JP2019075820A - Communication capacity management device, communication capacity transfer method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

To provide a function to be able to transfer communication capacity with an expiry data of a radio communication line of which the communication capacity is limited.SOLUTION: A communication capacity management device comprises: a residual capacity management unit that manages the residual capacity of communication capacity allocated to each of a first radio communication line and a second radio communication line which are radio communication lines with limited communication capacity; a determination unit that determines whether communication capacity can be transferred from the first radio communication line to the second radio communication line; and a communication capacity transfer unit that transfers desired communication capacity from the residual capacity of communication capacity of the radio communication line allocated to the first radio communication line to the second radio communication line for a limited time on the basis of the determination of the determination unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

  The present invention relates to a communication capacity management apparatus, a communication capacity transfer method, and a computer program.

  Conventionally, the communication capacity of data communication using a portable terminal is limited, for example, on a monthly basis. Then, when the communication capacity given in advance in that month is consumed, it is general that the data communication can not be used in that month, or the communication speed can be suppressed to a low speed although it can be used. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a system that pre-pays communication charges, charges according to the use of the communication capacity, and enables use of the communication capacity corresponding to the prepaid charge. Further, in Patent Document 2, a plurality of mobile terminals are grouped, and communication capacity (degree of connection) is set for the group, for example, members in the department of a company share communication capacity and charge There is also disclosure about the technology to be managed in each department.

JP 2001-504299 gazette Unexamined-Japanese-Patent No. 2003-18333

  By the way, there are fluctuations in the frequency and timing of use of the communication capacity. For example, in a family, everyone in the family performs data communication in a row at the end of the month, but parents tend to use data communication from the beginning of the month to the middle of the month. Suppose that you have to communicate. On the other hand, it is assumed that the communication line to which the child contracts has surplus communication capacity for which the expiration date is set by the middle of the month, and that the child does not plan to use up the communication capacity before the expiration date. In such a case, it is convenient if it is possible to transfer a part of the communication capacity assigned to the wireless communication line contracted by the child to the wireless communication line contracted by the parent by limiting it to the period from the beginning of the month to the middle of the month . In addition, since it is possible to effectively utilize the communication capacity which is not scheduled to be used up, the communication capacity can be economically utilized even within the family. Also, there is no dissatisfaction with children if parents return the communication capacity they borrowed from their children before the end of the month when they use data communication. In this way, convenience can be improved if the communication capacity can be lent and borrowed according to the timing at which each other needs the communication capacity. However, in the above-described conventional technology, for example, it is impossible to transfer the communication capacity assigned to a wireless communication line contracted by a certain user to a wireless communication line contracted by another user with a time limit.

  The present invention has been made in consideration of such circumstances. For example, the communication capacity assigned to a wireless communication line contracted by a certain user is transferred with a time limit to the wireless communication line contracted by another user. It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication capacity management apparatus, a communication capacity transfer method, and a computer program that can be performed.

(1) One aspect of the present invention is the remaining communication capacity allocated to each of a first wireless communication line and a second wireless communication line, which are wireless communication lines having a restriction on communication capacity indicating the amount of data transfer available for communication. A remaining capacity management unit that manages capacity, a determination unit that determines whether transfer of communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line is possible, and the determination based on the determination of the determination unit; 1) A communication capacity management apparatus comprising: a communication capacity transfer unit for transferring a desired communication capacity out of remaining capacity of communication capacity of a wireless communication line allocated to a wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit It is.

(2) In one aspect of the present invention, the communication capacity management apparatus according to the above (1) further includes a charge processing unit that performs charge processing for collecting a charge for transfer with time limit of the communication capacity, the charge processing unit When the communication capacity transfer unit transfers the communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, identification information of a first user who uses the first wireless communication line, and the second user The identification information of the second user using the wireless communication line is acquired, and the charging process is performed on at least one of the acquired identification information of the first user and the acquired second user.

(3) In one aspect of the present invention, in the communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of the above (1) and (2), the remaining capacity management unit grants only a predetermined amount for each predetermined period for each wireless communication line. The communication capacity transfer unit distinguishes and stores the periodic grant communication capacity, which is the communication capacity with the expiration date, and the additional purchase communication capacity, which is the communication capacity with the expiration date additionally purchased, and the communication capacity transfer unit From the remaining capacity of the additional purchased communication capacity of the communication line, the desired communication capacity is transferred to the second wireless communication line with a time limit.

(4) One aspect of the present invention is the communication capacity management device according to any one of the above (1) to (3), wherein the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit And a return communication capacity determination unit that determines a communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line, wherein the return communication capacity determination unit determines that the second wireless communication line has a time limit. The communication capacity to be returned is determined in accordance with the period since the transfer is performed, and the communication capacity transfer unit is based on an instruction operation of the user using the second wireless communication line within the time limit related to the time-limited transfer. The transfer capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit is transferred from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line.

(5) In one aspect of the present invention, in the communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of (1) to (3), the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit. And a return communication capacity determination unit that determines a communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line, and the communication capacity transfer unit determines that the time limit related to the time-limited transfer comes And transferring the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line.

(6) One aspect of the present invention is the communication capacity management device according to any one of the above (1) to (3), wherein the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit And a return communication capacity determination unit that determines a communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line, and the communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line is If the transfer is made with a time limit and the communication capacity determined by the communication capacity transfer unit can not be returned within a time limit from the second wireless communication line, the second user using the second wireless communication line is communicated. The information processing apparatus further comprises a notification unit that performs notification prompting additional purchase of a capacity.

(7) One aspect of the present invention is the communication capacity management device according to the above (1), wherein the communication capacity transferred to the second wireless communication line from the first wireless communication line with a time limit is different from the second wireless The communication system further comprises a return communication capacity determination unit that determines a communication capacity to be returned from the communication line to the first wireless communication line, and a charge processing unit that performs charge processing for collecting a charge for timed transfer of the communication capacity. When the communication capacity is transferred from the wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, and the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit from the second wireless communication line can not be returned within the time limit The charging processing unit performs charging processing on identification information of a second user who uses the second wireless communication line.

(8) One aspect of the present invention is the communication capacity management device according to the above (1), wherein the communication capacity transferred to the second wireless communication line from the first wireless communication line with a time limit is different from the second wireless The communication system further includes a return communication capacity determination unit that determines a communication capacity to be returned from the communication line to the first wireless communication line, and the communication capacity is transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit. And if the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit can not be returned within a time limit from the second wireless communication line, the remaining capacity management unit determines the remaining capacity allocated to the second wireless communication line. Set to 0.

(9) In one aspect of the present invention, in the communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of (1) to (8), the communication capacity is transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit. In this case, the communication capacity transfer unit uses the second wireless communication line among the one or more time-limited transfer conditions registered in advance by the first user using the first wireless communication line. 2 Perform time-limited transfer of communication capacity based on the time-limited transfer condition selected by the user.

(10) According to one aspect of the present invention, in the communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of the above (1) to (9), the total of the transferred communication capacities and the number of times of time-limited transfer are performed for each wireless communication line. And a transfer communication capacity management unit to manage, the communication capacity transferred to the second wireless communication line managed by the transfer communication capacity management unit with a time limit or the number of time transfers with a time limit exceeds a predetermined threshold value; The communication capacity transfer unit prohibits the time-limited transfer of the communication capacity to the second wireless communication line for a predetermined period.

(11) One aspect of the present invention is the remaining communication capacity allocated to each of the first wireless communication line and the second wireless communication line, which are wireless communication lines having a restriction on communication capacity indicating the amount of data transfer available for communication. The communication capacity management device performing capacity management determines whether transfer of communication capacity is possible from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line, and is assigned to the first wireless communication line based on the determination. In the communication capacity transfer method, a desired communication capacity is transferred from the remaining capacity of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit.

(12) One aspect of the present invention is the remaining communication capacity allocated to each of the first wireless communication line and the second wireless communication line, which are wireless communication lines having a restriction on communication capacity indicating the amount of data transfer available for communication. Means for determining whether or not transfer of communication capacity is possible from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line, the computer of the communication capacity management device performing capacity management, the first wireless communication based on the determination It is a computer program for functioning as a means for transferring a desired communication capacity out of the remaining capacity of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line allocated to the line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit.

  According to the present invention, by transferring the communication capacity between the wireless communication lines with limited communication capacity with a return time limit, the effect of improving the convenience of the user can be obtained.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a communication capacity management device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram showing the example of composition of the hardware which realizes communication capacity management device 1 concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the structural example of the radio | wireless communications system using the communication capacity management apparatus 1 which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the data table used for management of the communication capacity which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure showing an example of composition of additional purchase communication capacity management data concerning one embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen used for transfer with time limit of the communication capacity which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the data table used for determination of the decision | availability of transfer with time limit of communication capacity which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the flowchart of the transfer processing with time limit of the communication capacity which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the transfer return log | history data table which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is an example of the flowchart of the return process of the communication capacity transferred with the time limit which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen used for return of the communication capacity transferred with the time limit which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the transfer performance management data table which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the screen used for the transfer process based on the transfer plan with time limit which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention.

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 communication capacity management device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In FIG. 1, the communication capacity management device 1 includes a remaining capacity management unit 11, a determination unit 12, a communication capacity transfer unit 13, a charge processing unit 14, a transfer request reception unit 15, and a transfer communication capacity management unit 16. , A notification unit 17, a communication unit 18, a management data storage unit 19, a return communication capacity determination unit 20, and a return process management unit 21.

  The remaining capacity management unit 11 manages the remaining capacity of the communication capacity in each of the first wireless communication line and the second wireless communication line, which are wireless communication lines whose communication capacity is limited. Furthermore, the remaining capacity management unit 11 manages the remaining capacity of the communication capacity separately for the periodic grant communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity. The periodic grant communication capacity is a communication capacity with a limited use period which is given by a predetermined amount every predetermined period. Further, the additional purchase communication capacity is the additionally purchased communication capacity with the expiration date, and is the communication capacity to be added by the user purchasing when the communication capacity is insufficient only with the periodic grant communication capacity. . The management stores the periodic grant communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity that can be used in the wireless communication line for each wireless communication line, and the periodic grant communication capacity according to the use of the communication capacity in the wireless communication line Alternatively, it means that the communication capacity is subtracted from the additionally purchased communication capacity by the amount used. Furthermore, management means that when the communication capacity is given, the periodic addition communication capacity is added and stored for the periodic addition communication capacity, and when the communication capacity is purchased, the additional purchase communication capacity is purchased It means adding and storing only additional purchase communication capacity.

The determination unit 12 determines whether or not the time-limited transfer of the communication capacity is possible from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line. Here, the transfer means to replace part or all of the communication capacity available in the first wireless communication line as the communication capacity available in the second wireless communication line. At this time, the communication capacity corresponding to the transfer is subtracted from the communication capacity stored in association with the first wireless communication line (transfer source), and the communication capacity stored in association with the second wireless communication line (transfer destination) Communication capacity for transfer is added. The term “with a term” means that the transfer destination wireless communication circuit must return the transferred communication capacity to the transfer source when the term comes. In the return, a predetermined communication capacity is subtracted from the non-communication capacity stored in association with the second wireless communication line, and the communication capacity is added to the non-communication capacity stored in association with the first wireless communication line. It means that. Hereinafter, transfer with time limit may be referred to as rental.
For example, the determination unit 12 relates to the relationship between the first user and the second user indicated by the attribute information of the first user who uses the first wireless communication channel and the attribute information of the second user who uses the second wireless communication channel. Based on the determination, it is determined whether transfer from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line is possible. Also, for example, when the first user and the second user have the same billing group information, the determination unit 12 determines that transfer of the communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line is possible. Do. The user who uses the wireless communication line indicates that the user has made a contract for the wireless communication line.

Based on the determination of the determination unit 12, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 transfers the desired communication capacity from the remaining capacity of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line in the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit. .
The charge processing unit 14 performs processing for collecting a transfer fee for time-limited transfer of communication capacity.
When transferring the communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the transfer request receiving unit 15 receives the request for the time-limited transfer.
The transfer communication capacity management unit 16 manages, for each wireless communication line, the total of the communication capacity transferred with a time limit and the number of transfers.

The notification unit 17 transmits, to the terminal used by the transfer destination user, a message describing the conditions related to the time-limited transfer process when performing the time-limited transfer process. In addition, when the communication capacity or the number of transfers transferred with a time limit for a certain wireless communication line exceeds a predetermined threshold, the notification unit 17 adds the communication capacity to the terminal used by the user using the wireless communication line. Make a notification prompting for a purchase.
The communication unit 18 communicates with a user contract information management device 114, a settlement device 116, a communication control device 112, and the like described later.
The management data storage unit 19 stores the remaining capacity of the communication capacity for each wireless communication line, the record on which the time-limited transfer is performed, and the like.
The return communication capacity determination unit 20 determines, for the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line .
The return process management unit 21 executes the communication capacity return process for the time-limited transfer process.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of hardware that implements the communication capacity management device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 2, the communication capacity management device 1 includes a CPU unit 23, a communication unit 18, and a storage unit 24. These units are configured to exchange data. The CPU unit 23 controls the communication capacity management device 1. The control function is realized by the CPU unit 23 executing a computer program. The communication unit 18 communicates with other devices. The storage unit 24 stores a computer program executed by the CPU unit 23 and various data. The storage unit 24 stores a communication capacity management program 26.

  The remaining capacity management unit 11, the determination unit 12, the communication capacity transfer unit 13, the charge processing unit 14, the transfer request reception unit 15, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16, the notification unit 17, the return communication capacity determination unit 20 shown in FIG. Each function of the return process management unit 21 is realized by the CPU unit 23 shown in FIG. 2 executing the communication capacity management program 26 stored in the storage unit 24. Also, the management data storage unit 19 shown in FIG. 1 is provided in the storage unit 24 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a wireless communication system using the communication capacity management device 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. In FIG. 3, the terminal 102 is connected to the base station 104 by a wireless communication line 106. The wireless communication line 106 has a limited communication capacity. User data transmitted from the terminal 102 to the base station 104 using the wireless communication link 106 is transferred from the base station 104 to the gateway 108. The gateway 108 outputs the user data of the terminal 102 transferred from the base station 104 to the Internet 110 if the communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106 is permitted. Similarly, gateway 108 transfers user data addressed to terminal 102 input from Internet 110 to terminal 102 via base station 104 if communication of terminal 102 using wireless communication line 106 is permitted. .

  If within the limitation of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line 106, the communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106 is permitted. On the other hand, when the communication capacity of the wireless communication line 106 is not limited, the communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106 is not permitted. Or, even if communication is permitted, the communication speed is reduced. Thus, the terminal 102 can communicate with another communication device connected to the Internet 110 using the wireless communication line 106 within the limitation of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line 106. it can. On the other hand, when the terminal 102 is out of the limitation of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line 106, the terminal 102 communicates with another communication device connected to the Internet 110 using the wireless communication line 106. I can not Or, even if communication is possible, the communication speed is reduced.

  The communication control device 112 instructs the gateway 108 whether or not to permit the communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106 (non-permission), or instructs the communication speed. The permission or non-permission of the communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106 and the communication speed are based on the communication permission information of the wireless communication line 106 from the communication capacity management device 1. Further, the communication control apparatus 112 acquires, from the gateway 108, transfer data amount information indicating the transfer amount of user data transferred by the gateway 108 by the communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106. The transfer data amount information is transmitted from the communication control device 112 to the communication capacity management device 1.

  The communication capacity management device 1 updates the remaining capacity of the communication capacity for the wireless communication line 106 based on the transfer data amount information received from the communication control device 112. Further, the communication capacity management device 1 transmits communication permission information of the wireless communication line 106 to the communication control device 112 based on the remaining amount of communication capacity of the wireless communication line 106. The communication permission information is information on permission or non-permission of communication of the terminal 102 using the wireless communication line 106 or restriction of communication speed.

  The user contract information management device 114 manages information (user contract information) of the user who has contracted the wireless communication line 106. The user contract information includes information indicating a user identifier (user ID), an identification number (line number) of the wireless communication line 106, and contents of a contract for communication capacity and the like. The communication capacity management device 1 inquires of the user contract information management device 114 about user contract information as necessary.

  The settlement apparatus 116 performs settlement processing of payment by the user. The communication capacity management device 1 inquires of the payment device 116 about the payment status of payment by the user, as necessary.

  The terminal 102 can access the communication capacity management device 1 by communication. Communication between the terminal 102 and the communication capacity management device 1 may be communication via the wireless communication line 106, or communication not via the wireless communication line 106. The communication capacity management device 1 performs the corresponding processing in response to the request from the terminal 102.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the communication capacity available to the user for data communication is allocated to each of the wireless communication lines 106 contracted by the user. The types of communication capacity include the periodic grant communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity described above. As an example, in the present embodiment, 7 GB of monthly grant communication capacity is granted monthly to the wireless communication line 106 that has made a contract to grant the communication capacity on a regular basis, and the expiration date is one month. The additional purchase communication capacity can be purchased in units of 500 MB or 1 GB, and the expiration date is, for example, 62 days from the date of purchase. Further, among these two types of communication capacity, it is assumed that it is decided to be preferentially used from the additional purchase communication capacity. The user can subscribe to and use a plurality of wireless communication lines 106.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a data table used to manage communication capacity according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The data table illustrated in FIG. 4 is an example of a data table used by the remaining capacity management unit 11 to manage the remaining capacity of the communication capacity for each wireless communication line. In the first line of the data table illustrated in FIG. 4, the user “001” subscribes to and uses the wireless communication line “090-1234-5678”, and is assigned to the wireless communication line “090-1234-5678” Of the remaining capacity of the communication capacity, it is indicated that the remaining capacity of the regularly assigned communication capacity is 7 GB and the remaining capacity of the additionally purchased communication capacity is 500 MB. In the second line, the user "001" is contracted to use the second wireless communication line "080-1234-5678" and assigned to the wireless communication line "080-1234-5678" Of the remaining capacity of the communication capacity, the remaining capacity of the periodic grant communication capacity is 5 GB, and the remaining capacity of the additional purchase communication capacity is 200 MB. In the third line, the user "002" subscribes to and uses the wireless communication line "090-1234-5679", and periodically assigns the remaining capacity of the communication capacity allocated to the wireless communication line The remaining capacity of the communication capacity is 1 GB, and the remaining capacity of the additionally purchased communication capacity is 1 GB.

  For example, when the remaining capacity management unit 11 receives, from the communication control apparatus 112, information indicating that 100 MB of data communication has been performed on the wireless communication line "090-1234-5679" (the third line), as shown in FIG. The 1GB which is the remaining capacity of the additional purchase communication capacity of the wireless communication line "090-1234-5679" is read out with reference to the data table illustrated in and additional purchase is made with a value (0.9GB) obtained by subtracting 100MB from the read 1GB Overwrite and update the communication capacity value. The value of the additional purchase communication capacity is updated because the additional purchase communication capacity is preferentially used as described above. In addition, when the next month comes, the remaining capacity management unit 11 acquires contract information of the wireless communication line "090-1234-5679" from the user contract information management device 114, and for example, the wireless communication line has a periodic assigned communication capacity. On the basis of this contract, the value 1 GB of the regularly assigned communication capacity is overwritten and updated with 7 GB of the next month.

FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of a configuration example of additional purchase communication capacity management data according to an embodiment of the present invention.
The additional purchase communication capacity management data has, for each additional purchase, a purchase number identifying the additional purchase, information indicating the remaining capacity of the additional purchase, and information indicating an expiration date of the additional purchase. When a certain user makes an additional purchase, the remaining capacity management unit 11 updates the table illustrated in FIG. 4 and updates the additional purchase communication capacity management data illustrated in FIG. For example, when the user "001" purchases 500 MB of additional for the wireless communication line "090-1234-5678", the remaining capacity management unit 11 uses the purchase number and 500 MB for the new additional purchase as the remaining capacity. And information indicating the expiration date are added to the purchased communication capacity management data. Thereby, the data in the second line in FIG. 5 is added.
The management data storage unit 19 stores the data tables illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, and the remaining capacity management unit 11 uses the data tables to periodically apply communication capacity and additional purchase communication for each wireless communication line. Manage the remaining capacity of capacity communication capacity separately.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen used for time-limited transfer of communication capacity according to an embodiment of the present invention. The screen illustrated in FIG. 6 is an example of a screen for setting to transfer a part of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line with which the user has contracted to another wireless communication line with a time limit. This screen is for example a user provided by a telecommunications service entity that the user uses to check contract information of the wireless communication line with which he / she is contracted or to check the usage status of the communication capacity allocated to the wireless communication line. It is provided in a dedicated portal site etc.
Reference numeral 41 is an area in which a list of wireless communication lines for which the user has contracted is displayed. In the area 41, the remaining capacity is displayed separately for the periodic grant communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity for each wireless communication line as a transfer source. The user selects a transfer source radio communication line from among these. Reference numeral 42 is a selection field for selecting whether to transfer the communication capacity from the periodically assigned communication capacity or transfer the communication capacity from the additionally purchased communication capacity, for the communication capacity to be transferred with a time limit. Reference numeral 43 is an input field of the identification number of the wireless communication line to which the communication capacity is to be transferred. The transfer source user inputs, for example, the identification number “090-XXXX-XXXX” of the wireless communication line contracted by any one of his family members in the input field 43.

  Reference numeral 44 is an input box for inputting the name and ID of the user who has contracted the wireless communication line inputted in the input box 43. The value input to the input column 44 is used, for example, to check whether the wireless communication channel input to the input column 43 is a wireless communication channel contracted by the user input to the input column 44. Further, when the transfer destination is limited to the same billing group, the identification numbers of the wireless communication lines belonging to the same billing group are displayed in a pull-down list in the input column 43 and can be selected from them. In the input field 44, the names and the like of users belonging to the same billing group may be displayed by pull-down and may be selected from among them. When a wireless communication line is already selected in the input field 43, the name or the like of the user who has subscribed to the wireless communication line may be automatically displayed in the input field 44. The billing group will be described later. In addition, when the user name is input in the input column 44, the probability that the input user is returning the communication capacity within the time limit may be displayed based on the past return history. For example, "100%" is displayed if the user is able to always return the communication capacity within the return period, and "50%" if the user can return only half of the number of times of rental. Is displayed. Thereby, the transfer source user can grasp the risk in the case of renting communication capacity to the transfer destination user. Reference numeral 45 is an input field for inputting the communication capacity to be transferred with a time limit. Reference numeral 46 is an input field for inputting a return due date of the transferred communication capacity. The user inputs, for example, “7” if the communication capacity is to be lent out only for one week. Reference numeral 47 is an input field for entering an interest rate to be added when the communication capacity is returned. If the user requests that 10% interest be given at the time of return, enter "10". Reference numeral 48 is a condition for the expiration date of the returned communication capacity. This is an item to set the minimum condition of the expiration date, for example, because there is no merit for the transfer source user if the expiration date of the communication capacity added and returned for the interest rate is the day of the return . For example, when using the returned communication capacity for a use date of at least 10 days, “10” is input in the input field 48.

When the user inputs these items and depresses the registration button 49, the input information is written to the management data storage unit 19, and transfer processing of communication capacity is executed. Specifically, the transfer request receiving unit 15 receives the request for transfer with a time limit, the determination unit 12 determines whether transfer with time is possible, and if it is determined that transfer is possible, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 performs transfer processing. I do. Details of the time-limited transfer process will be described later.
In addition to these items, this screen may display the number of time-limited transfers in the current month, the transferred communication capacity, the accumulated transfered communication capacity, or the transfer history. A management screen may be separately provided for the number of times, the total of the communication capacity, the history, and the like related to the transfer with time limit, and the management screen may be displayed.

Next, an example of which transfer processing with time limit of the communication capacity is possible when the conditions are satisfied will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a data table used to determine whether transfer with time limit of communication capacity is possible according to an embodiment of the present invention.
In the transfer availability determination data table illustrated in FIG. 7, the “transfer service contract with time limit” column indicates whether the wireless communication line has contracted for a transfer capacity with time limit of communication capacity. In this embodiment, in order to transfer the communication capacity with a time limit, it is assumed that the transfer source wireless communication line and the transfer destination wireless communication line have made this contract. “Family ID” is attribute information indicating a family to which a user who subscribes to a certain wireless communication line belongs. For example, when the user "001" and the user "002" are parent-child, the same value is set to this family ID. The “billing group ID” is an ID indicating a unit for paying a charge such as a communication charge for the wireless communication line. For example, in a certain family, when the father pays, the same value is set to the billing group ID for the wireless communication line contracted by the family. The “transfer group ID” is attribute information indicating a transfer group to which a user who subscribes to a certain wireless communication line belongs. The transfer group is a group in which the wireless communication lines contracted by the user can transfer the communication capacity to each other. For example, if one group of friends forms a group, and the remaining capacity of the communication capacity is insufficient, the group is registered as one transfer group when it is desired to transfer the communication capacity between the friends, members of the group The same value is set to the transfer group ID of the wireless communication line to which the contract is made, and transfer of the communication capacity becomes possible between members of the group.

  The transferability determination data table is stored, for example, in a storage unit of the user contract information management device 114. The determination unit 12 of the communication capacity management device 1 acquires, from the user contract information management device 114, the information set in the transferability determination data table for the transfer source wireless communication line and the transfer destination wireless communication line, and is transferable? It judges whether or not. For example, when the value of the “time-limited transfer service contract” of the transfer source or transfer destination wireless communication line is “none”, the determination unit 12 determines that the transfer process is not possible. If the values of the transfer source and transfer destination wireless communication circuit family ID, billing group ID, and transfer group ID are not the same, the determination unit 12 determines that the transfer process is not possible. The determination based on the family ID, the billing group ID, and the transfer group ID may be performed based on only one of these, and when at least one of these IDs has the same value, the determination unit 12 It may be determined that time-limited transfer of communication capacity between the transfer source wireless communication line and the transfer destination wireless communication line is possible.

  In addition to the family ID, billing group ID, and transfer group ID, "transfer flag" indicating whether transfer can be performed to another wireless communication line in the transfer availability determination data table, other wireless communication An item of “reception flag” indicating whether transfer from the line can be received may be provided, and the user may set these flags for each user or for each wireless communication line. For example, set "Prohibit" in "Transfer flag" and "Reception flag" for children in middle school students in the same family, set "Prohibit" in "Transfer flag" for children of university students, and set "Reception flag" "Allow" can be set. Then, for example, when transferring from a parent to a college student's child with a time limit, the determination unit 12 determines that the “reception flag” of the wireless communication line used by the university student is “permitted” in addition to the determination of the family ID etc. , It is determined that transfer is possible. In addition, when transferring from a parent to a junior high school child with a time limit, in addition to the determination of a family ID, etc., the determination unit 12 is based on the “reception flag” of the wireless communication line used by the middle school student being “prohibited” Judge as transfer impossible. Also, for example, when performing transfer with a time limit between the university student and the junior high student, in addition to the determination of the family ID, etc., the determination unit 12 “prohibits” the “assignment flag” of the wireless communication line used by the university student It is determined that transfer is not possible based on The “assignment flag” and the “receipt flag” can be used in combination with any of the family ID, the billing group ID, and the transfer group ID. In this way, control of transferability can be performed in units finer than units of a family, a billing group, and a transfer group.

Next, transfer processing with time limit of communication capacity will be described using FIG.
FIG. 8 is an example of a flowchart of time-limited transfer processing of communication capacity according to an embodiment of the present invention.
First, the transfer request receiving unit 15 receives a request for transfer processing with a time limit by the transfer source user (step S1). Specifically, the transfer source user inputs information (transfer request information) necessary for transfer with a time limit, such as transfer source and transfer destination communication lines, communication capacity to be transferred, etc., on the screen illustrated in FIG. Press 49. Then, the transfer request receiving unit 15 receives the input information, writes the information in the management data storage unit 19 and stores the information, and instructs the communication capacity transfer unit 13 to execute the time-limited transfer process.

  Next, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 requests the determination unit 12 to determine whether transfer is possible. The determination unit 12 reads the transfer request information accepted by the transfer request accepting unit 15 from the management data storage unit 19 and determines whether or not the time-limited transfer process can be performed (step S2). First, the determination unit 12 determines whether transfer processing is possible based on the determination criteria described in FIG. 7. For example, when the wireless communication circuit of the transfer source or transfer destination has not made a contract for the transfer service with time limit, the determination unit 12 determines that transfer is not possible. If the transfer source and transfer destination wireless communication lines are under contract for transfer service and the family ID and transfer group ID match, it is determined that transfer is possible in terms of contract. Further, determinations based on the transfer destination and transfer source “assignment flag” and “receipt flag” may be added. In that case, when the transfer destination user is input on the time-limited transfer instruction screen illustrated in FIG. 6, for example, “transfer flag” and “receipt flag” set for the transfer destination user input on the right of the input column 44 The value of is displayed, allowing the transfer source user to confirm in advance whether transfer is possible. Further, the determination unit 12 determines the transfer condition designated by the user. For example, when the communication capacity to be transferred exceeds the remaining capacity in the transfer source wireless communication line, the determination unit 12 determines that the time-limited transfer is not possible. When the determination unit 12 determines that the transfer process is not possible (step S2: not possible), the process flow ends. On the other hand, when the determination unit 12 determines that transfer with a time limit is possible (step S2: possible), it instructs the notification unit 17 to transmit a message requesting confirmation of acceptance of transfer processing with a time limit 17 sends the message to the terminal used by the transfer destination user by means of e-mail, SMS (Short Message Service) or the like.

  The following conditions may be added in the determination of step S2. For example, after the determination unit 12 acquires contract information of the transfer destination and the transfer source from the user contract information management device 114 and one or both of the transfer destination user and the transfer source user start a contract of the wireless communication line It is determined that transfer is possible only when a predetermined period or more has elapsed. In addition, based on the acquired contract information, the determination unit 12 can transfer only when one or both of the transfer destination user and the transfer source user have subscribed to a plurality of terminals for the wireless communication line related to the transfer. judge. Further, as described later, the determination unit 12 transfers the number of transfers with time limit and transfer within a predetermined predetermined period (for example, the month) for one or both of the transfer destination wireless communication line and the transfer source wireless communication line. If the determined communication capacity or the transferred communication capacity is within a predetermined number of times or less than a predetermined capacity, it is determined that the transfer is possible. In addition, based on past return history for the transfer destination user, if communication capacity is returned within the return period, it is determined that transfer is possible, and for users who can not be returned in a predetermined period in the past Is determined to be not transferable. In addition, if the transfer source has already performed transfer with a time limit to another wireless communication line and return for the transfer has not been completed, it may be determined that transfer is not possible. Also, if the transfer destination has already received transfer with a time limit from another wireless communication line and has not returned the transfer, it may be determined that transfer is not possible. If the transfer source has already received transfer with a time limit from another wireless communication line and has not returned the transfer, it may be determined that transfer is not possible (re-rental prohibition). In the time-limited transfer instruction screen illustrated in FIG. 6, a selection field ("Selection field A") "If transfer is not performed if the wireless communication line of transfer destination is already in rental of communication capacity" If the transfer destination prohibits the transfer destination from re-renting the communication capacity pertaining to the selection field (selection field B), and the transfer source user selects the selection field A (for example, check box), the transfer destination If transfer has already been received from another wireless communication line and the transfer has not been returned, it is determined that transfer is not possible, and if the transfer source user selects selection field B, for example, Until the transfer flag of the transfer destination user is returned, "prohibit" may be made to control so that the transfer destination user can not re-rent.

The message sent by the notification unit 17 includes information such as the transferred communication capacity, the return due date, the interest rate, the use due date required for the returned communication capacity, etc. The transfer destination that has received the message A dedicated application program provided in the terminal used by the user displays on the display screen the information and an acceptance button for the time-limited transfer with the conditions imposed. The message may be displayed using a well-known technology, and other conditions for transfer will be described, and a mail with a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of the Web page will be sent, and the transfer will be performed on the Web page of this URL. It may be a method in which an “Accept” button is provided to input whether or not to accept.
When the transfer destination user presses the consent button, the application program transmits, to the communication capacity management device 1, information indicating that the consent button is pressed, and in the communication capacity management device 1, the transfer request reception unit 15 Get that information. The transfer request receiving unit 15 outputs the received information to the communication capacity transfer unit 13.

When the transfer request accepting unit 15 does not acquire information indicating that the “accept” button has been pressed within a predetermined period since the transmission of the message, or, for example, the “do not accept” button provided on the web page or the like is pressed When the information indicating that is acquired (step S3; not agree), the processing flow ends.
In addition, there is a fee for time-limited transfer, and the user's consent may be obtained each time the fee is collected. In that case, for example, a screen is displayed on the display screen of the terminal used by the user who collects the fee, and can select whether or not to accept the burden of the prior grant fee, and transfer processing with time limit is performed only when the user approves. To do.

When the communication capacity transfer unit 13 acquires information indicating acceptance of the transfer (step S3; acceptance), the communication capacity transfer unit 13 performs time-limited transfer processing (step S4). Specifically, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 communicates from any of the transfer source and transfer destination wireless communication lines received by the transfer request reception unit 15, the transfer capacity of the transfer, the fixed transfer capacity and the additional purchase capacity. Information on whether to transfer the capacity is acquired from the management data storage unit 19. Then, based on the acquired information, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 transfers the transfer source user among the regularly assigned communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity of the record of the wireless communication line of the transfer source of the data table illustrated in FIG. The communication capacity to be transferred is subtracted from the communication capacity selected by. Next, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 transfers communication capacity to be transferred to the same type of remaining capacity as the communication capacity selected by the transfer source among the periodic addition communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity of the record of the wireless communication line of the transfer destination. Add That is, when transferring from the periodic grant communication capacity at the transfer source, add the communication capacity to be transferred to the regular grant communication capacity even at the transfer destination, and when transferring from the additional purchase communication capacity, to the additional purchase communication capacity at the transfer destination Add the communication capacity to be transferred. In this example, the additional purchase communication capacity of the transfer source is also transferred to the additional purchase communication capacity even at the transfer destination, but the transferred communication capacity is other than the periodic grant communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity at the transfer destination The communication capacity may be separately managed. In addition, when transfer is performed with a time limit from the periodic grant communication capacity, the regular grant communication capacity of the transfer source may be transferred to the additional purchase communication capacity of the transfer destination. Regarding the expiration date of the transferred communication capacity with a time limit, for example, when the additional purchase communication capacity is transferred to the additional purchased communication capacity, the use expiration date set for the additional purchased communication capacity of the transfer source is If the transfer capacity is transferred from the additionally purchased communication capacity to the regularly assigned communication capacity, the time limit of the regularly assigned communication capacity of the transfer destination is set to the expiration date (the last day of the transferred month).
Further, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 further acquires information such as return due date, interest rate, transferable communication capacity from the management data storage unit 19 and records the contents of the transfer process with time limit to the transfer return history data table described later. Do.

  Next, the charging processing unit 14 executes charging processing for collecting the transfer fee (step S5). Specifically, when the transfer processing is successful, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 charges the ID (identification information) of the user who has contracted with the transfer destination and transfer source wireless communication lines, the information of the transfer capacity to be transferred, etc. It outputs to the unit 14 and instructs the charge processing unit 14 to execute the charge processing. The charging processing unit 14 reads the fee stored in the management data storage unit 19, transmits the user ID and the fee to be charged to the settlement apparatus 116, and requests the charging process. As for the fee, it is assumed that the management data storage unit 19 stores the fee per transfer process with time limit, or the fee set according to the communication capacity to be transferred and the number of times. Further, the charging processing unit 14 requests the settlement apparatus 116 to perform charging processing for at least one of the ID of the user using the wireless communication line of the transfer destination and the ID of the user using the wireless communication line of the transfer source. It is assumed that it is determined in advance and stored in the management data storage unit 19 whether to collect the fee from both the transfer destination and the transfer source user or to collect the fee from only one of them. Further, the user can decide whether to collect the fee from the transfer source or transfer destination user. For example, the screen illustrated in FIG. 6 may be provided with an item that can select the side that bears the fee. Also, the transfer fee can be collected not only by money but also by collecting a fixed capacity from the remaining capacity of the wireless communication line that bears the fee. For example, a fixed percentage of the communication capacity to be transferred may be collected. Also, it is desirable that the transfer fee be cheaper than the amount required to purchase the additional purchase communication capacity. As a result, even a user who can not afford additional purchases can rent the communication capacity, and the user can be encouraged to use data communication.

  In this example, rental conditions are presented from the transfer source user to the transfer destination user, and the transfer process with time limit is executed when the transfer destination user accepts the conditions. However, the transfer destination user may make a rental request based on a predetermined rental condition to the transfer source user, and the transfer processing with time limit may be executed when the transfer source user accepts the condition. .

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a transfer return history data table according to an embodiment of the present invention. At the time of transfer processing, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 performs transfer processing on the date and time of transfer processing in the "transfer date and time" column of this data table, the identification number of the wireless communication line of the transfer source in the "transfer source wireless communication line" column, The identification number of the wireless communication line is in the "transfer destination wireless communication line" column, whether the transferred communication capacity is the periodic addition communication capacity or the additional purchase communication capacity is in the "communication capacity type" column, the transferred communication capacity is in the "communication capacity" column, Write the interest rate in the "interest rate" column, the return due date in the "return due" column, and "not yet" in the "return status" field. The communication capacity transfer unit 13 updates the “return status” column when the return process for the transfer process with time limit is performed.
This transfer return history data table is stored in the management data storage unit 19. For example, on the screen illustrated in FIG. 6 or the like, based on the information recorded in the data table, the rental record for each wireless communication line contracted by the user may be displayed.

[Return processing]
In the return process, there is a process of automatically returning when the return time limit comes, and the transferred user may perform the return process voluntarily within the return time limit. First, the process of automatically returning will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is an example of a flowchart of return processing of communication capacity transferred with a time limit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
First, the return process management unit 21 searches, for example, the transfer return history data table every day at 24:00, and extracts records whose return due date is the previous day (step S11). Next, the return process management unit 21 outputs the information of the extracted records to the return communication capacity determination unit 20 one by one. The return communication capacity determination unit 20 adds the “communication capacity” to the value obtained by multiplying the “communication capacity” and the “interest rate” included in the acquired record, and determines the return communication capacity. For example, if the "communication capacity" is "1.0 GB" and the "interest rate" is "10%", the return communication capacity determination unit 20 performs the following calculation to determine return communication capacity = 1.1 GB ((1) Step S12).
1.0 (GB) x 10 (%) / 100 + 1.0 (GB) = 1.1 (GB)
The return communication capacity determination unit 20 calculates the return communication capacity for each of the records for which the return deadline has come, and outputs the result to the return processing management unit 21.

  Next, the return processing management unit 21 inquires of the remaining capacity management unit 11 about the remaining capacity and the expiration date of the communication capacity indicated by “type of communication capacity” in the “transfer destination wireless communication line” of the extracted record, the remaining capacity and the expiration date To get The term of use is the last day of the month if it is the periodic grant communication capacity, and is acquired from the additional purchase communication capacity management data illustrated in FIG. 5 if it is the additional purchase communication capacity. Then, the return process management unit 21 performs the return possibility determination (step S13). Specifically, the return process management unit 21 compares the acquired remaining capacity with the return communication capacity, and determines that the return is not possible if the remaining capacity is less than the return communication capacity. If the remaining capacity is equal to or greater than the return communication capacity, then a determination is made as to the expiration date. That is, if the use period of the remaining capacity is after the date on which the transfer source user requested from the day of return has passed the use period, it is determined that the return is possible, otherwise it is determined that the return is not possible. At this time, even if the transfer source user transfers from the additional purchase communication capacity, if the communication capacity meeting the return condition among the remaining capacity of the wireless communication line of the transfer destination user is the periodic addition communication capacity, the periodic addition communication capacity Return the communication capacity from.

If it is determined that the return is possible (step S13; possible), the return processing management unit 21 determines that the return communication capacity can be returned in step S13 and the information of the return communication capacity calculated in step S12 and the extracted record Output the capacity type to the communication capacity transfer unit 13, and instruct transfer processing (return process) for the return communication capacity from the wireless communication line of the transfer destination (return source) to the wireless communication line of the transfer source (return destination). . The communication capacity transfer unit 13 executes a return process (step S14). Specifically, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 returns the remaining communication capacity of the communication capacity indicated by the communication capacity type acquired from the return process management unit 21 for the wireless communication line of the transfer destination of the data table illustrated in FIG. The return communication capacity is added to the communication capacity indicated by the communication capacity type acquired from the return process management unit 21 in the transfer source wireless communication line. When returning from the periodic grant communication capacity, the periodic grant communication capacity of the transfer destination (return source) may be transferred to the additional purchase communication capacity of the transfer source (return destination).
Further, when the return process is completed, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 updates the value of the “return status” column of the transfer return history data table with “done”.

  When it is determined that the return is not possible (step S13: not possible), the return process management unit 21 instructs the notification unit 17 to perform notification to urge additional purchase of the communication capacity. The notification unit 17 transmits, to the terminal used by the user of the transfer destination, a message prompting that the communication capacity can not be returned because the remaining capacity is insufficient (step S15). When the notification unit 17 transmits a message, the return process management unit 21 inquires of the remaining capacity management unit 11 about the remaining capacity of the transfer destination wireless communication line at predetermined intervals over a predetermined period (for example, one day). Do. When the remaining capacity to which the remaining capacity management unit 11 responds is equal to or greater than the return communication capacity (step S16; Yes), the return processing management unit 21 instructs the communication capacity transfer unit 13 to perform return processing, and the communication capacity transfer unit 13 Execute return processing. In this case, as a penalty which can not be returned within the time limit, the communication capacity to be subtracted from the transfer destination radio communication line may be larger than the return communication capacity.

If the remaining capacity of the transfer destination does not reach the return communication capacity even after the predetermined period has passed (step S16; No), the return process management unit 21 instructs the charge processing unit 14 to execute the charging process. The charge processing unit 14 performs charge processing for collecting a penalty for the user ID of the transfer destination (step S17). In the case of collection of the penalty fee, the consent of the transfer destination (return source) user is obtained. Further, the return process management unit 21 updates the value of the “return status” column of the transfer / return history data table with “non-payment”. At this time, the return processing management unit 21 further instructs the remaining capacity management unit 11 to set the remaining capacity of the transfer destination radio communication line to 0, and the remaining capacity management unit 11 generates the data table shown in FIG. The remaining capacity (both the periodic grant and the additional purchase, or one) of the transfer destination wireless communication circuit may be updated to zero.
In addition, when communication capacity can not be returned from the wireless communication line of the transfer destination, communication capacity may not be returned at all for the wireless communication line of the transfer source, for example, only 50% may be returned. . Also, the return communication capacity may be determined according to the interest rate set at the time of transfer with time limit.
By the above processing, transfer processing of communication capacity is automatically performed when the return time limit comes.

  In addition to the return process, when the return process management unit 21 searches, for example, the transfer return history data table every day at 24:00, a record whose return due date approaches is extracted and the return due date approaches via the notification unit 17. An e-mail or the like for notifying the user may be transmitted to the user using the wireless communication line. Furthermore, the return process management unit 21 acquires the remaining capacity of each of the transfer destination wireless communication lines whose return deadlines are approaching via the remaining capacity management unit 11, and the remaining capacity is less than the return communication capacity. May send a message prompting additional purchase of communication capacity.

Next, the case where the transferred user voluntarily performs the return process within the return period will be described.
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a screen used for returning the communication capacity transferred with a time limit according to an embodiment of the present invention.
This screen is a screen for instructing the user, who has received the transfer of the communication capacity with a time limit, to return the communication capacity.
In the area of reference numeral 31, transfer with a time limit of which return is not performed among the transfer processing history performed for the wireless communication line contracted by the user transferred from the wireless communication line contracted by another user The process history is displayed. This screen is based on the transfer and return history data table illustrated in FIG. In this example, transfer processing is performed three times from the wireless communication line "090-1234-5678", and the return deadlines thereof are "YY / MM / DD-1", "YY /" in order from the upper row. MM / DD-2 and YY / MM / DD-3 indicate that communication capacities to be returned are "530 MB", "1.1 GB" and "550 MB". The numerical values in parentheses at the bottom of the "Return Communication Capacity" column are the communication capacities actually transferred (actual transfer communication capacities), and do not include interest. As for the first line, the return communication capacity is 530 MB, and the transfer communication capacity is 500 MB. The value input in the input field 45 in the screen illustrated in FIG. 6 is “500” (MB), and it is transferred with the interest rate input in the input field 47 (interest rate) from the day when the transfer with time limit is performed. It shows that the communication capacity for interest calculated by the return communication capacity determination unit 20 is 30 MB based on the period since then. For example, a prorated calculation is used to calculate the return communication capacity according to the period since the transfer based on the interest rate.
In addition, with regard to transfer for which the return due date comes within a predetermined period, the background color is displayed in a color different from that of the normal time to notify the transfer destination user that the return due time is approaching. Furthermore, if there is no remaining capacity above the return communication capacity in the transfer destination wireless communication line among the transfers that will have their return due within the predetermined period, they will be displayed in red and left for the transfer destination user. Inform that there is not enough space. In addition, with regard to transfer that has passed the return deadline, the display will flash and display warning messages to make it stand out.

  By looking at this screen, the user who has rented the communication capacity can grasp which transfer time the return deadline for transfer is approaching and what communication capacity should be returned. The user puts a check mark on the left end of transfer history information for returning communication capacity, and selects it. Then, when the user presses the return button 32, the transfer request reception unit 15 transfers the transfer source wireless communication line, transfer destination wireless communication line, and communication capacity type of the row to which the check mark is attached (periodically assigned communication capacity or additional purchase communication Capacity), get information on return communication capacity. The transfer request reception unit 15 designates the acquired transfer destination wireless communication line as the transfer source, designates the acquired transfer source wireless communication line as the transfer destination, designates the acquired communication capacity type as the communication capacity type, and acquires it. The return processing capacity is designated as the transfer capacity to be transferred, and the return processing management unit 21 is instructed to perform the return processing. The return process management unit 21 determines whether or not the return is possible, and when the return is possible, the communication capacity transfer unit 13 performs the return process.

According to this embodiment, of the communication capacity in the first wireless communication line, the capacity which is not scheduled to be used for the time being can be transferred with a time limit to the second wireless communication line that requires the communication capacity, user convenience improves. For example, even when the user of the second wireless communication line urgently needs the communication capacity and can not afford to additionally purchase the communication capacity, it is possible to obtain the communication capacity and use the data communication.
In addition, even for the user of the first wireless communication line, by renting the communication capacity that would otherwise have been wasted due to reaching the expiration date, the second wireless communication line will have a sufficient expiration date later. Accordingly, it can be obtained as a communication capacity increased by an amount of interest. Also, for the telecommunications service business, revenue can be expected to be increased by promoting the use of data communication by users, purchasing communication capacity for return, and handling fees for timely transfer.
Although the example of using the interest rate set on the screen illustrated in FIG. 6 as the communication capacity to be returned has been described, the communication capacity to be returned is the same as the rented communication capacity, and the expiration date of the communication capacity after return May be extended by the interest rate. In this case, the remaining capacity management unit 11 adds the record of the returned communication capacity to the additional purchased communication capacity management data illustrated in FIG. 5 and uses the term of use extended by the interest rate as the term of use of the record. Set
Also, in the above example, the explanation was made using the case where transfer with time limit is possible from either of the periodic grant communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity, but transfer with time limit is executed only from the additional purchase communication capacity You may be able to

[Transfer process limitation]
Next, the function of limiting the time-limited transfer processing will be described based on the number of time-limited transfers and the transferred communication capacity results.

The transfer communication capacity management unit 16 manages, for each wireless communication line, the total of the transferred communication capacities and the number of transfers, based on the transfer return history data table of FIG. 8.
FIG. 12 is a view showing an example of a transfer result management data table according to the embodiment of the present invention. The transfer communication capacity management unit 16 transfers with a time limit for each wireless communication line every predetermined period (for example, one month) from the transfer processing history written out to the transfer return history data table illustrated in FIG. 9. And the number of times of transfer, the value of each transferred and transferred communication capacity, and whether transfer capacity can be returned within the return period when transferred with a time limit are written in this transfer results management data table Remember. The transfer result management data table is assumed to be stored in the management data storage unit 19.

When the user requests transfer processing, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 reads this transfer result management data table from the management data storage unit 19 and the communication capacity of the wireless communication line designated as the transfer destination within a predetermined period. The number of times the data has been transferred, and information on the total value of the transferred communication capacity. Then, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 compares at least one of the transferred number of times or the transferred communication total value with the predetermined threshold value for each, and the frequency or total communication capacity value exceeds the threshold. Then, for example, during the month, control is performed so that the wireless communication line designated as the transfer destination can not receive timed transfer of the communication capacity. Specifically, when the transfer request reception unit 15 receives a request for transfer with a time limit, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 outputs instruction information to the determination unit 12 to determine transfer is not possible, and the instruction information The acquired determination unit 12 determines that the transfer process can not be transferred. The management data storage unit 19 stores the transfer count and the transferred communication threshold.
In addition, when the number of times of transfer and the total value of transferred communication capacity exceed the predetermined threshold, transfer communication capacity management unit 16 charges the charge processing unit 14 instead of limiting transfer with time limit. May be instructed to

  In addition, when the number of transfers with time limit and the like becomes equal to or more than the threshold, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 transmits message destination information such as an e-mail address and a telephone number of a terminal using the wireless communication line of the transfer destination to the user contract information management device. Alternatively, the notification unit 17 may be instructed to perform an additional purchase notification of communication capacity. The notification unit 17 has additionally purchased, for example, "The number of times the transfer of communication capacity has been transferred within the current month (communication capacity) has exceeded the limit. If communication capacity is required, please purchase additional communication capacity." A message urging purchase of communication capacity is notified to the message transmission destination acquired from the user contract information management device 114.

  Further, when the user requests transfer processing, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 determines from the transfer result management data table that the wireless communication line designated as the transfer destination is in a predetermined period (for example, the last three months). Get information on return results. If "debt" is included in the acquired value, it instructs the determination unit 12 to determine that transfer is not possible, and if all the acquired values are "done", it is determined that transfer to the determination unit 12 is possible. To tell.

  Also, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 may control to limit the time-limited transfer process even for the transfer source wireless communication line. Specifically, when the user makes a transfer request with a time limit, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 reads the transfer result management data table, and the wireless communication line designated as the transfer source has a time limit within a predetermined period. Obtain information on the number of transfers and the total value of communication capacity. Then, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 compares at least one of the number of times of transfer with time limit and the total value of the transferred communication capacity with the predetermined threshold determined for each, and the number of times or total communication capacity value If the threshold is exceeded, for example, transfer of communication capacity is prohibited from the wireless communication line designated as the transfer source during the month. Specifically, when the transfer request reception unit 15 receives a transfer request, the transfer communication capacity management unit 16 outputs instruction information to the determination unit 12 to determine transfer impossible, and acquires the instruction information. The determination unit 12 determines that the transfer process can not be transferred.

  As a result, it is possible for the communication service entity to generate revenue while maintaining the convenience of the user by preventing unlimited timely transfer and promoting additional purchase of the communication capacity to the user requiring more communication capacity. Can be secured.

[Transfer process based on time-limited transfer plan]
Next, transfer processing based on the time-limited transfer plan will be described. In this process, the interest rate and time limit are presented to the transfer destination user in advance, and the user to which the communication capacity is transferred should select the time-limited transfer plan that meets the conditions, if necessary, and then use the communication capacity. Rental service.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen used for transfer processing based on a time-limited transfer plan according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13A is a screen on which the transfer source user inputs the transfer conditions of the time-limited transfer plan. This screen is provided, for example, on a portal site dedicated to the user. In the input field 51, the wireless communication line as the transfer source is input. The selection column 52 is an item for selecting from which of the periodic additional communication capacity and the additional purchase communication capacity the communication capacity is to be transferred or not to be specified. In the input field 53, the wireless communication line of the transfer destination is input. In the input field 54, a user name or the like contracted with the transfer destination line is entered. When the transfer destination is limited to the same billing group, the identification numbers of wireless communication lines belonging to the same billing group and the user names are displayed in a pull-down list in the input field 53 and the input field 54 respectively. It may be possible to select from among them. In the input field 55, the return due date is input. In the input field 56, the interest rate is input. In the input field 57, the expiration date required for the communication capacity to be returned is entered. In the input field 58, the maximum communication capacity that can be transferred is input. The transfer source user, for example, sets this maximum transfer communication capacity in accordance with the conditions such as the interest rate. For example, when setting a large interest rate, a large communication capacity is also input to the input field 58. When the transfer source user inputs the above items and presses the registration button 59, the transfer request receiving unit 15 writes and stores the information (transfer schedule with time limit) input on this screen in the management data storage unit 19 .

FIG. 13B is an example of a screen used when the transfer destination user who has contracted the wireless communication line specified in the input column 53 (transfer destination line) in FIG. 13A applies for rental of communication capacity. It is. This screen is displayed, for example, by a dedicated application program provided in a terminal used by the transfer destination user.
Reference numeral 61 is an area for displaying a list of time-limited transfer plans registered on the screen of FIG. 13A for the transfer destination user. Also, when "time-limited transfer plan 001" displayed on the first line is pressed, the contents set in FIG. 13A are displayed, and the transfer destination user can check the rental conditions of each plan . The transfer destination user selects a plan from the time limit transfer plan in the area 61 which can be reasonably returned and which allows rental of communication capacity to be rented. The transfer destination user inputs the necessary communication capacity in the input field 62. The communication capacity input to the input field 62 should be smaller than the maximum transfer communication capacity set in the time-limited transfer plan selected in the area 61. Note that, for example, a standard such as “an XX MB is required to browse an XX moving image for one hour” may be displayed so that the transfer destination user can grasp the necessary communication capacity. When the user of the transfer destination inputs the above items and presses the application button 63, the terminal of the transfer destination user transmits these pieces of information to the communication capacity management device 1. In the communication capacity management device 1, the transfer request reception unit 15 Get the information. The transfer request receiving unit 15 is a terminal that the transfer source user uses, via the notification unit 17, the transfer plan selected by the transfer destination user, the communication capacity to be rented, and a message requesting confirmation as to whether or not to accept this application. Send to Next, when the transfer source user performs an operation such as pressing the consent button on the web page for performing an operation for approving the transfer application, for example, the transfer request receiving unit 15 displays information indicating that the approval has been made. , And instructs the communication capacity transfer unit 13 to execute time-limited transfer processing. The subsequent processing is performed in the same manner as described in FIG.

  If there is not sufficient remaining capacity in the transfer source wireless communication line and the communication capacity set in the transfer plan can not be transferred, the notification unit 17 notifies the user of the transfer source of additional purchase of communication capacity. Do. In this case, when the transfer source user can purchase additional communication capacity and transfer the communication capacity set in the transfer plan, a time-limited transfer process is performed.

  As a result, the transfer source user can save time and effort in setting the time-limited transfer processing, and the transfer destination user can select a plan with appropriate conditions according to the situation from among a plurality of time-limited transfer plans. You can choose to rent a communication capacity.

  Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail with reference to the drawings, the specific configuration is not limited to this embodiment, and design changes and the like within the scope of the present invention are also included.

A computer program for realizing the functions of the communication capacity management device 1 described above is recorded in a computer readable recording medium, and the computer system reads the program recorded in the recording medium and executes it. It is also good. Note that the “computer system” referred to here may include an OS and hardware such as peripheral devices.
The “computer readable recording medium” is a writable non-volatile memory such as a flexible disk, a magneto-optical disk, a ROM, a flash memory, etc., a portable medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), and a computer system. Storage devices such as hard disks.

Furthermore, “computer-readable recording medium” refers to volatile memory (for example, DRAM (for example, DRAM (for example) in a server or client when a program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a wireless communication line such as a telephone line). Dynamic Random Access Memory), etc., includes those that hold a program for a certain period of time.
The program may be transmitted from a computer system in which the program is stored in a storage device or the like to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves in the transmission medium. Here, the "transmission medium" for transmitting the program refers to a medium having a function of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a wireless communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line.
Further, the program may be for realizing a part of the functions described above. Furthermore, it may be a so-called difference file (difference program) that can realize the above-described functions in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Communication capacity management apparatus, 11 ... Remaining capacity management part, 12 ... Judgment part, 13 ... Communication capacity transfer part, 14 ... Charging process part, 15 ... Transfer request reception part, 16 ... Transfer communication capacity management part, 17 ... Notification 18 18 communication unit 19 management data storage unit 20 return communication capacity determination unit 21 return processing management unit 23 CPU unit 24 storage unit 25 communication capacity management program 102 terminal 102 104: base station, 106: wireless communication line, 108: gateway, 112: communication control device, 114: user contract information management device, 116: settlement device

Claims (12)

Remaining capacity management unit for managing remaining capacity of communication capacity allocated to each of the first wireless communication line and the second wireless communication line, which are wireless communication lines having a restriction on communication capacity indicating data transfer amount that can be used for communication ,
A determination unit that determines whether transfer of communication capacity is possible from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line;
A communication capacity for transferring a desired communication capacity from the remaining capacity of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line allocated to the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit based on the determination of the determination unit Transfer department,
A communication capacity management device comprising: The system further comprises a charge processing unit that performs charge processing for collecting a charge for the time limit transfer of the communication capacity,
When the communication capacity transfer unit transfers the communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the charge processing unit transmits the first wireless communication line to the first user. The identification information and the identification information of the second user who uses the second wireless communication line are acquired, and the charging process is performed on at least one of the acquired identification information of the first user and the acquired second user. The communication capacity management device according to claim 1. The remaining capacity management unit is a communication capacity with a fixed period of use, which is a communication capacity with an expiration date that is allocated by a predetermined amount every predetermined period for each wireless communication line, and a communication capacity with an expiration date additionally purchased. Store separately from the additional purchase communication capacity,
The communication capacity transfer unit transfers a desired communication capacity from the remaining capacity of the additional purchased communication capacity of the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit. The communication capacity management device according to 2. For the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the return communication capacity determination to determine the communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line Further equipped with
The return communication capacity determination unit determines the communication capacity to be returned according to a period after being transferred with a time limit to the second wireless communication line,
The communication capacity transfer unit determines the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit based on an instruction operation of the user using the second wireless communication line within the time limit related to the time-limited transfer. The communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein transfer is performed from a line to the first wireless communication line. For the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the return communication capacity determination to determine the communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line Further equipped with
The communication capacity transfer unit transfers the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line when a time limit for the time-limited transfer comes. The communication capacity management device according to any one of claims 3 to 10. For the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the return communication capacity determination to determine the communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line Further equipped with
The communication capacity is transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, and the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit from the second wireless communication line is within a time limit. The communication capacity management according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising: a notification unit for notifying the second user who uses the second wireless communication line to purchase additional communication capacity if return can not be made. apparatus. For the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the return communication capacity determination to determine the communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line Department,
A charge processing unit that performs charge processing for collecting a charge for time-limited transfer of communication capacity;
And further
The communication capacity is transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, and the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit from the second wireless communication line is within a time limit. If you can not return
The communication capacity management device according to claim 1, wherein the charge processing unit performs charge processing on identification information of a second user who uses the second wireless communication channel. For the communication capacity transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, the return communication capacity determination to determine the communication capacity to be returned from the second wireless communication line to the first wireless communication line Department,
And further
The communication capacity is transferred from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit, and the communication capacity determined by the return communication capacity determination unit from the second wireless communication line is within a time limit. If you can not return
The communication capacity management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the remaining capacity management unit sets the remaining capacity allocated to the second wireless communication line to zero. When transferring the communication capacity from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit,
The communication capacity transfer unit is configured such that a second user using the second wireless communication line out of one or more time-limited transfer conditions registered in advance by the first user using the first wireless communication line The communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the time-limited transfer of the communication capacity is performed based on the selected time-limited transfer condition. Transfer Communication Capacity Management Department that manages, for each wireless communication line, the total of the transferred communication capacity and the number of times the transfer was performed with a time limit
And further
When the communication capacity transferred with a time limit to the second wireless communication line managed by the transfer communication capacity management unit or the number of transfer times with a time limit exceeds a predetermined threshold value, the communication capacity transfer unit may execute the second period for a predetermined period. The communication capacity management apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein transfer of the communication capacity to the wireless communication line with time limit is prohibited. A communication capacity management apparatus for managing the remaining capacity of communication capacity allocated to each of a first wireless communication line and a second wireless communication line, which is a wireless communication line having a restriction on communication capacity indicating a data transfer amount usable for communication ,
Determining whether transfer of communication capacity is possible from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line,
And transferring the desired communication capacity from the remaining capacity of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line allocated to the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line with a time limit based on the determination. A communication capacity management apparatus for managing remaining capacity of communication capacity allocated to each of a first wireless communication line and a second wireless communication line, which are wireless communication lines having a restriction on communication capacity indicating data transfer amount available for communication Computer,
Means for determining whether transfer of communication capacity is possible from the first wireless communication line to the second wireless communication line;
A means for transferring a desired communication capacity out of the remaining capacity of the communication capacity of the wireless communication line allocated to the first wireless communication line based on the determination, to the second wireless communication line with a time limit;
Computer program to function as.

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