JP2005301522A - On-network service providing method, on-network merchandise purchasing method, and other relevant technology - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a service such as a reservation for a leisure facility while a user is staying in the guest room of a hotel. <P>SOLUTION: In a step S7-2, the user transmits a message to request a reservation related with a service to a module 46 for a service provider of a leisure facility 22 by using a module 44 for a service subscriber in a guest room. The module 46 for the service provider of the leisure facility 22 stores the information of reservation in an internal database. When the user visits the reserved leisure facility 22, and attaches an information storage card to the module 46 for the service provider, it is confirmed that the reservation has been made by referring to service information and principal confirmation information in the information storage card. When it is confirmed that the reservation has been made as the result of collation, the service is provided based on the reservation. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a method for providing various services via a network.

  In recent years, “leisure resorts” centering on accommodation facilities have been widely used. Such a leisure resort is generally composed of a plurality of hotel groups and various leisure facilities around the hotel group. Various leisure facilities include event facilities, shopping facilities, transportation facilities such as stations, airports and ports. Such a leisure resort is often provided in a tourist spot, and in that case, it is often called a “tourist resort”.

  In such a leisure resort, a concept of connecting accommodation facilities and various leisure facilities via a wireless network is known in order to enhance services for “users” such as tourists. Under this concept, it is considered to provide users with information on digital cinema and various leisure facilities using a wireless network. As a result, the user can acquire information on leisure facilities via the TV screen while in the hotel room. In addition, it is supposed that the user can see the program guide of the digital cinema.

Example of Invention Related to Provision of Services in a Hotel In the invention described in the following Patent Document 1, an appropriate service can be provided based on the contents of an IC tag at each service base in a hotel using an IC tag. It is supposed to be possible. In this patent document 1, it is described that the usage fee using the facility in a hotel is settled at the time of checkout.

JP 2002-123619 A

  As described in Patent Document 1, it is common in the world that merchandise can be purchased cashlessly. As a typical means for purchasing goods without cash, a credit card is known.

  This credit card is settled regularly (generally once a month), but in the invention of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the settlement is made at the time of hotel check-out.

  Thus, it can be said that Patent Document 1 increases the amount of information of a conventional credit card and improves the quality of service.

  However, simply adjusting the fee settlement does not essentially improve the service quality dramatically compared to conventional credit cards. In particular, since the network connecting hotels and nearby leisure facilities as described above is planned to stream digital cinema, etc., it is possible to stream a very large amount of data and provide more diverse services. there is a possibility. On a network capable of flowing such a large amount of data, a new service provision form utilizing its performance is desired.

  The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a rare image of a special event for making a reservation for a leisure facility or purchasing a product while in a hotel room. Is to construct a system that provides a service such as viewing a video in a guest room for a fee (or free of charge).

A. Invention relating to service reservation In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides one or more accommodation facilities provided with a service subscriber module for connecting to a network in a guest room, and a service provider for connecting to the network. Method for providing a service to a user of an accommodation facility on an accommodation facility network system comprising one or more service provision facilities provided with a module for use, a network connecting the accommodation facility and the service provision facility The user performs a service reservation from the guest room to the service providing facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the service subscriber module executes the reservation of the executed reservation. The contents are stored in an information recording card, and a service provider module of the service providing facility is provided. A reservation step for recording the details of the reservation that has been executed, and when the user holding the information recording card comes to the service facility, the service provider module of the service facility When the content of the reservation is read from the information recording card held by the user and the content of the read reservation matches the content of the reservation recorded in the service provider module Includes a service step in which the service providing facility provides a service to the user holding the information recording card.

  With such a configuration, the user can make a reservation for the service from the guest room.

  The service facility is a concept including, for example, an event facility 16, a shopping facility 18, a transportation facility 20, and a leisure facility 22 in FIG. As will be described later, the information recording card is typically an IC card, but any information recording card can be used as long as it can write and read certain information.

  Further, the present invention provides the service providing method on the network, wherein the service providing facility exists inside the accommodation facility.

  The service providing facility is not limited to the event facility 16 or the like, but may be a sports club inside an accommodation facility (hotel or the like), or a pool, a bar, a restaurant, or the like.

B. In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides at least one accommodation facility provided with a service subscriber module for connecting to a network in a guest room, and a service provider module for connecting to the network. A method for causing a user of an accommodation facility to purchase a product on an accommodation facility network system comprising one or more commodity sales facilities provided with a network, and a network connecting the accommodation facilities and the product sales facilities In this case, the user transmits a request for product purchase from the guest room to the product sales facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the service subscriber module transmits the product purchase transmitted by the service subscriber module. Is stored in the information recording card, and the module for service provider of the product sales facility requests the purchase of the sent product. A product purchase step for recording contents therein; a transport step for transporting the product purchased in the product purchase step to a reception desk that is a reception of the accommodation facility; and the user holding the information recording card When checking out a facility, the front PC that manages the checkout of the accommodation facility reads the content of the product purchase from the information record card held by the user, and selects a product that matches the read content of the product purchase. And a product providing step of selecting the product that has been transported in the transporting step and providing the selected product to the user who wants to check out. is there.

  With such a configuration, the user can purchase a product from the guest room, and can perform payment at the front desk.

  Further, the present invention provides one or more accommodation facilities provided with a service subscriber module for connecting to a network in a guest room, and one or more commodity sales provided with a service provider module for connecting to the network. In a method for allowing a user of an accommodation facility to purchase a product on an accommodation facility network system including a facility, a network connecting the accommodation facility and the commodity sales facility, The service subscriber module is used to transmit a product purchase request to the product sales facility via the network, and the service subscriber module stores the content of the product purchase transmitted in the information recording card. Then, the module for service provider of the product sales facility records the content of the transmitted product purchase request inside. Steps and, a product purchased in the purchase step, the delivery step of delivering to the user, a purchase method on the network, which comprises a.

  With such a configuration, the user can purchase a product from the guest room and can receive the product at a place other than the front.

  The present invention is also the product purchase method on the network, wherein the product sales facility exists inside the accommodation facility.

  The merchandise sales facility may be not only the shopping facility 206 and the like, but also a store inside the accommodation facility (hotel or the like).

C. In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides at least one accommodation facility provided with a service subscriber module for connecting to a network in a guest room, and a service provider for connecting to the network. A digital cinema is provided to a user of an accommodation facility on an accommodation facility network system comprising one or more digital cinema distribution facilities including a module for use, a network connecting the accommodation facility and the digital cinema distribution facility. In the providing method, a user transmits a digital cinema distribution request from the guest room to the digital cinema distribution facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the service subscriber module The content of the transmitted delivery request is stored in an information recording card, A distribution request step in which the service provider module of the digital cinema distribution facility records the contents of the executed distribution request; and the digital cinema distribution facility displays a digital cinema video to the user in the network. And providing the digital cinema on the network, wherein the service subscriber module includes a digital cinema display step for displaying the distributed video of the digital cinema to the user. Is the method.

  With such a configuration, the user can view the digital cinema from the cabin.

  According to the present invention, in the digital cinema providing method on the network, in addition to the above steps, when the user holding the information recording card checks out the accommodation facility, the accommodation facility is checked out. The managing front PC calculates the digital cinema distribution fee based on the inspection step of reading the content of the digital cinema distribution request from the information recording card held by the user, and is not free In some cases, a method for providing a digital cinema on a network includes a payment step in which a fee is settled based on a calculation result.

  With this configuration, the user can pay for the digital cinema fee at the front desk.

  The present invention is also the digital cinema providing method on the network, wherein the digital cinema distribution facility exists outside the accommodation facility where the user stays. .

  The facility for distributing the digital cinema may be anywhere as long as it can be connected to the network. It may be inside the accommodation or outside. Typically, it is preferable to provide a common digital cinema distribution facility for a plurality of accommodation facilities.

D. In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention provides at least one accommodation facility provided with a service subscriber module for connecting to a network in a guest room, and for connecting to the network. A network connecting the one or more digital cinema distribution facilities provided with the first service provider module, the accommodation facility, and the digital cinema distribution facility; and provided in the accommodation facility for connecting to the network A digital cinema viewing room provided with a second service provider module, and a method for providing a digital cinema to a user of an accommodation facility on an accommodation facility network system comprising: Using the subscriber module, the digital cinema book is transmitted via the network. The reservation for the digital cinema for the room is executed, the service subscriber module stores the contents of the executed reservation in an information recording card, and the second service provider module for the digital cinema viewing room A reservation step for recording the details of the reservation made inside, and for the second service provider of the digital cinema viewing room when the user holding the information recording card comes to the digital cinema viewing room The module reads the reservation content from the information recording card held by the user, and whether the read reservation content matches the reservation content recorded in the second service provider module. If they match, the digital cinema viewing room displays the digital film distributed by the digital cinema distribution facility. Cinema video, digital cinema provides a method on a network, characterized in that it comprises a and a service step of providing to said user for holding the information recording card.

  With such a configuration, the user can reserve viewing in the viewing room of the desired digital cinema from the guest room.

  In the digital cinema providing method on the network according to the present invention, the digital cinema viewing room exists in an accommodation facility other than the accommodation facility where the user stays. How to provide.

  The viewing room may exist in other nearby accommodation facilities. As each accommodation facility plays a digital cinema with a different title, the user has more choice. The viewing room is not necessarily a closed “room”, and may be a place such as an outdoor screening place.

  As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a system in which a user can easily use a service by connecting an accommodation facility and a service providing facility, a product sales facility, or a digital cinema providing facility via a network. .

  Furthermore, it is possible to develop a regional tourism business centering on accommodation facilities, which may contribute to profit growth.

  DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  A conceptual diagram of a leisure resort 10 centering on a hotel group in the present embodiment is shown in FIG.

Overview of Leisure Resort As shown in this figure, the leisure resort 10 is a leisure resort centered on a plurality of hotels 12 groups. In this leisure resort 10, a plurality of hotels 12 groups are concentrated around stations / tourist spots / leisure spots / business areas. This is a common feature of general leisure resorts.

  In the leisure resort 10, as shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of hotels 12 are connected by a mesh type wireless network system 14. Further, the mesh type wireless network system 14 is also connected to a nearby event facility 16, shopping facility 18, transportation facility 20, and leisure facility 22. The mesh wireless network system 14 is also connected to a plurality of external service providers 32 via the management station 30.

  Further, a digital cinema distribution provider 34 that provides digital cinema to the group of hotels 12 is also connected to the mesh type wireless network system 14. On the other hand, a connection station 42 is provided in the nearby event facility 16, shopping facility 18, or the like. The connection station 42 is also provided in the transportation facility 20, leisure facility 22, management station 30, and the like. Of course, the digital cinema distribution provider 34 is also provided. These event facilities 16 and the like are connected to the mesh type wireless network system 14 via the connection station 42.

  A terminal operated by a user is connected to the base station 40 and the connection station 42. One such terminal has a service subscriber module 44 connected to the base station 40 in the hotel 12. A plurality of service subscriber modules 44 should be connected to one base station 40. Is possible. Typically, one service subscriber module 44 is provided in each guest room in the hotel 12, and they are all connected to the base station 40. A user of the hotel 12 can use the service subscriber module 44 to receive various services. Further, as shown in FIG. 1, the service subscriber module 44 can accommodate a mobile terminal or an in-vehicle terminal. The specific operation in the service subscriber module 44 will be described in detail later.

  A service provider module 46 is connected to the connection station 42 provided in the event facility 16 or the like. When using the event facility 16 or the like, the user operates the service provider module 46 to record that the event facility 16 or the like has been used. Detailed operations will be described later.

  In the present embodiment, an ultra-wideband mesh wireless network system for service 14 is constructed for the plurality of hotels 12 groups. The mesh type wireless network system 14 has various service development possibilities. This embodiment proposes an example of the possibility.

  The hotel 12 corresponds to an example of “accommodation facility” in the claims. Other accommodations such as youth hostels are also acceptable.

Features on Network Hardware Features on hardware of mesh wireless network system 14 in the present embodiment are as follows.

  (1) It is composed of a mesh.

  (2) The base station 40 and the connection station 42 provided in each hotel 12 are provided with antennas, and communication with a bandwidth of about 800 bps is possible by radio. The connection from the base station 40 to the service subscriber module 44 may be a wired connection or a wireless connection. Similarly, the connection between the connection station 42 and the service provider module 46 in the event facility 16 or the like may be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

  (3) A configuration that allows connection with a plurality of service providers and mutual entry of various services is adopted. Accordingly, the hotel 12 itself can provide services to customers and the public as a service provider.

Since such a mesh-type wireless network system 14 is employed, the service provider can logically map a plurality of physical mesh wireless connections. In addition, it is possible to provide services while maintaining security between providers.
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the following advantages can be produced in the future by applying a network service such as digital cinema to the mesh type (broadband) wireless network system 14 mainly composed of the hotel 12 group. doing.

(A) Increasing customer profits through customer acquisition and customer satisfaction as a hotel event (b) Increasing use of other facilities (restaurants, etc.) and neighboring facilities (event facilities, etc.) due to increased staying time in hotels (c) Leisure / Providing information and services from tourist facilities to hotel guests (d) Revitalizing the region through the development of leisure resorts centered on hotels. Along with this regional revitalization, the tax revenue of the local government where leisure resorts are located has increased.

Functional features of the network The functional features of the mesh wireless network system 14 are as follows.

  The mesh wireless network system 14 uses a mesh broadband wireless network as a network system configuration model. As components of the mesh-type wireless network system 14, the service provider device (ie, the service provider module 46) and the device used by the hotel guest (ie, the service subscriber module 44) have been described above. In this embodiment, all communication between the service provider module 46 and the service subscriber module 44 is logically set as a virtual private network.

  Therefore, it is difficult for others to tamper with or eavesdrop on the information being communicated. Further, each module can be operated on the mesh type wireless network system 14 by being authenticated by a management server not shown in FIG. This will be described in detail later.

  The communication path between the devices (modules) operated as the (virtual) private network described above is a case where a specific path between certain base stations 40 is congested or there is a failure in a certain communication path. When it occurs, the route is dynamically changed. Since such dynamic route change is a well-known matter from the past, description thereof will be omitted.

  Further, the mesh type wireless network system 14 can be connected to an existing telephone line, a mobile phone network, or the Internet network via a connection station 42, and can provide existing services comprehensively to hotel guests. It is. Such a service is provided under the control of the management station 30 as shown in FIG.

Characteristics of Services Provided on the Network In the present embodiment, the hotel 12 executes settlement of usage fees for services provided to users (guests of the hotel 12).

  In this embodiment, in order to smoothly execute service settlement, the user holds a card storing customer information / service information and the like. This card is a card that can be connected to the service provider module 46 and the service subscriber module 44. The user uses this card to make a reservation for the service and receive the service. This card stores customer information / service information and the like. In addition, communication between the card and the service device (the above module) is performed directly, and there is no mediation between the server and the like. Needless to say, the service device (the module) can execute secure communication.

Types of services provided As an application service, for example, a movie distribution service can be cited. This movie distribution service is a service that a video distribution provider such as the digital cinema distribution provider 34 shown in FIG. The hotel 12 has a movie theater where the digital cinema provided by the digital cinema distribution provider 34 is staged. The user of the hotel 12 can appreciate it. When the movie that the user wants to watch is being screened at the adjacent hotel 12, it is also preferable for the user to watch the movie not at the hotel 12 in which he / she is staying but at another hotel next door.

  It is also preferable to provide such a service not only in the hotel 12 but also in other event facilities 16, leisure facilities 22, shopping facilities 18 and the like connected to the hotel. Of course, other information / video distribution services are preferable as the service.

  In addition, the use of the above-mentioned cards also enables the interoperability between the hotel rooms and the actual usage location for reservations for use of neighboring facilities (for example, event facility 16) of each hotel 12 and purchase of souvenir products. is there. More specifically, the service subscriber module 44 provided in the guest room of the hotel 12 is connected to the service provider module 46 to execute use reservation and the like. At this time, the user is authenticated by connecting the card in which the customer information is recorded to the service subscriber module 44. Also in the case of product purchase, the user can use the service subscriber module 44 in the guest room to access the service provider module 46 of the shopping facility 20 to purchase souvenirs.

Detailed Description of Mesh Type Wireless Network System FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing detailed functions and operations of the mesh type wireless network system 14 in the present embodiment. FIG. 2 shows an example including a first service provider module 46a, a second service provider module 46b, a first service subscriber module 44a, and a second service subscriber module 44b. ing. Furthermore, in the example shown in this figure, a connection station 42 and a device authentication server 50 for authenticating each module and the like are shown.

  As shown in FIG. 2, an information storage card can be connected to the first service subscriber module 44a and the like. This information storage card stores customer information of the user and the like, and the user can receive various services using this customer information.

  In the present embodiment, data communication between the connection station 50 and each module and data communication between the connection stations 50 are all constructed by an individual private network (VPN). In addition, all service devices can be used after being authenticated. Here, the “service device” refers to the first service provider module 46a, the second service provider module 46b, the first service subscriber module 44a, the second service subscriber module 44b, etc. A generic term for devices connected to the mesh-type wireless network system 14.

  The device authentication server 50 executes service device authentication. Since this authentication is an authentication operation necessary for constructing a VPN and is a conventionally known operation, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. In FIG. 2, each service device receives authentication from the device authentication server 50 and constructs a VPN. The thick cylindrical communication path in FIG. 2 conceptually shows the state of the constructed VPN.

  The service subscriber module 44 installed in the guest room of the hotel 12 has a unique device ID (where the device ID is a room number). The service subscriber module 44 checks whether or not the accommodation room number registered in the connected information storage card matches its own device ID (= room number). If they match, the user is permitted to use the service subscriber module 44.

  On the other hand, if the accommodation room number registered in the connected information storage card does not match the device ID (= room number) of the service subscriber module 44, the user will be the service subscriber. The use of the service module 44 is not permitted. As a result, according to the present embodiment, unauthorized use in the case of loss / theft of a card can be prevented.

  As described above, in this embodiment, the user can operate only the service subscriber module 44 provided in the room by using the information storage card in which the number of the room in which the user stays is registered. doing.

  In the present embodiment, the authentication of the person is thus executed by the information storage card. This information storage card is issued by the front PC 60 at the front of the hotel 12. Specifically, when the user checks in at the hotel 12, “issue” is performed by writing the personal information of the user, the room number in which the user stays, and the like on the information storage card. The issued information storage card is handed over to the user after check-in. While staying at the hotel 12, the user can receive various services using the information storage card. The front PC 60 means a personal computer (PC) at the front of the hotel 12, and is a computer having a function of writing data to an information storage card.

  The front PC 60 is connected to an existing customer management server 150 and manages customers through check-in and check-out. Since such customer management server 150 itself has been used conventionally, detailed description thereof is omitted here.

  The information storage card may be anything as long as predetermined information can be written and read. A so-called “IC card” is typically preferable, but a magnetic card, a memory card with a built-in flash memory, or the like can also be used.

Detailed Configuration of Network System Device Configurations of the base station 40 and the connection station 42 that constitute the mesh type wireless network system 14 of the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings.

Base Station FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of the configuration of the base station 40. As shown in this figure, the base station 40 is roughly composed of an indoor unit and a plurality of outdoor antennas 40a. The outdoor antenna 40 a is used for wireless communication with other base stations 40 and connection stations 42. The plurality of outdoor antennas 40a and the indoor unit are connected by a coaxial cable.
As shown in FIG. 3, the indoor unit includes a management unit 40b, a data switch unit 40c, and a radio unit 40d. The management unit 40b is a part that manages the operation of the base station 40, controls the operation of the data switch unit 40c and the radio unit 40d, and performs so-called network management. The data switch unit 40 c is a part having an interface function with the service subscriber module 44. The data switch unit 40c supplies the data transmitted from the service subscriber module 44 to the radio unit 40d based on a predetermined rule. The data switch unit 40c determines a transmission destination of data received by the radio unit 40d via the outdoor antenna 40a, and supplies the data to the service subscriber module 44 that is the determined transmission destination. The radio unit 40d performs data transmission / reception via the outdoor antenna 40a. The radio unit 40d transfers the data received by the outdoor antenna 40a to the data switch unit 40c.

  In FIG. 1, an example in which the service provider module 46 is connected to the base station 40 is not shown. However, when a service provider (for example, a store) is located in the hotel 12, The service provider module 46 connects to the base station 40 of the hotel.

Connection Station FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of the connection station 42. As shown in this figure, the connection station 42 is roughly divided into an indoor unit and a plurality of outdoor antennas 42a. The outdoor antenna 42 a is used for wireless communication with other base stations 40. The plurality of outdoor antennas 42a and the indoor unit are connected by a coaxial cable.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the connection station 42 has substantially the same configuration as the base station 40 except that it includes an external I / F 42e.

  Similar to the base station 40, the indoor unit includes a management unit 42b, a data switch unit 42c, and a radio unit 42d. Further, the indoor unit is provided with an external I / F 42e. Similar to the management unit 40b of the base station 40, the management unit 42b is a part that manages the operation of the connection station 42, controls the operation of the data switch unit 42c and the radio unit 42d, and performs so-called network management. . The management unit 42b also controls the external I / F 42e.

  Similarly to the data switch unit 40 c of the base station 40, the data switch unit 42 c is a part having an interface function with the service subscriber module 44 or the service provider module 46. The data switch unit 42c supplies the data transmitted from the service subscriber module 44 (or the service provider module 46) to the radio unit 42d based on a predetermined rule. The data switch unit 42c determines a transmission destination of data received by the wireless unit 42d via the outdoor antenna 42a, and a service subscriber module 44 (or a service provider module 46) that is the determined transmission destination. That data. Similarly to the radio unit 40d of the base station 40, the radio unit 42d also performs data transmission / reception via the outdoor antenna 42a. The wireless unit 42d transfers data received by the outdoor antenna 42a to the data switch unit 42c.

  Further, the connection station 42 is provided with an external I / F 42e. The external I / F 42e is a part that performs interconnection with other different networks. Examples of other networks include so-called “Internet” and other LANs.

  In FIG. 1, an example in which the service subscriber module 44 is connected to the connection station 42 is not shown. However, when an accommodation facility is provided in the event facility 16 or the like, the event facility 16 In some cases, a service subscriber module 44 may exist. In such a case, the service subscriber module 44 connects to the connection station 42.

The service subscriber module 5, a block diagram of a service subscriber module 44 is shown. As shown in this figure, the service subscriber module 44 includes a base station I / F 144a, a data switch unit 144b, a management unit 144c, a remote control I / F 144d, a TV display unit 144e, an information storage card I / F. F portion 144f.

  The base station I / F 144 a is an interface for connecting to the base station 40. Specifically, it is an interface for connecting to the data switch unit 40c in FIG. The data switch unit 144b supplies the data received via the base station I / F 144a to the TV display unit for display on the television 70. The data switch unit 144b controls the flow of data in order to transmit user data input via the remote control I / F 144d to the base station 40 via the base station I / F 144a.

  The management unit 144c controls various operations of the service subscriber module 44. That is, the operation of each part other than the management unit 144c is controlled. The remote control I / F 144d is an interface with the remote control 72 operated by the user. The user inputs various data using the remote controller 72. The TV display unit 144e switches data to be supplied to the television 70. Specifically, either the data from the base station 40 input via the base station I / F 144a or the data from the TV external equipment is selected and supplied to the television 70. The television 70 displays an image of the supplied data. The data from the TV external equipment is basically a TV program. When the user wants to watch the TV program on the TV 70, the remote controller 72 is operated to switch the TV display unit 144e, and the data from the TV external equipment is changed. Control is performed so as to be supplied to the television 70.

  The information storage card I / F unit 144f is an interface including a read / write unit of the information storage card possessed by the user. The information storage card I / F unit 144f is, for example, an IC card drive, a memory card slot, a magnetic card reader / writer, or the like, but it only needs to have read / write means corresponding to the type of information storage card to be used. . The management unit 144c is connected to the information storage card I / F unit 144f only when an information storage card storing a room number that matches the room number where the service subscriber module 44 is located is connected. The user is permitted to use the service subscriber module 44 by using the remote controller 72. That is, when an information storage card of another room number is connected to the information storage card I / F unit 144f, the use of the service subscriber module 44 is not permitted and cannot be operated. Such control is executed by the management unit 144c.

  Further, when a user obtains information on a service provider via the base station 40 and makes a service reservation, the information is also stored in the information storage card via the information storage card I / F unit 144f. .

  In the present embodiment, an example in which the remote controller 72 is used to operate the service subscriber module 44 is shown, but other input means may be adopted as a matter of course. For example, a keyboard used in a general computer may be provided, or a touch panel may be provided on the screen surface of the television 70 so as to operate the touch panel of the user pixel. It is also preferable to use a pointing device such as a mouse.

Module for Service Provider FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the module 46 for service provider. As shown in this figure, the service provider module 46 includes a base station I / F 146a, a data switch unit 146b, a management unit 146c, a monitor display unit 146e, and an information storage card I / F unit 146f. I have.

  The base station I / F 146a is an interface for connecting to the base station 40 (or connection station 42). Specifically, it is an interface for connecting to the data switch unit 40c in FIG. 3 and the data switch unit 42c in FIG. The data switch unit 146b supplies the data received via the base station I / F 146a to the monitor display unit 146e for displaying on the monitor 74. In addition, the data switch unit 146b supplies the content and other information of the information storage card read by the management unit 146c via the information storage card I / F unit 146f to the base station I / F 146a. Other information includes database information, which will be described later. The base station I / F 146a transmits various data thus supplied to the base station 40 and the connection station 42. The data switch unit 146b performs such data flow control.

  The management unit 146c controls various operations of the service provider module 46. That is, the operation of each part other than the management unit 146c is controlled. The management unit 146c includes a database, and a list of service provider reservations, a service schedule, and the like are stored in the database. For example, when a user receives a service, the reservation content of the information storage card is compared with the reservation content of this database, and it is used for work such as confirming whether or not the person who made the reservation is sure. In addition, this database provides an event schedule and the like to other service subscriber modules 44 via the base station I / F 146a. Through such an operation, the user can know the schedule of various services (events, etc.) via the service subscriber module 44.

  The monitor display unit 146e supplies data to be displayed on the monitor 74. Typically, this monitor display unit includes a so-called video circuit. Furthermore, in the present embodiment, monitor display unit 146e also controls peripheral devices. Peripheral devices include printers for printing admission tickets. Therefore, the monitor display unit 146e is a part that handles all the interfaces of peripheral devices.

The information storage card I / F unit 146f is an interface including a read / write unit of the information storage card possessed by the user. The information storage card I / F unit 146f is, for example, an IC card drive, a memory card slot, a magnetic card reader / writer, or the like.
For example, the management unit 146c checks whether the reservation information stored in the information storage card connected to the information storage card I / F unit 146f matches the reservation information in the database. For example, an admission ticket is issued, and data indicating that the service has been provided is written to the information storage card. By such an operation, the user can receive the service smoothly.

Description of Service Providing Operation An example of the operation of providing various services using the mesh wireless network system 14 at the leisure resort 10 as described above will be described with reference to flowcharts.

Service use reservation and product purchase In this embodiment, a user can make use reservations for various services and purchase products such as souvenirs from the room of the hotel 12 where he / she is staying. . A flowchart showing the flow of operation in such a case is shown in FIG.

  First, in step S7-1, after the user checks in the hotel 12, the information storage card is handed over from the hotel front. Identification information is recorded on the information storage card. The identity verification information includes a name, address, telephone number, accommodation room number, hotel ID, password, usage limit point, and the like. The password can be freely set when the user checks in the hotel 12. Moreover, in this Embodiment, the number of points which a user can use while staying is recorded on the information storage card. This is the “use limit point”. Since the limit points are recorded in this way, it is possible to prevent so-called overuse. Specific usage limit points are set by the hotel 12 according to the type of card used at the time of check-in, the number of times the hotel 12 has been used so far, and the like. It is generally preferable to set a small number of usage limit points for first-time users and to set a large number of usage limit points for users who have used many of them.

  In step S7-2, the user (hotel guest) operates the service subscriber module 44 in the guest room. The user confirms the service menu displayed on the television 70, and tries to execute a service facility use reservation service or purchase service.

In order to actually execute the facility reservation , the user first attaches the information storage card to the service subscriber module 44. Here, attaching means inserting an information storage card (for example, an IC card) into the information storage card I / F unit 44f (IC card drive).

  Then, the management unit 144c determines whether or not the room number stored in the attached information storage card matches the room number where the service subscriber module 44 is located. As a result of the determination, if the two match, the remote controller is set to be operable and communication via the mesh type wireless network system 14 is permitted.

  The user operates the remote controller to make a reservation request for the service provided by the various service facilities, along with the user identification information and the mesh type wireless network system 14. To the service provider module 46 of the leisure facility 22. At the same time as this transmission, reservation information is stored in the information storage card. This can reveal the fact that the person has made a reservation.

  After confirming this message and identification information, the service provider module 46 of the leisure facility 22 stores the reservation information in the internal database and returns it to the service subscriber module 40. The service subscriber module 40 confirms the returned reservation information.

  Here, it is also preferable to store the returned reservation information in the information storage card. In the above, an example in which reservation information is stored in the information storage card together with transmission has been described. However, the reservation information may be stored in the information storage card after being returned from the partner (service provider module 46). preferable. This reservation information is information including the service category of the reservation, the store ID, the product ID, the date of use, and the service content.

Purchasing On the other hand of the product, when you try to run the purchasing service of goods also, the user first, to attach an information storage card to service the subscriber module 44. Then, similarly, the management unit 144c permits communication only when the room number stored in the attached information storage card matches the room number where the service subscriber module 44 is located.

  A user operates a remote controller to purchase a product provided by various service facilities, and sends a message indicating purchase of the product along with the user's identity confirmation information via the mesh wireless network system 14. It transmits to the module 46 for providers. In addition, along with this transmission, information on product purchase is stored in the information storage card. This can reveal the fact that the person has purchased.

  In the following description, it is assumed that the service providing facility is the shopping facility 18. The shopping facility 18 corresponds to an example of a commodity sales facility in the scope of claims.

  After confirming this message and identification information, the service provider module 46 of the shopping facility 18 stores the product purchase information in an internal database and returns it to the service subscriber module 40. The service subscriber module 40 confirms the returned product purchase information.

  Here, it is also preferable to store the returned product purchase information in the information storage card. In the above, an example of storing product purchase information in the information storage card along with transmission has been described. However, after the product purchase information is returned from the other party (service provider module 46), it is stored in the information storage card. It is also preferable. This product purchase information is information including the service category of the product purchase, the store ID, the product ID, the date of use, the content of the product.

  In step S7-3, the following operation is performed. Hereinafter, the case of reservation and the case of product purchase will be described separately.

In the case of reservation, first, the service is reserved, and based on this reservation, the hotel guest goes to the service facility, for example, leisure facility 22, for which the hotel guest has reserved. The user attaches the information storage card to the service provider module 46 at the leisure facility 22. Then, the service information and the personal identification information in the information storage card are referred to and collated with the database stored in the service provider module 46. This collation is executed by the management unit 146c in FIG. As a result of this collation, if the two match, it is confirmed that the service has been provided based on the reservation. Therefore, the management unit 146c stores information indicating that the reserved service is properly provided in the information storage card. At the same time, a point corresponding to the charge for the service is subtracted from the point (usage limit point) in the information storage card. As a result, as the service is received, the use limit points in the information storage card decrease, and when it becomes “0”, no reservation is made. As a result, it is possible to prevent so-called “card bankruptcy” due to excessive use. Similar information is also stored in the database in the management unit 146c. The service provided here is boarding an amusement vehicle.

In the case of product purchase , the user operates the service subscriber module 40 in the guest room of the hotel 12 to display a service menu on the television 70. When the purchase of a product such as a souvenir is selected from this service menu, the card use point is subtracted at the time of purchase (selection). This subtraction is executed by subtracting the number of usage limit points stored in the information storage card and writing back the value after the subtraction to the information recording card. Such an operation is executed by the management unit 144c via the information recording card I / F unit 44f.

  When the service provider module 46 of the shopping facility receives a request for purchasing a product, the product to be purchased is transported to the hotel 12 where the user who purchased the product stays. The conveyance is preferably performed by a truck or the like, but if the product is small and light, the delivery person may carry it manually. The conveyed product is stored at the front of the hotel 12 where the user stays, and is stored until the user checks out, as will be described later.

  The final product is picked up at the hotel reception. Also in the case of product purchase, when the purchase request for the product is sent, the value obtained as a result of subtracting the use endpoint stored in the information recording card is the same as in the case of receiving the service provision described above. When it becomes “0” or less, the purchase of goods using the information recording card is not permitted, and it becomes impossible to execute. That is, it becomes impossible to transmit a request for purchasing a product.

  This determination / control is executed by the management unit 144c. On the other hand, when the use limit point becomes “0” or less, it is necessary to increase the use limit point in the information recording card again at the hotel front. The use limit point is increased using the front PC 60.

  In step S7-4, the user checks out the hotel 12. At the time of checkout, the front PC 60 collates the contents of the information recording card with the contents of the customer management server 150. The front PC makes a settlement after performing this verification. As a result of this comparison, the value of the limit point of use is found, and the value of the service and product purchase used and the purpose of use are found from this value. Based on this information, payment is executed at the front of the hotel 12 Is done.

  For settlement, the conventional method is used as it is. For example, payment by cash or payment using a credit card may be used. The information recording card is returned to the front as it is. At the front of the hotel 12, the data stored in the returned information recording card is stored in a predetermined storage means and then erased from the information recording card.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, it is possible to perform “reservation of service provision” and “product purchase” from the guest room of the hotel 12. Furthermore, these charges can be settled together at the time of hotel 12 checkout. In particular, usage limit points are set in the information recording card, and it is possible to receive services and purchase products only within those points. As a result, so-called “overuse” can be prevented, and it is possible to provide sound services and purchase products.

In the first embodiment, the delivery of the product is performed at the front at the time of checkout, but it is also preferable that the shopping facility 20 delivers the product directly to the user and only the settlement is performed at the front at the time of checkout.

In the present embodiment, the user can receive a predetermined video distribution from the service facility using the service subscriber module 44 from the room of the accommodation hotel 12. A flowchart showing the flow of operation in such a case is shown in FIG.

  Step S8-1 is substantially the same as step S7-1.

  First, in step S8-1, after the user checks in the hotel 12, the information storage card is handed over from the hotel front. The recorded contents of this information storage card are the same as in step S7-1 in FIG.

  In step S8-2, the user (hotel guest) operates the service subscriber module 44 in the guest room.

  In order to actually execute the operation, the user first attaches the information storage card to the service subscriber module 44. Here, attaching means inserting an information storage card (for example, an IC card) into the information storage card I / F unit 44f (IC card drive).

  Then, the management unit 144c determines whether or not the room number stored in the attached information storage card matches the room number where the service subscriber module 44 is located. As a result of the determination, if the two match, the remote controller is set to be operable and communication via the mesh type wireless network system 14 is permitted.

  The user operates the remote controller to make a reservation request for a service provided by various service facilities via a mesh wireless network system 14 together with the user's identity confirmation information. To the service provider module 46. In response to this, the service provider module 46 returns a list of service images that can be provided.

  The user confirms the service menu displayed on the television 70, and selects a real-time event video from the service facility and other service images to be viewed. Here, the service menu refers to a list of service images. A service image refers to moving image data or still image data provided to a user.

  Of course, if the room number in the information storage card matches the number of the room where the service subscriber module 44 is located, the management unit 144c permits the service image selection process. In this case, the service menu is not displayed and the service image cannot be selected.

  After selecting the service image, the point which is the charge of the image is subtracted from the inserted information storage card. As a result, the value of the use limit point in the information storage card decreases.

  Thereafter, the service subscriber module 44 transmits a service request including the room number and the name of the image to be viewed to the service provider module 46 of the (video) service facility. Based on the request, the service provider module 46 transmits an image desired by the user (for example, an event image) to the service subscriber module 44. The service subscriber module 44 receives the transmitted image at the base station I / F 144a, and supplies it to the TV display unit 144e through the data switch unit 144b. Control of such an operation is executed by the management unit 144c. The TV display unit converts the supplied image into a television video signal and transmits it to the television 70. As a result, the user can view the image he / she wants to view on the screen of the television 70.

  When the video service is a free service, it is preferable that the video service is configured to be viewable even when no information storage card is inserted.

  In step S8-3, the user checks out the hotel 12. At the time of checkout, the contents of the information recording card are checked using the front PC 60. As a result of this check, the value of the usage limit point is determined, and the usage fee of the viewed service image is determined from this value. Accordingly, these charges are settled at the front of the hotel 12.

  For settlement, the conventional method is used as it is as in step S7-4. The information recording card is returned to the front as it is. At the front of the hotel 12, the data stored in the returned information recording card is stored in a predetermined storage means and then erased from the information recording card.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, it is possible to view a real-time event image or the like from the room of the hotel 12. Furthermore, these charges can be settled together at the time of hotel 12 checkout. In particular, a usage limit point is set in the information recording card, and the service image can be viewed only within the point, so that “overuse” can be prevented and a sound transaction can be realized.

  In the third embodiment, a digital cinema service will be described. A conceptual diagram of this service is shown in FIG.

  In this service, the digital cinema distribution provider 42 guides each hotel guest to the digital cinema show time / movie information. On the basis of this guidance, the hotel guest makes a use reservation by the operation described in the first embodiment. Then go to the hotel 12 where the movie is shown. By attaching an information storage card to the service provider module 46 installed at the front of the viewing room in the hotel 12, it is used as an electronic ticket to view a digital cinema.

  Of course, the screening may be performed at the hotel 12 where the user stays. In that case, the user does not go to another hotel 12 and goes to the digital cinema viewing room in the hotel 12 where he / she stays.

  In short, the third embodiment is an example in which the service facility reserved in the first embodiment is a digital cinema viewing room. In particular, in the third embodiment, the information recording card storing the reservation information plays a role as an electronic ticket for viewing a digital cinema.

  Note that the viewing fee for digital cinema is settled at the time of check-out as in the first embodiment.

  It is usually installed on each hotel 12 side when a guest makes a paid payment for product purchase using the service subscriber module 44, or when a paid payment is made via the service provider module 46. It is also possible to perform management in conjunction with the customer management server 150 (see FIG. 2).

  As specific interlocking means, there are the following three methods.

(1) First, there is a method in which when the guest updates the database in the service module, the service module notifies the customer management server 150 to that effect. In this method, when a change occurs in the contents of the database provided in the management unit 146c in the service provider module 46 (when the guest updates this database), the management unit 146 causes the customer management server 150 to This is a mechanism to notify this change. Notification can be performed by various methods regardless of wireless or wired.

(2) Second, there is a method in which the customer management server 150 periodically acquires the contents of the database in the service module. This method is realized by the customer management server 150 issuing a “request” for inquiring the contents of the database in FIG. 6 to the management unit 146c of the service provider module 46 at regular intervals. Various methods can be adopted as specific means for transmitting the “request” regardless of wired or wireless.

(3) Third, there is a method in which the service provider module 46 periodically notifies the customer management server 150 of the contents of the database. This method is realized by the management unit 146c of the service provider module 46 transmitting the contents of the database to the customer management server 150 at regular intervals. Various methods can be adopted as specific means for transmitting the contents to be transmitted (the contents of the database) regardless of wired or wireless.

It is a key map of leisure resort 10 of this embodiment. 1 is an explanatory diagram of a mesh type wireless network system 14. FIG. It is a structure block diagram of a base station. It is a configuration block diagram of a connection station. It is a block diagram of the configuration of a service subscriber module. It is a structure block diagram of the module for service providers. It is a flowchart showing the operation | movement in the case of making a service use reservation and purchasing a product. It is a flowchart showing the operation | movement in the case of the video delivery with respect to a guest room. It is a flowchart showing operation | movement in the case of the service of a digital cinema.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Leisure Resort 12 Hotel 14 Mesh Type Wireless Network System 16 Event Facility 18 Shopping Facility 20 Transportation Facility 22 Leisure Facility 30 Management Station 32 Service Provider 34 Digital Cinema Distribution Provider 40 Base Station 40a Outdoor Antenna 40b Management Unit 40c Data Switch Unit 40d Wireless Unit 42 Connection station 42a Outdoor antenna 42b Management unit 42c Data switch unit 42d Radio unit 42e External I / F
44 Service subscriber module 46 Service provider module 50 Device authentication server 60 Front PC
70 TV 72 Remote control 74 Monitor 144a Base station I / F
144b Data switch unit 144c Management unit 144d Remote control I / F
144e TV display unit 144f Information storage card I / F unit 146a Base station I / F
146b Data switch unit 146c Management unit (database)
146e Monitor display unit 146f Information storage card I / F unit

Claims (10)

One or more accommodations with service subscriber modules for connecting to the network in the room;
One or more service providing facilities comprising a service provider module for connection to the network;
A network connecting the accommodation facility and the service providing facility;
In a method for providing a service to a user of an accommodation facility on an accommodation facility network system comprising:
A user executes a service reservation from the guest room to the service providing facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the service subscriber module stores the contents of the executed reservation. Reservation step of storing in the information record card, and the module for the service provider of the service providing facility records the contents of the executed reservation inside,
When the user holding the information record card comes to the service facility, the service provider module of the service facility reads the contents of the reservation from the information record card held by the user and reads the reservation content. If the contents of the reservation match the contents of the reservation recorded in the service provider module, and if they match, the service providing facility holds the information recording card. Service steps for providing services to users;
A service providing method on a network. The service providing method on the network according to claim 1,
The service providing method on a network, wherein the service providing facility exists inside the accommodation facility. One or more accommodations with service subscriber modules for connecting to the network in the room;
One or more merchandise sales facilities with service provider modules for connection to the network;
A network connecting the accommodation facility and the product sales facility;
In a method for allowing a user of an accommodation facility to purchase a product on an accommodation facility network system comprising:
A user transmits a request for product purchase from the guest room to the product sales facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the product purchase content transmitted by the service subscriber module. A product purchase step in which the module for service provider of the product sales facility records the content of the transmitted product purchase request,
A transporting step for transporting the product purchased in the product purchasing step to a reception that is a reception of the accommodation facility;
When the user holding the information recording card checks out the accommodation facility, the front PC that manages the checkout of the accommodation facility displays the contents of the product purchase from the information recording card held by the user. A product providing step of selecting a product that matches the content of the read and read product purchase from among the products transported in the transport step, and providing the selected product to the user who wants to check out;
A method for purchasing goods on a network, comprising: One or more accommodations with service subscriber modules for connecting to the network in the room;
One or more merchandise sales facilities with service provider modules for connection to the network;
A network connecting the accommodation facility and the product sales facility;
In a method for allowing a user of an accommodation facility to purchase a product on an accommodation facility network system comprising:
A user transmits a request for product purchase from the guest room to the product sales facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the product purchase content transmitted by the service subscriber module. A product purchase step in which the module for service provider of the product sales facility records the content of the transmitted product purchase request,
A delivery step of delivering the product purchased in the product purchase step to the user;
A method for purchasing goods on a network, comprising: In the method for purchasing goods on the network according to claim 3 or 4,
The product purchase method on a network, wherein the product sales facility exists inside the accommodation facility. One or more accommodations with service subscriber modules for connecting to the network in the room;
One or more digital cinema distribution facilities comprising a service provider module for connection to the network;
A network connecting the accommodation facility and the digital cinema distribution facility;
In a method for providing a digital cinema to a user of an accommodation facility on an accommodation facility network system comprising:
A user transmits a digital cinema distribution request from the guest room to the digital cinema distribution facility via the network using the service subscriber module, and the service subscriber module transmits the transmitted distribution. A distribution request step of storing the content of the request in an information recording card, and the module for the service provider of the digital cinema distribution facility records the content of the executed distribution request inside;
The digital cinema distribution facility distributes the digital cinema video to the user via the network, and the service subscriber module displays the distributed digital cinema video to the user. Digital cinema display step to
A digital cinema providing method on a network characterized by comprising: 7. The method for providing digital cinema on a network according to claim 6, in addition to the above steps,
When the user holding the information recording card checks out the accommodation facility, the front PC that manages the checkout of the accommodation facility requests a digital cinema distribution request from the information recording card held by the user. An inspection step to read the contents of
A digital cinema distribution fee is calculated based on the contents of the distribution request, and if it is not free, a payment step in which the fee is settled based on the calculation result;
A digital cinema providing method on a network characterized by comprising: The method for providing a digital cinema on a network according to claim 6 or 7,
The digital cinema distribution method on a network, wherein the digital cinema distribution facility exists outside an accommodation facility where the user stays. One or more accommodations with service subscriber modules for connecting to the network in the room;
One or more digital cinema distribution facilities comprising a first service provider module for connection to the network;
A network connecting the accommodation facility and the digital cinema distribution facility;
A digital cinema viewing room provided in the accommodation facility and provided with a second service provider module for connection to the network;
In a method for providing a digital cinema to a user of an accommodation facility on an accommodation facility network system comprising:
A user executes a digital cinema reservation from the guest room to the digital cinema viewing room via the network using the service subscriber module, and the service subscriber module executes the reservation of the executed reservation. A reservation step of storing the content in an information recording card, and the second service provider module of the digital cinema viewing room recording the content of the executed reservation inside;
When the user holding the information recording card comes to the digital cinema viewing room, the second service provider module of the digital cinema viewing room makes a reservation from the information recording card held by the user. The contents of the reservation are read, and it is confirmed whether or not the contents of the read reservation match the contents of the reservation recorded in the second service provider module. Providing a digital cinema video distributed by the digital cinema distribution facility to the user holding the information recording card;
A digital cinema providing method on a network characterized by comprising: The method for providing a digital cinema on a network according to claim 9,
The digital cinema providing method on a network, wherein the digital cinema viewing room exists in an accommodation facility other than the accommodation facility where the user stays.