JP2016207052A - Service provision method, service provision system, and service provision device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To extend a service provision range.SOLUTION: A service provision device 110 determines, on the basis of whether the position of a terminal 120 is within a prescribed range associated with the service provision device 110, whether or not the terminal 120 has checked in a service provided by the service provision device 110, delivers an application corresponding to the checked-in service when it is determined that the terminal 120 has checked in, and transmits, to a server 130, an application that is removed by the terminal 120 when the position of the terminal 120 is out of the prescribed range. When, in another prescribed range associated with a service provision device 140, the position of the terminal 120 that had checked in a service provided by the service provision device 140 is within a prescribed range associated with the service provision device 140, an application stored in the server 130 and that corresponds to a service provided by the service provision device 140 is acquired.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a service providing method, a service providing system, and a service providing apparatus.

  In recent years, with the widespread use of terminals such as smartphones and tablets, the number of scenes for downloading applications and using them on the spot is increasing. Also, a distribution service suitable for such usage scenes has been proposed.

  As an example, there is a service for distributing an application to a terminal that has checked in a service provided within a predetermined range so that only a user within the predetermined range can use the application. In the service, when the user moves out of a predetermined range (outside the distribution service provision range), the application distributed to the terminal is automatically deleted.

JP 2009-252075 A JP 2007-323668 A

  However, the service described above is inconvenient when it is desired to use a distributed application even outside the service provision range. For example, when it is desired to use an application distributed at school to do homework or the like at home, the application cannot be used outside the school.

  In one aspect, it aims to extend the scope of service provision.

  According to an aspect, there is provided a service providing method by a service providing apparatus, wherein the service providing apparatus provides a service provided by the service providing apparatus based on whether a position of a terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. When it is determined whether or not the terminal has checked in, and when it is determined that the terminal has checked in, an application corresponding to the checked-in service is distributed, and the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range. The terminal that has been checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus within another predetermined range related to the other service providing apparatus, by transmitting the application deleted by the terminal to the server. When the location of the service is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus, the other service stored in the server is stored. To obtain an application corresponding to the service providing device provides.

  It is possible to extend the service provision range.

It is a figure which shows an example of a service provision system. It is a figure which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of a terminal. It is a 1st figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a 2nd figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a 3rd figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a 4th figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a 5th figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a 6th figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a 7th figure for demonstrating the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of a terminal. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of the 1st and 2nd application delivery apparatus. It is a figure which shows an example of a function structure of a buffer service provision server. It is a sequence diagram of the service provision range expansion process in a service provision system. It is a flowchart of the application execution process by a terminal. It is a flowchart of the application delivery process by the 1st and 2nd application delivery apparatus. It is a flowchart of the buffer service provision process by a buffer service provision server. It is a figure which shows the example of a connection by a terminal. It is another flowchart of the application execution process by a terminal.

  Each embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, in this specification and drawing, about the component which has the substantially same function structure, the duplicate description is abbreviate | omitted by attaching | subjecting the same code | symbol.

[First Embodiment]
First, the service providing system in the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a service providing system.

  As illustrated in FIG. 1, the service providing system 100 includes a first application distribution device 110, a terminal 120, a buffer service providing server 130, and a second application distribution device 140. The buffer service providing server 130 is connected to the first application distribution apparatus 110 and the second application distribution apparatus 140 via a network 150 typified by the Internet or a LAN (Local Area Network).

  In the example of FIG. 1, the first application distribution device 110 is installed in a school, and the second application distribution device 140 is installed in the home of a user 121 having a terminal 120.

  The first application distribution apparatus 110 is an apparatus that distributes applications, and is an embodiment of a service providing apparatus. The first application distribution apparatus 110 learns about the terminal 120 when the user 121 is connected to the terminal 120 by carrying the terminal 120 and moving into the school (within a predetermined range) and checking in the distribution service. Deliver the application. Thereby, the user 121 can take a predetermined lesson in the school using the learning application. Note that “within a predetermined range” refers to a range related to the first application distribution device 110 such as a range in which radio waves output from the first application distribution device 110 can be received, a range in which an SSID can be acquired, and the like. Shall. Check-in means that the terminal 120 automatically connects to the first application distribution apparatus 110 in response to a check-in request from the first application distribution apparatus 110 that provides a distribution service.

  In addition, the first application distribution apparatus 110 transmits a copy of the learning application distributed to the terminal 120, the ID of the learning application, data necessary for executing the learning application, and the like to the buffer service providing server 130. As a result, even when the user 121 carries the terminal 120 and moves outside the school (outside the predetermined range), the terminal 120 uses the learning application from the buffer service providing server 130 via the second application distribution device 140, for example. You can receive the delivery.

  The terminal 120 is a mobile terminal that can be carried by the user 121, such as a smartphone or a tablet. The terminal 120 receives the learning application corresponding to the distribution service by checking in the distribution service provided by the first application distribution apparatus 110.

  Further, the terminal 120 receives the learning application corresponding to the distribution service by checking in the distribution service provided by the second application distribution device 140. Note that the terminal 120 can maintain the check-in to the distribution service provided by the first application distribution device 110 even when the second application distribution device 140 receives the distribution service. As a result, the terminal 120 can receive, from the second application distribution device 140, the same learning application distribution as the learning application corresponding to the distribution service provided by the first application distribution device 110.

  Note that the check-in to the distribution service is maintained only when it is determined that the learning application is used even when the terminal 120 moves out of the predetermined range. The case where it is determined that the learning application is to be used even when moving outside the predetermined range means that, for example, when the communication with the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected, the user 121 continues to use it. Or the like is input to the terminal 120. In this case, the terminal 120 determines that the user 121 continues to use the learning application even when moving outside the predetermined range.

  The buffer service providing server 130 provides a buffer service for storing various information. The buffer service providing server 130 stores a copy of the learning application, the learning application ID, data necessary for executing the learning application, and the like transmitted from the first application distribution apparatus 110.

  The first application distribution device 110 copies to the buffer service providing server 130 a copy of the distributed learning application, the ID of the learning application, data necessary for executing the learning application (hereinafter “service data”), and the like. Send.

  Further, the buffer service providing server 130 transmits a copy of the service data to the second application distribution apparatus 140 in response to the service data transmission request from the second application distribution apparatus 140.

  The second application distribution device 140 is a device that distributes applications and is an embodiment of a service providing device. When the user 121 carries the terminal 120, moves to the home (within a predetermined range), and checks in the distribution service, the second application distribution apparatus 140 connects to the terminal 120. Get a copy of the service data.

  In addition, the second application distribution device 140 distributes the learning application included in the copy of the service data acquired from the buffer service providing server 130 to the terminal 120 together with the ID of the learning application.

  Thereby, the user 121 who has moved into the home can review the lesson contents at home or can perform additional exercises (homework) or the like using the learning application. That is, it is possible to extend the distribution service providing range provided to the terminal 120 within the predetermined range (inside the school) outside the predetermined range (outside the school (in this embodiment, home)).

  Next, the hardware configuration of the first application distribution apparatus 110, the terminal 120, the buffer service providing server 130, and the second application distribution apparatus 140 will be described. The first application distribution device 110, the terminal 120, the buffer service providing server 130, and the second application distribution device 140 all have the same hardware configuration. Therefore, hereinafter, the hardware configuration of the terminal 120 will be described with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the terminal. As shown in FIG. 2, the terminal 120 includes a CPU 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203. The terminal 120 includes an auxiliary storage unit 204, an input unit 205, a display unit 206, a communication unit 207, a GPS unit 208, and a drive unit 209. Note that the components of the terminal 120 are connected to each other via the bus 210.

  The CPU 201 is a computer that executes various programs (for example, a learning application) installed in the auxiliary storage unit 204. The ROM 202 is a nonvolatile memory. The ROM 202 functions as a main storage unit that stores various programs, data, and the like necessary for the CPU 201 to execute various programs stored in the auxiliary storage unit 204. Specifically, the ROM 202 stores a boot program such as a basic input / output system (BIOS) or an Extensible Firmware Interface (EFI).

  The RAM 203 is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or an SRAM (Static Random Access Memory), and functions as a main storage unit. The RAM 203 provides a work area that is developed when various programs stored in the auxiliary storage unit 204 are executed by the CPU 201.

  The auxiliary storage unit 204, various programs installed in the terminal 120, data used when executing the various programs, “other programs” necessary for executing the various programs (for example, extending the distribution service provision range) For storing the program). The input unit 205 is used when the user 121 inputs various instructions to the terminal 120. The display unit 206 displays a learning screen of the learning application.

  The communication unit 207 is a device for communicating with an external device (the first application distribution device 110, the second application distribution device 140, etc.) to which the terminal 120 is connected. The learning application and various data distributed from the first application distribution device 110 and the second application distribution device 140 are received via the communication unit 207.

  The GPS unit 208 is a device for acquiring current position information of the terminal 120. The drive unit 209 is a device for setting the recording medium 220. The recording medium 220 herein includes a medium for recording information optically, electrically, or magnetically, such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, or the like. The recording medium 220 includes a semiconductor memory that electrically records information such as a ROM and a flash memory.

  The other program stored in the auxiliary storage unit 204 is, for example, that the distributed recording medium 220 is set in the drive unit 209 and the other program recorded in the recording medium 220 is read out by the drive unit 209. Shall be stored. Alternatively, it may be stored by being received via the communication unit 207 as in the learning application.

  Next, in the service providing system 100, a process of receiving the learning application distribution at home while maintaining the check-in of the distribution service (“service provision range expansion process”) will be described. 3 to 9 are diagrams for explaining service provision range expansion processing in the service provision system.

  As shown in FIG. 3A, when the terminal 120 moves into the school and enters a predetermined range that can be connected to the first application distribution device 110, the first application distribution device 110 Send a check-in request. As a result, the terminal 120 checks in the distribution service provided by the first application distribution apparatus 110.

  When the terminal 120 checks in, the first application distribution apparatus 110 distributes the ID (ID = “App-α”) of the application distributed to the terminal 120 (the learning application in this embodiment) to the terminal 120. .

  The terminal 120 that has received the application ID generates a token 300 based on the received application ID, as shown in FIG. The token 300 includes a token 301 (token name = “token 1 (P1, α)”) including information (P1) relating to the first application distribution apparatus 110 and information (α) relating to the application ID. Further, the token 300 includes a token 302 (token name = “token 1 (M, α)”) including information (M) regarding the terminal 120 and information (α) regarding the application ID.

  When the token 300 is generated, the terminal 120 transmits the token 301 (token name = “token 1 (P1, α)”) to the first application distribution apparatus 110 as shown in FIG. Further, the terminal 120 updates the connection history information 310. As illustrated in FIG. 3C, the connection history information 310 includes “connection destination”, “application ID”, and “position information” as information items.

  In “Destination”, information (P1) related to the first application distribution apparatus 110 connected to the terminal 120 is recorded. In “Application ID”, the ID of the application distributed from the first application distribution apparatus 110 is recorded. In the “position information”, position information when the terminal 120 is connected to the first application distribution apparatus 110 is acquired by the GPS unit 208 and recorded.

  The first application distribution apparatus 110 that has received the token 301 distributes the application 400 (learning application) identified by ID = “App-α” to the terminal 120 as shown in FIG. In the terminal 120 to which the application 400 is distributed, the application 400 is executed. Thereby, the learning screen is displayed on the display unit 206 of the terminal 120.

  In the first application distribution apparatus 110 that has distributed the application 400 to the terminal 120, as shown in FIG. 4B, the token 301 and a copy of the service data 401 (service data) are sent to the buffer service providing server 130. 401 ′). The buffer service providing server 130 that has received the token 301 and the service data 401 ′ stores the token 301 and the service data 401 ′ in association with each other.

  Thereafter, when the terminal 120 moves out of the predetermined range, it is assumed that the communication between the terminal 120 and the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected while maintaining the check-in to the distribution service by the terminal 120. Alternatively, when the power of the first application distribution apparatus 110 is turned off (out of a predetermined range), the terminal 120 and the first application distribution apparatus 110 are kept in check-in to the distribution service by the terminal 120. Suppose that communication was cut off.

  Here, it is assumed that when the communication with the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected, the user 121 inputs an instruction to continue use to the terminal 120. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5A, the terminal 120 continuously holds the token 302 (token name = “token 1 (M, α)”) and maintains check-in to the distribution service. In other words, maintaining check-in to the distribution service indicates that the terminal 120 continuously holds the token 302.

  On the other hand, when the communication between the terminal 120 and the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected, the terminal 120 ends the execution of the application 400 and deletes the installed application 400. That is, the terminal 120 deletes the application 400 while maintaining check-in to the distribution service.

  Thereafter, it is assumed that the user 121 carries the terminal 120 and moves to the home. FIG. 5B shows that the user 121 has carried the terminal 120 and moved to his / her home.

  When the user 121 moves to the home and the terminal 120 enters a predetermined range that can be connected to the second application distribution device 140, the second application distribution device 140 issues a check-in request to the terminal 120. Send. As a result, the terminal 120 checks in the distribution service provided by the second application distribution device 140 (see FIG. 6A). When the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines that the terminal 120 has the token 302, the second application distribution apparatus 140 waits until the token 302 is transmitted from the terminal 120.

  The terminal 120 that has checked in to the second application distribution device 140 updates the connection history information 310. As shown in FIG. 6A, in the connection history information 310, information (P2) relating to the second application distribution device 140 connected to the terminal 120 is recorded in “connection destination”. In the “location information”, the location information when the terminal 120 is connected to the second application distribution device 140 is acquired by the GPS unit 208 and recorded. At this time, since the application 400 is not provided from the second application distribution device 140, the “application ID” corresponding to “connection destination” = “P2” remains blank.

  The terminal 120 that has updated the connection history information 310 transmits a token 302 (token name = “token 1 (M, α)”) to the second application distribution device 140 as shown in FIG. 6B. Thus, the distribution of the application 400 is requested.

  Further, the terminal 120 that has transmitted the token 302 transmits a token generation instruction to the second application distribution device 140 as shown in FIG. As a result, the second application distribution apparatus 140 generates a token 700 used for communication with the buffer service providing server 130.

  The token 700 has a token 701 (token name = “token 2 (B)”) including information (B) regarding the buffer service providing server 130. The token 700 includes a token 702 (token name = “token 2 (P2)”) that includes information (P2) related to the second application distribution apparatus 140.

  When the token 700 is generated, the second application distribution apparatus 140 transmits a service data transmission request by associating the token 701 and the token 302 to the buffer service providing server 130 as shown in FIG. 7B. Send.

  As a result, the buffer service providing server 130 receives a service data transmission request in which the token 701 and the token 302 are associated with each other. Upon receiving the service data transmission request in which the token 701 and the token 302 are associated with each other, the buffer service providing server 130 searches for the token corresponding to the token 302 from the already stored tokens.

  FIG. 8A shows a state where the token 301 is searched as a token corresponding to the token 302 as a result of the search by the buffer service providing server 130. As shown in FIG. 8A, the buffer service providing server 130 determines that the service data 401 ′ stored in association with the token 301 corresponding to the token 302 is service data to be transmitted. Further, the buffer service providing server 130 determines that the transmission destination of the service data 401 ′ is the second application distribution device 140 based on the token 701 transmitted in association with the token 302.

  FIG. 8B shows a state in which the buffer service providing server 130 associates the service data 401 ′ with the token 701 and transmits it to the second application distribution device 140. As shown in FIG. 8B, the buffer service providing server 130 transmits the service data 401 ′ and the token 701 to the second application distribution apparatus 140, so that the second application distribution apparatus 140 Receive.

  The second application distribution apparatus 140 that has received the service data 401 ′ and the token 701 in association determines whether or not the received token 701 corresponds to the token 702, as shown in FIG. To do. When the received token 701 corresponds to the token 702, the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines that the received token 701 is a correct response to the service data transmission request. On the other hand, if the received token 701 does not correspond to the token 702, the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines that the received token 701 is not a correct response to the service data transmission request. The example of FIG. 9A shows a case where it is determined that the received token 701 corresponds to the token 702 and is a correct response to the service data transmission request.

  Further, in the second application distribution apparatus 140, when the received token 701 corresponds to the token 702, it is determined that the service data 401 ′ includes an application corresponding to the token 302. That is, it is determined that the application requested from the terminal 120 is included.

  The second application distribution apparatus 140 that has determined that the service data 401 ′ includes the application requested from the terminal 120 transmits the application 400 and the ID to the terminal 120. FIG. 9B shows a state in which the second application distribution apparatus 140 transmits the application 400 and the ID to the terminal 120.

  As shown in FIG. 9B, when the application 400 and the ID are transmitted to the terminal 120, the terminal 120 executes the application 400. Thereby, the learning screen is displayed on the display unit 206 of the terminal 120.

  Further, the terminal 120 that has received the application 400 and the ID updates the connection history information 310. Specifically, the ID (ID = “App−α”) of the received application 400 is recorded in “Application ID” of the connection history information 310.

  This completes the service provision range expansion process. Thereafter, the user 121 of the terminal 120 can use the learning application at home.

  Next, the functional configuration of the service providing system 100 will be described. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the terminal.

  As illustrated in FIG. 10, the terminal 120 includes a token generation unit 1001, a token storage unit 1002, a service control unit 1003, a token generation instruction unit 1004, a connection history information storage unit 1005, and a location information acquisition unit 1006.

  When the token generation unit 1001 receives a token generation request including the application ID from the service control unit 1003, the token generation unit 1001 generates a token 300. The token generation unit 1001 transmits the generated token 300 to the service control unit 1003.

  The token storage unit 1002 stores the token 302 in the token DB 1011 when receiving an instruction to store the token 302 from the service control unit 1003. When the token storage unit 1002 receives an instruction to read the token 302 from the service control unit 1003, the token storage unit 1002 reads the token 302 from the token DB 1011 and transmits the token 302 to the service control unit 1003.

  The service control unit 1003 controls connection or disconnection with the first or second application distribution device 110 or 140. In the service control unit 1003, when the terminal 120 moves to a predetermined range that can be connected to the first or second application delivery apparatus 110 or 140, a check-in request is sent from the first or second application delivery apparatus 110 or 140. Receive.

  Upon receiving the check-in request, the service control unit 1003 determines whether the token 302 is stored in the token DB 1011 and performs check-in including the determination result.

  Further, the service control unit 1003 receives the ID transmitted from the first application distribution apparatus 110 in response to the check-in when it is determined that the token 302 is not stored. When the ID is received from the first application distribution apparatus 110, the service control unit 1003 transmits the received ID to the token generation unit 1001 together with the token generation request.

  In addition, the service control unit 1003 transmits the token 301 among the tokens 300 generated by the token generation unit 1001 to the first application distribution apparatus 110, and transmits the token 302 to the token storage unit 1002 together with the token storage instruction. .

  When the service control unit 1003 receives the check-in request and determines that the token 302 is stored in the token DB 1011, the service control unit 1003 reads the token 302 and sends the token generation instruction to the token generation instruction unit 1004. Send.

  When the service control unit 1003 is connected to the first or second application delivery apparatus 110 or 140, the service control unit 1003 instructs the connection history information storage unit 1005 to update the connection history information. When the service control unit 1003 instructs to update the connection history information, the service control unit 1003 transmits a position information acquisition instruction to the position information acquisition unit 1006 and is transmitted from the position information acquisition unit 1006 in response to the acquisition instruction. The location information is transmitted to the connection history information storage unit 1005.

  Also, the service control unit 1003 executes the application 400 when receiving the application 400 from the first or second application distribution device 110 or 140. When the communication between the terminal 120 and the first or second application distribution device 110 or 140 is disconnected, the service control unit 1003 ends the execution of the application 400 and deletes the application 400. That is, the service control unit 1003 also functions as a deletion unit that deletes the application 400.

  When receiving the token 700 generation instruction together with the token 302 from the service control unit 1003, the token generation instruction unit 1004 transmits the token 302 and the token generation instruction to the second application distribution device 140. As a result, the token generation instruction unit 1004 requests distribution of the application 400.

  Upon receiving the connection history information update instruction from the service control unit 1003, the connection history information storage unit 1005 receives the connection history based on the connection destination information, application ID information, and location information included in the received update instruction. The connection history information 310 of the information DB 1012 is updated.

  When receiving the location information acquisition instruction from the service control unit 1003, the location information acquisition unit 1006 acquires the current location information based on the GPS unit 208 and transmits the acquired location information to the service control unit 1003.

  Next, the functional configuration of the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 will be described. Note that the first and second application delivery apparatuses 110 and 140 have the same functional configuration. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the first and second application distribution apparatuses.

  As shown in FIG. 11, the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 include a service data storage unit 1101, a token storage unit 1102, and a service control unit 1103. The first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 each include a reception service data determination unit 1104, a token storage unit 1105, and a token generation unit 1106.

  The service data storage unit 1101 stores the learning application and ID distributed to the terminal 120 and data necessary for executing the learning application in the service data DB 1111 as service data. Also, based on an instruction from the service control unit 1103, a copy of the service data stored in the service data DB 1111 is read and transmitted to the service control unit 1103.

  The token storage unit 1102 stores the token 301 transmitted from the terminal 120 in the token DB 1112 based on the token storage instruction from the service control unit 1103. Further, based on a token read instruction from the service control unit 1103, the token 301 stored in the token DB 1112 is read and transmitted to the service control unit 1103.

  When the service control unit 1103 determines that the terminal 120 does not have the token 302 at the time of check-in by the terminal 120, the service control unit 1103 delivers the application ID to the terminal 120.

  Further, the service control unit 1103 instructs the token storage unit 1102 to store the received token 301 when the token 301 is received from the terminal 120 by transmitting the application ID to the terminal 120. To do. In addition, when the service control unit 1103 receives the token 301 from the terminal 120, the service control unit 1103 distributes the application 400 to the terminal 120. Accordingly, the service control unit 1103 functions as a distribution unit in the first application distribution apparatus 110. The service control unit 1103 instructs the service data storage unit 1101 to store service data when distribution of the application 400 is started.

  The service control unit 1103 instructs the service data storage unit 1101 to read the service data at a predetermined timing, and copies the service data read in response to the instruction together with the token 301 to the buffer service providing server 130. Send to.

  When the service control unit 1103 receives a save instruction for the service data 401 ′ acquired by the received service data determination unit 1104, the service control unit 1103 instructs the service data storage unit 1101 to save the service data 401 ′. Send. Further, when the distribution instruction of the application 400 is received from the reception service data determination unit 1104, the application 400 and the ID are distributed to the terminal 120. As a result, the service control unit 1103 also functions as a distribution unit in the second application distribution apparatus 140.

  The token generation unit 1106 receives the token 302 from the terminal 120. When the token generation unit 1106 receives a token generation instruction from the terminal 120, the token generation unit 1106 generates a token 700 including information regarding the buffer service providing server 130 and information regarding the second application distribution device 140.

  In addition, the token generation unit 1106 transmits a service data transmission request including the received token 302 and the token 701 of the generated token 700 to the buffer service providing server 130 (that is, the token generation unit 1106 transmits Also functions as a part).

  In addition, the token generation unit 1106 transmits the token 702 of the generated token 700 to the token storage unit 1105.

  The token storage unit 1105 stores the token 702 transmitted from the token generation unit 1106 in the token DB 1113. In response to the inquiry from the reception service data determination unit 1104, the token storage unit 1105 reads the token 702 stored in the token DB 1113 and transmits it to the reception service data determination unit 1104.

  The reception service data determination unit 1104 receives a response transmitted from the buffer service providing server 130 in response to the service data transmission request transmitted from the token generation unit 1106. The response transmitted from the buffer service providing server 130 includes a token 701 and service data 401 ′.

  The reception service data determination unit 1104 determines whether the token 701 included in the received response corresponds to the token 702 stored in the token DB 1113. Thereby, the reception application determination unit 1014 determines whether the received response is a correct response to the service data transmission request. In addition, the reception service data determination unit 1104 determines whether the application included in the received response is the application 400 requested from the terminal 120.

  In addition, when the received service data determination unit 1104 determines that the received response is a correct response to the service data transmission request, the reception service data determination unit 1104 instructs the service control unit 1103 to store the service data 401 ′ included in the received response. Send. In addition, a distribution instruction for the application 400 included in the received response is transmitted to the service control unit 1103.

  Next, the functional configuration of the buffer service providing server 130 will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the buffer service providing server.

  As illustrated in FIG. 12, the buffer service providing server 130 includes a service data storage unit 1201 and a transmission service data determination unit 1202.

  The service data storage unit 1201 receives service data 401 ′ transmitted from the first application distribution apparatus 110 in association with the token 301, and stores it in the service data DB 1211 in association with the token 301. The service data storage unit 1201 transmits service data obtained by searching the service data DB 1211 to the transmission service data determination unit 1202 in response to a search instruction from the transmission service data determination unit 1202.

  When the service data transmission request is received from the second application distribution apparatus 140, the transmission service data determination unit 1202 extracts the token 701 and the token 302 included in the transmission request.

  In addition, the transmission service data determination unit 1202 transmits a search instruction to the service data storage unit 1201 so as to search for service data associated with the token 301 corresponding to the extracted token 302.

  Further, the transmission service data determination unit 1202 associates the service data transmitted from the service data storage unit 1201 in response to the transmitted search instruction with the token 701 extracted from the service data transmission request, and performs second application distribution. To device 140.

  Next, the flow of service provision range expansion processing in the service provision system 100 will be described. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram of service provision range expansion processing in the service provision system 100.

  As shown in FIG. 13, first, the first application distribution apparatus 110 executes a first application distribution process in step S1301.

  Subsequently, the terminal 120 executes application execution processing in step S1302.

  As a result, the terminal 120 starts execution of the learning application after transmitting / receiving information (application ID, token 302) necessary for extending the service provision range to / from the first application distribution apparatus 110. To do.

  It is assumed that the buffer service providing server 130 has started the buffer service providing process (step S1303) when the terminal 120 starts executing the learning application. As a result, the buffer service providing server 130 receives the information (token 301 and service data 401 ′) necessary for extending the service providing range, which is transmitted by executing the first application distribution process (step S1301). To do.

  The terminal 120 continues to execute the learning application until the connection with the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected. When the connection with the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected, the execution of the learning application is terminated and the learning application is deleted while maintaining the check-in to the distribution service.

  Subsequently, the second application distribution apparatus 140 executes a second application distribution process in step S1304. Further, the terminal 120 executes application execution processing in step S1305.

  As a result, the terminal 120 transmits / receives information (token 302, token generation instruction) necessary for expanding the service extension range to / from the second application distribution device 140. Further, the second application distribution apparatus 140 transmits / receives information (token 302, token 701, service data 401 ′) necessary for extending the service provision range to / from the buffer service providing server 130. As a result, the terminal 120 can execute the learning application.

  Next, details of each process (application execution processes S1302, S1305, first and second application distribution processes S1301, S1304, buffer service providing process S1303) included in the service continuation process of FIG. 13 will be described.

  First, application execution processing (S1302, S1305) by the terminal 120 will be described.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart of application execution processing by the terminal. As shown in FIG. 14, in step S1401, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 determines whether or not the first or second application distribution device 110 or 140 is connected.

  If it is determined in step S1401 that the connection is not established, the process waits until the connection is established. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1401 that the connection has been established, the process proceeds to step S1402.

  In step S1402, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 determines whether the token 302 is stored in the token storage unit 1002. If it is determined in step S1402 that the token 302 has not been saved, the process advances to step S1403.

  In step S1403, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 receives the application ID from the first application distribution apparatus 110. In step S1404, the token generation unit 1001 of the terminal 120 generates the token 300 based on the received application ID. Further, in step S1405, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 transmits the token 301 among the generated tokens 300 to the first application distribution apparatus 110.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1402 that the token 302 is stored, the process proceeds to step S1406.

  In step S1406, the token generation instruction unit 1004 of the terminal 120 transmits the token 302 to the second application distribution device 140. In step S1207, the token generation instruction unit 1004 of the terminal 120 transmits a token generation instruction to the second application distribution device 140.

  In step S1408, the position information acquisition unit 1006 of the terminal 120 acquires position information. In step S1409, the connection history information storage unit 1005 of the terminal 120 updates the connection history information 310.

  In step S1410, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 receives the application 400 from the first or second application distribution device 110 or 140, and executes the received application 400.

  In step S1411, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 determines whether the application 400 has ended. If it is determined in step S1411 that the application 400 has not ended, the process waits until the application 400 ends. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1411 that the application 400 has ended, the process advances to step S1412.

  In step S1412, the service control unit 1003 of the terminal 120 deletes the application 400, and then ends the application execution process.

  Next, details of application distribution processing (steps S1301 and S1304) executed by the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 will be described. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of application distribution processing by the application distribution apparatus.

  In step S1501, the service control unit 1103 of the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 determines whether the terminal 120 is connected. If it is determined in step S1501 that the terminal 120 is not connected, the process waits until the terminal 120 is connected.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1501 that the terminal 120 is connected, the process proceeds to step S1502. In step S <b> 1502, the service control unit 1103 of the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 determines whether the terminal 120 has the token 302 based on the check-in by the terminal 120.

  If it is determined in step S1502 that the terminal 120 does not have the token 302, the process advances to step S1503. In step S1503, the service control unit 1103 of the first application distribution apparatus 110 transmits the application ID to the terminal 120.

  In step S <b> 1504, the service control unit 1103 of the first application distribution apparatus 110 receives the token 301 from the terminal 120. In step S <b> 1505, the service control unit 1103 of the first application distribution apparatus 110 distributes the application 400 to the terminal 120.

  In step S1506, the service control unit 1103 of the first application distribution apparatus 110 associates the token 301 with the service data 401 ′ and transmits it to the buffer service providing server 130.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1502 that the terminal 120 has the token 302, the process proceeds to step S1507. In step S <b> 1507, the token generation unit 1106 of the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines whether the token 302 has been received from the terminal 120. If it is determined in step S1507 that the token 302 has not been received, the process returns to step S1501.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1507 that the token 302 has been received, the process proceeds to step S1508. In step S <b> 1508, the token generation unit 1106 of the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines whether a token generation instruction is received from the terminal 120. If it is determined in step S1508 that a token generation instruction has not been received, the process returns to step S1501.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1508 that a token generation instruction has been received, the process advances to step S1509.

  In step S1509, the token generation unit 1106 of the second application distribution device 140 generates the token 700.

  In step S1510, the token generation unit 1106 of the second application distribution apparatus 140 associates the received token 302 with the generated token 701, and transmits it to the buffer service providing server 130 as a service data transmission request.

  In step S <b> 1511, the reception service data determination unit 1104 of the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines whether a response to the service data transmission request has been received from the buffer service providing server 130. If it is determined in step S1511 that a response to the service data transmission request has not been received, the process waits until it is received.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1511 that the token 701 and the service data 401 ′ have been received and a response to the service data transmission request has been received, the process advances to step S1512. In step S1512, the reception service data determination unit 1104 of the second application distribution apparatus 140 determines whether or not the token 701 included in the response to the service data transmission request corresponds to the token 702.

  If it is determined in step S1512 that it corresponds, the process proceeds to step S1513. In step S1513, the service control unit 1103 of the second application distribution device 140 distributes the application 400 included in the response to the service data transmission request to the terminal 120, and proceeds to step S1514. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1512 that it does not correspond, the process proceeds to step S1514 without distributing the application 400 to the terminal 120.

  In step S1514, the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 determine whether to end the distribution service. If it is determined in step S1514 that the distribution service is not terminated, the distribution of the application 400 is continued. On the other hand, if it is determined that the distribution service is to be terminated, the application distribution process is terminated.

  Next, details of the buffer service providing process (step S1303) executed by the buffer service providing server 130 will be described. FIG. 16 is a flowchart of the buffer service providing process executed by the buffer service providing server 130.

  In step S1601, the service data storage unit 1201 of the buffer service providing server 130 determines whether the token 301 and the service data 401 ′ are received from the first application distribution apparatus 110. If it is determined in step S1601 that it has not been received, the process advances to step S1603.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1601 that the token 301 and the service data 401 ′ have been received, the process proceeds to step S1602. In step S1602, the service data storage unit 1201 of the buffer service providing server 130 stores the received token 301 and service data 401 ′ in association with each other.

  In step S1603, the transmission service data determination unit 1202 of the buffer service providing server 130 determines whether a service data transmission request including the token 302 and the token 701 has been received from the second application distribution apparatus 140. If it is determined in step S1603 that it has not been received, the process advances to step S1606.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1603 that it has been received, the process proceeds to step S1604. In step S1604, the service data storage unit 1201 of the buffer service providing server 130 searches for service data to be transmitted based on the token 302 included in the received service data transmission request.

  In step S1605, the transmission service data determination unit 1202 of the buffer service providing server 130 receives the service data 401 ′ searched by the service data storage unit 1201. Further, the received service data 401 ′ and the token 701 included in the received service data transmission request are transmitted to the second application distribution device 140.

  In step S1606, the service data storage unit 1201 of the first and second application distribution apparatuses 110 and 140 determines whether to end the buffer service providing process. If it is determined in step S1606 that the process will not end, the process returns to step S1601. On the other hand, if it is determined to end, the buffer service providing process ends.

  As is clear from the above description, in the service providing system 100 according to the present embodiment, the first application distribution device 110 stores an application distributed to the terminals 120 within a predetermined range in the buffer service providing server 130. . When the terminal 120 is outside the predetermined range and moves into the predetermined range of the second application distribution device 140, the terminal 120 transfers the application stored in the buffer service providing server 130 to the second application distribution device. 140 is received.

  As a result, it is possible to extend the range of services provided to terminals within a predetermined range.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, a case has been described where there is one destination application distribution apparatus when moving from a predetermined range connectable to the first application distribution apparatus 110. However, the number of application distribution apparatuses at the movement destination is not limited to one, and there may be a plurality of application distribution apparatuses.

  Therefore, in the second embodiment, a connection destination of the terminal 120 when there are two application distribution apparatuses at the movement destination will be described.

  FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an example of connection by a terminal. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the service providing system 1700 according to the second embodiment includes a second application distribution device 141 in addition to the second application distribution device 140.

  FIG. 17A shows a state in which the terminal 120 is connected to the first application distribution apparatus 110 and receives the learning application distribution from the first application distribution apparatus 110.

  On the other hand, in FIG. 17B, the terminal 120 disconnects the connection with the first application distribution device 110 and connects with the second application distribution device 140. It shows how it is being delivered.

  As shown in FIG. 17B, when the connection with the first application distribution apparatus 110 is disconnected, the terminal 120 checks in from the second application distribution apparatus 140 and the second application distribution apparatus 141. Shall be requested.

  Here, the terminal 120 determines which of the second application distribution apparatuses 140 and 141 is closer to the terminal 120 based on the position information acquired by the position information acquisition unit 1006. Then, the terminal 120 checks in to a distribution service provided by a nearer application distribution apparatus.

  In the example of FIG. 17B, the second application distribution device 140 is closer to the terminal 120 than the second application distribution device 141. Therefore, the terminal 120 checks in to the distribution service provided by the second application distribution device 140. As a result, the application 400 stored in the buffer service providing server 130 is distributed to the terminal 120 via the second application distribution device 140.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart of application execution processing by the terminal. The difference from the application execution process by the terminal 120 described with reference to FIG. 14 is step S1801 and step S1802.

  In step S <b> 1801, the terminal 120 determines the closest application distribution device when receiving a plurality of check-in requests.

  In step S1802, the terminal 120 determines whether or not it is connected to the nearest application distribution apparatus. If it is determined in step S1802 that the connection is not established, the process returns to step S1801. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1802 that the connection has been established, the process proceeds to step S1402. Note that the processing after step S1402 is the same as the processing after step S1402 of FIG.

  As is clear from the above description, in the service providing system 1700 according to the present embodiment, when there are a plurality of application distribution apparatuses at the movement destination, the terminal 120 connects to the nearest application distribution apparatus. Thereby, when the provision range of the service provided with respect to the terminal within the predetermined range is expanded, a more stable communication state can be ensured.

[Third Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the first application distribution apparatus 110 transmits the service data 401 ′ to the buffer service providing server 130 only once after transmitting the application 400 to the terminal 120. However, the number of times the service data 401 ′ is transmitted is not limited to one, and the latest service data 401 ′ may be periodically transmitted while the terminal 120 is connected.

  In the first embodiment, the processing of the buffer service providing server 130 after transmitting the service data 401 ′ to the second application distribution device 140 is not particularly mentioned. However, the buffer service providing server 130 may delete the service data 401 ′ after transmitting the service data 401 ′ to the second application distribution apparatus 140. Further, the first application distribution apparatus 110 may be notified that the transmission of the service data 401 ′ has been completed.

  Further, in the first embodiment, the processing after the distribution of the application 400 is started in the second application distribution device 140 is not particularly mentioned. However, the second application distribution apparatus 140 may transmit a copy of the service data to the buffer service providing server 130 as in the first application distribution apparatus 110. Thereby, when the terminal 120 is further located within a predetermined range of the third application distribution device different from the first and second application distribution devices 110 and 140, the same service provision range expansion processing is realized. be able to. Alternatively, when the terminal 120 is again positioned within the predetermined range of the first application distribution device 110, the same service provision range expansion process can be realized.

  In the first and second embodiments, the service providing systems 100 and 1700 have been described as having the buffer service providing server 130. However, the function of the buffer service providing server 130 may be included in, for example, the first or second application distribution device 110 or 140.

In addition, in the disclosed technology, forms such as the following supplementary notes are conceivable.
(Appendix 1)
A service providing method by a service providing apparatus, the service providing apparatus comprising:
Based on whether the position of the terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus, it is determined whether or not the terminal has checked in the service provided by the service providing apparatus;
When it is determined that the terminal has checked in, an application corresponding to the checked-in service is distributed,
Transmitting the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range, to a server;
Within another predetermined range related to another service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that was checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus is now within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. In this case, an application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing apparatus stored in the server is acquired.
A service providing method characterized by the above.
(Appendix 2)
The service provision according to appendix 1, characterized in that, when it is determined that the terminal has checked in, a first token generated by the terminal and including information related to the service provision apparatus is acquired from the terminal. Method.
(Appendix 3)
The first token is stored in the server by being transmitted to the server in association with the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range. 2. The service providing method according to 2.
(Appendix 4)
Within another predetermined range related to the other service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that has checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus falls within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. The second token corresponding to the first token is received from the terminal and transmitted to the server,
An application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing apparatus stored in the server in association with the first token corresponding to the transmitted second token is obtained. The service providing method according to attachment 3.
(Appendix 5)
Based on an instruction from the terminal, a third token including information related to the other service providing device and a fourth token corresponding to the third token and including information related to the server are generated and generated. The service providing method according to appendix 4, wherein the fourth token is transmitted to the server together with the second token.
(Appendix 6)
Obtaining from the server the application corresponding to the service provided by the other service providing device and the fourth token stored in the server;
When the fourth token acquired from the server corresponds to the third token, the application acquired from the server is distributed to the terminal included in the other predetermined range. The service providing method according to appendix 5, which is a feature.
(Appendix 7)
A service providing system having a service providing device and a terminal,
The service providing apparatus includes:
A determination unit that determines whether the terminal has checked in a service provided by the service providing apparatus based on whether the position of the terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus;
When it is determined that the terminal has checked in, a distribution unit that distributes an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A transmitter that transmits the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range;
Within another predetermined range related to another service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that was checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus is now within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires an application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing device, stored in the server,
The terminal
A check-in unit for checking in a service provided by the service providing device by being located within a predetermined range related to the service providing device;
A first receiving unit that receives distribution of an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A determination unit that determines whether the received application is used outside the predetermined range when the position of the terminal is out of the predetermined range;
If it is determined that the received application is used outside the predetermined range, a deletion unit that maintains the check-in to the service and deletes the application;
A second application that receives the application stored in the server via the other service providing device when the application is located in another predetermined range related to the other service providing device that provides the checked-in service; A service providing system comprising: a receiving unit.
(Appendix 8)
A determination unit that determines whether the terminal has checked in a service provided by the service providing apparatus based on whether the position of the terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus;
When it is determined that the terminal has checked in, a distribution unit that distributes an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A transmitter that transmits the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range;
Within another predetermined range related to another service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that was checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus is now within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. A service providing apparatus, comprising: an acquisition unit configured to acquire an application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing apparatus stored in the server.
(Appendix 9)
A check-in unit for checking in a service provided by the service providing apparatus by being located within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus;
A first receiving unit that receives distribution of an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A determination unit that determines whether the received application is used outside the predetermined range when the position of the terminal is out of the predetermined range;
If it is determined that the received application is used outside the predetermined range, a deletion unit that maintains the check-in to the service and deletes the application;
A second application that receives the application stored in the server via the other service providing device when the application is located within another predetermined range related to the other service providing device that provides the checked-in service; A terminal comprising: a receiving unit.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the configurations shown here, such as combinations with other elements, etc., in the configurations described in the above embodiments. These points can be changed without departing from the spirit of the present invention, and can be appropriately determined according to the application form.

100: service providing system 110: first application delivery apparatus 120: terminal 130: buffer service providing server 140: second application delivery apparatus 300: token 310: connection history information 400: application 401: service data 700: token 1001: Token generation unit 1002: Token storage unit 1003: Service control unit 1004: Token generation instruction unit 1005: Connection history information storage unit 1006: Location information acquisition unit 1011: Application storage unit 1101: Service data storage unit 1102: Token storage unit 1103: Service control unit 1104: Received service data determination unit 1105: Token storage unit 1106: Token generation unit 1201: Service data storage unit 1202: Transmission service data Judgment part

Claims (8)

A service providing method by a service providing apparatus, the service providing apparatus comprising:
Based on whether the position of the terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus, it is determined whether or not the terminal has checked in the service provided by the service providing apparatus;
When it is determined that the terminal has checked in, an application corresponding to the checked-in service is distributed,
Transmitting the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range, to a server;
Within another predetermined range related to another service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that was checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus is now within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. In this case, an application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing apparatus stored in the server is acquired.
A service providing method characterized by the above.   2. The service according to claim 1, wherein when it is determined that the terminal has checked in, a first token that is generated by the terminal and includes information related to the service providing apparatus is acquired from the terminal. How to provide.   The first token is stored in the server by being transmitted to the server in association with the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range. Item 3. The service providing method according to Item 2. Within another predetermined range related to the other service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that has checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus falls within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. The second token corresponding to the first token is received from the terminal and transmitted to the server,
An application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing apparatus stored in the server in association with the first token corresponding to the transmitted second token is obtained. The service providing method according to claim 3.   Based on an instruction from the terminal, a third token including information related to the other service providing device and a fourth token corresponding to the third token and including information related to the server are generated and generated. The service providing method according to claim 4, wherein the fourth token is transmitted to the server together with the second token. Obtaining from the server the application corresponding to the service provided by the other service providing device and the fourth token stored in the server;
When the fourth token acquired from the server corresponds to the third token, the application acquired from the server is distributed to the terminal included in the other predetermined range. The service providing method according to claim 5, wherein: A service providing system having a service providing device and a terminal,
The service providing apparatus includes:
A determination unit that determines whether the terminal has checked in a service provided by the service providing apparatus based on whether the position of the terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus;
When it is determined that the terminal has checked in, a distribution unit that distributes an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A transmitter that transmits the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range;
Within another predetermined range related to another service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that was checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus is now within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. An acquisition unit that acquires an application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing device, stored in the server,
The terminal
A check-in unit for checking in a service provided by the service providing device by being located within a predetermined range related to the service providing device;
A first receiving unit that receives distribution of an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A determination unit that determines whether the received application is used outside the predetermined range when the position of the terminal is out of the predetermined range;
If it is determined that the received application is used outside the predetermined range, a deletion unit that maintains the check-in to the service and deletes the application;
A second application that receives the application stored in the server via the other service providing device when the application is located in another predetermined range related to the other service providing device that provides the checked-in service; A service providing system comprising: a receiving unit. A determination unit that determines whether the terminal has checked in a service provided by the service providing apparatus based on whether the position of the terminal is within a predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus;
When it is determined that the terminal has checked in, a distribution unit that distributes an application corresponding to the checked-in service;
A transmitter that transmits the application to be deleted by the terminal when the position of the terminal is out of a predetermined range;
Within another predetermined range related to another service providing apparatus, the position of the terminal that was checked in to the service provided by the other service providing apparatus is now within the predetermined range related to the service providing apparatus. A service providing apparatus, comprising: an acquisition unit configured to acquire an application corresponding to a service provided by the other service providing apparatus stored in the server.

Images