a balance of the electronic money. When the payment means is points, the payment means information includes a point ID for identifying points and a balance of points. The same applies to other payment methods, and the payment method information includes information for identifying the payment method. When the user can use a plurality of payment methods, the payment method information also includes information on the payment method that can identify the payment source. The settlement method of the payment source can be changed by the user.

Also, the data stored in the data storage unit 100 is not limited to the user database DB. For example, the data storage unit 100 may also store a store database about stores. The store database stores various information such as store ID, store name, address, area, store terminal ID, whether promotional activities are held, and whether electronic cash is used in the store. The store terminal ID is terminal identification information that can identify the store terminal 30 . The terminal identification information may also be other information such as an IP address or individual identification information of the store terminal 30 .

[the check request reception desk department] The billing request accepting unit 101 accepts a billing request necessary for using electronic cash at a store where electronic cash is available. Hereinafter, the store to which the electronic cash for the store is given is described as the first store. The first store is a store where electronic cash for stores can be used. The first store is the store where the user has used the checkout service. The cost required for providing electronic cash to the store may be borne by the first store or by the manager of the checkout service. In the first embodiment, the store that is running the promotional event of providing electronic cash for the store corresponds to the first store. Settlement request is a notice required to request the execution of settlement processing. The billing request is carried out by sending the data of the predetermined form.

In this embodiment, the store terminal 30 acquires the code ID contained in the code C10 once the code C10 is read by the reading device 36 . The store terminal 30 sends a checkout request including the code ID to the server 10 . For example, the checkout request includes a shop ID, a code ID, and a usage amount. The checkout request accepting unit 101 accepts a checkout request by receiving a checkout request from the store terminal 30 . The checkout request accepting unit 101 can also accept a checkout request through a computer other than the store terminal 30 .

In addition, the information included in the settlement request is not limited to the example of the first embodiment. Checkout request can contain arbitrary information. For example, the store terminal ID may be included in the checkout request. Not only the store ID, but also the store terminal ID can be used to identify which store the checkout request comes from. In addition, for example, the checkout request may also include: product information about the product the user wants to purchase, or service information about the service the user wants to use.

[Settlement Processing Execution Department] The billing process execution unit 102 executes the billing process when the billing request has been accepted. For example, when a payment request is accepted, the payment processing execution unit refers to the user database DB to obtain electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the payment request. The user identified by the code ID is the user who requested the payment (for example, the user who presented the code ID to the store clerk). The settlement processing execution unit 102 executes settlement processing based on the electronic cash information. The billing processing execution unit 102 updates the use history information associated with the code ID included in the billing request based on the execution result of the billing process. The checkout processing execution unit 102 transmits the execution result of the checkout processing to the store terminal 30 .

The settlement process of the first embodiment is a process of reducing the balance of the electronic cash. Checkout processing can also be said to be the processing of consuming electronic cash, or the processing of using electronic cash to complete payment. As mentioned above, various well-known methods can be used for the settlement process itself. For example, as methods of using the checkout service, there are a method of reading a code displayed by a store with the user terminal 20 and a method of selecting a store to use by the user operating the user terminal 20 . In these cases, instead of the store terminal 30 , the user terminal 20 transmits a checkout request to the server 10 . The billing processing executing unit 102 executes billing processing based on a billing request from the user terminal 20 .

In the first embodiment, whether or not to permit the use of electronic cash for stores is determined by the use restriction unit 104 described later. When the user identified by the code ID included in the checkout request holds a plurality of electronic cash for stores, the use restriction unit 104 selects the selected electronic cash for stores from among the plurality of electronic cash for stores. Stores that allow use use electronic cash. The use restriction unit 104 may not allow all the use of electronic cash at a plurality of stores.

When it is determined that the use of electronic cash for stores is permitted, the checkout process execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that at least the balance of electronic cash for stores decreases. The checkout processing execution unit 102, when it is not determined by the use restriction unit 104 that the use of electronic cash for stores is permitted, does not reduce the balance of electronic cash for stores, but reduces the balance of general-purpose electronic cash. way to perform checkout processing.

The settlement processing execution unit 102 is capable of executing settlement processing using electronic cash for stores and general-purpose electronic cash, that is, general-purpose electronic cash. For example, the settlement processing execution unit 102 executes settlement processing by using general-purpose electronic cash in combination when electronic cash for stores alone is insufficient. The combination of store electronic cash and universal electronic cash means reducing both the balance of store electronic cash and the balance of general electronic cash.

If the user identified by the code ID included in the checkout request does not possess store electronic cash, the processing by the usage restriction unit 104 is omitted. In this case, the settlement process executing unit 102 executes the settlement process so that the balance of the universal electronic cash held by the user decreases. The checkout processing execution unit 102 only needs to determine whether or not the user holds store electronic cash based on the user's electronic cash information. This determination can also be performed by utilizing the restriction unit 104 .

The checkout processing execution unit 102 determines whether the balance of the store electronic cash is sufficient based on the usage amount included in the checkout request when it is determined that the store electronic cash is to be used. When it is determined that the balance of the store electronic cash is sufficient, the checkout process execution unit 102 executes the checkout process so that the store electronic cash reduces the usage amount. The processing itself of reducing the balance of electronic cash for stores can be the same as the processing of reducing the balance of general-purpose electronic cash. The settlement process execution unit 102 executes the settlement process by using both the general-purpose electronic cash and the electronic cash for stores when it is determined that the balance of the electronic cash for stores is insufficient. For example, the checkout processing execution unit 102 executes the checkout process by using the full amount of electronic cash at the store and making up the shortfall with general-purpose electronic cash.

The checkout process execution unit 102 only needs to execute the checkout process based on general-purpose electronic cash when it is not determined that electronic cash for stores is to be used. This checkout process is the same as the previous method. If the balance of the universal electronic cash is insufficient, the settlement process becomes an error. Similarly, when the general-purpose electronic cash and the electronic cash for stores are used together, if the total balance of these is insufficient, the checkout process becomes an error. If the total balance of general-purpose electronic cash and store electronic cash is insufficient, payment can also be made in combination with other payment methods such as electronic money or points. Even if the balance of the electronic cash is sufficient, it is still possible to make payment in combination with other payment methods. The use of other settlement means in this case is also called offset.

In addition, the settlement processing execution unit 102 is sufficient to use only electronic cash for stores, and can also perform settlement processing using electronic cash for stores and general-purpose electronic cash in combination. For example, the checkout process execution unit 102 may execute a transaction using electronic cash for stores and general-purpose electronic cash in combination when the balance is less than the threshold value if the checkout process is performed using only electronic cash for stores. Checkout processing. In addition, for example, the checkout processing execution unit 102 may execute the checkout by using electronic cash for stores and general-purpose electronic cash in combination at a predetermined ratio regardless of the balance of electronic cash for stores. deal with.

In addition, the checkout process executing unit 102 may execute the checkout process in such a manner that the user only uses the general-purpose electronic cash to complete the payment even if the user holds the store electronic cash. The checkout process executing unit 102 may execute the checkout process in such a way that the payment is completed using only general-purpose electronic cash if the user does not have store electronic cash. The checkout processing execution unit 102, when the user holds store electronic cash at each of a plurality of stores, only needs to use the store electronic cash associated with the store ID included in the checkout request You can execute the checkout process in such a way that the balance will decrease.

[Using Gift Grant Department] The gift giving unit 103 gives a gift to a user who has used the electronic cash at a certain store, based on the balance of the store electronic cash for the store. The balance is the balance of the payment means available at the store. The so-called granting the balance of electronic cash for stores includes: newly granting electronic cash for stores to users who have not yet held electronic cash for stores, and transferring the electronic cash for stores to users who already have electronic cash for stores. Both meanings of the balance to be increased. For example, by using the gift granting unit 103, the balance of the shop electronic cash for the shop is increased (the value is added to the balance), whereby a gift to be given to the user is given. Hereinafter, the user who requested the payment processing is referred to as the first user. In the first embodiment, the user identified by the code C10 included in the payment request corresponds to the first user. The first user can also be said to be a user who receives electronic cash for a store as a gift.

Electronic cash for stores is electronic cash that can be used at the first store. Electronic cash for stores is electronic cash that cannot be used at the second store. The second store is a store that cannot use store electronic cash at the first store. The second store is a different store from the first store. For example, the second store is another store that does not cooperate with the first store. Even if it is another store different from the first store, as long as it is another store that can use the store electronic cash of the first store, it does not correspond to the second store. For example, other stores that can use electronic cash for stores at the first store are chain stores in the same store group as the first store, or stores that cooperate with the first store.

In the first embodiment, the electronic cash for stores is described as electronic cash that can only be used at the first store, but the electronic cash for stores can also be used at other stores than the first store. For example, if electronic cash is used at a store of "XXX Convenience Store", it can be used not only at "XXX Convenience Store", but also at "ZZZ Cafe" which cooperates with "XXX Convenience Store". In addition, for example, the store electronic cash obtained by the user by using store A of "XXX Convenience Store" can be used not only at store A of "XXX Convenience Store", but also at chain stores of the same store group. Use it at B store of "XXX Convenience Store". In this case, it is assumed that the store IDs of the first stores that can use electronic cash for stores are defined in the data storage unit 100 . When electronic cash for one store can be used in plural first stores, electronic cash for one store will be associated with a plurality of store IDs.

When the checkout process has been executed, the gift granting unit 103 will give the electronic cash for the first store, that is, the electronic cash for the store, as a gift to the first user who has used the electronic cash. bestow. The so-called provision of electronic cash for stores refers to making it possible to use electronic cash for stores. For example, increasing the balance of electronic cash for stores owned by the first user, or newly giving electronic cash for stores to a first user who does not own electronic cash for stores, is equivalent to giving electronic cash for stores. The so-called new provision of electronic cash for stores refers to linking information on electronic cash for stores with a user ID or a code ID. The information may be any information about electronic cash for stores, for example, the balance of electronic cash for stores or the electronic cash ID of electronic cash for stores.

For example, when the first user has not yet owned electronic cash for stores, the use of gift granting unit 103 adds store ID and balance of electronic cash for stores to the electronic cash information to give electronic cash for stores to the first user. cash. When the first user already owns electronic cash for stores, the gift granting unit 103 increases the balance of electronic cash for stores included in the electronic cash information to give the first user electronic cash for stores. cash. The method itself of distributing electronic cash to the user can utilize various known methods and is not limited to these examples. For example, in the case of using the blockchain as in the modified example described later, electronic cash for stores can be provided by generating new tokens, and it is also possible to make a balance by linking existing tokens to the balance. Increase and give stores electronic cash.

In addition, although the example in which a user uses electronic cash at a store is given as a present to the user with electronic cash for a store at the store has been described, the result of the user's use at the store is The billing means and the billing means given as a gift to the user may be different types from each other. For example, when a user uses a credit card at a store, electronic cash for the store may be given to the store as a gift to the user. In other words, when the user has used payment means other than electronic cash, electronic cash for stores of the store may be given as a gift.

[Use restriction department] The use restricting unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for stores at the second store. The second store is a store where electronic cash for stores cannot be used. The second store is a store different from the first store. For example, when a checkout request is received from the store terminal 30 of the second store by the restriction unit 104, the checkout process is executed not by electronic cash at the first store but by general-purpose electronic cash. mode controls the billing processing execution unit 102 .

For example, when a checkout request has been accepted, the restriction unit 104 refers to the user database DB to obtain electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request. The usage restriction unit 104 determines whether to use the electronic cash for the store based on the store ID included in the checkout request and the electronic cash information that should have been obtained. For example, if the store ID included in the checkout request is stored in the electronic cash information that should have been obtained, it means that the user identified by the code ID included in the checkout request has Stores use electronic cash. Therefore, in this case, the usage restriction unit 104 determines that the electronic cash for stores is to be used.

In addition, the method of judging whether to use electronic cash for stores is not limited to the above example. For example, the electronic cash ID of the store electronic cash held by the user may also be included in the code C10, and the use restriction unit 104 may also use the electronic cash ID contained in the code C10 to determine whether to use the store electronic cash . In this case, when the store terminal 30 reads the code C10 with the reading device 36, it sends a checkout request including the electronic cash ID obtained from the code C10 to the server 10.

Utilizing the restricting unit 104, it is judged that the electronic cash for a store identified by the electronic cash ID included in the checkout request is a store identified by the store ID included in the checkout request. To use store electronic cash. Using the restriction unit 104, if the store electronic cash identified by the electronic cash ID included in the checkout request is not a store identified by the store ID included in the checkout request, no judgment is made. Electronic cash is used to use stores. The use restriction unit 104 does not determine that the electronic cash for stores is to be used even when the electronic cash ID for electronic cash for stores is not included in the payment request.

In addition, it is assumed that the relationship between the electronic cash ID of each store electronic cash and the stores that can use the store electronic cash is defined in the data storage unit 100 . The store ID can also be programmed into a part of the electronic cash ID, and the store electronic cash can be specified to which store it belongs to only based on the electronic cash ID. It only needs to be able to specify whether the electronic cash that the user wants to use is electronic cash for stores, and which store the electronic cash for stores belongs to.

In addition, for example, the store ID of the electronic cash for stores held by the user may also be included in the code C10, and the use restriction unit 104 may also use the store ID contained in the code C10 to determine whether to use the electronic cash for stores. electronic cash. In this case, when the store terminal 30 reads the code C10 with the reading device 36, it sends a checkout request including the store ID obtained from the code C10 to the server 10. The fact that the store ID of the store installed in the store terminal 30 matches the store ID acquired from the code ID means that electronic cash for the store can be used. Whether or not to use the electronic cash for stores can also be determined by determining whether or not they match by the restriction unit 104 .

In addition, the method itself for limiting the unusability of electronic cash can use various known methods and is not limited to the example of the first embodiment. For example, using the restricting unit 104, it is also possible to use the method of the above-mentioned patent documents 1-6 to restrict so that the electronic cash for the store cannot be used in the second store.

[1-3-2. Functions implemented in the user terminal] The data storage unit 200 is realized mainly by the storage unit 22 . The display control unit 201 is realized mainly by the control unit 21 . The data memory unit 200 memorizes necessary data for providing the checkout service. For example, the data storage unit 200 stores: a checkout application program, a code ID, and an expiration date of the code ID. In addition, for example, the data storage unit 200 may also store the electronic cash ID or the balance of the electronic cash held by the user. The display control unit 201 causes the code C10 including the code ID to be displayed on the main screen G1 based on the checkout application. The display control unit 201 also causes other screens described in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3 to be displayed.

[1-3-3. Functions implemented in the store terminal] The data storage unit 300 is realized mainly by the storage unit 32 . The billing request sending unit 301 is realized mainly by the control unit 31 . The data storage unit 300 memorizes necessary data for providing the checkout service. For example, the data storage unit 300 stores the store ID of the store where the store terminal 30 is placed and the store terminal ID of the store terminal 30 . The data storage unit 300 also stores a program for acquiring the code ID included in the code C10.

The billing request sending unit 301 sends a billing request to the server 10 . For example, once the code C10 is read by the reading device 36, the payment request transmission unit 301 acquires the code ID included in the code C10. The billing request sending unit 301 sends to the server 10 a billing request including the shop ID, the code ID, and the usage amount. In addition, the code ID can also be obtained optically, and can also be obtained through communication. For example, the store terminal 30 can also use Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), or infrared communication to obtain the code ID, and can also use the short-range wireless communication adopted in the known IC card to obtain the code. ID. The code ID can also be input from the operation unit 34 of the store terminal 30 .

[1-4. Processing executed in the first embodiment] Fig. 6 is a flowchart of an example of processing executed in the first embodiment. The processing shown in FIG. 6 is executed when each of the control units 11 , 21 , and 31 operates according to a program stored in each of the storage units 12 , 22 , and 32 . When the process of FIG. 6 is executed, it is assumed that the first user has already registered for the use of the checkout service and installed the checkout application on the user terminal 20 .

When the user terminal 20 activates the payment application by the first user, login processing is executed between the servers 10 (S100). In the log-in process, the input of the user ID and password may be required, and the information indicating that the user has logged in in the past may be recorded in the user terminal 20, and the input of the user ID and password may be omitted by using this information. Once the login process is successful, the user terminal 20 receives the code ID issued by the server 10, so that the main screen G1 including the code C10 is displayed on the display unit 25 (S101).

In S101, if the user is a user who has electronic cash for stores, the balance of general-purpose electronic cash and the balance of electronic cash for stores will be displayed on the main screen G1. This display only needs to be performed based on the electronic cash information of the logged-in user. In the first embodiment, the processing when the button B11 is selected will be described. The processing when the button B12 is selected is described in the second embodiment.

Once the store terminal 30 reads the code C10 with the reading device 36, it sends the checkout request including the store ID of the store where it is located, the code ID obtained from the code C10, and the usage amount to the server 10. (S102). When the server 10 receives a checkout request from the store terminal 30 (S103), it determines whether or not to use store electronic cash based on the received checkout request (S104). In S104, the server 10 determines whether to use the store ID by determining whether the store ID contained in the checkout request is included in the electronic cash information associated with the code ID contained in the checkout request. With electronic cash.

When it is determined that electronic cash for stores is to be used (S104; Y), the server 10 executes settlement processing so that at least electronic cash for stores can be used (S105). In S105, if the balance of the store's electronic cash is insufficient, a checkout process using general-purpose electronic cash is performed. On the other hand, in S104, when it is not determined that electronic cash for stores will be used (S104; N), the server 10 executes the checkout process so that general-purpose electronic cash can be used (S106). The checkout process in S106 is the same as the previous checkout process.

The server 10, once the checkout process is completed, judges whether or not to give the store electronic cash as a present to the first user (S107). In S107, the server 10 determines whether or not the store ID included in the checkout request is a store of a store (in the first embodiment, a store participating in a promotional event) that is subject to electronic cash for the store. ID, to determine whether to grant electronic cash to the store. It is assumed that the shop ID of the shop targeted for the shop electronic cash is defined in the memory unit 12 in advance.

When it is determined in S107 that electronic cash for stores is to be paid (S107; Y), the server 10 gives electronic cash for stores to the first user (S108). In S108, the server 10 issues electronic cash for stores to the first user by updating the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the checkout request. The server 10 transmits the execution result of the checkout process to the user terminal 20 and the store terminal 30 (S109), and this process ends. The checkout completion screen G2 is displayed on the user terminal 20 , and the same screen is also displayed on the store terminal 30 .

According to the checkout system S of the first embodiment, when a checkout request for using electronic cash at the first store is accepted and the checkout process is executed, the first user using electronic cash Otherwise, electronic cash for stores is granted, and electronic cash for stores is restricted so that the electronic cash for stores cannot be used at the second store. Thereby, the first user will visit the first store again in order to use the electronic cash for the store, so the motivation for visiting the first store again can be given to the first user. In addition, although the incentive to visit the first store can also be given to the first store when the coupon is given to it, by giving the store electronic cash that can be used universally in the first store, it can be given to the customer. A stronger motivation to visit the No. 1 store again. Since the first user can use the electronic cash for the store for the favorite product or service of the first store, the convenience of the first user is also improved.

In addition, the checkout system S can execute the checkout process using electronic cash for stores and general-purpose electronic cash in combination. Thereby, when it is not enough to use only the electronic cash for stores, the general-purpose electronic cash can be used to complete the checkout, so that the user's convenience can be improved.

[2. Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment, it was explained that once the first user uses electronic cash at the first store, the store electronic cash at the first store is given to the first user as a gift to the first user. Case. In the second embodiment, once the first user remits the store electronic cash of the first store to other users, the store electronic cash of the first store will be given to the first user as a gift to the first user. In the case of the first user. Hereinafter, this other user is referred to as a second user. In addition, in 2nd Embodiment, description is abbreviate|omitted about the same point as 1st Embodiment.

The second user is a user who receives electronic cash. The second user is a user different from the first user. For example, the second user may be a user whose contact information is registered in the phone book of the user terminal 20, or the first user who has entered the contact information or user ID from the user terminal 20. The user of the user identification information.

The so-called remittance of electronic cash can be said to be the transfer of electronic cash, the transfer of electronic cash, or the transfer of electronic cash. The so-called "remittance" here includes the meaning of remittance. The first user can send all or part of his own electronic cash to the second user. Once the first user sends electronic cash to the second user, the balance of the first user's electronic cash will decrease, and the balance of the second user's electronic cash will increase.

[2-1. Outline of the second embodiment] Fig. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the checkout application in the second embodiment. Once the first user selects the button B12 of the main screen G1, as shown in the main screen G1 of FIG. 7, it will switch to the display required for the first user to send electronic cash to the second user. In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which the first user can transfer any one of general-purpose electronic cash and store electronic cash to the second user. The first user may only remit general-purpose electronic cash to the second user, or may only remit electronic cash for stores to the second user.

For example, when the first user selects the button B13, general-purpose electronic cash can be sent to the second user. When the first user selects the button B14, electronic cash for stores can be sent to the second user. In the second embodiment, the case where the first user transfers store electronic cash to the second user is described, but the same procedure applies to the case where the first user transfers general-purpose electronic cash to the second user. In the case where the first user holds a plurality of electronic cash for stores, the electronic cash for stores designated by the first user can be transferred to any arbitrary electronic cash for stores.

When the first user selects the button B14, a selection screen G3 for selecting the second user desired is displayed on the display unit 25. For example, on the selection screen G3, persons registered in the phone book of the user terminal 20 are displayed as candidates for the second user. The first user may designate the second user who will send electronic cash this time from among the second users who have sent electronic cash in the past. When the first user selects the second user from the selection screen G3, an input screen G4 required for inputting the amount and information is displayed on the display unit 25 . The input of information can also be arbitrary. It is also possible to add value from the input screen G4.

Once the first user inputs the amount and message and selects the button B40, a completion screen G5 indicating that the store electronic cash has been transferred from the first user to the second user is displayed on the display unit 25. On the completion screen G5, information such as the amount and message sent by the first user to the second user are displayed. As shown in the completion screen G5, once the first user sends the store electronic cash to the second user, the store electronic cash is given to the first user as a gift to the first user.

In the example of FIG. 7 , the first user transfers 1,200 won in store electronic cash to the second user while holding 1,500 won in store electronic cash. The first user may be given a gift corresponding to the amount of money transferred from the first user to the second user, or a fixed gift may be given to the first user regardless of the amount of money. The first user can use the store electronic cash given as a gift for shopping in the first store, and can transfer it to other second users. In the second embodiment, when the first user transfers the electronic cash for the store to the second user, a gift is given to give the first user an incentive to send the electronic cash for the store. Next, details of the second embodiment will be described.

[2-2. Functions realized in the second embodiment] Fig. 8 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functions realized in the second embodiment. First, the difference in the functions of the server 10 will be described. The billing processing execution unit 102 , usage restriction unit 104 , transfer request acceptance unit 105 , transfer processing execution unit 106 , and transfer gift granting unit 107 are realized mainly by the control unit 11 . In the second embodiment, the settlement request accepting unit 101 and the use gift giving unit 103 described in the first embodiment may not be realized.

For example, the settlement request accepting unit 101 may not be implemented, and the settlement processing execution unit 102 may execute the settlement process even if the settlement request is not accepted. In this case, the settlement processing executing unit 102 may execute the settlement processing so that the electronic cash is reduced by a predetermined amount when the predetermined date and time arrives. For example, for a user who uses a subscription service who pays a predetermined amount every month, the billing process can be performed on a monthly basis in this way. For example, the gift giving unit 103 may not be implemented, and even if the first user uses the first store, the store electronic cash of the first store is not given as a gift to the first user. For example, after the sales promotion at the first store ends or before the sales promotion at the first store starts, the first user will not be given electronic cash for stores at the first store.

[Settlement Processing Execution Department] The settlement process executing unit 102 executes the settlement process when the usage conditions stipulated for the electronic cash of the first user are satisfied. The terms of use are the conditions for permitting the use of electronic cash. Regarding the electronic cash for stores described in the first embodiment, stores that can be used are specified as the conditions of use. The conditions of use may be arbitrary conditions and are not limited to stores. For example, the utilization conditions may be time zone, day of the week, period, area, product, service, user, or a combination of these when electronic cash can be used.

It is judged by the use restriction unit 104 whether or not the use conditions defined for the electronic cash are satisfied. The settlement processing execution unit 102 executes settlement processing in such a manner that the electronic cash that satisfies the usage conditions is used. That is, the settlement process executing unit 102 executes the settlement process so that the electronic cash that does not meet the usage conditions is not used. In the second embodiment, a case will be described in which stores that can use electronic cash correspond to the conditions of use. Therefore, the processing of the billing processing execution unit 102 may be the same as that of the first embodiment.

[Use restriction department] The use restricting unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash that does not meet the use conditions. In the second embodiment, a case was described in which stores that can use electronic cash correspond to the usage conditions, so the processing of the usage restriction unit 104 is the same as that of the first embodiment. When other conditions are prescribed as the usage conditions, the usage restriction unit 104 may determine whether or not to permit the use of electronic cash based on the other conditions prescribed as the usage conditions. In addition, the restriction unit 104 can also be realized by an external system of the checkout system S. In this case, the checkout system S can omit the usage restriction unit 104 .

For example, when the time zone in which electronic cash can be used is specified as a condition of use, the usage restriction unit 104 determines whether the current time is in the time zone in which electronic cash can be used, and if the current time is the time in which electronic cash can be used belt, the use of electronic cash is permitted. For example, when the days on which electronic cash can be used are specified as the conditions of use, the use restriction unit 104 determines whether the current Sunday is a day on which electronic cash can be used, and if the current Sunday is a day on which electronic cash can be used, On Sundays, the use of electronic cash is permitted.

For example, when the period during which electronic cash can be used is specified as a condition of use, the use restriction unit 104 determines whether the current date and time is within the period during which electronic cash can be used, and if the current date and time is within the period during which electronic cash can be used , the use of electronic cash is permitted. For example, when an area where electronic cash can be used is specified as a condition of use, the use restriction unit 104 determines whether the store that has requested the payment is located in the specified area, and if the store is located in the specified area, the electronic cash is permitted. Just use it. The same applies when other conditions are specified as usage conditions. The usage restriction unit 104 judges whether or not the prescribed usage conditions of the electronic cash are satisfied, and if the usage conditions are satisfied, the usage of the electronic cash may be permitted.

[Remittance request reception department] The transfer request accepting unit 105 accepts a transfer request for transferring electronic cash from the first user to the second user. The transfer request is a notice required to request the execution of the transfer process described later. The transfer request is made by sending the data in the predetermined format. In this embodiment, once the user terminal 20 selects the second user from the selection screen G3 and inputs the amount and information from the input screen G4, it will include the user identification information of the first user, the second user The user identification information, amount, and message transfer request are sent to the server 10. The transfer request accepting unit 105 accepts the transfer request by receiving the transfer request from the user terminal 20 .

In addition, the transfer request can contain arbitrary information. The information included in the transfer request is not limited to the example of the second embodiment. For example, the electronic cash ID of the electronic cash selected by the first user may be included in the transfer request. In this case, which electronic cash is to be identified can be identified by the electronic cash ID. Also, the user identification information of the second user included in the transfer request may be arbitrary information such as user ID, mail address, or telephone number. Any information that can identify the first user and the second user may be included in the transfer request. In addition, the remittance request may also contain information that can identify whether to send general-purpose electronic cash, whether to send electronic cash for stores that have been stipulated to use conditions, and the like.

[Remittance Processing Execution Department] The transfer processing execution unit 106 executes transfer processing when the transfer request has been accepted. For example, once the transfer request is accepted, the transfer processing execution unit 106 refers to the user database DB, and associates the electronic cash information with the user identification information of the first user included in the transfer request, and the The electronic cash information associated with the user identification information of the second user included in the transfer request is obtained. The remittance processing execution unit 106 executes remittance processing based on the electronic cash information. The transfer processing execution unit 106 updates the use history information of the first user and the use history information of the second user based on the execution result of the transfer process. The transfer processing execution unit 106 transmits the execution result of the transfer processing to the user terminal 20 . For the transfer process itself, various known methods can be used.

For example, the remittance processing execution unit 106 updates the electronic cash information of the first user in such a way that the balance of the electronic cash of the first user decreases based on the remittance request, and makes the electronic cash information of the second user The electronic cash information of the second user is updated in such a way that the balance of the cash increases, thereby executing the remittance process. The reduction amount of the first user's electronic cash may be the same as the amount included in the remittance request, or may be an amount with a predetermined handling fee added. The increase amount of the second user's electronic cash may be the same as the amount included in the transfer request, or may be an amount after subtracting a predetermined handling fee.

[Remittance gift giving department] The remittance gift giving unit 107 gives a gift to the first user when the remittance process has been executed. In the first embodiment, the use gift giving unit 103 described in the first embodiment is to give a gift when the checkout process has been executed, while the remittance gift giving unit 107 is to transfer the gift from the first user to the second user. In the case of remittance of electronic cash, a gift is given. In the second embodiment, although the case where the remittance gift giving unit 107 is given as a gift to the first user is described, the gift given to the first user may be For other gifts, not limited to store electronic cash. For example, the remittance gift granting unit 107 may grant other payment means such as electronic money, points, or coupons to the first user. In addition, for example, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give the first user information such as a notice of a sales promotion, or give an item that the first user can receive as a gift.

For example, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give the first user a gift corresponding to the usage conditions of the electronic cash. The remittance gift giving unit 107 gives the first user a gift related to the usage conditions stipulated in the electronic cash. The relationship between the usage conditions of the assumed electronic cash and the gift when the electronic cash of the usage conditions is transferred is stored in the data storage unit 100 in advance. The remittance gift giving unit 107 gives the first user a gift related to the usage conditions of the electronic cash that the first user has already remitted to the second user.

For example, as in the second embodiment, if a store is specified as a condition of use, electronic cash for stores at that store is determined as a gift. The remittance gift granting unit 107, when the first user has remitted the store electronic cash of a certain store to the second user, gives the store electronic cash of the store as a gift to the first user. . In this case, the remittance gift granting unit 107 may grant store electronic cash at other stores as a gift to the first user, or may grant electronic cash with other usage conditions specified.

For example, if a time zone is specified as a condition of use, the electronic cash for the time zone, that is, the electronic cash for the time zone, is determined as a gift. The remittance gift granting unit 107, when the first user has already remitted the time zone of a certain time zone to the second user by electronic cash, as a gift to the first user, it is given to the store of the time zone With electronic cash. In this case, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give electronic cash for a time zone of another time zone as a gift to the first user, or may give electronic cash for which other usage conditions are specified.

For example, if an area is specified as a condition of use, the electronic cash for the area, that is, the electronic cash for the area, is determined as a gift. The remittance gift granting unit 107, when the first user has already remitted the electronic cash in a certain area to the second user, as a gift to the first user, the electronic cash is given to the store in the area. . In this case, the remittance gift granting unit 107 may grant regional electronic cash in other regions as a gift to the first user, or may grant electronic cash with other usage conditions specified.

In addition, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give the first user a gift that has nothing to do with the usage conditions of the electronic cash that the first user has already remitted to the second user. The remittance gift giving unit 107 may give a gift randomly selected from a plurality of gifts to the first user. The remittance gift granting unit 107 may also grant a gift designated by the first user to the first user. The remittance gift giving unit 107 may determine the amount of gift based on the amount of electronic cash remitted from the first user to the second user, or may give the first user a gift of an amount irrelevant to the amount.

In addition, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give the store electronic cash of a certain store as a gift to the first user when the first user remits general-purpose electronic cash to the second user. The store may be randomly determined, or may be a store that is usually used and specified based on the use history information of the first user. In addition, for example, the store may be a store registered as a favorite store by the first user. Conversely, when the first user remits store electronic cash to the second user, the remittance gift granting unit 107 may grant general-purpose electronic cash as a present to the first user.

Also, the functions of the user terminal 20 and the store terminal 30 are the same as those in the first embodiment, but the user terminal 20 includes a transfer request sending unit 202 . The transfer request sending unit 202 is realized mainly by the control unit 21 . The transfer request sending unit 202 sends a transfer request to the server 10 based on the operation of the first user. For example, the transfer request sending unit 202 sends a transfer request to the server 10 when the first user selects the second user from the selection screen G3 and inputs the amount and message from the input screen G4.

[2-3. Processing executed in the second embodiment] Fig. 9 is a flowchart of an example of processing executed in the second embodiment. The processing shown in FIG. 9 is executed when each of the control units 11, 21 operates according to a program stored in each of the storage units 12, 22. The processing of S200 and S201 is the same as the processing of S100 and S101. Here, the processing when the button B12 of the main screen G1 is selected will be described.

In the user terminal 20, when the first user selects the button B13 or the button B14, the selection screen G3 is displayed on the display unit 25, and the second user's selection is accepted (S202). The user terminal 20 causes the input screen G4 to be displayed on the display unit 25, and accepts input of an amount and a message (S203). When the button B40 is selected, the user terminal 20 sends to the server 10 a message containing the user identification information of the first user, the user identification information of the second user, and the electronic cash to be remitted. Remittance request of electronic cash identification information, amount, and message (S204).

When the server 10 receives the transfer request from the user terminal 20 (S205), it determines the type of electronic cash indicated by the transfer request (S206). When electronic cash for stores is instructed by a transfer request (S206; electronic cash for stores), the server 10 executes remittance processing in such a way that the electronic cash for stores of the first user is transferred (S207) . The server 10 grants the electronic cash for the store to the first user (S208), and this process ends. When the universal electronic cash is instructed by the transfer request (S206; universal electronic cash), the server 10 executes the settlement process so that the universal electronic cash is transferred (S209), and this process ends. In this case, although it is designed so that no gift is given to the second user, some kind of gift may be given to the second user.

According to the checkout system S of the second embodiment, when a transfer request of electronic cash for a store is accepted and the transfer process is executed, a gift is given to the first user. Thereby, an incentive can be given to the first user to transfer electronic cash for the shop to the second user. For example, the first user does not simply keep electronic cash for stores that is not scheduled to be used recently, but transfers it to the second user so that the second user can use electronic cash for stores. As a result, the use of electronic cash for stores in checkout services can be promoted. From the point of view of stores that can use electronic cash for stores, even if the first user does not use electronic cash for stores, the second user still has the possibility of using electronic cash for stores, so the effect of attracting customers to stores can be improved. Since the first user attempts to send electronic cash for stores to the second user in order to obtain a gift, the transfer of electronic cash for stores from the first user to the second user can be facilitated.

Also, the checkout system S gives the first user a gift corresponding to the usage conditions of the electronic cash. In this way, a gift related to the usage conditions of the electronic cash transferred from the first user to the second user can be given, so the first user can be given the electronic cash transfer for the store to the second user strong motivation. For example, in the case where the first user has sent the store electronic cash of a certain store to the second user, by giving the store electronic cash of the store to the first user, it is possible to prevent the first user from Since the electronic cash for stores is completely exhausted, the first user can be given a strong incentive to transfer the electronic cash for stores to the second user. Since the first user may revisit the store in order to use the electronic cash for the store given as a gift, the effect of attracting customers to the store can also be improved.

In addition, the payment system S may give the electronic cash to which the same usage conditions as the electronic cash that the first user has sent to the second user is prescribed as a gift to the first user. In this way, electronic cash with the same usage conditions as the electronic cash sent from the first user to the second user can be given, so the first user can be given the ability to send electronic cash for stores to the second user. Strong motivation. For example, in the case where the first user has sent the store electronic cash of a certain store to the second user, by giving the store electronic cash of the store to the first user, it is possible to prevent the first user from Since the electronic cash for stores is completely exhausted, the first user can be given a strong incentive to transfer the electronic cash for stores to the second user. Since the first user may revisit the store in order to use the electronic cash for the store given as a gift, the effect of attracting customers to the store can also be improved.

In addition, the checkout system S gives the first user electronic cash for stores as a gift. Thereby, the first user can be given a stronger motivation to send electronic cash for stores to the second user.

[3. The third embodiment] In the first embodiment and the second embodiment, in order to simplify the description, the case of using electronic cash at one store or the case of remittance is mainly described. In the third embodiment, a case where there are plural electronic cash for which usage conditions are stipulated is described. The meaning of the utilization conditions is as described in the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, a store is described as an example of the usage condition. In the third embodiment, descriptions of the same points as those in the first embodiment or the second embodiment are omitted.

[3-1. Outline of the third embodiment] Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a screen of the payment application in the third embodiment. As shown in the main screen G1A of Figure 10 and the checkout completion screen G2E, once the first user has used the A store of "XXX Convenience Store", he can use the store electronic payment in the A store of "XXX Convenience Store". Cash and electronic cash for store groups that can be used in all stores of "XXX Convenience Store" will be given to the first user. The electronic cash used in this store can only be used in Store A of "XXX Convenience Store", and cannot be used in other stores of "XXX Convenience Store" and stores other than "XXX Convenience Store". Electronic cash for store groups can be used in any store as long as it is a store named "XXX Convenience Store". For example, electronic cash for store groups can also be used in store B of "XXX Convenience Store".

Once the electronic cash for stores and the electronic cash for store groups are given to the first user, as shown on the main screen G1B, the balance of general electronic cash, the balance of electronic cash for stores, and the balance of electronic cash for store groups will be displayed. Once the first user visits Store A of "XXX Convenience Store" again and allows the code C10 to be read by the reading device 36, both the electronic cash for the store and the electronic cash for the store group can be used, so based on Pre-determined priority to perform checkout processing.

In the third embodiment, the electronic cash for stores of store A of "XXX Convenience Store" has a higher priority than the electronic cash for store groups. In other words, electronic cash for stores that can only be used at specific stores such as store A of "XXX Convenience Store" has a higher priority than store group use that can be used at all stores of "XXX" Convenience Store electronic cash. As shown in the checkout completion screen G2F, electronic cash for stores is used in priority over electronic cash for store groups.

For example, assume that the first user holds 100 yen of electronic cash for stores at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and holds 50 yen of electronic cash for store groups that can be used in all stores of "XXX Convenience Store" amount. Assuming that the first user makes a purchase of 120 yen at store A of "XXX Convenience Store", electronic cash for the store will be used preferentially. Electronic cash for store groups will be used, and the amount of electronic cash for stores will be 20 yen. In this way, in the third embodiment, the convenience of the first user is improved by setting the priority order for each of the plurality of electronic cash held by the first user. Hereinafter, details of the third embodiment will be described.

[3-2. Functions realized in the third embodiment] Fig. 11 is a functional block diagram showing an example of functions realized in the third embodiment. The functions of the user terminal 20 and the store terminal 30 are the same as those of the first embodiment, so the differences in the functions of the server 10 will be described here. The billing request accepting unit 101 , the billing processing executing unit 102 , the use restricting unit 104 , and the specifying unit 108 are realized mainly by the control unit 11 . In the third embodiment, the use gift imparting unit 103 described in the first embodiment may not be implemented, and the transfer request accepting unit 105, transfer processing execution unit 106, and transfer gift described in the second embodiment may not be realized. Grant section 107 .

[the check request reception desk department] The settlement request accepting unit 101 accepts a settlement request from a first user who holds a plurality of electronic cash for which usage conditions different from each other are stipulated. The settlement request itself is as described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, similarly to the second embodiment, the case where the use condition is a store where electronic cash can be used is taken as an example. In addition, for the sake of simplification, the electronic cash for stores that can be used only at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and the electronic cash for store groups that can be used at all stores of "XXX Convenience Store" are given. One electronic cash is taken as an example, but the first user can also secure three or more electronic cash with mutually different usage conditions.

For example, in addition to the above 2 electronic cash, the first user can also keep store electronic cash that can only be used in store B of "XXX Convenience Store". store, and holds electronic cash for stores that can only be used in that store. In addition, for example, the first user can also be like: electronic cash for store groups used by other store groups, electronic cash for time zone that can only be used in a certain time zone, and electronic cash that can only be used in a certain time zone Electronic cash on Sundays that can be used on a certain day of the week, and electronic cash for areas that can only be used in a certain area are stored in a mixed manner. The balance of the electronic cash displayed on the main screen G1 may also display the total value of general-purpose electronic cash and a plurality of electronic cash for which utilization conditions are stipulated.

[Settlement Processing Execution Department] The settlement process executing unit 102 executes the settlement process based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash when specifying a plurality of electronic cash by the specifying unit 108 described later. In the third embodiment, when a plurality of electronic cash is specified by the specifying section 108, the checkout processing execution unit 102 is selected based on the fact that the fewer the number of stores available, the higher the priority. The priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash should be determined to execute the settlement process.

For example, the number of stores that can use electronic cash for stores that can only be used at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" compared to the electronic cash for store groups that can be used at all stores of "XXX Convenience Store" Department is less. Therefore, the electronic cash used by the store has a higher priority than the electronic cash used by the store group. That is, the lower the versatility of the electronic cash that has been stipulated to be used, the higher the priority. The stronger the restrictions on the use of electronic cash that has been stipulated to be used, the higher the priority. Electronic cash for stores that can only be used in a specific store has a higher priority than electronic cash for store groups because of its lower versatility and stronger usage restrictions. The settlement processing execution unit 102 executes settlement processing such that electronic cash with a relatively high priority is used in priority over electronic cash with a relatively low priority.

For example, the settlement process execution unit 102 executes the settlement process by using electronic cash with a relatively high priority and not using electronic cash with a relatively low priority. For example, the billing process execution unit 102 may execute the billing process so that the higher the priority, the larger the usage amount. In the example shown in Figure 10, since the priority of electronic cash for stores is higher than the priority of electronic cash for store groups, the checkout processing execution unit 102 sets the utilization amount of electronic cash for stores as a ratio The use of electronic cash in store groups is even more.

In addition, the method of setting the priority may be any method, and is not limited to the example of the third embodiment. Contrary to the third embodiment, the higher the number of available stores, the higher the priority. In addition, for example, the available time zone may be electronic cash specified as a condition of use, and the priority may be higher than that of electronic cash specified with other conditions of use. For example, the electronic cash specified as a condition of use may have a higher priority than the electronic cash specified with other conditions of use such as time zone or area. For example, the higher the electronic cash balance, the higher the priority.

[Use restriction department] The use of the restricting portion 104 is the same as that of the second embodiment. In addition, the restriction unit 104 can also be realized by an external system of the checkout system S. In this case, the checkout system S can omit the usage restriction unit 104 .

[specific part] The specifying unit 108 specifies electronic cash that satisfies the usage conditions from among a plurality of electronic cash when the payment request has been accepted. The judging method of each utilization condition is the same as that described in the second embodiment. In the third embodiment, since the stores where electronic cash can be used correspond to the conditions of use, the specifying unit 108, when a checkout request has been accepted, selects a store corresponding to electronic cash from among a plurality of electronic cash. Electronic cash that is used in stores that require checkout is designated as electronic cash that meets the conditions for use. The identification unit 108 can also identify the electronic cash that satisfies the usage conditions by obtaining the determination result of the usage restriction unit 104 . The specifying unit 108 can also specify the electronic cash that satisfies the usage conditions by performing the same processing as the usage restriction unit 104 .

For example, assume that the first user has stored electronic cash for stores that can only be used at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and electronic cash for store groups that can be used at all stores of "XXX Convenience Store". 2 electronic cash for cash. When the first user visits store A of "XXX Convenience Store", the specifying unit 108 can identify that this is store A from "XXX Convenience Store" by using the store ID included in the checkout request. Therefore, as the electronic cash that can be used in store A of "XXX Convenience Store", it can be specified that both of these two electronic cash can be used. In the case that the first user has visited other stores of "XXX Convenience Store", the specifying unit 108 can identify that this is from "XXX Convenience Store" by using the store ID included in the checkout request. For the checkout requirements of store B, it is specified that only electronic cash for store groups that can be used in the entire store of "XXX Convenience Store" can be used.

[3-3. Processing executed in the third embodiment] Fig. 12 is a flowchart of an example of processing executed in the third embodiment. The processing in FIG. 12 is partly different from the processing in FIG. 6 . For example, the processing of S300~S303 is the same as the processing of S100~S103. The server 10 specifies electronic cash that satisfies the utilization conditions among the electronic cash held by the first user (S304). In S304, the server 10 refers to the user database DB to acquire the electronic cash information associated with the code ID included in the payment request. The server 10 specifies the electronic cash held by the first user based on the electronic cash information, and the electronic cash can be used at the store indicated by the store ID included in the checkout request. The electronic cash, to be specified.

When the electronic cash satisfying the usage condition is pluralized out (S304; plural), the server 10 executes the settlement process based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash (S305). For example, the first user holds electronic cash for stores at store A of "XXX Convenience Store" and electronic cash for a store group of "XXX Convenience Store". If the payment request is accepted, in S304, the server 10 specifies the two electronic cash items. In S305, the server 10 regards the priority of electronic cash for stores as the first and the priority of electronic cash for shop groups as the second, and executes the checkout process.

When only one electronic cash satisfying the usage condition is specified (S304; 1), the server 10 performs settlement processing based on the electronic cash that should be specified (S306). The settlement processing in S306 is the same as that of the first embodiment. When no electronic cash satisfying the usage condition is specified (S304; None), the server 10 executes the settlement process based on general-purpose electronic cash (S307). The subsequent processing of S308 to S310 may be the same as the processing of S107 to S109 described in the first embodiment.

According to the settlement system S of the third embodiment, when a plurality of electronic cash are specified as electronic cash satisfying the utilization conditions, the settlement is performed based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash. deal with. Thereby, the electronic cash can be prevented from being used in a manner not intended by the user, and the convenience of the user can be improved. By increasing the priority of the electronic cash that the user wants to use, the electronic cash can be used preferentially.

In addition, the checkout system S specifies electronic cash that can be used at a store corresponding to a checkout request from a plurality of electronic cash as electronic cash that satisfies the usage conditions. Thereby, even if there are multiple electronic cash that can be used at the store where the user wants to use the checkout service, by giving priority among them, the electronic cash can be used in the usage method that the user intends, so that it can be changed more To improve user convenience.

Also, in the checkout system S, when a plurality of electronic cash is specified as the electronic cash that satisfies the use conditions, the plurality of electronic cash that is given a higher priority is based on the fact that the fewer the number of stores that can be used, the higher the priority. The priority of each of the electronic cash to perform the checkout process. In this way, for example, it is possible to use the electronic cash that can only be used in a specific store in priority, and save the general electronic cash that can be used in a plurality of stores. Therefore, it is possible to Further enhance the user's convenience.

[4. Modifications] In addition, this disclosure is not limited to the embodiment described above. Appropriate changes can be made without departing from the purpose of this disclosure.

[4-1. Modifications related to the first embodiment] Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block of a modified example related to the first embodiment. Grant restriction unit 109, profit generation unit 110, change processing execution unit 111, first commission generation unit 112, first withdrawal processing execution unit 113, second withdrawal processing execution unit 114, second commission generation unit 115, The first detection unit 116 and the second detection unit 117 are realized mainly by the control unit 11 .

[Modification 1-1] For example, electronic cash for stores can also be used in the first time zone when the relationship with the first store is established. In Modification 1-1, not only the stores where electronic cash for stores can be used, but also the time zone for which electronic cash for stores can be used are specified as usage conditions.

The first time zone is a pre-designated time zone. In Modification 1-1, the case where the first time slot is a relatively free time slot will be described. The term that the first store is relatively free means that at least one of the number of users and the amount of usage is relatively small. The first time zone may be any time zone as long as there is at least one other time zone that is more congested than the first time zone. The first time zone is sometimes called idle time. The first time zone can also be counted by the operator of the store, and can also be counted based on the use history information. For example, the server 10 counts at least one of the number of users of the first store and the total amount of usage for each time zone based on the usage time, usage location, and usage amount included in the usage history information.

In addition, the time zone may be any interval, for example, every 3 hours or every 6 hours. The length may also vary with each time zone. For example, it is more roughly separated at night, and more finely separated during the day. In Modification 1-1, although it was described that the time zone in which the number of users and the total amount of use is the least is equivalent to the first time zone, it is also possible to use the number of users and the total amount of use in order from small to large. The time zone is regarded as the first time zone. Also, the first time zone may be any time zone as long as it is associated with the first store, and is not limited to a relatively free time zone. For example, the first time zone may be: a time zone designated as a time zone for carrying out promotional activities, a time zone when the first store is relatively busy, a time zone when the first store has relatively many employees, a time zone when the first store The time zone in which specific operations such as carry-in operations or display operations did not occur, or the time zone immediately after the specific operations should be completed.

As a gift to the first user, the gift giving unit 103 gives the store electronic cash set as one of the usage conditions at the first time zone. For example, in the "XXX Convenience Store" located in a commercial office area, when the 14:00 to 17:00 hours that office workers do not often use is relatively free, the first time zone is 14:00 to 17:00. The gift giving unit 103 is used to give the first user the store electronic cash that can only be used in "XXX Convenience Store" and can only be used between 14:00 and 17:00.

The use restricting unit 104 restricts so that the electronic cash for stores cannot be used at the second store, and the electronic cash for stores cannot be used at the first store in the second time zone. The second time zone is the time zone in which electronic cash for stores at the first store cannot be used. The second time zone is a time zone different from the first time zone. In addition, the method of disabling electronic cash for stores at the second store is as described in the first embodiment. The restriction unit 104 is used to determine whether or not the current time is in the second time zone. Using the restricting unit 104, if the current time is in the second time zone, the electronic cash for stores is restricted so that the electronic cash for stores cannot be used. The use restriction unit 104 permits the use of electronic cash for stores if the current time is in the first time zone.

According to Modification 1-1, electronic cash for stores is restricted to be used in the first time zone associated with the first store, electronic cash for stores cannot be used in the second store, and in the In the 2 time zone, electronic cash for stores cannot be used at the 1st store. Thereby, it is possible to enhance the customer-attracting effect of the first time zone designated as the time to increase the customer-attraction to the first store. For example, by designating a relatively free time zone of the first store as the first time zone, the customer-attracting effect of the relatively free time zone of the first store can be improved.

[Modification 1-2] For example, the electronic cash system for stores may be used at a first store and a third store located in a first area including the first store. The first area is an area including the location where the first store is located. The first area may be a unit of a prefecture or a municipality, or may be an area defined by the checkout service. The third store can also be a chain store in the same store group as the first store, or it can be another store that cooperates with the first store. However, in Modification 1-2, as long as it belongs to the same store as the first store As for the area, the relationship with the first store is irrelevant.

The third store is another store belonging to the same first area as the first store. The third store is a store that the user has not visited when the electronic cash for the store is given. In the electronic cash at a store in Modification 1-2, the first area is defined as a condition of use. Stores assumed to exist in the first area are defined in advance in the data storage unit 100 . That is, it is assumed that the first store and the third store that can use electronic cash for stores are defined in advance in the data storage unit 100 .

As a gift to the first user, the gift granting unit 103 grants the first area to be the store electronic cash set as one of the conditions of use. This electronic cash for stores is electronic cash for the first area, so it can also be called electronic cash for the area. For example, if the unit of the area is set as a municipality, then once the first user visits the "XXX Convenience Store" located in Itabashi District, Tokyo, then using the gift giving part 103, the system will be able to be located at the No. 1st store "XXX Convenience Store" and the 3rd store also located in Itabashi-ku use the electronic cash for the store to be given to the 1st user.

The restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for shops at the second shop located in the second area. The second area is an area where electronic cash at stores in the first area cannot be used. The second area refers to other areas different from the first area. When the checkout request has been accepted, the restricting unit 104 determines whether the area to which the store that sent the checkout request belongs is the second area. When it is determined that the area is the second area, the restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for stores. The use restriction unit 104 permits the use of electronic cash for stores when it is not determined to be the second area, that is, when it is determined to be the first area.

According to Modification 1-2, electronic cash for stores can be used at the first store and the third store located in the first area including the first store, and is limited to those located in the second area. Store electronic cash cannot be used at the second store. Thereby, the motivation to come to the first area again can be given to the first user. For example, when a promotion is held for the purpose of revitalizing a certain municipality, electronic cash limited to that municipality may be issued.

[Modification 1-3] For example, a part of the functions described in the first embodiment and the second embodiment can also be combined, and the first user can also use the store electronic cash given as a gift for using the first store, Send to the 2nd user. The account settlement system S of Modification 1-3 includes the transfer request receiving unit 105 and the transfer processing execution unit 106 described in the second embodiment. The request receiving unit 105 and the transfer processing executing unit 106 are as described in the second embodiment. In Modification 1-3, the case where the payment system S does not include the remittance gift giving unit 107 is described.

The restriction unit 104 restricts so that the second user cannot use the electronic cash for the shop in the second shop. Unlike the first embodiment, only electronic cash for stores held by the second user is subject to restriction, and the restriction method itself by the restriction unit 104 is the same as that described in the first embodiment.

According to Modified Example 1-3, when the transfer request for transferring store electronic cash from the first user to the second user has been accepted, the transfer process will be executed, and the transfer process will be restricted so that at the 2 The second user in the store cannot use electronic cash for the store. Even if the first user does not plan to use the electronic cash for stores, by sending the electronic cash for stores from the first user to the second user, the second user can use the electronic cash for stores, which can be used effectively Stores use electronic cash.

[Modification 1-4] For example, in Modification 1-3, although the case where the payment system S does not include the remittance gift giving unit 107 is described, the first embodiment and the second embodiment may be combined, and the payment system S may also be The remittance gift giving part 107 is included. The remittance gift giving unit 107 is as described in the second embodiment.

According to Modification 1-4, when the remittance process has been executed, electronic cash for the store is given as a present to the first user. Thereby, an incentive can be given to the first user to transfer electronic cash for the shop to the second user.

[Modification 1-5] For example, the payment system S may also include a payment restriction unit 109 . The giving restricting unit 109 restricts to avoid repeated giving of the shop electronic cash by the gift granting unit 107 because the first user and the second user repeatedly remit and send the shop electronic cash to each other.

For example, after sending electronic cash for stores from the first user to the second user, the giving restricting unit 109 restricts the sending of electronic cash for stores to the first user even if the second user sends electronic cash for stores to the first user. 107 Gives a gift to the second user. After the second user has used all the store electronic cash received from the first user (after using store electronic cash exceeding the received amount), the store electronic cash is sent to the first user In this case, a gift may also be given to the second user. In addition, for example, when the second user remits to the first user electronic cash at stores exceeding the amount received from the first user, the amount exceeding the amount will be transferred to the second user. give gifts.

For example, after sending the electronic cash for stores for the first time from the first user to the second user, and the electronic cash for stores sent by the second user to the first user, the payment restriction unit 109 may transfer the electronic cash for stores from the first user to the first user. When the first user remits the second electronic cash for stores to the second user, the granting of the gift to the first user is restricted. In this case, in the case where the first user remits electronic cash at stores exceeding the amount received from the second user for the second time, the first user will be given a credit for the amount exceeding the amount. gift.

In addition, the restricting method provided by the restricting unit 109 is not limited to the above-mentioned examples. For example, within a certain period of time after the first user remits store electronic cash to the second user, the payment restriction unit 109 may even if there is store electronic cash between the first user and the second user. Remittance still restricts giving gifts to at least one of the first user and the second user. In addition, for example, when the payment restriction unit 109 sends the electronic cash for stores to the second user from the first user, before the second user completely uses up the electronic cash for stores, even if the first user and the second user use up electronic cash for stores, 2. Even if electronic cash at a store is transferred between users, at least one of the first user and the second user is still restricted from granting a gift.

According to Modification 1-5, restrictions will be imposed to avoid repeatedly giving store electronic cash as a gift because the first user and the second user repeatedly remit and send store electronic cash to each other. This can prevent the first user and the second user from obtaining gifts unlimitedly by transferring money to each other without using the electronic cash at the store.

[Modification 1-6] For example, in the second embodiment, modification 1-3, and modification 1-4, the case where the first user transfers electronic cash for stores held by the first user to the second user is described. The first user can also convert the general-purpose electronic cash held by himself into electronic cash for stores before remittance to the second user. The billing system S of Modification 1-6 includes a usage restriction unit 104 , a transfer request accepting unit 105 , and a transfer processing execution unit 106 as in Modifications 1-3 and 1-4. Using the restriction unit 104 and transfer request accepting unit 105 is the same as Modification 1-3 and Modification 1-4, but using the restriction unit 104 and transfer processing execution unit 106 is the same as Modification 1-3 and Modification 1-4. 4 different.

The remittance processing execution unit 106 of Modification 1-6, when the remittance request has been accepted, uses the general-purpose payment means, that is, the general-purpose electronic cash, so that the store's electronic cash will be remitted to the second bank. User's way to perform remittance processing. For example, the remittance processing execution unit 106 first converts the general-purpose electronic cash held by the first user into electronic cash for stores, and then executes the remittance processing. The so-called conversion of general-purpose electronic cash into store-use electronic cash refers to reducing the balance of general-purpose electronic cash and increasing the balance of store-use electronic cash. In Modification 1-6, although it is described that the decrease in the balance of the first user's general-purpose electronic cash is the same as the increase in the second user's electronic cash for stores, it can also be modified as described later. Make them different as shown in Example 1-7.

According to Modification 1-6, the transfer processing is executed in such a manner that the store electronic cash is transferred to the second user using general-purpose electronic cash. Thereby, even if the first user owns insufficient store electronic cash, he can still use general-purpose electronic cash to remit store electronic cash, so that the user's convenience can be improved.

[Modifications 1-7] For example, the billing system S may also include a profit generation unit 110 . The profit generation unit 110 does not generate when the transfer processing using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, and when the transfer processing using the electronic cash for stores is executed, the first user and the second The benefit of at least one of the users is generated. The transfer processing using general-purpose electronic cash is the transfer processing described in Modification 1-6. The transfer processing using electronic cash for stores is the transfer processing described in the second embodiment, Modification 1-3, and Modification 1-4.

For example, the profit generation unit 110, when the transfer process using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, gives a larger gift to the second party than when the transfer process using the electronic cash for stores is executed. 1 user. For example, assuming that a gift of 10% of the remittance amount is given to the first user when the remittance processing using electronic cash for stores has already been executed, then the remittance processing using general-purpose electronic cash may also be performed. If it has been executed, a gift of 15% of the remitted amount is given to the first user.

For example, when the remittance processing using electronic cash for general use is executed, the benefit generation unit 110 transfers the general remittance required for remittance of the same amount than when the remittance processing using electronic cash for stores is executed. The amount of electronic cash becomes smaller. For example, it is assumed that shop electronic cash for 1,000 yen is remitted from the first user to the second user. Assuming that in the case where the first user wants to use the stored electronic cash for stores, 1,000 yen of electronic cash for stores is required. On the other hand, when the first user wants to use the stored electronic cash In other cases, you only need 800 won of general-purpose electronic cash.

For example, when the remittance processing using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the benefit generation unit 110 will remit the received amount when the same amount is remitted become more. For example, in the case where the first user remits 1,000 won in store electronic cash to the second user, the second user will receive 1,000 won in store electronic cash. Cash, on the other hand, in the case where the first user remits 1,000 won of universal electronic cash held by the second user to the second user, the second user will receive 1,200 won of electronic cash for the store. cash.

According to Modification 1-7, when the transfer processing using general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the first user and the benefit of at least one of the second user is generated. Thereby, the first user can be given a stronger motivation to transfer the store electronic cash to the second user using the general-purpose electronic cash.

[Modifications 1-8] For example, as described in the first embodiment, the checkout request may be a request necessary for using store electronic cash at the first store. In this case, the gift granting unit 103 may give the first user the electronic cash for the store after the checkout process has been executed and the electronic cash for the store has been used in the first store. That is, the use gift granting unit 103 may grant store electronic cash to the first user not only when general-purpose electronic cash has been used but also when store electronic cash has been used.

According to Modification 1-8, when the checkout process has been executed and the store electronic cash has been used at the first store, the store electronic cash is given to the first user. Thereby, the first user can be given a stronger motivation to visit the store again.

[Modifications 1-9] For example, electronic cash can also be used in the second store. The second store is a franchise store that provides checkout service, at least universal electronic cash can be used. In this case, when the electronic cash is used at the first store by the gift granting unit 103, the electronic cash for the first store, that is, the electronic cash for the first store is given to the first user. The first electronic cash for stores is the same as the electronic cash for stores described in the first embodiment. The processing required to provide electronic cash for the first store is as described in the first embodiment.

In the case where electronic cash is used at the second store by the gift granting unit 103, electronic cash for the second store, that is, electronic cash for the second store is given to the first user. The electronic cash used at the second store is electronic cash that cannot be used at the first store. For example, it is assumed that the first store is store A of "XXX Convenience Store", and the second store is store B of "XXX Convenience Store". "XXX Convenience Store" store A electronic cash for the first store cannot be used at "XXX Convenience Store" store B. "XXX Convenience Store" store B electronic cash for the second store cannot be used at "XXX Convenience Store" store A. The electronic cash for the second store is different from the electronic cash for the first store in that the available stores are different, but the method itself of giving the electronic cash for the second store to the second user is the same as for the second store. 1. The method by which the user transfers electronic cash for the first store is the same.

The restriction unit 104 restricts so that the electronic cash for the first store cannot be used at the second store, and restricts so that the electronic cash for the second store cannot be used at the first store. The electronic cash used at the second store is different from the electronic cash used at the first store in that it can be used at the second store and cannot be used at the first store, but it is restricted so that it cannot be used at the first store. The method itself for electronic cash at the second store is the same as the method for restricting the use of electronic cash at the first store at the second store.

According to Modification 1-9, when electronic cash is used at the first store, the first user is given the electronic cash for the first store, that is, the electronic cash for the first store, and the electronic cash for the first store is given to the first user. When the electronic cash is used, the electronic cash for the second store is given to the first user, that is, the electronic cash for the second store. Thereby, both the motivation to visit the first store again and the motivation to visit the second store again can be given to the first user. That is, for each store, an incentive to visit the store again can be given to the first user.

[Modifications 1-10] For example, in Modification 1-9, the first store and the second store may belong to the same store group. When the electronic cash is used at the first store or the second store, the gift giving unit 103 can also give the first user the electronic cash for the store group that has the balance for the store group. Electronic cash for a store group is as described in the third embodiment. In the third embodiment, it was described that electronic cash for each store may be given, but in Modifications 1-10, electronic cash for each store may not be given.

Store group electronic cash can also be used in the first store and the second store. In addition to the first store and the second store, if there are other stores belonging to the same store group, electronic cash for the store group can also be used in the other stores. The flow of the checkout process when electronic cash is used in store groups is as described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 1-10, when the electronic cash is used in the first store or the second store, the electronic cash for the store group is given to the first user, that is, the electronic cash for the store group, Store group electronic cash can be used in the first store and the second store. Thereby, user's convenience can be improved.

[Modification 1-11] For example, the first embodiment and the third embodiment may be combined. In this case, the electronic cash for stores described in the first embodiment is one of the plurality of electronic cash described in the third embodiment. The checkout system S includes a specifying unit 108 . The processing of the specifying unit 108 and the payment processing executing unit 102 of the modification 1-11 is the same as that of the third embodiment.

According to Modification 1-11, when a plurality of electronic cash satisfying the utilization conditions is specified from among the plurality of electronic cash, the settlement process is performed based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash . Thereby, similarly to the third embodiment, user's convenience can be improved.

[Modification 1-12] For example, the electronic cash used in stores can also be changed into general electronic cash. Conversely, general-purpose electronic cash can also be changed into electronic cash for stores. The settlement system S includes a change processing execution unit 111 and a first commission generation unit 112 . The change processing executing unit 111 executes the change processing required for changing the store electronic cash into general electronic cash, that is, universal electronic cash. The change process is the process of reducing the balance of electronic cash for stores and increasing the balance of general-purpose electronic cash. For the change process itself, known processes can be used. For example, the amount of decrease in the balance of electronic cash for stores and the amount of increase in the balance of general-purpose electronic cash may be the same or different.

The first fee generating unit 112 instructs a predetermined fee to be generated when the modification process has been executed. The handling fee may be a fixed value regardless of the amount changed by the change process, or may be a value corresponding to the amount changed by the change process. For example, the first commission generation unit 112 may generate commissions in such a way that the more the store electronic cash is changed to the general-purpose electronic cash, the more commissions will be charged. The handling fee can also be withheld from general electronic cash or electronic cash used in stores, and can also be withheld from other payment methods such as electronic money or points. The handling fee can also be charged by other payment means such as credit card.

According to Modification 1-12, when the change processing required for changing the electronic cash for stores into general-purpose electronic cash has been executed, a predetermined fee is generated. Thereby, the convenience of the first user who does not plan to use electronic cash for stores can be improved. From the point of view of the checkout service, the profitability of the checkout service can be improved because a predetermined handling fee will be generated.

[Modification 1-13] For example, general-purpose electronic cash and electronic cash for stores can also be withdrawn. The withdrawal itself only needs to be made possible by known methods, for example, the withdrawal can also be realized by transferring a predetermined amount to the user's bank account. The checkout system S includes: a first cash withdrawal processing execution unit 113 , a second cash withdrawal processing execution unit 114 , and a second commission generation unit 115 .

The first withdrawal processing execution unit 113 executes the first withdrawal processing required for withdrawing general-purpose electronic cash, that is, universal electronic cash. For example, the first withdrawal process execution unit 113 executes the first withdrawal process in such a way that the universal electronic cash will be withdrawn up to the amount specified by the user. The first withdrawal process execution unit 113 executes the first withdrawal process in such a way that the balance of the universal electronic cash is reduced to the amount specified by the user, and the withdrawal reaches the amount specified by the user. The first gold withdrawal processing execution unit 113 can also reduce the balance of the universal electronic cash to the amount specified by the user, and withdraw the money to the amount specified by the user after deducting the handling fee. Execute the 1st withdrawal process.

The second withdrawal process execution unit 114 executes the second withdrawal process required for withdrawing electronic cash in stores. For example, the second withdrawal process execution unit 114 executes the second withdrawal process in such a manner that the electronic cash for the store will be withdrawn up to the amount specified by the user. The second withdrawal process execution unit 114 executes the second withdrawal process in such a way that the balance of the store electronic cash is reduced to the amount specified by the user, and the withdrawal reaches the amount specified by the user. The second withdrawal processing execution unit 114 can also reduce the balance of the electronic cash used by the store to the amount specified by the user, and withdraw the funds to the amount specified by the user after deducting the handling fee. To execute the second withdrawal process.

The second fee generation unit 115 generates a higher fee than when the first withdrawal process is executed when the second withdrawal process is executed. The method of generating the commission itself may be the same as that of the first commission generation unit 112 . The commission fee for the first withdrawal process and the commission fee for the second withdrawal process may be defined in the data storage unit 100 in advance. The difference between the handling fee for the first withdrawal process and the handling fee for the second withdrawal process may be a fixed value regardless of the amount, or the difference between the two may become larger or smaller as the amount increases . The handling fee can also be withheld from the general electronic cash, or can be withheld from the store with electronic cash. The service fee can also be withheld from other settlement methods such as electronic money or points.

According to Modification 1-13, when the second withdrawal process required for withdrawing electronic cash at stores is executed, it will generate more than the first withdrawal process required for withdrawing general-purpose electronic cash. There is also a higher handling fee when withdrawal processing is performed. Thereby, the convenience of the first user who does not plan to use general-purpose electronic cash or electronic cash for stores can be improved. From the point of view of the checkout service, the profitability of the checkout service can be improved because a predetermined handling fee will be generated.

[Modification 1-14] Electronic cash, for example, can also be managed using tokens in the blockchain. Tokens are units of value issued on the blockchain. The data form of the token itself can be various data forms adopted in known blockchains.

Tokens are sent from one address to another. Tokens can be associated with arbitrary metadata. Addresses can also be associated with arbitrary metadata. In Modification 1-14, it is explained that the token representing each electronic cash is associated with the user address representing the owner of the electronic cash and the usage conditions stipulated in the electronic cash. . User address is one type of user identification information.

In Modification 1-14, the store described in the first embodiment will be described as an example of the usage conditions included in the token metadata. The utilization conditions may be other conditions described in the second embodiment. Tokens corresponding to electronic cash for stores are associated with information that can identify the store such as the store ID or store address that can identify the first store. For example, if it is electronic cash for stores of "XXX Convenience Store", the token of electronic cash for this store will have the user address of the user who owns the electronic cash for this store, and the ID of "XXX Convenience Store" The store ID or store address is associated. In the case of universal electronic cash, for the tokens of universal electronic cash, the user address of the user who owns universal electronic cash is established.

In addition, tokens can also be associated with other arbitrary information. For example, tokens can also be linked to electronic cash balances. Electronic cash and tokens do not have a one-to-one correspondence, and multiple electronic cash can also be managed with one token. For example, a plurality of electronic cash owned by a certain user can also be managed with one token. In this case, a certain token represents general-purpose electronic cash and electronic cash for stores. For example, for the token, there may also be a balance of general-purpose electronic cash and a balance of electronic cash for stores. For this token, the total value of the balances of a plurality of electronic cash may also be associated.

The usage restriction unit 104 restricts the use of electronic cash for shops at the second shop based on the shop ID associated with the token. In Modification 1-14, the restriction unit 104 uses the filter function of the block chain to restrict so that the electronic cash for the store cannot be used at the second store. The restricting unit 104 restricts tokens corresponding to the electronic cash at the store of the first user from being transferred to the second store by utilizing the filtering function. The restriction unit 104 restricts the transfer of the tokens if the shop ID of the first shop to which the tokens are associated does not match the shop ID designated as the transfer destination.

According to Modification 1-14, based on the store ID associated with the token corresponding to the electronic cash for stores, it is restricted so that the electronic cash for stores cannot be used in the second store. Thereby, electronic cash for stores can be used more reliably only in the first store.

[Modification 1-15] In Modification 1-15, similarly to Modification 1-14, a case where electronic cash is managed using tokens in the blockchain will be described. For the token corresponding to the electronic cash, the transfer history information related to the transfer history of the electronic cash is established. The migration history information is information equivalent to the use history information described in the first embodiment. For example, the transfer history information includes the store ID of the store that used the checkout service, the date and time of use, and the amount of use.

The checkout system S includes a first detecting unit 116 . The first detection unit 116 detects the transfer of electronic cash from the first user to the first store based on the transfer history information managed in the blockchain. The term "managed in the blockchain" refers to being managed by a system different from the blockchain of the checkout service. The transfer history information may also be recorded in a computer other than the server 10 . For example, the first detecting unit 116 detects that the first user used electronic cash at the first store when the store ID of the first store is included in the transfer history information. The first detection unit 116 may also detect that the first user has used the electronic cash a predetermined number of times in the first store based on the transfer history information.

When the transfer is detected by the first detecting unit 116, the present giving unit 103 gives the electronic cash for stores to the first user. For example, the balance of the store's electronic cash associated with the token corresponding to the first user is increased by a predetermined amount by using the gift granting unit 103 .

Based on the transfer history information, store electronic cash may be given as a gift when the first store is used a predetermined number of times, or a discount may be given when multiple subscription applications are made. By referring to the date and time of use included in the transfer history information, electronic cash for the store can also be given as a gift in the case of using it during idle time. When the transfer history information includes the reason for giving the electronic cash, it is also possible to set the handling fee to be free for the withdrawal of the electronic cash given as salary.

According to Modification 1-15, based on the transfer history information managed in the blockchain, the transfer of electronic cash from the first user to the first store is detected, and when there is detection to the transfer In the case of transfer, electronic cash for stores is given to the first user. Thereby, electronic cash for stores can be given to the first user more reliably.

[Modification 1-16] In Modification 1-16, similarly to Modification 1-14 and Modification 1-15, a case where electronic cash is managed using tokens in the block chain will be described. The checkout system S includes a second detection unit 117 . The second detecting unit 117 detects the use of the electronic cash at the first store based on the use history information about the use history of the electronic cash managed outside the block chain.

Modification 1-15 uses the transfer history information managed on the blockchain to detect the use of electronic cash in the first store. Use history information managed outside the block chain. The history information is used as described in the first embodiment. When the use is detected by the second detecting unit 117, the gift giving unit 103 gives the electronic cash for stores to the first user. The processing by the gift granting unit 103 is different in that the electronic cash is managed as a token, and the other points are the same as those of the first embodiment.

According to Modification 1-16, when the use of electronic cash at the first store is detected based on the use history information about the use history of electronic cash managed outside the block chain, the first 1 The user grants electronic cash for the store. Thereby, electronic cash for stores can be given to the first user more reliably.

[4-2. Modifications related to the second embodiment] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block of a modified example related to the second embodiment. Settlement request accepting unit 101, use gift giving unit 103, use limiting unit 104, specific unit 108, giving limiting unit 109, first benefit generating unit 110A, and second benefit generating unit 110B are mainly composed of control unit 11. be realized.

[Modification 2-1] For example, in the second embodiment, it is described that, in the case where the electronic cash for which the usage conditions have been stipulated has been transferred from the first user to the second user, as a gift to the first user, it is given In the case of electronic cash that has been stipulated to have the same usage conditions. The remittance gift giving unit 107 may give the first user a gift different from the electronic cash for which usage conditions have been stipulated. The gift may be electronic cash that is stipulated with other usage conditions different from those stipulated for the electronic cash that has already been transferred from the first user to the second user, or it may be that no usage conditions are specified. electronic cash. In addition to this, for example, gifts other than electronic cash (such as donations to charitable causes, etc.) may also be given.

According to Modification 2-1, a gift different from the electronic cash for which the usage conditions have been stipulated is given to the first user. Thereby, an incentive can be given to the first user to send the electronic cash for which usage conditions have been stipulated to the second user. For example, it can also be designed so that the first user can designate the gift he wants to receive. In this case, the first user can be given the electronic cash that has been stipulated to be used to remit to the second user. stronger motives.

[Modification 2-2] For example, as shown in the second embodiment, when the use condition is a store that can use electronic cash, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may treat a gift that is not related to the store as a variant for the first user. The different gifts described in Example 2-1 are given. For example, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give electronic cash for stores of other stores as a gift, or may give general-purpose electronic cash as a gift. The remittance gift giving unit 107 may give other payment means such as electronic money or points as a gift.

According to Modification 2-2, a gift irrelevant to a shop is given to the first user as a different gift described in Modification 2-1. Thereby, an incentive can be given to the first user to send the electronic cash for which usage conditions have been stipulated to the second user.

[Modification 2-3] For example, the second embodiment and Modifications 1-5 of the first embodiment may be combined. The checkout system S of Modification 2-3 includes a payout restriction unit 109 . The giving restricting unit 109 restricts to prevent repeated giving of gifts by the gift giving unit 107 due to the repeated remittance of electronic cash between the first user and the second user. This restricting method is the same as that described in Modifications 1-5. In Modification 1-5, the case where the usage condition is a store is described, but in Modification 2-3, the payment restriction unit 109 will also be used for electronic cash that has been stipulated with a usage condition other than a store. restricted object. For example, the provision restriction unit 109 restricts the electronic cash that has been specified with usage conditions such as time zone, day of the week, or region, so as to avoid repeated transfers between the first user and the second user. The electronic cash causes the gift giving unit 107 to repeatedly give gifts by remittance.

According to Modification 2-3, restrictions will be imposed to avoid gifts being given repeatedly due to repeated remittances of electronic cash between the first user and the second user. Thereby, like Modification 1-5, it is possible to prevent the first user and the second user from acquiring the gift infinitely.

[Modification 2-4] For example, the second embodiment and Modifications 1-6 of the first embodiment may be combined. The remittance processing execution unit 106 of Modification 2-4 executes the remittance in such a way that the electronic cash with specified usage conditions is remitted to the second user by using general-purpose electronic cash, that is, general-purpose electronic cash. deal with. The remittance processing itself is as described in Modifications 1-6. In Modification 1-6, the case where the usage condition is a store is described, but in Modification 2-4, the electronic cash for which the usage condition other than the store is specified is also subject to remittance processing. For example, the remittance processing execution unit 106 executes remittance processing by using common electronic cash for remittance for electronic cash for which use conditions such as time zone, day of the week, or region are specified.

The remittance gift giving unit 107 gives a gift to the first user when the remittance process using the general-purpose electronic cash has been executed. Although it is different from the second embodiment in that the electronic cash used as the source of the remittance process is a general-purpose electronic cash, the gift giving method itself is the same as that described in the second embodiment.

According to Modification 2-4, the universal electronic cash, that is, universal electronic cash, is used so that the electronic cash that has been stipulated with the usage conditions will be sent to the second user to perform the transfer process, and in In the case where the transfer process using the general-purpose electronic cash has been executed, a gift is given to the first user. Thereby, like Modification 1-6, user's convenience can be improved.

[Modification 2-5] For example, the second embodiment and Modifications 1-7 of the first embodiment may be combined. In Modification 2-5, it was explained that in the profit generating unit 110 of Modification 1-7, a benefit is generated for the first user. The checkout system S of Modification 2-5 includes a first profit generation unit 110A. The first profit generation unit 110A, when the transfer processing using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, makes the second transaction that does not occur when the transfer processing using the electronic cash for which usage conditions are specified are executed. 1 user's profit is produced. That is, the first benefit generation unit 110A has a function of generating benefits to the first user among the profit generation unit 110 described in Modification 1-7. This function is as described in Modifications 1-7.

According to the modified example 2-5, when the transfer process using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, it will not occur when the transfer process using the electronic cash for which the usage conditions are stipulated is executed. The profit of the first user is generated. Thereby, like Modification 1-7, an incentive can be given to the first user to send electronic cash for the store to the second user.

[Modification 2-6] In Modification 2-6, it was explained that in the profit generating unit 110 of Modification 1-7, a benefit is generated for the second user. For example, the payment system S of Modification 2-6 includes a second profit generation unit 110B. The second profit generation unit 110B, when the transfer process using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, orders the second profit that would not occur when the transfer process using the electronic cash for which the usage conditions are specified is executed. Profit of 2 users is brought about. That is, the second benefit generation unit 110B has a function of generating benefits to the second user among the profit generation unit 110 described in Modification 1-7. This function is as described in Modifications 1-7.

According to the modified example 2-6, when the transfer process using the general-purpose electronic cash is executed, the situation that does not occur when the transfer process using the electronic cash for which the usage conditions are stipulated is executed The profit of the second user is generated. Thereby, like Modification 1-7, an incentive can be given to the first user to send electronic cash for the store to the second user.

[Modification 2-7] For example, the transfer request accepting unit 105 may repeatedly accept transfer requests. The transfer processing execution unit 106 executes transfer processing each time a transfer request is accepted. The remittance gift giving unit 107 may give a gift to the first user every time the remittance process is executed. Each remittance processing and gift giving processing are as described in the second embodiment. For example, the transfer processing executing unit 106 executes the transfer processing based on the transfer request when the first user makes a transfer request again after the first user requests transfer and executes the transfer processing. The transfer gift granting unit 107 grants a gift to the first user when the first transfer process has been executed, and also grants a gift to the first user when the transfer process is executed again.

According to Modification 2-7, the transfer process is executed every time a transfer request is accepted, and the first user is given a gift every time the transfer process is executed. Thereby, the first user can be given a stronger motivation to send electronic cash for stores to the second user.

[Modification 2-8] For example, the remittance gift giving unit 107 may give a gift to the first user based on the amount of money remitted from the first user to the second user. For example, the remittance gift granting unit 107 grants a gift to the first user so that the larger the credit amount transferred from the first user to the second user, the more the gift becomes. The remittance gift granting unit 107 may, in the case of granting a plurality of gifts to the first user, increase the number of gifts as the amount of money remitted from the first user to the second user increases. In this way, a gift is given to the first user.

According to Modification 2-8, a gift is given to the first user based on the amount of money transferred from the first user to the second user. Thereby, the first user can be given a stronger motivation to send electronic cash for stores to the second user.

[Modification 2-9] For example, the first embodiment can also be applied to the second embodiment. In Modification 2-9, the usage conditions are stores where electronic cash can be used. The billing system S of Modification 2-9 includes a billing request accepting unit 101 , a use gift granting unit 103 , and a use restricting unit 104 . These functions are as described in the first embodiment.

According to Modification 2-9, similarly to the first embodiment, the user can be given an incentive to visit the first store again.

[Modification 2-10] For example, the second embodiment and Modification 1-1 of the first embodiment may be combined. The use restricting unit 104 of Modification 2-10 restricts the use of store electronic cash at the second store and prevents use of store electronic cash at the first store in the second time zone. This restriction method is the same as that described in Modification 1-1.

According to Modification 2-10, similar to Modification 1-1, the customer-attracting effect of the first time zone when the first store is relatively free can be enhanced.

[Modification 2-11] For example, the second embodiment and Modification 1-2 of the first embodiment may be combined. The use restricting unit 104 of Modification 2-11 restricts the use of electronic cash for stores at the second store located in the second area. This limiting method is the same as that described in Modification 1-2.

According to Modification 2-11, as in Modification 1-2, the motivation to come to the first area again can be given to the first user.

[Modification 2-12] For example, the third embodiment can also be applied to the second embodiment. In Modification 2-12, the first user holds a plurality of electronic cash for which usage conditions different from each other are prescribed. The checkout system S of Modification 2-12 includes a specifying unit 108 . The processing of the identification unit 108 and the processing of the settlement processing execution unit 102 when a plurality of electronic cash are identified by the identification unit 108 are as described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 2-12, as in the third embodiment, the convenience of the user can be improved.

[4-3. Modifications related to the third embodiment] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a functional block of a modified example related to the third embodiment. Utilize the gift granting part 103, the utilization restriction part 104, the transfer request accepting part 105, the transfer processing execution part 106, the transfer gift granting part 107, the first determination part 118, the second determination part 119, and the designation acceptance part 120 to control Part 11 is implemented for master.

[Modification 3-1] For example, the usage conditions may include: stores where electronic cash can be used, and other conditions. Other conditions are the same as those described in the second and third embodiments. The checkout processing execution unit 102 of Modification 3-1 specifies, by the specifying unit 108, the first electronic cash at which a store is specified as a condition of use, and the first electronic cash at which a store is specified as a condition of use. 2. In the case of electronic cash, settlement processing is performed based on the respective priorities of the corresponding first electronic cash and the corresponding second electronic cash.

For example, it is assumed that the user holds electronic cash for a store for which a store is specified as a condition of use, electronic cash for an area for which an area is specified as a condition of use, and electronic cash for a time zone for which a time zone is specified as a condition of use. electronic cash. When these three electronic cash are available at the store visited by the user, the checkout process is executed based on the priority of these three electronic cash. For example, when the electronic cash for the time zone has the highest priority, the electronic cash for the store has the second highest priority, and the electronic cash for the area has the lowest priority, the checkout processing execution unit 102 will use the time zone Checkout processing is performed in such a way that electronic cash will be preferentially utilized.

According to Modified Example 3-1, when specifying the first electronic cash whose use condition is specified by the store and the second electronic cash whose use condition is specified by other conditions, based on the first electronic cash Cash and the priority of each of the corresponding second electronic cash to execute the checkout process. Thereby, user's convenience can be improved.

[Modification 3-2] For example, it is also possible to set a priority according to the use history of the checkout service by the user. The checkout system S of Modification 3-2 includes a first determination unit 118 . The first determination unit 118 determines the priority based on the use history information about the use history of electronic cash. For example, the first determination unit 118 determines the priority order so that the higher the number of times of use, the frequency of use, or the amount of use of electronic cash, the higher the priority order. The first determination unit 118 may determine the priority in such a manner that the longer the usage period from the start of using the electronic cash, the higher the priority.

The checkout process executing unit 102, when specifying a plurality of electronic cash by the specifying unit 108, executes based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash determined by the first determining unit 118 Checkout processing. The method of determining the order of priority is different from that of the third embodiment, but the settlement process itself based on the order of priority is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-2, the settlement process is performed according to the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash determined based on the use history information about the use history of electronic cash. Thereby, since the priority order corresponding to the user's utilization history is set, the user's convenience can be improved.

[Modification 3-3] For example, the priority of electronic cash can also be determined using machine learning. For machine learning itself, various known methods can be used, and for example, supervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or unsupervised learning can also be used. In Modification 3-3, supervised learning is taken as an example. The checkout system S of Modification 3-3 includes a second determination unit 119 . The second determination unit 119 determines the priority of the first user based on a learning model that has learned the relationship between feature information about the features of other first users and the priority, and the feature information of the first user.

Characteristic information refers to any relevant information about any characteristic of the user. For example, characteristic information includes all or part of usage history information. The feature information can also be demographic information such as the user's name, age, gender, occupation, or annual income. In the learning model, the matching of various user characteristic information and the priority of electronic cash designated by the user is used as training data for learning. The priority included in the training data may be determined based on the use history information as shown in Modification 3-2, or may be designated by the manager of the checkout service. For example, when the characteristic information of relatively young heavy users is paired with the higher priority of the electronic cash at the store where the use conditions are stipulated, and it is learned as training data, if The characteristic information of the first user indicates that the age is younger and the frequency of use is higher, and the priority of the electronic cash at the store specified as the use condition is higher.

The settlement process executing unit 102, when specifying a plurality of electronic cash by the specifying unit 108, executes the transaction based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash determined by the second determination unit 119 Checkout processing. The method of determining the order of priority is different from that of the third embodiment, but the settlement process itself based on the order of priority is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-3, a plurality of electronic cash items determined based on a learning model based on learning the relationship between feature information and priority of other first user features and feature information of the first user The priority of each of them to perform the checkout process. Thereby, even if the user does not have much use history, it is possible to estimate the priority rank of high convenience for the user, so that the convenience of the user can be improved.

[Modification 3-4] For example, the settlement processing execution unit 102 may use the electronic cash with a relatively higher priority when the balance of the electronic cash with a relatively higher priority is exhausted when specifying a plurality of electronic cash by the specifying unit 108. The method of electronic cash, which has a relatively low priority, is used to perform checkout processing. When the balance of the electronic cash with the highest priority is greater than or equal to the usage amount included in the settlement request, the settlement processing execution unit 102 executes the settlement by using only the electronic cash to complete the settlement. Account processing. When the balance of the electronic cash with the highest priority is less than the usage amount included in the settlement request, the settlement processing execution unit 102 uses the balance of the electronic cash with the second highest priority in combination, to perform checkout processing. If there is still insufficient electronic cash with the second highest priority, the settlement process execution unit 102 executes the settlement process by using electronic cash with the third or lower priority in combination.

According to Modification 3-4, when the balance of the electronic cash with a relatively high priority is exhausted, the settlement process is performed using the electronic cash with a relatively low priority. Thereby, the electronic cash with a relatively high priority can be utilized to the maximum extent, and thus the convenience of the user can be improved.

[Modification 3-5] For example, when the checkout processing execution unit 102 specifies a plurality of electronic cash through the specifying unit 108, it can also make the use amount of the electronic cash with a relatively higher priority among the plurality of electronic cash , the checkout process is executed in a manner that uses more amount than the electronic cash whose priority is relatively low. In Modification 3-5, as shown in Modification 3-4, it is also possible to use all the balance of electronic cash with a relatively high priority, but it is also possible to leave a certain amount of balance. For example, the settlement process execution unit 102 executes the settlement process so that a plurality of electronic cash are used together in a ratio according to the priority. For example, assuming that three available electronic cash are specified, the settlement processing execution unit 102 assigns 50% to the electronic cash with the highest priority, 30% to the electronic cash with the second highest priority, and 30% to the electronic cash with the lowest priority. Electronic cash is used in conjunction with 20% to perform checkout processing.

According to Modification 3-5, the settlement process is performed so that the usage amount of electronic cash with a relatively high priority is larger than the usage amount of electronic cash with a relatively lower priority. Thereby, electronic cash with a relatively high priority can be used more, and thus user convenience can be improved.

[Modification 3-6] For example, the priority of electronic cash may be designated by the first user himself. The checkout system S of Modification 3-6 includes a designation accepting unit 120 . The designation accepting unit 120 accepts the designation of the priority order by the first user. For example, the user terminal 20 may display a list of electronic cash held by the first user, and the designation accepting unit 120 may accept the designation of the priority of electronic cash from the list. The priority assigned by the first user only needs to be stored in the user database DB.

The checkout processing execution unit 102 executes settlement based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash specified by the first user when the multiple electronic cash is specified by the specifying unit 108. Account processing. The method of determining the order of priority is different from that of the third embodiment, but the settlement process itself based on the order of priority is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-6, the settlement process is performed based on the priority of each of the plurality of electronic cash designated by the first user. Thereby, the first user can designate a desired priority order by himself, so the convenience for the first user can be improved.

[Modification 3-7] For example, as shown in Modification 3-6, when the user himself designates the priority of electronic cash, the designation accepting unit 120 may accept the designation of the priority for each store. For example, it is also possible to make the user terminal 20 display a list of a plurality of stores available to the first user, and the designation accepting unit 120 accepts a store to be designated as a priority and a store in the store from the list. Designation of the priority of electronic cash. The store and priority designated by the first user may be stored in the user database DB by being associated with each other.

The checkout process execution unit 102 executes the checkout process based on the priority order associated with the store corresponding to the checkout request. This priority is the priority for establishing a relationship with the store indicated by the store ID included in the checkout request. The method of determining the order of priority is different from that of the third embodiment, but the settlement process itself based on the order of priority is the same as that described in the third embodiment.

According to Modification 3-7, the checkout process is performed based on the priority order associated with the store corresponding to the checkout request according to the designation of the acceptance priority for each store. Thereby, since the first user can designate the desired priority for each store, the convenience for the first user can be improved.

[Modification 3-8] For example, in the third embodiment as well, as described in the first embodiment, the settlement processing execution unit 102 can also execute and use electronic cash with specified usage conditions and general electronic cash that is Checkout processing for universal electronic cash. The settlement processing using both is as described in the first embodiment.

According to Modification 3-8, it is possible to execute the settlement process using electronic cash with prescribed usage conditions and general-purpose electronic cash, that is, general-purpose electronic cash. Thereby, user's convenience can be improved.

[Modification 3-9] For example, the first embodiment can also be applied to the third embodiment. In Modification 3-9, the usage conditions are stores where electronic cash can be used. The checkout system S according to Modification 3-9 includes a use gift granting unit 103 and a use restricting unit 104 . These functions are as described in the first embodiment.

According to Modification 3-9, similarly to the first embodiment, the user can be given an incentive to visit the first store again.

[Modification 3-10] For example, the third embodiment and Modification 1-1 of the first embodiment may be combined. The use restricting unit 104 of Modification 3-10 restricts the use of store electronic cash at the second store and prevents use of store electronic cash at the first store in the second time zone. This restriction method is the same as that described in Modification 1-1.

According to Modification 3-10, similar to Modification 1-1, the customer-attracting effect of the first time zone when the first store is relatively free can be enhanced.

[Modification 3-11] For example, the third embodiment and Modification 1-2 of the first embodiment may be combined. The use restricting unit 104 of Modification 3-11 restricts the use of electronic cash for stores at the second store located in the second area. This limiting method is the same as that described in Modification 1-2.

According to Modification 3-11, similarly to Modification 1-2, the motivation to come to the first area again can be given to the first user.

[Modification 3-12] For example, the second embodiment can also be applied to the third embodiment. In Modification 3-12, the payment system S includes a transfer request accepting unit 105 , a transfer processing execution unit 106 , and a transfer gift giving unit 107 . These functions are as described in the second embodiment.

According to Modification 3-12, similarly to the second embodiment, the first user can be given an incentive to send the store electronic cash to the second user.

[4-4. Other modifications] For example, the modified examples described above may be combined.

For example, the stores that can use the checkout service are not limited to actual stores, and may be online stores. For example, although the main function is realized by the server 10, each function may be shared by a plurality of computers. For example, the functions described as being implemented in the server 10 may also be implemented in the user terminal 20, the store terminal 30, or other computers. The data described as being stored in the server 10 may also be stored in other computers such as a database server.

S: checkout system N: network 10:Server 11,21,31: control department 12,22,32: memory department 13,23,33: Department of Communications 20: User terminal 24,34: Operation Department 25,35: display part 30: Store terminal 36: Reading device B11,B12,B13,B14,B40: buttons C10: Code DB: user database G1: Main screen G2, G2A, G2B, G2C, G2D, G2E, G2F: Checkout completion screen G3: Selection screen G4: Input screen G5: Completion screen 100: data memory department 101: Checkout Request Acceptance Department 102: Checkout Processing Execution Department 103: Utilize gifts to give ministry 104: Utilization Restriction Department 105: Remittance Request Acceptance Department 106: Remittance Processing Execution Department 107: Remittance gift giving department 108: specific department 109: Endowed with Restricted Department 110:Profit Generation Department 110A: 1st Profit Generation Department 110B: 2nd Profit Generation Department 111:Change Processing Execution Department 112: The 1st Fee Generation Department 113: No. 1 Withdrawal Processing Execution Department 114: No. 2 Withdrawal Processing Execution Department 115: The second commission generation department 116: The first detection department 117: The 2nd Sensing Division 118: Decision 1 119: Decision 2 120:Designated reception department 200: data memory department 201: display control unit 202: Remittance Request Communication Department 300: data memory department 301: Checkout Request Communications Department

[ Fig. 1 ] A diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the checkout system described in the first embodiment. [FIG. 2] An illustration of an example of a screen of a checkout application. [FIG. 3] A diagram showing an example of a screen of a checkout application in a case where electronic cash for a store has been given. [ Fig. 4 ] A functional block diagram showing an example of functions realized in the first embodiment. [FIG. 5] An illustration of an example of a user database. [ Fig. 6 ] A flowchart of an example of processing executed in the first embodiment. [ Fig. 7 ] A diagram showing an example of a screen of the checkout application in the second embodiment. [ Fig. 8 ] A functional block diagram showing an example of functions realized in the second embodiment. [ Fig. 9 ] A flowchart of an example of processing executed in the second embodiment. [ Fig. 10 ] A diagram showing an example of the screen of the payment application in the third embodiment. [ Fig. 11 ] A functional block diagram showing an example of functions realized in the third embodiment. [ Fig. 12 ] A flowchart of an example of processing executed in the third embodiment. [ Fig. 13 ] A diagram showing an example of a functional block of a modified example related to the first embodiment. [ Fig. 14 ] A diagram showing an example of a functional block of a modified example related to the second embodiment. [ Fig. 15 ] A diagram showing an example of a functional block of a modified example related to the third embodiment.

10:Server

20: User terminal

30: Store terminal

100: data memory department

101: Checkout Request Acceptance Department

102: Checkout Processing Execution Department

104: Utilization Restriction Department

108: specific department

200: data memory department

201: display control unit

300: data memory department

301: Checkout Request Communications Department

DB: user database

Claims (20)

A checkout system comprising: The billing request accepting means is for accepting the billing request of the first user who has a plurality of billing means for which mutually different usage conditions have been stipulated; and The specified means are used to specify the previous payment method that satisfies the aforementioned use conditions from among the plurality of previous payment methods when the previous payment request has been accepted; and The billing processing execution means is for executing the billing process based on the priority of each of the plural billing means when the plural billing means are specified by the foregoing specifying means. The billing system as described in Claim 1, wherein, The aforementioned conditions of use refer to stores that can use the aforementioned checkout means; The above-mentioned specific means means that when the above-mentioned checkout request has been accepted, the above-mentioned checkout means that can be used in the store corresponding to the above-mentioned checkout request from among the above-mentioned checkout means is regarded as satisfying The foreword is specified by the foreword settlement means of the condition. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The previous checkout processing execution means is defined in such a way that the lower the number of available stores is, the higher the priority of the previous checkout is when a plurality of previous checkout means are specified by the previous specific means, The settlement process should be performed according to the priority of each of the plurality of settlement means. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The aforementioned conditions of use include: stores that can use the aforementioned checkout means, and other conditions; The execution method of the aforementioned settlement processing is to specify the first settlement means of the store specified as the aforementioned use condition by the aforementioned specific means, and the second settlement means of the aforementioned other conditions specified as the aforementioned use condition. In the case of the billing means, the preceding billing process is executed based on the precedence priority of each of the corresponding first billing means and the corresponding second billing means. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The previous checkout system further includes: a first determination means for determining the priority of the previous checkout based on the use history information about the use history of the previous checkout means; The aforementioned settlement processing execution means is based on the precedence of each of the plurality of settlement means determined by the aforementioned first determination means in the case of specifying a plurality of aforementioned settlement means by means of the aforementioned specific means. sequence, to perform pre-book checkout processing. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The pre-book checkout system further includes: a second determination means for learning the relationship between feature information about the other first user's features and the pre-book priority, and the pre-book feature information of the first user , to determine the precedence priority of the first user of the precedent; The aforementioned settlement processing execution means is based on the precedence of each of the plurality of settlement means determined by the aforementioned second determination means in the case of specifying a plurality of aforementioned settlement means by means of the aforementioned specific means sequence, to perform pre-book checkout processing. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The preceding settlement processing execution method is used when the balance of the preceding settlement method with a relatively high priority is exhausted when a plurality of preceding settlement methods are specified by the preceding specified method. The forward settlement processing is performed by means of the forward settlement method with a relatively low priority order. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The execution method of the previous payment processing is to specify a plurality of previous payment methods through the specific method of the previous payment, so that among the plurality of payment methods, the previous payment with a relatively higher priority The previous account settlement process is executed in such a way that the usage amount of the means is larger than the usage amount of the previous account settlement means with a relatively lower priority order. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The front record checkout system also includes: designated acceptance means, which is used to accept the designation of the front record priority made by the first user of the front record; The aforementioned settlement processing execution means is based on the priority of each of the plurality of settlement means designated by the aforementioned first user in the case of specifying a plurality of aforementioned settlement means through the aforementioned specific means , to perform pre-checkout processing. The billing system as described in Claim 9, wherein, The means of acceptance specified in the foregoing is based on each store, and the designation in the order of priority in the foregoing is accepted; The means for executing the previous checkout process is to execute the previous checkout process based on the previous priority order of the previous store associated with the previous checkout request. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The pre-account processing execution means is an execrable pre-account processing that uses the pre-account means that has pre-determined usage conditions, and the universal pre-account means, that is, the general-purpose account means. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The aforementioned conditions of use refer to stores that can use the aforementioned checkout means; The pre-checkout system also includes: The use of the gift giving means is to use the previous checkout means for the store corresponding to the previous checkout request, that is, the checkout means for the store, when the previous checkout process has been executed. confer; and The use restricting means is for restricting so that the checkout means for the aforementioned store cannot be used in the second store. The billing system as described in Claim 12, wherein, The method of checkout at the store mentioned above can be used in the first time zone when the first store mentioned above is relatively free; The aforementioned use restriction means restricts the use of the checkout means for the aforementioned store at the aforementioned second store, and prevents the use of the aforementioned checkout means at the aforementioned first store in the second time zone. The billing system as described in Claim 12, wherein, The checkout method for the store mentioned above can be used at the first store mentioned above and the third store located in the first area including the first store mentioned above; The aforementioned usage restriction means restricts the use of the payment means for the aforementioned store at the aforementioned second store located in the second area. The billing system described in Claim 1 or 2, wherein, The pre-checkout system also includes: The remittance request acceptance method is used to accept the remittance request required by the previous account settlement method for remittance from the first user to the second user; and The remittance processing execution means is used to execute the remittance processing under the condition that the remittance request mentioned above has been accepted; and The remittance gift granting means is used to give a gift to the first user in the foregoing when the remittance processing in the foregoing has been executed. The billing system as described in Claim 15, wherein, The former gift giving means is to grant the former gift corresponding to the former use condition of the former checkout means to the first user of the former. The billing system as described in Claim 16, wherein, The pre-receipt remittance gift conferring means is given to the pre-record first user as a pre-record gift by using the pre-record settlement means that has been stipulated with the pre-record use conditions. The billing system as described in Claim 16, wherein, The aforementioned conditions of use refer to stores that can use the aforementioned checkout means; The pre-receipt remittance gift granting means is to give the pre-record checkout means for the pre-record store, that is, the pre-record checkout means for the store, as a pre-record gift to the first user of the prerecord. A checkout method containing: The billing request accepting step is for accepting the billing request of the first user who has a plurality of billing means for which different usage conditions have been stipulated; and The specific step is to specify the previous payment method that satisfies the previous use conditions from among the previous payment methods when the previous payment request has been accepted; and The checkout process execution step is for executing the checkout process based on the priority of each of the plurality of checkout means when a plurality of checkout means are specified by the aforementioned specific step. A program product used to enable a computer to function as: The billing request accepting means is used to accept the billing request of the first user who has a plurality of billing means with mutually different usage conditions stipulated; The specified method is used to specify the previous payment method that satisfies the aforementioned utilization conditions from the plurality of previous payment methods when the previous payment request has been accepted; The billing processing execution means is for executing the billing process based on the priority of each of the plural billing means when the plural billing means are specified by the foregoing specifying means.

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