JP2007328517A - Method and system for charging for use of drawing software - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a method and system for charging for use of drawing software, capable of charging the fee according to substantial usage of drawing software by a user-side device 7. <P>SOLUTION: In the method wherein a drawing software providing server 1 charges a fee for use of drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server 1 on the user-side device 7, the user-side device 7 defines a virtual paint consumed according to the drawn line thickness, the filled area, or the density in drawing by use of the drawing software, and the amount of the paint purchased by the user-side device 7 is charged as the usage of the drawing software. According to such a structure, a carrier center 20 can appropriately charge the user-side device 7 for use of the drawing software. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a drawing software usage fee charging method and a charging system for charging a usage fee when a drawing software providing server provides drawing software to a user side device via a network.

  Conventionally, a user who wishes to use drawing software connects to a vendor server of a vendor that provides application software from an information terminal via a network and uses the application software provided by the vendor server, while Many systems have been proposed for paying a trader who provides application software for the usage. By using such a system, the user can use the latest version of the updated application software without purchasing a large variety of expensive application software, which is economically advantageous.

  Such application software usage charges are generally charged according to the usage time of the application software, as described in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-149259 (Patent Document 1).

  However, the user does not always work using the application software during the usage time. In particular, when using drawing software for creating pictures and figures, it is more conspicuous for modeling figures and pictures than when drawing data is created by actually drawing figures and pictures using drawing software. The current situation is that the time to do is longer.

  In other words, the amount of graphic data created using the drawing software and the time during which the drawing software is used do not necessarily increase in conjunction with the drawing software. It can often happen that the usage time of the software becomes longer and the usage fee for it increases. This is not desirable for the user.

In order to improve such a problem, for example, as described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2002-32140 (Patent Document 2), a figure generated as a result of using application software instead of using time of application software There is also a concept of paying a usage fee depending on the deliverables (added value) such as data. However, the evaluation criteria for the deliverables using the drawing software are ambiguous, and it is difficult to charge with this concept.
JP 2002-149259 A JP 2002-32140 A

  As described above, in the conventional method of charging the drawing software usage fee, if the method of charging the fee according to the usage time of the application software is used, the product obtained by using the drawing software, the drawing software usage fee, However, in the method of charging the drawing software usage fee according to the product, the setting of the evaluation standard of the product is ambiguous and the feasibility is low.

  The present invention has been made in order to solve such a conventional problem, and an object of the present invention is to virtually use a drawing software by a user at an information terminal (user side device). Another object of the present invention is to provide a charging method and a charging system capable of charging a drawing software usage fee according to the amount of consumption of various paints.

  In order to achieve the above object, the invention described in claim 1 of the present application is a drawing provided by the drawing software providing side device in a system in which a user side device and a drawing software providing side device are connected via a network. In the charging method of the drawing software usage fee for charging the usage fee of the drawing software from the drawing software providing side device to the user side device when drawing is performed using the software on the user side device, When the drawing using the drawing software is started in the user side device, the drawing software providing side device is defined to consume the entire amount according to the drawing amount from the user side device. A step of notifying the purchase of the paint, and when the user purchases the paint at the user side device, the drawing software providing side device The drawing software providing side device with respect to the user side device when the drawing using the drawing software is completed in the user side device And charging the user side device with a charge corresponding to at least one of the amount of the purchased paint or the number of colors of the paint as a use fee of the drawing software. This is a method of charging a drawing software usage fee.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, a line to be drawn when the user performs a drawing operation on the user side device using the drawing software provided from the drawing software providing side device (drawing software providing server 1, carrier center 20). Set the electronic data to be consumed according to the thickness of the image, the size of the area to be painted, the density at the time of painting, that is, the “paint” that consumes the entire amount according to the drawing amount. Drawing software can be used on condition that the apparatus has purchased an amount of paint that satisfies a predetermined condition. Then, the usage fee of the drawing software is determined according to the amount of the purchased paint or the number of colors of the paint. Therefore, when performing drawing using drawing software in the user side device, the drawing software providing side device charges the usage fee as an amount corresponding to the drawing amount substantially drawn to the user side device. The drawing software providing side device can charge the user side device for an appropriate amount for using the drawing software.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a drawing software providing server that provides drawing software, a user side device that performs drawing using drawing software provided from the drawing software providing server, and the user side device including the drawing software Using a drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server in the user side device in a system connected via a network to a charging center for charging a drawing software usage fee generated by using In a drawing software usage fee billing method for charging the user side device with a drawing software usage fee when drawing is performed, the user side who wishes to use the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server For the apparatus, the drawing software providing server uses the drawing software. A member registration step for registering the member, and when the user side device requests the use of the drawing software, the user side device is registered in the member registration step by the drawing software providing server. In the registered member determining step for determining whether or not the user is a registered member, and when the user side device is determined to be a registered member in the registered member determining step, the drawing software providing server A stored paint initial amount determination step for determining whether or not the stored paint, which is a stored amount of the paint defined so that the entire amount is consumed according to the drawing amount, satisfies a predetermined condition with respect to the side device; When the stored paint initial amount determining step determines that the stored paint in the user side device does not satisfy a predetermined condition, the user side device Then, in the initial-time paint purchase notification step that prompts the purchase of a paint so as to satisfy the predetermined condition and the stored-paint initial amount determination step, the stored paint in the user side device satisfies the predetermined condition When it is determined, the drawing software providing server permits the user side device to use the drawing software, and the user side device performs drawing using the drawing software. When the drawing software providing server is performing drawing using the drawing software, the consumption amount of the paint consumed in accordance with the drawing and the paint amount calculating step for calculating the stored paint A stored paint continuation amount determining step for determining whether or not the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition necessary for continuing drawing; and When the stored paint continuation amount determining step determines that the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition, the drawing software providing server continues drawing using the drawing software to the user side server. And when the stored color is determined not to satisfy the predetermined condition, the in-use paint purchase notifying step for prompting the purchase of the paint so that the stored color satisfies the predetermined condition, and the user side When the drawing using the drawing software is completed in the device, the charging center pays a fee according to at least one of the amount of paint purchased by the user side device and the number of colors of the paint. And a charging step of charging the user side device as a usage fee.

  In the invention of claim 2, when the drawing software is provided to the user side device registered as a member with the drawing software providing server and the stored paint (the remaining amount of the paint purchased in the past) satisfies the predetermined condition In addition, use of the drawing software is permitted for the user side device, and the drawing software can be used in the user side device. Also, the amount of paint is set to be consumed according to the thickness of the line when performing the drawing work, the area to be painted, and the darkness, and when the amount of paint no longer satisfies the above predetermined condition, The user side device is urged to purchase a new paint. Thereafter, when the user apparatus purchases the paint, the continuation of drawing using the drawing software is permitted. Then, the usage fee of the drawing software for the user side device is determined according to the amount of the purchased paint or the number of colors of the paint, and the usage fee is charged to the user side device from the charging center. Accordingly, the billing center can charge the user side device for a reasonable amount for using the drawing software. In addition, since the usage fee is not charged according to the usage time, the user side device does not have to worry about the usage time when using the drawing software, and draws calmly using the drawing software. It can be carried out.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, the paint is a plurality of paints each having a different color, and the stored paint initial amount determining step determines whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied for all of the plurality of paints. The paint amount calculation step calculates a consumption amount of paint and a stored paint for all of the plurality of paints, and the stored paint continuation amount determination step satisfies a predetermined condition for all of the plurality of paints. It is characterized by determining whether or not.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, when a user-side apparatus sets a plurality of color paints as paints used when drawing using drawing software, and the storage paints satisfy a predetermined condition for each of the color paints Since the drawing software providing server permits the user side device to continue using the drawing software, the user side device can use the drawing software in a state where the predetermined condition set for the paint of each color is satisfied. .

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the predetermined condition includes a minimum number of paints of different colors required for the user side device to use the drawing software, or each paint has a minimum storage amount. It is either of these.

  In the invention of claim 4, since the minimum number of paints of different colors or the minimum storage amount of each paint is set as the predetermined condition for permitting the user side apparatus to use the drawing software, the user side When drawing using the drawing software on the device, the minimum amount of paint storage and the number of colors of the paint are secured, and the user side device performs smooth drawing using multiple colors of paint. be able to. Further, when the predetermined condition is not satisfied during drawing, the user side device is prompted to determine whether or not to purchase a new paint. It is possible to decide whether to purchase a new paint and continue drawing or to finish drawing at this point. Therefore, the user side apparatus can determine whether or not to continue drawing in consideration of the total usage fee of the drawing software.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a drawing software providing server that provides drawing software, a charging center that charges the usage fee of the drawing software, and a user side that uses the drawing software connected to each other via a network. A drawing software usage fee billing system that charges a usage fee for the drawing software when the drawing software provided from the drawing software providing server is used in the user side device. The providing server refers to the member database for a member database that stores registered member data of the user side device registered as a member of the drawing software providing server and the user side device that is accessed via the network. To determine if this user device is a registered member The purchase amount of the paint or the number of purchased colors when the authentication server and the user side device purchase the paint defined to be consumed according to the drawing amount when using the drawing software. A charging server that performs charging processing for at least one of the above, and providing drawing software to the user side device of the registered member, and storing a stored paint that is a storage amount of the paint used in the user side device, When using the drawing software in the user side device, if the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition, the user side device is allowed to use the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server. A processing server that performs processing for prompting the purchase of a paint when the predetermined condition is not satisfied, and the charging center includes the drawing center And charging means for acquiring charging data for the user side device from the software providing server and performing charging processing for the user side device based on the charging data. The user side device is provided by the drawing software providing server. An information terminal capable of drawing using the drawing software and purchasing the paint used for drawing using the drawing software, and payment of the drawing software usage fee in response to a charging request from the charging center A drawing software usage fee billing system characterized by comprising:

  In the invention of claim 5, the drawing software is provided to the user side device registered as a member with the drawing software providing server, and the paint stored in the processing server (the remaining amount of the paint purchased in the past) is predetermined. If it is determined that the condition is satisfied, the user side apparatus is permitted to use the drawing software, and the user side apparatus can use the drawing software. Also, the amount of paint is set to be consumed according to the thickness of the line when performing the drawing work, the area to be painted, and the darkness, and when the amount of paint no longer satisfies the above predetermined condition, The processing server prompts the user side device to purchase a new paint. Thereafter, when the user apparatus purchases the paint, the continuation of drawing using the drawing software is permitted. Then, the usage fee of the drawing software for the user side device is determined according to the amount of the purchased paint or the number of colors of the purchased paint, and this usage fee is charged to the user side device from the charging center. Accordingly, the billing center can charge the user side device for a reasonable amount for using the drawing software. In addition, since the usage fee is not charged according to the usage time, the user side device does not have to worry about the usage time when using the drawing software, and draws calmly using the drawing software. It can be carried out.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the paint is a plurality of paints of different colors, and the processing server stores the stored paint for all of the plurality of paints, and the plurality of paints When the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition for all of the above, the user side apparatus is allowed to use the drawing software.

  In the invention of claim 6, a plurality of color paints are set as paints used when the user side device performs drawing using the drawing software, and the processing server sets the predetermined conditions for the stored paints for each of the color paints. When satisfied, the drawing software providing server permits the user side device to continue using the drawing software, so the user side device uses the drawing software in a state that satisfies the predetermined conditions set for the paints of each color. can do.

  The invention according to claim 7 is that the predetermined condition includes a minimum number of paints of different colors required for the user side device to use the drawing software, or each paint has a minimum storage amount. It is either of these.

  In the invention of claim 7, since the processing server permits the user side apparatus to use the drawing software, the minimum number of paints of different colors or the minimum storage amount of each paint is set. When drawing using the drawing software on the user side device, the minimum amount of paint storage and the number of colors of the paint will be ensured, and the user side device uses a multi-color paint smoothly Can draw. In addition, when the predetermined condition is not satisfied during drawing, the processing server prompts the user side device to determine whether or not to purchase a new paint. It is possible to decide whether to purchase a new paint on the way and continue drawing or to finish drawing at this point. Therefore, the user side apparatus can determine whether or not to continue drawing in consideration of the total usage fee of the drawing software.

  The invention described in claim 8 is characterized in that the drawing software server further comprises application storage means for storing drawing software provided to the user side device.

  In the invention of claim 8, since the processing server is provided with application storage means for storing the drawing software, the drawing software providing server reads the drawing software provided to the user side device from the application storage means and directly transfers it to the user side device. Can be provided.

  According to the present invention, when the user performs a drawing operation on the user side device using the drawing software provided from the drawing software providing side device (the drawing software providing server 1, the carrier center 20 shown in FIG. 1), Set electronic data to be consumed according to the thickness of the line to be drawn, the size of the area to be filled when drawing, the darkness when filling, etc. The drawing software can be used on condition that the user-side apparatus has purchased enough paint to satisfy the predetermined condition. Then, the usage fee of the drawing software is determined according to the amount of the purchased paint or the number of colors of the paint. Therefore, when performing drawing using drawing software in the user side device, the drawing software providing side device charges the usage fee as an amount corresponding to the drawing amount substantially drawn to the user side device. The drawing software providing side device can charge the user side device for an appropriate amount for using the drawing software.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a drawing software usage fee billing system used in the present invention. The drawing software described in this embodiment is a so-called drawing software, electric CAD software, mechanical design CAD software, software for creating textile dyeing, animation creation software, design, etc. The present invention can be applied to various software for creating an image while setting various line thicknesses and areas to be painted, such as image creation software and map creation software.

  As shown in the figure, the charging system includes a drawing software providing server 1 that provides drawing software, a user side device 7 that uses drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server 1 for a fee, and a user side device 7. When the drawing software is used, a carrier center (billing center) 20 that charges the drawing device usage fee to the user side device 7 is provided. The drawing software providing server 1, the user side device 7, and the carrier center 20 are connected via the Internet (network) 2. The drawing software providing server 1 and the carrier center 20 constitute a “drawing software providing side device”. In FIG. 1, only one user side device 7 is representatively shown, but a plurality of user side devices 7 are usually installed and connected to the Internet 2.

  The user side device 7 includes a user terminal (information terminal) 3 such as a personal computer connected to the Internet 2 and a mobile communication terminal (charge payment terminal) 4 such as a mobile phone.

  The drawing software providing server 1 may be connected to the Internet 2 through a firewall (not shown). A drawing service provider that provides drawing software for a fee by the drawing software providing server 1 and a carrier service of the mobile communication terminal 4 such as a mobile phone are provided by the carrier center 20, the base station 5, and the carrier communication network 6. It is assumed that the carrier has signed a contract for agency billing.

  The drawing software providing server 1 includes a processing server 11, a billing server 12, an authentication server 13, a member database (hereinafter referred to as “member DB”) 14, an application database (application storage means; hereinafter referred to as “APDB”). 15).

  Then, the user terminal 3 of the user side device 7 who desires to use drawing software (hereinafter abbreviated as “drawing software”) accesses the processing server 11 of the drawing software providing server 1 via the Internet 2 and registers as a member. Thereafter, when a virtual consumable used for drawing (hereinafter referred to as “paint”) is purchased so as to satisfy a predetermined condition, the user terminal 3 uses the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server 1. Can draw.

  Here, “paint” is electronic data corresponding to virtual consumables used when creating an image using drawing software, and there are paints of a plurality of colors. For example, in the case of using drawing software for drawing using only a single color, such as “CAD software”, the color of the paint is one.

  Further, when purchasing a paint, the electronic data has an arbitrary “amount”, and is set so that the “amount” is consumed according to the drawing area at the time of image creation. That is, the “paint” used in the drawing software corresponds to the paint as if the drawing was created on the drawing paper using the paint. Further, even when the drawn area is erased, the “amount” of the consumed paint is not restored.

  The processing server 11 shown in FIG. 1 controls the entire drawing software providing server 1 as a whole and has a function as a Web server. Further, the processing server 11 displays various web pages transmitted by the drawing software providing server 1 by executing a program (hereinafter referred to as “CGI program”) for controlling operations such as CGI (Common Gateway Interface). A function of creating web page data according to a job is provided.

  The accounting server 12 operates under the control of the processing server 11 and calculates the fee of the paint purchased when the user terminal 3 performs drawing using the drawing software provided from the drawing software providing server 1. Is stored together with the ID of the user terminal 3 as billing data. That is, the ID of the user terminal 3 and the charge for the paint purchased at the user terminal 3 are stored in association with each other.

  The authentication server 13 operates under the control of the processing server 11, and executes a registered member authentication process and a credit process for the user terminal 3 when a member registration process is performed in the user terminal 3.

  The member DB 14 stores various data regarding the user terminal 3 of the user side device 7 registered as a member, for example, ID, password, image data drawn using drawing software, the remaining amount of paint, and the like.

  The APDB (application database) 15 stores various drawing software, various contents, and the like that the drawing software providing server 1 provides to each user terminal 3 for a fee.

  On the other hand, the carrier center 20 is responsible for proxy charging for charging the user side device 7 with the drawing software usage fee provided by the drawing software providing server 1, and includes a control unit 21, a communication unit 22, and an authentication unit. 23, a terminal management unit 24, a charging unit (charging unit) 25, and an internal transmission path 26 for interconnecting them.

  The control unit 21 is configured by an information processing device such as a mainframe or a workstation, for example, and comprehensively controls the entire carrier center 20. Further, the control unit 21 has a function as a Web server, and further has a function of creating web page data for displaying various web pages transmitted by the carrier center 20 according to a job by executing a CGI program. Prepare.

  The communication unit 22 includes a communication device such as a router, connects the carrier center 20 to the Internet 2 and the carrier communication network 6, and is connected to the information device (not shown) and the base station 5 and other information (not shown) connected to the Internet 2. Data is sent to and received from the providing server.

  When the drawing software providing server 1 requests the credit of the user terminal 3 that desires to use paid drawing software, the authentication unit 23 performs the credit processing. As a specific example of the credit processing by the authentication unit 23, credit data for the user terminal 3 transmitted from the drawing software providing server 1, for example, the terminal number (telephone number) of the mobile communication terminal 4 provided in the user side device 7 ) And the password, the user-side device 7 contracts with the carrier center 20 in advance for proxy billing, and the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4 stored in the terminal management unit 24 are collated. Transmits to the drawing software providing server 1 data “credit” “appropriate” indicating that charging for the user terminal 3 is guaranteed.

  The terminal management unit 24 stores and manages various types of data related to the mobile communication terminal 4 owned by the user side device 7 that has contracted for proxy billing. The data stored in the terminal management unit 24 is, for example, the terminal number (telephone number), password, mail address, etc. of the mobile communication terminal 4 provided in the user side device 7.

  The charging unit 25 executes a charging process charged by the drawing software providing server 1. For example, billing data is created for each terminal number of the mobile communication terminal 4 and billing data charged from the drawing software providing server 1, that is, the type (color), number (quantity), purchase of the paint purchased by the user terminal 3 Memorize the date, amount charged, etc.

  Next, the processing operation of the charging system for the drawing software usage fee according to this embodiment configured as described above will be described.

  First, as an initial setting, a user side device 7 that desires to use drawing software receives a carrier via a base station 5 and a carrier communication network 6 from a mobile communication terminal 4 provided in the user side device 7 in advance. The control unit 21 of the center 20 is accessed to execute a contract relating to a drawing software usage fee proxy charge. At this time, the control unit 21 acquires various data related to the mobile communication terminal 4, that is, data such as a terminal number (telephone number), password, and mail address of the mobile communication terminal 4 and stores them in the terminal management unit 24. .

  FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the drawing software providing server 1 when the user terminal 3 uses paid drawing software provided from the drawing software providing server 1.

  This process is started by accessing the processing server 11 of the drawing software providing server 1 from the browser of the user terminal 3 (for example, a personal computer) via the Internet 2.

  In step S1, whether the processing server 11 of the drawing software providing server 1 is a new member who wishes to register with the user terminal 3 that is the access source, or is a registered member that has already been registered as a member. Inquire. For example, in the case of a registered member, presentation of member data (for example, ID, password, etc.) is requested. On the other hand, an answer as to whether the user is a new member or a registered member is obtained from the user terminal 3 as the access source.

  In step S <b> 2, whether the processing server 11 is a new member not registered as a member or a registered member who has already registered as a member based on the answer obtained from the user terminal 3. Is determined (registered member determination step). If it is a new member, the process proceeds to step S3, and if it is a registered member, the process proceeds to step S4.

  If it is a new member, in step S3, the processing server 11 executes a member registration process (member registration step), and returns the process to step S1. The member registration process includes installation of browser software necessary for operating the drawing software on the user terminal 3. The detailed processing procedure of step S3 will be described later.

  If the member is a registered member, in step S4, the processing server 11 instructs the authentication server 13 to perform authentication processing using the answered member data (for example, ID, password, etc.). The authentication server 13 executes an authentication process shown in FIG. 4 to be described later, and returns an authentication result to the processing server 11.

  In step S <b> 5, the processing server 11 determines whether the user terminal 3 as the access source has been authenticated as a registered member based on the authentication result returned from the authentication server 13. If the user terminal 3 is not authenticated as a registered member, the process returns to step S1. That is, the process from the inquiry for member registration is executed again. On the other hand, if the registered member is authenticated, the process proceeds to step S6.

  In step S6, the processing server 11 refers to the member DB 14 for member data corresponding to member data (for example, ID, password) answered from the user terminal 3, and the user terminal 3 has previously purchased and has not been consumed. A paint (hereinafter referred to as “stored paint”) and an image (hereinafter referred to as “stored image”) drawn using the drawing software on the user terminal 3 are read out. Further, the processing server 11 inquires of the user terminal 3 whether to newly draw an image or to modify the stored image stored in the member DB 14. On the other hand, the user terminal 3 gives an answer as to whether to draw a new image or to modify a saved image.

  Here, as described above, the “paint” in the present embodiment is electronic data (virtual paint) that is used when drawing using drawing software, and a virtual color for each of achromatic and chromatic colors. The appropriate amount is stored in a typical tube. Then, the user terminal 3 purchases a paint of a desired color in a tube unit as described later, attaches the paint of the desired color to a virtual paintbrush tool using a drawing software, and draws (for example, a mouse). It is comprised so that it may draw using.

  In step S <b> 7, the processing server 11 determines based on the answer obtained from the user terminal 3 whether the drawing is a new image or a saved image. If it is determined that the stored image is modified, the process proceeds to step S8. If it is determined that a new image is to be drawn, the process proceeds to step S9.

  If it is determined that the stored image has been modified, the processing server 11 transmits the stored image list to the user terminal 3 in step S8. On the other hand, the user terminal 3 selects a saved image to be modified from the saved image list and returns it to the processing server 11.

  In step S9, the processing server 11 executes drawing of an image. The detailed processing procedure of step S9 will be described later.

  In step S <b> 10, the processing server 11 stores in the member DB 14 member data such as a stored image drawn by the user terminal 3 and a stored paint that is the remaining amount of the paint. The preserved paint can be used at the next opportunity to use the drawing software.

  In step S11, the processing server 11 instructs the billing server 12 to perform billing processing. The billing server 12 executes billing processing for the purchase fee of the paint purchased by the user terminal 3, and when the billing processing ends, the processing server 11 Is notified of the end of the billing process (billing step). The processing server 11 receives the end of the billing process and ends the series of processes.

  Next, the procedure of the “member registration process (member registration step)” shown in step S3 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The member registration process is started when it is determined in step S2 shown in FIG. 2 that the user terminal 3 as the access source is a new member.

  In step S31 of FIG. 3, the processing server 11 transmits a member data registration page to the user terminal 3, and acquires member data that is answered by the information terminal 3 that has received the registration page.

  In step S <b> 32, the processing server 11 stores the answered member data (excluding the password) in the member DB 14.

  In step S <b> 33, the processing server 11 generates an ID for the user terminal 3. Then, the user terminal 3 that is the access source is notified of the ID, and the user terminal 3 is requested to confirm the password. In response to this, ID reception and password confirmation are input from the user terminal 3, and the processing server 11 acquires these data.

  In step S34, the processing server 11 stores the ID and the member data of the confirmed password in the member DB 14. Then, data such as a drawing software usage method (including installation of browser software) and rules are transmitted to the user terminal 3, and the process ends.

  Next, a detailed processing procedure of registered member authentication processing by the authentication server 13 requested to authenticate in step S4 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG.

  The authentication server 13 starts processing when the processing server 11 gives an instruction to authenticate a registered member based on member data of the user terminal 3.

  In step S <b> 41, the authentication server 13 receives the member data input at the user terminal 3.

  In step S42, the authentication server 13 collates the received member data with the member data stored in the member DB 14.

  In step S43, the authentication server 13 returns the collation result to the processing server 11, and ends the process.

  Next, a detailed processing procedure of the “drawing process” shown in step S9 of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. Note that the drawing of a new image and the drawing of modification of a saved image are the same process.

  The processing server 11 starts drawing when the processing of Yes in step S7 shown in FIG. 2 or the processing of step S8 is completed.

  In step S51, the processing server 11 determines whether or not the stored paint of the user terminal 3 stored in the member DB 14 satisfies a predetermined condition (stored paint initial amount determination step). If it is determined that the stored paint of the user terminal 3 does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the process proceeds to step S52 without permitting the use of the drawing software. If it is determined that the stored paint of the information terminal 3 satisfies the predetermined condition, use is permitted (usage permission step), and the process proceeds to step S53.

  In step S52, the processing server 11 performs a process of causing the user terminal 3 to purchase a paint, that is, a first paint purchase process so that the stored paint of the user terminal 3 satisfies a predetermined condition (initial paint purchase notification). Step).

  Here, the predetermined condition is the minimum number of stored paints (number of colors) necessary for the information terminal 3 to use the drawing software and the storage amount thereof, and the user terminal 3 satisfies the predetermined condition. The use of drawing software is not allowed until you are satisfied with the purchase of the paint. That is, if a paint having a minimum number of colors is purchased and the storage amount has not reached a predetermined amount (for example, an amount that fills an area of 50% of the postcard size with a density of 100%), the processing server 11 Does not permit the use of the drawing software until the user terminal 3 purchases a new paint and the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition.

  Next, in step S53, the processing server 11 sends a list of drawing software that can be provided to the user terminal 3, and requests the user terminal 3 to select a desired drawing software from the list. In response to this, the user terminal 3 selects a desired drawing software and answers to the processing server 11.

  In step S54, the processing server 11 opens the selected drawing software and displays it via the browser software installed in the user terminal 3.

  The user terminal 3 can perform drawing using drawing software displayed via browser software. Drawing is performed by selecting a paint of an arbitrary color from the stored paints and using a paint brush tool at a desired density. Then, the processing server 11 sequentially reads the operation content via the browser software installed in the user terminal 3 and executes drawing.

  In step S55, the processing server 11 sequentially reads the operation content via the browser software of the user terminal 3, sequentially calculates the consumption amount of the selected color paint, and operates the storage amount of the selected color paint. It is calculated every time (color amount calculation step). The consumption amount of the selected color paint is calculated by, for example, the density of the paint, the painted area (brush width × stroke length), and the like. Further, the storage amount is calculated as follows: (storage amount at the previous operation) − (consumption amount at the current operation).

  In step S56, the processing server 11 determines whether or not the storage amount of the selected color paint is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount. If the storage amount of the selected color paint is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount, the process proceeds to step S60. If the storage amount of the selected color paint is less than the predetermined amount, the process proceeds to step S57. (Saving paint continuation amount determination step). Note that, as described above, the predetermined amount is set as the minimum storage amount (for example, the amount that fills an area of 20% of the postcard size with 100% density) necessary to continue drawing with the selected color paint. The

  When the storage amount of the selected color paint is less than the predetermined amount, in order to continue drawing, it is necessary to purchase the paint so that the storage amount of the selected color paint is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount. In step S <b> 57, the processing server 11 asks the user terminal 3 whether to newly purchase the selected color paint and continue drawing, or to end the drawing without purchasing the selected color paint. Inquire (painting purchase notification step when in use). Then, the processing server 11 obtains an answer from the user terminal 3 regarding whether to save the drawing amount of the color with the storage amount less than the predetermined amount and to continue drawing or to finish drawing.

  In step S58, based on the answer from the user terminal 3, the processing server 11 determines whether to purchase the color paint whose storage amount is less than the predetermined amount and continue drawing or to end drawing.

  When it is determined that the drawing is to be ended, the processing server 11 transmits a drawing service end message to the user terminal 3 in the process of step S62, and the process ends.

  On the other hand, when purchasing a new color of paint whose storage amount is less than the predetermined amount and continuing drawing, the processing server 11 determines that the storage amount of the color whose storage amount is less than the predetermined amount in step S59. A process of purchasing a paint, that is, a second paint purchase process is executed. In addition, it is also possible to purchase paints other than colors whose storage amount is less than a predetermined amount.

  When it is determined in step S56 that the storage amount of the color paint whose storage amount is less than the predetermined amount is greater than or equal to the predetermined amount, in step S60, the processing server 11 continues drawing or performs drawing. The user terminal 3 is inquired about whether to end. The user terminal 3 returns a drawing continuation or drawing end to the processing server 11.

  In step S <b> 61, the processing server 11 determines whether to continue drawing or to end drawing based on the answer from the user terminal 3. If it is determined that drawing is to be continued, the process returns to step S55, and if it is determined that drawing has ended, the process ends. Note that in the processing of step S60 and step S61, the processing server 11 always displays a drawing end button on the screen of the user terminal 3, and performs processing so as to continue drawing unless the drawing end button is clicked.

  Next, the billing process (billing step) of the billing server 12 in step S11 of FIG. 2 will be described. The accounting server 12 starts processing when the processing server 11 instructs the user terminal 3 to perform accounting processing.

  The billing server 12 aggregates billing data of the user terminal 3 to be stored, accesses the control unit 21 of the carrier center 20 shown in FIG. 1 via the Internet 2, and bills data for the user terminal 3 (mobile communication terminal 4 Terminal number, password, purchased product (service number), usage date, number of items, billing amount, and other data). The control unit 21 sends billing data to the billing unit 25 and instructs billing processing.

  The charging unit 25 refers to the terminal management unit 24 and charges the mobile communication terminal 4 corresponding to the authentication data such as the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4 to which the user 7 has contracted for proxy charging. Store the data. When the accounting process is completed, a command indicating that the accounting is completed is transferred from the accounting unit 25 in the order of the control unit 21, the accounting server 12, and the processing server 11.

  Next, a processing procedure when purchasing a paint will be described with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS.

  The first paint purchase process of step S52 shown in FIG. 5 satisfies predetermined conditions (the number of colors and the amount of storage paint) required for the user terminal 3 registered as a member to start using the drawing software. The second paint purchasing process in step S59 is a predetermined amount (minimum storage amount) necessary to continue drawing with the color paint used in the drawing. The process of purchasing the color paint used for drawing so as to satisfy the above.

<First paint purchase process>
Details of the first paint purchasing process shown in step S52 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  The processing server 11 starts processing when the user terminal 3 logs in to purchase the paint.

  In step S <b> 71, the processing server 11 transmits a paint purchase application page to the user terminal 3. The user terminal 3 transmits a paint purchase application to the processing server 11. The paint purchase application includes data on the billing destination of the carrier center 20 acting on behalf of charging, and credit data such as a terminal number (mobile phone number) of the mobile communication terminal 4 and a password.

  In step S72, the processing server 11 accepts an application for purchasing a paint.

  In step S73, the processing server 11 determines that the sum of the paint applied for purchase and the stored paint stored in the member DB 14 is within the predetermined conditions (the number of colors of the stored paint and the storage amount) necessary for using the drawing software. It is determined whether or not it is reached. If the predetermined condition is not satisfied, in step S74, the processing server 11 transmits a message indicating that the predetermined condition is not satisfied to the user terminal 3, and returns the process to step S71.

  If the predetermined condition is satisfied, in step S75, the processing server 11 performs the credit processing relating to the charging for the paint applied for purchase, and the mobile communication terminal 4 of the carrier center 20 to which the user terminal 3 has contracted for the proxy charging. The authentication server 13 is requested with the terminal number (mobile phone number) and password.

  In step S76, the processing server 11 determines whether or not the credit is appropriate based on the credit result returned from the authentication server 13. If the credit is "No", the process proceeds to step S77, and if the credit is "good". Advances the process to step S78.

  In step S77, the processing server 11 prompts the user to correctly input the billing destination and credit information (the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4 contracted with the carrier center 20 for proxy billing) and re-execute the purchase process. The data is transmitted to the terminal 3, and the process returns to step S71.

  In step S78, the processing server 11 transmits the purchased paint (service number), number, amount, etc. to the user terminal 3 for confirmation. The user terminal 3 confirms the purchase contents (can be modified), and replies to the processing server 11.

  In step S <b> 79, when the processing server 11 receives a purchase confirmation response from the user terminal 3, the processing server 11 adds the purchased paint as a stored paint to the member DB 14 and stores it.

  In step S80, the processing server 11 sends the billing information, that is, the purchased product (service number), the use date, the number, the billing amount, the billing destination and the credit information (terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4) to the billing server 12. Send and finish the process.

<Second paint purchase process>
Next, details of the second paint purchasing process shown in step S59 of FIG. 5 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  The processing server 11 starts processing when the user terminal 3 logs in to purchase a paint.

  In step S <b> 81, the processing server 11 transmits a paint purchase application page to the information terminal 3. The user of the information terminal 3 transmits a paint purchase application to the processing server 11. The paint purchase application includes the billing destination and the credit information (the terminal number (mobile phone number) of the mobile communication terminal 4 and the password) of the carrier center 20 acting as a billing agent.

  In step S82, the processing server 11 accepts an application for purchasing a paint.

  In step S <b> 83, the processing server 11 determines whether or not the total storage amount of the color of the color applied for purchase and the color of the color applied for purchase stored in the member DB 14 has reached a predetermined amount or more. If the total storage amount has not reached the predetermined amount, in step S84, the processing server 11 sends a message indicating that the total storage amount of the color paints for which purchase has been applied does not satisfy the predetermined condition to the user terminal. 3 and returns to step S81.

  If the total storage amount has reached the predetermined amount or more, in step S85, the processing server 11 performs the credit processing relating to the accepted charging destination for the paint purchase, the terminal number of the mobile communication terminal 4 that is the charging destination of the user terminal 3 (mobile The authentication server 13 is requested with a telephone number) and a password.

  In step S86, the processing server 11 determines the credit suitability based on the credit result returned from the authentication server 13. If the credit is "appropriate", the process proceeds to step S88. If the credit is "no", Then, the process proceeds to step S87.

  In step S87, the processing server 11 sends a message to the user terminal 3 to correctly input the billing destination and credit information (terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4) and re-execute the purchase process, and then proceeds to step S81. Return processing.

  In step S88, the processing server 11 transmits the purchased paint (service number), number, amount, etc. to the user terminal 3 and asks for confirmation. The user terminal 3 confirms the purchase contents (can be modified), and replies to the processing server 11.

  In step S89, when the processing server 11 receives the purchase content confirmation response from the user terminal 3, the processing server 11 adds the purchased paint as a stored paint to the member DB 14 and stores it.

  In step S90, the processing server 11 sends the billing information, that is, the purchased product (service number), the use date, the number, the billing amount, the billing destination and the credit information (terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4) to the billing server 12. Send and finish the process.

  Next, a detailed processing procedure of the credit processing shown in step S75 of FIG. 6 and step S85 of FIG. 7 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

  When the authentication server 13 is requested by the processing server 11 for credit to the mobile communication terminal 4 that is the charging destination of the paint purchase fee of the user terminal 3, the authentication server 13 starts credit processing.

  In step S91, the authentication server 13 accesses the control unit 12 of the carrier center 20 via the Internet 2, and requests credit with the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4 that is the billing destination.

  In step S92, the control unit 21 instructs the authentication unit 23 to perform credit processing using the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4.

  In step S93, the authentication unit 23 collates the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4 sent from the control unit 21 with the terminal number and password of the mobile communication terminal 4 stored in the terminal management unit 24 (credit processing). )

  In step S94, the authentication unit 23 returns a credit result to the control unit 21.

  In step S <b> 95, the control unit 21 transfers the credit result returned from the authentication unit 23 to the authentication server 13.

  In step S96, the authentication server 13 transfers the credit result returned from the control unit 21 to the processing server 11, and ends the process.

  In this way, in the drawing software usage fee billing system according to the present embodiment, the member registration as a member who accesses the drawing software providing server 1 from the user terminal 3 of the user side device 7 and uses the drawing software for a fee. And the user side device 7 purchases a paint satisfying a predetermined condition (predetermined number, predetermined amount), thereby permitting the use of the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server 1. Therefore, the user side device 7 can use the drawing software for so-called rental without purchasing expensive drawing software, and it becomes unnecessary to purchase drawing software every time the drawing software is upgraded. , The cost burden can be reduced.

  In addition, since the usage fee for the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server 1 is charged according to the amount of paint purchased by the user side device 7, the user side device 7 is restricted by the usage time of the drawing software. It will not be done. In other words, unlike the conventional case, the usage fee is not charged according to the usage time of the drawing software, and the purchase fee of the virtual “paint” consumed according to the drawing area and the density at the time of drawing is not set. Since it is configured to be charged, there is no worry that a charge for the time is added even when the consideration time for drawing is long, and the user side device 7 does not use a nerve in the passage of time, so there is room. Can be drawn.

  Further, since the amount of paint is set to be consumed according to the thickness of the line, the area to be painted, and the darkness when performing the drawing work, the carrier center (charging center) 20 On the other hand, an appropriate amount for using the drawing software can be charged.

  Further, when the user-side device 7 sets a plurality of colors of paint as the paint used when drawing using the drawing software, and it is determined that the stored paint satisfies the predetermined condition for each of the colors of paint Since the drawing software providing server 1 permits the user side device 7 to use the drawing software, the user side device 7 can execute the drawing software under an environment satisfying predetermined conditions set for the paints of the respective colors. Can be used.

  In addition, as a condition (predetermined condition) for allowing the drawing software providing server 1 to use the drawing software for the user side device 7, the minimum number of paints of different colors and the minimum storage amount of each paint are set. Therefore, when the user side device 7 performs drawing using the drawing software, a minimum amount of paint storage and the number of colors of the paint are ensured. In the user side device 7, the number of colors of the paint and the number of colors of the paint are secured. Smooth drawing can be performed in a state where the remaining amount is ensured. In addition, when the predetermined condition is not satisfied during drawing, that is, when the storage amount of the paint of at least one color is less than the predetermined amount, a new paint is purchased for the user side device 7 Therefore, the user side device 7 can decide whether to purchase a new paint and continue drawing or to finish drawing at this point in the middle of drawing. . As a result, the user side device 7 can determine whether or not to continue drawing in consideration of the total usage fee of the drawing software.

  Furthermore, since the processing server 11 includes an application database (APDP; application storage means) 15 for storing drawing software, the drawing software providing server 1 reads the drawing software provided to the user side device 7 from the APDP 15 and directly accesses the user. It can be provided to the side device 7.

  The drawing software usage fee charging method and system according to the present invention have been described based on the illustrated embodiment. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the configuration of each unit may be any arbitrary function having the same function. It can be replaced with a configuration one.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the drawing software providing server 1 and the carrier center 20 are described as an example of an separated organization, but the present invention is not limited to this, and the drawing software providing server 1 and the carrier The center 20 may be configured to perform each process as the same organization.

  In the embodiment described above, the conditions (predetermined conditions) for allowing the user-side device 7 to use the drawing software by the drawing software providing server 1 are “predetermined number of colors of paint” and “predetermined amount of paint remaining”. Although the example is based on the condition that “quantity” exists, for example, when using drawing software that draws only monochrome images without color, the condition “paint of a predetermined number of colors” is not added. May be.

  This is extremely useful for charging the usage fee of the drawing software substantially used by the user side device.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the charging system of the drawing software usage fee concerning one Embodiment of this invention. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the main process in a drawing software provision server. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the member registration process in a drawing software provision server. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the authentication process in a drawing software provision server. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the process at the time of using drawing software in a user side apparatus. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the 1st paint purchase process in a drawing software provision server. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the 2nd paint purchase process in a drawing software provision server. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of a credit process.

Explanation of symbols

1 Drawing software provision server 2 Internet (network)
3 User terminals (information terminals)
4 Mobile communication terminal (fee payment terminal)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 5 Base station 6 Carrier communication network 7 User side apparatus 11 Processing server 12 Billing server 13 Authentication server 14 Member database 15 Application database (application storage means)
20 Carrier Center (Billing Center)
21 Control Unit 22 Communication Unit 23 Authentication Unit 24 Terminal Management Unit 25 Charging Unit (Billing Unit)
26 Internal transmission line

Claims (8)

When drawing is performed using the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing side device in the user side device in a system in which the user side device and the drawing software providing side device are connected via a network. In the charging method of the drawing software usage fee for charging the usage fee of the drawing software from the drawing software providing side device to the user side device,
When the drawing using the drawing software is started in the user side device, the drawing software providing side device is defined to consume the entire amount according to the drawing amount from the user side device. A step of informing the purchase of the selected paint,
The drawing software providing side device permits the user side device to use the drawing software when the paint is purchased in the user side device;
When the drawing using the drawing software is completed in the user side device, the drawing software providing side device provides the user side device with at least one of the purchased amount of paint or the number of colors of the paint. Charging the user side device with a charge according to one of them as a charge for using the drawing software;
A method for charging a drawing software usage fee characterized by comprising: A drawing software providing server that provides drawing software, a user side device that performs drawing using the drawing software provided from the drawing software providing server, and drawing software generated when the user side device uses the drawing software In a system in which a billing center that charges a usage fee is connected via a network, when drawing is performed on the user side device using the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server, drawing is performed. In the charging method of the drawing software usage fee for charging the usage fee of the software to the user side device,
A member registration step for performing member registration for the drawing software providing server to use the drawing software with respect to a user side device that desires to use the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server;
When the user side device requests use of the drawing software, the drawing software providing server determines whether or not the user side device is a registered member registered in the member registration step. A registered member determination step,
When it is determined in the registered member determination step that the user side device is a registered member, the drawing software providing server consumes the entire amount according to the drawing amount with respect to the user side device. A stored paint initial amount determination step for determining whether or not the stored paint, which is the stored amount of the paint defined in (2), satisfies a predetermined condition;
When it is determined in the stored paint initial amount determination step that the stored paint in the user side device does not satisfy the predetermined condition, the paint is set so that the predetermined condition is satisfied for the user side device. An initial paint purchase notification step to encourage the purchase of
When it is determined in the stored paint initial amount determining step that the stored paint in the user side device satisfies a predetermined condition, the drawing software providing server sends the drawing software to the user side device. An authorization step that authorizes the use of
A drawing amount calculation step in which the drawing software providing server calculates a consumption amount of a paint consumed in accordance with the drawing and a stored paint when the user side apparatus performs the drawing using the drawing software. When,
When drawing using the drawing software is performed, the stored paint continuation amount determining step for determining whether or not the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition necessary for continuing drawing,
When the stored paint continuation amount determining step determines that the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition, the drawing software providing server performs drawing using the drawing software to the user side server. When it is determined that the preserved paint does not satisfy the predetermined condition while permitting continuation, an in-use paint purchase notification step that prompts the purchase of the paint so that the preserved paint satisfies the predetermined condition;
When the drawing using the drawing software is finished in the user side device, the charging center charges a fee according to at least one of the amount of paint purchased by the user side device and the number of colors of the paint, A charging step of charging the user side device as a usage fee of the drawing software;
A method for charging a drawing software usage fee characterized by comprising: The paint is a plurality of paints each having a different color,
In the stored paint initial amount determination step, it is determined whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied for all of the plurality of paints,
The paint amount calculation step calculates a consumption amount of paint and a stored paint for all of the plurality of paints,
3. The drawing software usage fee billing method according to claim 2, wherein the stored paint continuation amount determination step determines whether or not a predetermined condition is satisfied for all of the plurality of paints.   The predetermined condition is that the user-side apparatus is provided with a minimum number of paints of different colors required for using the drawing software, or each paint is provided with a minimum storage amount. The charging method for charging the drawing software according to claim 3. A drawing software providing server for providing drawing software connected to each other via a network; a charging center for charging for the use of the drawing software; and a user side device using the drawing software; In the drawing software usage fee billing system that charges the usage fee of the drawing software when the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server is used,
The drawing software providing server includes:
A member database for storing registered member data of the user side device registered as a member of the drawing software providing server;
An authentication server for referring to the member database and determining whether or not the user side device is a registered member with respect to the user side device accessing via the network;
When the user-side apparatus purchases a paint defined to be consumed according to the drawing amount when using the drawing software, a charging process for at least one of the purchased amount of the paint or the number of purchased colors A billing server that performs
When providing drawing software to a registered member's user side device, storing a stored paint that is a storage amount of the paint used in the user side device, and using the drawing software in the user side device In addition, when the stored paint satisfies a predetermined condition, the user side apparatus is allowed to use the drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server, and when the predetermined condition is not satisfied, A processing server that performs processing for prompting the purchase of the paint,
The billing center is
Charging means for acquiring charging data for the user side device from the drawing software providing server and performing charging processing for the user side device based on the charging data;
The user side device is:
An information terminal capable of drawing using drawing software provided by the drawing software providing server and purchasing the paint used for drawing using the drawing software;
A fee payment terminal for paying a drawing software usage fee in response to a charging request from the charging center;
A drawing software usage fee billing system characterized by comprising:   The paint is a plurality of paints of different colors, and the processing server stores the preserved paint for all of the plurality of paints, and the preserved paint for all of the plurality of paints. 6. The drawing software usage fee billing system according to claim 5, wherein when the predetermined condition is satisfied, the user side apparatus is allowed to use the drawing software.   The predetermined condition is that the user-side apparatus is provided with a minimum number of paints of different colors required for using the drawing software, or each paint is provided with a minimum storage amount. The drawing software usage fee billing system according to claim 6.   The drawing software usage fee according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the drawing software server further includes application storage means for storing drawing software to be provided to the user side device. Billing system.

Images