JP2006260277A - Electronic payment system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic payment system capable of providing a service to electronic equipment even if it has no payable function. <P>SOLUTION: This electronic payment system comprises electronic equipment, a payment agency device, and a server device providing the service to the electronic equipment. The payment agency device acquires price payment request information for the service, and outputs a processing result for price payment to the server device according to the price payment request information. Since the processing for price payment is performed in the payment agency device according to the price payment request information, the electronic equipment can receive the service even if it has the payable function. Even in the electronic equipment, history information obtained for the providing of the service can be acquired and browsed. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic payment system.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a technology has been proposed in which a gas meter and a center communicate with each other via a mobile phone when a wireless LAN can communicate between the gas meter having the wireless LAN function and the mobile phone (Patent Literature). 1).
JP 2001-053888 A

  However, the above method is intended only for transmitting and receiving data such as a meter reading result by a gas meter, and it is not possible to simultaneously perform a billing process accompanying the provision of data. In general, in order to execute electronic payment, operations such as credit card pre-registration are complicated. Furthermore, if an electronic payment function is installed in all electronic devices that are desired to perform electronic payment, there has been a problem that the cost of the electronic device is increased.

  In view of such a situation, the present invention proposes an electronic payment system including an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides a service to the electronic device. The settlement agent device acquires the consideration payment request information for the service, and outputs a processing result for the consideration payment to the server device according to the consideration payment request information. Since processing for consideration payment is performed in accordance with the consideration payment request information in the payment agent device, the electronic device can receive a service even if it does not have a function capable of making payment. At this time, when the consideration is paid, the electronic device may approve the electronic payment, and the payment agent device may output the consideration payment processing result to the server device based on the electronic payment approval. The electronic device only approves the electronic payment, and the actual payment processing is performed by the payment agent device, so that the electronic device does not need to be equipped with a payment function.

  In addition, the electronic device can acquire and browse history information obtained regarding the provision of services. In addition, the history information of electronic devices can be collectively managed by the payment agent device.

  Furthermore, the fund balance information used by the electronic device to pay the consideration is acquired, and if the fund balance information is information that the fund balance is insufficient, a predetermined process is executed. On the other hand, it is also possible to select a payment agent device that does not have a shortage of funds and output the payment request information for the service to the payment agent device.

  It is also possible to start communication to the server device in order to apply for service provision, and to terminate the started communication on the condition that it has detected that the output of the value processing result in the payment proxy device has ended. . From the start of communication to the end of communication, the same session is guaranteed, and the identity of the settler and the user can be maintained.

  As described above, in the electronic payment system according to any one or more of the inventions of the present invention, the electronic device performs the process for consideration payment according to the consideration payment request information in the settlement agent device. Even when the payment function is not provided, the service can be provided. Further, in this electronic payment system, it is not necessary to install an electronic payment function in the electronic device, so that the cost can be minimized.

  In addition, when electronic devices can obtain and browse historical information obtained regarding the provision of services, it is possible to freely browse and compare information about the services provided, the date and time of provision, and their consideration, etc. It can be expected that the convenience of the system can be improved.

  Furthermore, if the fund balance information used by the electronic device to pay the compensation is acquired and the fund balance information is information that the fund balance is insufficient, a message prompting the deposit or provision of services can be received. By displaying that there is no display, the convenience of the electronic device is enhanced. In addition, when selecting a payment agent device that does not have a shortage of funds and outputting the payment request information for the service to the payment agent device, the electronic device selects a payment agent device with a sufficient funds balance. Since the service provision is not interrupted by substituting payment, the spread of the payment proxy device is promoted and the utility value of the system itself can be expected to increase.

  In addition, when communication is started to the server device in order to apply for service provision, and when it is detected that the output of the value processing result in the payment proxy device has been completed, the started communication is terminated. Since the same session is guaranteed from the start of communication to the end of communication, service provision (downloading) and settlement performed during that time are performed in the same session. The identity can be maintained and it can be said that the safety is high.

  The best mode for carrying out each invention will be described below. Note that the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and can be implemented in various modes without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

  The first embodiment will mainly describe claims 1, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 12. The second embodiment will mainly describe claim 2 and the like. The third embodiment will mainly describe claim 3 and the like. The fourth embodiment will mainly describe claim 4 and the like. In the fifth embodiment, claim 5 will be mainly described. The sixth embodiment will mainly describe claim 6 and the like. The seventh embodiment will mainly describe claims 11 and 13.

  << Embodiment 1 >>

  <Embodiment 1: Overview> Embodiment 1 will be described. The present embodiment is an electronic payment system that includes an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides a service to the electronic device. The payment agent device acquires the consideration payment request information for the service, and the consideration payment request According to the information, the processing result for the payment is output to the server device.

  FIG. 1 shows an example of the concept of this embodiment. The figure shows an electronic payment system including an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides services to the electronic device. In the figure, a microwave oven is illustrated as an electronic device. First, the payment agent device acquires consideration payment request information for the service (1). The consideration payment request information exemplifies the amount of compensation (500 yen) for providing the service (recipe) here. Consideration payment request information may include information about the amount of consideration corresponding to each service, consideration payee, payment deadline, payment method, and the like. The consideration payment request information may be transmitted from a server device that provides a service, or may be transmitted from an external server device outside the electronic payment system.

  Next, the settlement agent device outputs a processing result for the payment to the server device in accordance with the acquired payment request information (2). Here, the consideration payment processing result illustrates information (paid) regarding whether or not the payment of the consideration has been completed. In addition, the consideration payment processing result may include information such as payment method, payment date and time, and payment amount.

  Finally, the server device provides a service (recipe) to the electronic device (microwave oven) (3). Generally, the output of the consideration payment process is received to determine whether or not the service can be provided. If the determination result indicates that the service can be provided, a process for providing the service is performed. The provision of the service may be acquired by the electronic device via the payment agent device, or may be performed directly on the electronic device without passing through the payment agent device.

  <Embodiment 1: Configuration> FIG. 2 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (0200) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 2 includes an “electronic device” (0210), a “settlement agent device” (0220), and a “server device” (0230). The settlement proxy device (0220) includes a “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (0221) and a “consumption payment processing result output unit” (0222).

  Each unit, which is a component of the present invention, is configured by either hardware, software, or both hardware and software. For example, as an example for realizing these, when a computer is used, hardware composed of a CPU, a memory, a bus, an interface, a peripheral device, and the like and software executable on these hardware are listed. be able to. Specifically, the functions of the respective units are realized by sequentially executing the programs developed on the memory, by processing, storing, and outputting data on the memory and data input through the interface. (The same applies throughout this specification.)

  The “electronic payment system” (0200) is a system including an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device. This electronic payment system assumes that one payment agent device performs payment for one or more electronic devices. Therefore, the electronic payment system may be composed of a plurality of electronic devices and server devices.

  “Electronic device” (0210) refers to a device that can receive provision of a service from a server device. In order to receive the provision of service, the electronic device is assumed to make a predetermined request to the server device and accept the service provided accordingly. The server device holds various services in a file format, and these files are provided by downloading, obtaining a password, access permission, and the like. The provision of the service may be acquired by the electronic device via the payment agent device, or may be performed directly on the electronic device without passing through the payment agent device.

  Specifically, the electronic devices correspond to household electric appliances such as a television, a microwave oven, a refrigerator, an audio device, an air conditioner, a washing machine, a vacuum cleaner, an iron, a trouser press, a personal computer, a PDA, and a water heater. If the electronic device is a television, for example, an electronic program guide can be provided as a service. Similarly, if the electronic device is a microwave oven or refrigerator, cooking recipes, etc., if it is an audio device, music / video content, etc., if it is an air conditioner, temperature / humidity information of the outside air, washing machine, vacuum cleaner In the case of an iron, a trouser press, or a water heater, information on housework is provided as a service, and in the case of a personal computer or PDA, video content or various information is provided as a service. In addition, in common with the entire electronic device, information such as a service usage fee and an amount of electricity used (electricity fee) may be provided along with the service.

  “Payment substitution device” (0220) refers to a device that performs payment for a service received by an electronic device from a server device on behalf of each electronic device. The payment agent device is assumed to be a communication terminal such as a mobile phone, but can also be realized by an ADSL modem or a router for FTTH. In addition, it is assumed that the electronic device and the payment agent device are connected via a limited network such as a home LAN (whether wired or wireless), so that the electronic device can make payments. Even if they do not have the necessary functions, they can receive services. In addition, when the service cannot be directly exchanged between the electronic device and the server device, the settlement agent device provides the connection to the communication network to the electronic device by the router function, thereby connecting the electronic device and the server device. Make it possible. The settlement in the settlement agent device corresponds to a bank account, permission for withdrawal from electronic money, etc., and it is the server device of the bank or electronic money business that actually executes the withdrawal of the consideration. In order to perform payment in the payment proxy device, it is necessary to open a bank account or deposit electronic money in advance. In addition, this settlement agent device alone is also proposed as the present invention.

  The “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (0221) acquires the consideration payment request information for the service. The “payment payment request information” is information for requesting payment of the payment for the service, and may include, for example, the amount of payment, the payment method, the payment timing, and the like. The consideration payment request information may include information such as a list of considerations corresponding to a plurality of services in order to make it possible to select a service to be provided, or to request compensation for the selected service. Information such as service consideration may also be applicable. Consideration payment request information may be transmitted from a server device, electronic device, or an external server device outside the electronic payment system, or may be generated inside the payment agent device based on a request from the electronic device. . The case where the consideration payment request information is transmitted from the electronic device has been described in detail in the fifth embodiment. Further, since the transmission source of the consideration payment request information is not required, it is indicated by a broken arrow in the figure.

  The “consideration payment processing result output unit” (0222) outputs a processing result for the consideration payment to the server device (0230) according to the consideration payment request information acquired by the consideration payment request information acquisition unit (0221). To do. “Processing for consideration payment” corresponds to permission for withdrawal from a designated account or a deposit made in advance. Therefore, in order to execute processing for payment, there are cases in which a server device such as a financial institution or an electronic money business operator outside the electronic settlement system is used. By executing the processing for consideration payment, a predetermined amount is deducted from the balance at a predetermined time by a payment method based on the consideration payment request information. In addition, as a result of the processing, payment amount, date and time of payment, whether payment has been completed, and if payment has not been completed (including cases where only partial payment has been completed) Such information is applicable.

  The “server device” (0230) is a device that provides a service to an electronic device. The server device holds information related to various services to be provided to the electronic device, and provides corresponding services in response to a request from the electronic device. There may be a case where a service request or provision is made via a payment proxy device without directly communicating with an electronic device. The server device can control various contents to be distributed, control information for controlling electronic devices (for example, control of air conditioning according to outside temperature, control of lighting according to external brightness, control of range according to recipe) Information etc.).

  <Embodiment 1: Processing Flow> FIG. 3 shows a processing flow in the payment agent device according to the first embodiment. First, the payment agent device acquires consideration payment request information for the service (consumption payment request information acquisition unit step S0301). Next, processing for payment of the consideration is performed according to the consideration payment request information acquired in the consideration payment request information acquisition step (S0301) (consumption payment processing step S0302). Further, the processing result in the consideration payment processing step (S0302) is generated (consideration payment processing result generation step S0303), and the processing result for consideration payment is output to the server device (consideration payment processing result output step S0304).

  <Embodiment 1: Effect> The present embodiment is an electronic payment system including an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides a service to the electronic device. The information is acquired, and the processing result for the consideration payment is output to the server device in accordance with the consideration payment request information. Since processing for consideration payment is performed in accordance with the consideration payment request information in the payment agent device, the electronic device can receive a service even if it does not have a function capable of making payment.

  << Embodiment 2 >>

  <Embodiment 2: Overview> Embodiment 2 will be described. The present embodiment is an electronic payment system characterized in that an electronic device approves an electronic payment when a payment is made, and a payment agent device outputs a payment processing result to the server device based on the electronic payment approval. is there.

  <Embodiment 2: Configuration> FIG. 4 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (0400) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 4 includes an “electronic device” (0410), a “settlement agent device” (0420), and a “server device” (0430). The electronic device (0410) includes an “electronic payment approval unit” (0411), and the payment proxy device (0420) includes a “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (0421) and a “consumption payment processing result output unit” ( 0422).

  The “electronic payment approval unit” (0411) performs processing for approving electronic payment for paying the consideration. “Payment of consideration” corresponds to consent to purchase a service accompanying operation of an electronic device. In addition, the “process for approving electronic payment” corresponds to notifying the payment proxy device that payment of the consideration has been made. Thereby, processing for settlement can be performed by the settlement proxy device. In other words, the electronic payment approval is an indication of intention to purchase the service, which is notified to the payment agent when the user accepts the service purchase and operates the electronic device. The operation of the electronic device triggers acceptance of the service purchase.

  The “consideration payment processing result output unit” (0422) outputs a consideration payment processing result, which is information obtained based on the electronic payment approval, to the server device in accordance with the consideration payment request information. In response to the notification of acceptance of the service purchase made by the user, the settlement agent device confirms that the balance of the electronic money does not exceed the amount of service consideration. If the amount of service consideration exceeds the balance of electronic money, a warning of insufficient balance may be sent to the electronic device. “Information obtained based on approval of electronic payment” corresponds to information such as the balance obtained by subtracting the payment amount from the balance after confirmation of the balance of electronic money, payment date and time, and completion of payment. Transaction information including such information and information related to the user is notified to the money server device of the electronic money business operator.

  The processing of each other part is the same as in the first embodiment.

  <Embodiment 2: Process Flow> FIG. 5 shows a process flow in the electronic settlement system according to the second embodiment. As a premise, it is assumed that the connection between the electronic device, the payment agent device, and the server device has been completed. First, the payment agent device acquires consideration payment request information for a service from a server device or the like (consideration payment request information acquisition unit step S0501). Consideration payment request information is assumed to be relayed to an electronic device as indicated by a broken line. Next, the electronic device performs processing for approving electronic payment for paying the consideration (electronic payment approval step S0502). Specifically, the user operates the electronic device and approves the service purchase. This is notified to the payment agent device as electronic payment approval.

  On the other hand, in response to the consideration payment request information, the payment agent device outputs information obtained based on the electronic payment approval to the server device as a consideration payment processing result. Specifically, it is confirmed that the amount of consideration for the service does not exceed the balance of electronic money (balance confirmation step S0503). At this time, in the balance confirmation step (S0503), if it is determined that the balance of the service exceeds the balance of the electronic money, a warning of insufficient balance may be notified to the electronic device (insufficient balance) Warning step S0504). In the case of a determination result that the amount of consideration for the service does not exceed the balance of the electronic money, information obtained based on the electronic payment approval is sent to the server device as a consideration payment processing result in accordance with the consideration payment request information. (Consideration payment processing result output step S0505). The consideration payment processing result includes information related to acceptance of purchase of the service, balance, and the completion of settlement. Further, transaction information including such information and information related to the user is notified to the money server device of the electronic money business operator (transaction information notification step S0506).

  Finally, the server device provides a service to the electronic device based on the consideration payment processing result (service provision step S0507). At this time, the electronic device may notify the server device of the start / completion of the download of the service, etc., as necessary, via the payment agent device.

  <Embodiment 2: Effect> In the present embodiment, when the consideration is paid, the electronic device approves the electronic payment, and based on the electronic payment approval, the payment agent device outputs the consideration payment processing result to the server device. An electronic payment system having features. As a result, only the electronic payment is approved in the electronic device, and the actual payment processing is performed by the payment agent device, so that the electronic device is provided with a service even if it does not have a function capable of payment. Can do. Further, in this electronic payment system, it is not necessary to install an electronic payment function in the electronic device, so that the cost can be minimized.

  << Embodiment 3 >>

  <Embodiment 3: Overview> Embodiment 3 will be described. The present embodiment is an electronic payment system characterized in that an electronic device can acquire and browse history information obtained regarding provision of a service.

  <Embodiment 3: Configuration> FIG. 6 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (0600) of the present embodiment shown in FIG. 6 includes an “electronic device” (0610), a “settlement agent device” (0620), and a “server device” (0630). The settlement agent device (0620) has a “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (0621) and a “consumption payment processing result output unit” (0622), and the electronic device (0610) includes a “history information acquisition unit”. (0611) and a “history information browsing section” (0612). Here, the functional block diagram based on the first embodiment is shown, but in the case of using another embodiment as a basis, a component may be required in addition to this.

  The “history information acquisition unit” (0611) acquires history information obtained regarding service provision. The history information corresponds to, for example, information such as date / time, service name, and value regarding the history of the service received. In addition, information such as the accumulated value of the consideration and the balance may be included. The history information may be automatically acquired when the service is provided, or may be generated by the electronic device itself in response to a user request. Information such as the balance can be acquired (calculated) from the consideration payment processing result received from the payment agent device. FIG. 7 shows an example of history information. It is assumed that the history information is acquired from a settlement agent device or a server device. In the electronic payment system, when a plurality of electronic devices are used, the electronic device may acquire not only its own history information but also history information of other electronic devices connected to the payment agent device.

  The “history information browsing unit” (0612) browses the history information acquired by the history information acquisition unit (0611). The browsing is assumed to be displayed on a display screen provided in the electronic device. Further, it may be displayed on the WEB page of the electronic device (the WEB page shown by accessing the address of the electronic device).

  In addition, since the electronic device acquires history information via the payment proxy device, the history information may be browsed even in the payment proxy device.

  The processing of other parts is the same as in the first and second embodiments.

  <Embodiment 3: Effect> This embodiment is an electronic payment system characterized in that an electronic device can acquire and browse history information obtained regarding provision of a service. As a result, it is expected that the convenience of the present electronic payment system can be further improved by allowing the user to freely browse and compare information regarding the provided service, the provided date and time, and the consideration.

  << Embodiment 4 >>

  <Embodiment 4: Overview> Embodiment 4 will be described. The present embodiment is characterized in that the fund balance information used for the electronic device to pay the compensation is acquired, and when the fund balance information is information indicating that the fund balance is insufficient, a predetermined process is executed. Is an electronic payment system.

  <Embodiment 4: Configuration> FIG. 8 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (0800) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 8 includes an “electronic device” (0810), a “settlement agent device” (0820), and a “server device” (0830). The settlement proxy device (0820) includes a “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (0821) and a “consumption payment processing result output unit” (0822). The electronic device (0810) includes a “history information acquisition unit” (0811) and a “history information browsing unit” (0812), and the history information acquisition unit (0811) further includes “fund balance information acquisition unit” (0813). ) And “processing means for shortage of funds balance” (0814).

  "Fund balance information acquisition means" (0813) acquires the funds balance information used to pay the consideration. “Fund balance information” is information used to pay the consideration, and includes information indicating the balance of funds and information indicating whether the balance is negative. The fund balance information can be acquired based on the consideration included in the history information and the balance information.

  The “fund balance shortage processing means” (0814) executes a predetermined process when the fund balance information in the fund balance information acquisition means (0813) is information indicating that the funds balance is insufficient. Examples of the “predetermined processing” include a message prompting for payment, a message indicating that service cannot be provided, and the like. In addition, when the user can use a plurality of payment agent devices, a processing may be performed in which the payment agent device having a sufficient funds balance is selected by the electronic device and the payment is executed. This will be described in detail in Embodiment 6.

  The processing of each other part is the same as in the third embodiment.

  <Fourth Embodiment: Process Flow> FIG. 9 shows a process flow in an electronic device of the electronic settlement system in the fourth embodiment. First, history information obtained with respect to service provision is acquired (history information acquisition step S0901), and based on the acquired history information, fund balance information used for paying consideration is acquired (fund balance information acquisition step S0902). . Next, it is determined whether or not the fund balance information is information indicating that the funds balance is insufficient (fund balance shortage determination step S0903). At this time, if it is determined that the funds balance is insufficient, predetermined processing is executed (processing step S0904 when funds balance is insufficient). If it is determined that the funds balance is not insufficient, the process is terminated as it is. Finally, a process that allows browsing of history information may be performed.

  Since the history information and the fund balance information are assumed to be acquired at the time of receiving the service or in response to the user's request, the above processing flow occurs in an interrupted manner.

  <Embodiment 4: Effect> In the present embodiment, fund balance information used by an electronic device for paying compensation is acquired, and when the fund balance information is information indicating that the fund balance is insufficient, a predetermined amount is obtained. An electronic settlement system characterized by executing processing. It is convenient to use an electronic device if a message prompting for payment or a message indicating that the service cannot be provided is displayed when the funds balance is insufficient.

  << Embodiment 5 >>

  <Embodiment 5: Overview> Embodiment 5 will be described. The present embodiment is an electronic payment system characterized in that an electronic device acquires consideration payment request information for a service and outputs the consideration payment request information to a payment agent device.

  <Embodiment 5: Configuration> FIG. 10 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (1000) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 10 includes an “electronic device” (1010), a “settlement agent device” (1020), and a “server device” (1030). The settlement agent device (1020) includes a “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (1021) and a “consumption payment processing result output unit” (1022). The electronic device (1010) includes an “electronic device consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (1011) and a “consumption payment request information output unit” (1012). Here, the functional block diagram based on the first embodiment is shown, but in the case of using another embodiment as a basis, a component may be required in addition to this.

  The “electronic device consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (1011) acquires consideration payment request information for a service. Consideration payment request information is assumed to be transmitted from a server device, an external server device outside the electronic settlement system, or the like. Since the sender of the consideration payment request information is unquestioned, it is indicated by a dashed arrow in the figure. The consideration payment request information is relayed to the electronic device in order to be finally output to the settlement agent device. Thereby, the user who operates the electronic device and receives the service can confirm the price of the service and can approve the payment.

  The “payment payment request information output unit” (1012) sends the consideration payment request information acquired by the electronic device consideration payment request information acquisition unit (1011) to the consideration payment request information acquisition unit (1021) of the settlement agent device. Output. By outputting the consideration payment request information to the payment agent device via the electronic device, the electronic device itself that has received the service can also maintain the history of the service subject to the consideration payment and the information related to the consideration. It is good. In addition, since there is a trust relationship between the electronic device and the payment agent device, the payment agent device can smoothly make payment.

  The processing of other parts is the same as in the first to fourth embodiments.

  <Fifth Embodiment: Flow of Processing> FIG. 11 shows a flow of processing in the electronic settlement system according to the fifth embodiment. As a premise, it is assumed that the connection between the electronic device, the payment agent device, and the server device has been completed. First, the electronic device acquires consideration payment request information for a service from a server device or the like (electronic device consideration payment request information acquisition step S1101). Next, the acquired consideration payment request information is output to the settlement agent device (consumption payment request information output step S1102). In response, the payment agent device acquires consideration payment request information (consumption payment request information acquisition unit step S1103). This eliminates the need for relaying the consideration payment request information to the electronic device (broken line arrow from S0501 in FIG. 5 to the electronic device) that is necessary in the processing flow of the second embodiment. Further, in the electronic device, processing for approving electronic payment can be performed based on the consideration payment request information acquired in the previous step (electronic payment approval step S1104). When the user operates the electronic device and approves the service purchase, the settlement agent device is notified as an electronic settlement approval. Since the flow of subsequent payment processing is the same as that of the second embodiment, it is omitted here.

  <Embodiment 5: Effect> This embodiment is an electronic payment system characterized in that an electronic device acquires consideration payment request information for a service and outputs the consideration payment request information to a payment agent device. . By outputting the consideration payment request information to the payment agent device via the electronic device, the electronic device itself that received the service can also maintain the history of the service subject to consideration payment and information related to the consideration. , Can share data smoothly.

  << Embodiment 6 >>

  <Sixth Embodiment: Overview> A sixth embodiment will be described. In the present embodiment, fund balance information is acquired for each settlement agent device, and when the funds balance information of one settlement agent device is short of the funds balance, a payment agent device that is not short of the fund balance is selected and the settlement is performed. This is an electronic settlement system characterized in that it outputs compensation payment request information for a service to a proxy device.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of the concept of this embodiment. In the figure, an electronic device and two payment agent devices (A, B) are shown. Here, it is assumed that the payment agent device has already acquired the consideration payment request information for the service (the amount of consideration for the provision of the service is 500 yen). First, the electronic device acquires fund balance information for each payment proxy device from two payment proxy devices (1). At this time, the fund balance information of the settlement proxy device A is “0 yen”, and the fund balance information of the settlement proxy device B is “5000 yen”. Since the funds balance information of the payment proxy device A is insufficient, the payment proxy device B that is not short of the funds balance is selected and the consideration payment request information is output to the payment proxy device B (2). Hereinafter, although not shown in the figure, the settlement proxy device B outputs a processing result for the payment to the server device in accordance with the acquired payment request information. Finally, the server device provides a service to the electronic device.

  <Embodiment 6: Configuration> FIG. 13 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (1300) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 13 includes an “electronic device” (1310), a “settlement agent device” (1320), and a “server device” (1330). The electronic device (1310) includes a “history information acquisition unit” (1311) and a “history information browsing unit” (1312), and the history information acquisition unit (1311) includes “fund balance information acquisition unit” (1313). , “Fund balance shortage processing means” (1314), and further, the fund balance information acquisition means (1313) has “individual funds balance information acquisition unit” (1315), 1314) has “selection output means” (1316). Although not shown, the settlement agent device (1320) includes a consideration payment request information acquisition unit and a consideration payment processing result output unit.

  The “individual fund balance information acquisition unit” (1315) acquires the fund balance information for each settlement proxy device. In the figure, fund balance information is acquired from each of the payment agent devices A and B. At this time, the case where the fund balance information of the settlement proxy device A is “0 yen” and the fund balance information of the settlement proxy device B is “5000 yen” is exemplified.

  The “selection output device” (1316) selects a payment proxy device that is not short of the funds balance when the fund balance information of one payment proxy device is insufficient, and provides the service to the payment proxy device for the service. Output the payment request information. Whether the balance is insufficient or not is determined based on the consideration payment request information acquired by the electronic device through the settlement agent device. Here, since the fund balance information of the settlement proxy device A is insufficient, the settlement proxy device B that is not short of the funds balance is selected and the consideration payment request information is output to the settlement proxy device B. Thereafter, the settlement proxy device B outputs a processing result for the payment to the server device in accordance with the acquired payment request information. In response, the server device provides a service to the electronic device.

  The processing of each other part is the same as in the fourth embodiment.

  <Sixth Embodiment: Process Flow> FIG. 14 shows a process flow in an electronic device of the electronic settlement system in the sixth embodiment. First, consideration payment request information for a service is obtained (consumption payment request information acquisition step S1401). Next, the fund balance information of the settlement proxy device N is acquired (fund balance information acquisition step S1402). Note that N is a variable used for searching for a payment agent device, and an initial value (for example, 1) is first substituted. Furthermore, it is determined whether or not the fund balance information is information indicating that the funds balance is insufficient by comparing with the consideration payment request information (fund balance shortage determination step S1403). At this time, if it is determined that the funds balance is not insufficient, the consideration payment request information is output to the settlement agent device (selection output step S1404). On the other hand, in the case of the determination result that the funds balance is insufficient, N is incremented unless N matches a predetermined value (for example, the number of settlement agent devices), and the process returns to the funds balance information acquisition step (S1402). repeat. When N matches a predetermined value (for example, the number of payment agent devices) and all the payment agent devices are searched, a balance shortage warning is displayed (fund balance shortage processing step S1405).

  <Embodiment 6: Effect> This embodiment acquires fund balance information for each settlement proxy device, and when the fund balance information of one settlement proxy device is insufficient, the settlement proxy device is not short of funds balance. This is an electronic payment system characterized in that the payment request information for the service is output to the payment agent device. If the user can use multiple payment agent devices, the service provision will be interrupted if the payment agent device with sufficient funds balance is selected by the electronic device and the payment is processed. Therefore, it is expected that the spread of settlement proxy devices will be promoted and the utility value of the system itself will be increased.

  << Embodiment 7 >>

  <Embodiment 7: Overview> Embodiment 7 will be described. In the present embodiment, communication is started with respect to the server device in order to apply for service provision, and the started communication is terminated on the condition that it has been detected that the output of the value processing result in the settlement proxy device has been completed. In particular, the electronic payment system is characterized.

  <Embodiment 7: Configuration> FIG. 15 shows an example of functional blocks in the present embodiment. The “electronic payment system” (1500) of this embodiment shown in FIG. 15 includes an “electronic device” (1510), a “settlement agent device” (1520), and a “server device” (1530). The electronic device (1510) includes a “communication start unit” (1511) and a “communication end unit” (1512). The communication end unit (1512) includes “end detection means” (1513) and “same session settlement”. Assurance means "(1514). Further, the settlement agent device (1520) includes a “consideration payment request information acquisition unit” (1521) and a “consumption payment processing result output unit” (1522). Here, the functional block diagram based on the first embodiment is shown, but in the case of using another embodiment as a basis, a component may be required in addition to this.

  The “communication start unit” (1511) opens communication with the server device in order to apply for the provision of the service. The electronic device starts connection to the communication network, and the payment proxy device relays the connection, whereby communication with the server device is started.

  The “communication end unit” (1512) performs processing for ending communication with the server device.

  The “end detection means” (1513) detects that the output of the consideration processing result output unit (1522) in the settlement proxy device has ended. It can be said that the delivery of the service and the settlement are completed by the end of the output of the consideration processing result. In order to detect the end of output of the consideration processing result, the end information may be transmitted from the settlement agent device or the server device that is the output destination.

  The “same session settlement guarantee unit” (1514) performs a process for terminating the communication started in the communication start unit (1511) on the condition that the termination detection unit (1513) detects termination. Thus, since the same session is guaranteed from the start of communication to the end of communication, service provision (download) and settlement performed during that time are performed in the same session. Therefore, the identity of the settlement person and the user can be maintained.

  The processing of each other part is the same as in the first embodiment.

  <Seventh Embodiment: Process Flow> FIG. 16 shows the flow of an electronic payment method in the electronic payment system according to the seventh embodiment. First, the electronic device opens communication with the server device in order to apply for service provision (communication start step S1601). Next, the payment agent device acquires consideration payment request information for the service from the server device or the like (consumption payment request information acquisition step S1602). Next, the settlement agent device outputs a processing result for consideration payment to the server device in accordance with the consideration payment request information acquired in the consideration payment request information acquisition step (S1602) (consumption payment processing result output). Step S1603). In addition, between the consideration payment request information acquisition step (S1602) and the consideration payment processing result output step (S1603), as shown in the second embodiment, an electronic payment approval step for making an electronic payment approval by an electronic device, A balance confirmation step for confirming that the amount of consideration for the service does not exceed the balance of the electronic money by the proxy device may be executed.

  Furthermore, the electronic device detects that the output in the consideration processing result output step (S1603) in the settlement proxy device has ended (end detection step S1604). Finally, on the condition that the end is detected in the end detection step (S1604), a process for terminating the started communication is performed (same session settlement guarantee step S1605).

  <Embodiment 7: Effect> In the present embodiment, on the condition that communication with a server device is started in order to apply for service provision and it is detected that the output of the value processing result in the settlement proxy device has been completed. The electronic payment system is characterized in that the started communication is terminated. As a result, since the same session is guaranteed from the start of communication to the end of communication, service provision (downloading) and payment performed during that time are performed in the same session, and used by the payer. It can be said that the identity of the person can be maintained and the safety is high.

Conceptual diagram for explaining the first embodiment Functional block diagram for explaining the first embodiment The figure explaining the flow of processing of Embodiment 1. Functional block diagram for explaining the second embodiment The figure explaining the flow of processing of Embodiment 2. Functional block diagram for explaining the third embodiment The figure which showed an example of the historical information in Embodiment 3. Functional block diagram for explaining the fourth embodiment The figure explaining the flow of processing of Embodiment 4 Functional block diagram for explaining the fifth embodiment The figure explaining the flow of processing of Embodiment 5 Conceptual diagram for explaining the sixth embodiment Functional block diagram for explaining the sixth embodiment The figure explaining the flow of processing of Embodiment 6. Functional block diagram for explaining the seventh embodiment The figure explaining the flow of processing of Embodiment 7.

Explanation of symbols

0200 Electronic payment system 0210 Electronic device 0220 Payment agent device 0221 Consideration payment request information acquisition unit 0222 Consideration payment processing result output unit 0230 Server device

Claims (13)

An electronic payment system comprising an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides services to the electronic device,
The settlement agent device
A consideration payment request information acquisition unit for acquiring consideration payment request information for the service;
A consideration payment processing result output unit that outputs a processing result for consideration payment to the server device in accordance with the consideration payment request information acquired by the consideration payment request information acquisition unit;
An electronic payment system. The electronic device is
Have an electronic payment approval department that approves electronic payments to pay consideration;
The electronic payment system according to claim 1, wherein the processing result output by the consideration payment processing result output unit is information obtained based on the electronic payment approval. The electronic device is
A history information acquisition unit that acquires history information obtained in connection with the provision of the service;
A history information browsing unit for browsing history information acquired by the history information acquisition unit;
The electronic settlement system according to claim 1, comprising: The history information acquisition unit of the electronic device is
Funds balance information acquisition means for acquiring funds balance information used to pay the consideration;
If the fund balance information in the fund balance information acquisition unit is information that the fund balance is insufficient, a processing unit for insufficient funds balance that executes a predetermined process;
The electronic payment system according to claim 3, comprising: The electronic device is
Electronic device consideration payment request information acquisition unit for acquiring consideration payment request information for a service;
A consideration payment request information output unit that outputs the consideration payment request information acquired by the electronic device consideration payment request information acquisition unit to the consideration payment request information acquisition unit of the settlement agent device; and
The electronic payment system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising: A plurality of the payment agent devices,
The fund balance information acquisition means has an individual fund balance information acquisition unit for acquiring the fund balance information for each settlement proxy device,
The funds balance shortage processing means is:
When the fund balance information of one settlement agent device is insufficient, the selection output device that selects a payment agent device that is not short of the funds balance and outputs the consideration payment request information for the service to the settlement agent device The electronic payment system according to claim 4.   The electronic payment system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the electronic device does not have a function of directly executing electronic payment.   The electronic payment system according to claim 1, wherein the electronic device receives the service via the payment agent device.   The electronic payment system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the electronic device and the payment agent device are connected via a limited network.   The electronic device is a home appliance such as a television, a microwave oven, a refrigerator, an audio device, an air conditioner, a washing machine, a vacuum cleaner, an iron, a trouser press, a personal computer, a PDA, or a water heater. The electronic payment system as described in kaichi. The electronic device is
A communication start unit that opens communication with the server device in order to apply for provision of the service;
A communication end unit for ending communication with the server device,
The communication end unit detects an end of the output of the consideration processing result output unit in the payment agent device;
11. The electronic settlement system according to claim 1, further comprising a same session settlement guarantee unit for terminating the communication started in the communication start unit on condition that the termination detection unit detects termination. . A payment agent device used in an electronic payment system comprising an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides services to the electronic device,
A consideration payment request information acquisition unit for acquiring consideration payment request information for the service;
A consideration payment processing result output unit that outputs a processing result for consideration payment to the server device in accordance with the consideration payment request information acquired by the consideration payment request information acquisition unit;
A payment agent device. An electronic payment method in an electronic payment system comprising an electronic device, a payment agent device, and a server device that provides services to the electronic device,
A communication start step in which the electronic device opens communication with the server device in order to apply for provision of the service;
The payment agent requesting information acquisition step for acquiring the payment request information for the service,
A payment processing result output step in which the settlement agent device outputs a processing result for consideration payment to the server device in accordance with the consideration payment request information acquired in the consideration payment request information acquisition step;
An end detection step in which the electronic device detects that the output in the consideration processing result output step in the settlement agent device has ended; and
The same session settlement guarantee step for performing processing for terminating the started communication on the condition that the termination is detected in the termination detection step;
An electronic payment method.

Images