JP2024088518A - Information processing device, vending machine, information processing method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

[Problem] To provide an information processing device, method, and program for performing appropriate payment using a user terminal when using a vending machine. [Solution] In a vending machine system, the information processing device includes a purchase information receiving unit that receives purchase information having a product identifier and a first identifier from the vending machine, a user information receiving unit that receives user information having a second identifier and a user identifier from the user terminal, a determination unit that determines whether vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between the first identifier contained in the purchase information and the second identifier contained in the user information exists in the vending machine management unit, and if so, a payment processing unit that performs a payment process to have the settlement party corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier contained in the user information pay the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information, and performs appropriate payment using the user terminal when using the vending machine. [Selected Figure] Figure 3

Description

The present invention relates to an information processing device that supports payment when purchasing products from a vending machine.

Conventionally, there has been a vending machine system that can reduce the time lost from the completion of payment processing between a mobile terminal and a payment server to the delivery of a product (see Patent Document 1).

JP 2022-46396 A

However, conventional technology does not allow proper payment to be made using a user terminal when using a vending machine.

The information processing device of the first invention is an information processing device that includes a vending machine in which a first identifier for identifying the vending machine is stored, a vending machine having an ID storage medium in which a second identifier for identifying the vending machine is stored, a purchase information receiving unit that receives purchase information from the vending machine that accepts a product purchase instruction and transmits purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and the first identifier, a user information receiving unit that receives user information including the second identifier and a user identifier from a user terminal that has acquired the second identifier from the ID storage medium, a determination unit that references a vending machine management unit in which one or more pieces of vending machine management information, which is information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier and the second identifier, are stored, and determines whether vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier contained in the purchase information and the second identifier contained in the user information exists in the vending machine management unit, and a payment processing unit that performs a payment process to have a settlement party corresponding to the user identifier contained in the user information pay an amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information when the determination unit determines that the amount exists in the vending machine management unit.

This configuration allows appropriate payment to be made using the user terminal when using the vending machine.

The information processing device of the second invention is an information processing device according to the first invention, in which the user information receiving unit receives user information from each of two or more user terminals, the determination unit refers to the vending machine management unit and determines whether vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between a first identifier contained in the purchase information and each of two or more second identifiers contained in the user information received from each of the two or more user terminals is present in the vending machine management unit, and the payment processing unit, when the determination unit determines that all vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between the first identifier and each of the two or more second identifiers is present in the vending machine management unit, performs a payment process to have a settlement person corresponding to any one or more users among the users identified by the user identifiers contained in the two or more user information pay the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information.

This configuration allows appropriate payment to be made using the user terminal when two or more users use the vending machine.

The information processing device of the third invention is an information processing device in which, compared to the second invention, the determination unit refers to a group management unit in which one or more group information having two or more user identifiers is stored, and determines whether group information having two or more second identifiers held by user information received from each of two or more user terminals exists in the group management unit, and the payment processing unit performs payment processing only when the determination unit determines that group information having two or more second identifiers exists in the group management unit.

This configuration allows appropriate payment to be made using a user terminal when a vending machine is used by a group of two or more specific users.

The information processing device of the fourth invention is an information processing device according to any one of the first to third inventions, in which the payment processing unit performs payment processing using only the user information received when the approximate condition is satisfied relative to when the purchase information receiving unit receives the purchase information.

This configuration allows for more appropriate payment using the user terminal when using a vending machine.

The information processing device of the fifth invention is an information processing device according to any one of the first to third inventions, further comprising an instruction sending unit that sends an ejection instruction to the vending machine when the payment processing unit performs payment processing or when the payment processing has been performed.

This configuration allows appropriate payment and product dispensing using a user terminal when using a vending machine.

The vending machine of the sixth invention is a vending machine that includes a vending machine storage unit in which a first identifier that identifies the vending machine is stored, an ID storage medium in which a second identifier that identifies the vending machine is stored, a vending machine reception unit that receives a product purchase instruction, a vending machine configuration unit that configures purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and the first identifier, and a vending machine transmission unit that transmits the purchase information to an information processing device.

This configuration makes it possible to provide a vending machine that allows appropriate payment using a user terminal when using the vending machine.

The seventh aspect of the present invention is a vending machine that, compared to the sixth aspect of the present invention, further includes a vending machine receiving unit that receives a discharge instruction corresponding to the purchase information from the information processing device, and a discharge unit that discharges the product corresponding to the discharge instruction when the vending machine receiving unit receives the discharge instruction.

This configuration allows appropriate payment and product dispensing using a user terminal when using a vending machine.

The vending machine of the eighth invention is different from the sixth or seventh invention in that the ID storage medium is an NFC medium.

This configuration makes it possible to provide a vending machine equipped with an NFC medium that allows appropriate payment using a user terminal when using the vending machine.

The user information of the ninth invention is a user terminal having a terminal storage unit in which a user identifier is stored, a terminal acquisition unit that acquires the second identifier from an ID storage medium of a vending machine in which the second identifier is stored, and a terminal transmission unit that transmits user information including the second identifier and the user identifier to an information processing device.

This configuration makes it possible to provide a user terminal that can make appropriate payments when using a vending machine.

The information processing device according to the present invention allows appropriate payment to be made using a user terminal when using a vending machine.

Conceptual diagram of vending machine system A in embodiment 1 Block diagram of the vending machine system A Block diagram of the information processing device 1 A flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the information processing device 1. A flowchart illustrating an example of the determination process A flowchart illustrating an example of the payment process A flowchart illustrating an example of the timeout process. A flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the vending machine 2 A flowchart for explaining an example of the operation of the user terminal 3 A diagram showing the vending machine management table A diagram showing the group management table A diagram showing the usage image A diagram showing the usage image, etc. FIG. 2 shows an image of the vending machine 2.

Embodiments of an information processing device and the like will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that components with the same reference numerals in the embodiments perform similar operations, and therefore may not be described again.

(Embodiment 1)
In this embodiment, a vending machine in which a first identifier is stored and which transmits user information including an ID storage medium in which a readable second identifier is stored to an information processing device will be described.

In addition, in this embodiment, a user terminal is described that acquires a second identifier from an ID storage medium of a vending machine and transmits user information including the second identifier and a user identifier to an information processing device.

We also describe an information processing device that receives purchase information from a vending machine, receives user information from a user terminal, and performs a payment process using the purchase information and the user information to have the settlement party corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier included in the user information pay the amount corresponding to the purchased item.

In addition, in this embodiment, an information processing device that receives user information from two or more user terminals and performs payments for one or more users is described. In such a case, it is preferable that user groups for two or more user terminals are managed.

In addition, in this embodiment, we will describe an information processing device that performs payment processing using only user information received within a predetermined time difference from the time when the purchase information was received.

Furthermore, in this embodiment, we will explain an information processing device that sends a discharge instruction to the vending machine when payment processing is performed or when payment processing has been performed.

In this embodiment, information X being associated with information Y means that information Y can be obtained from information X, or information X can be obtained from information Y, and the method of association is not important. Information X and information Y may be linked, may exist in the same buffer, information X may be included in information Y, or information Y may be included in information X, etc.

Figure 1 is a conceptual diagram of vending machine system A in this embodiment. Vending machine system A includes an information processing device 1, one or more vending machines 2, and one or more user terminals 3. In Figure 1, symbols G1, ..., GN are identifiers of groups of two or more user terminals 3. Note that in vending machine system A, there may be user terminals 3 that do not belong to a group, and all user terminals 3 do not have to belong to a group.

The information processing device 1 is a server that supports payment processing when purchasing products from the vending machine 2. The information processing device 1 is, for example, a cloud server or an ASP server, but the type is not important.

The vending machine 2 is a vending machine that sells a product. The product may be, for example, a beverage, but it does not matter. The product may also be a voucher for a product that the user ultimately obtains. The product may also be considered to include a service. The service may be, for example, a car parking service or a motorcycle parking service. The vending machine 2 that sells the service is, for example, a device that unlocks a car park or a bicycle parking area.

The user terminal 3 is a terminal used by a user who purchases a product from the vending machine 2. The user terminal 3 may be, for example, a smartphone, but it may also be a watch-type terminal, a tablet terminal, a so-called personal computer, or the like, and the type of the terminal is not important.

The information processing device 1 and the vending machine 2, and the information processing device 1 and the user terminal 3 are typically capable of communicating via the Internet, a LAN, or the like. It is preferable that the vending machine 2 and the user terminal 3 are capable of communicating via short-range wireless communication or other communication means.

Figure 2 is a block diagram of the vending machine system A in this embodiment. Figure 3 is a block diagram of the information processing device 1.

The information processing device 1 includes a storage unit 11, a receiving unit 12, a processing unit 13, and a transmission unit 14. The storage unit 11 includes a vending machine management unit 111 and a group management unit 112. The receiving unit 12 includes a purchase information receiving unit 121 and a user information receiving unit 122. The processing unit 13 includes a judgment unit 131 and a payment processing unit 132. The transmission unit 14 includes an instruction transmission unit 141.

The vending machine 2 includes a vending machine storage unit 21, an ID storage medium 22, a vending machine reception unit 23, a vending machine processing unit 24, a vending machine receiving unit 25, a vending machine transmitting unit 26, a vending machine output unit 27, and an ejection unit 28. The vending machine processing unit 24 includes a vending machine configuration unit 241.

The user terminal 3 includes a terminal storage unit 31, a terminal reception unit 32, a terminal processing unit 33, a terminal transmission unit 34, a terminal reception unit 35, and a terminal output unit 36.

Various types of information are stored in the storage unit 11 that constitutes the information processing device 1. Examples of the various types of information include vending machine management information, user information, and group information, which are described below.

User information is information about a user who uses the user terminal 3. User information includes, for example, a user identifier and one or more user attribute values. User attribute values include, for example, a credit card number, a name, a telephone number, and an email address.

The user attribute value may be a group identifier of a group to which the user belongs. In such a case, one group information is two or more group identifiers that are paired with one group identifier.

The vending machine management unit 111 stores one or more pieces of vending machine management information. The vending machine management information is information that indicates the correspondence between a first identifier and a second identifier of a vending machine 2. The vending machine management information has, for example, a first identifier and a second identifier of a vending machine 2. The vending machine management information is associated with, for example, a vending machine identifier that identifies a vending machine 2.

The first identifier is information unique to the vending machine 2. The first identifier is, for example, the identifier of a SIM inserted in the vending machine 2 to communicate with the information processing device 1.

The second identifier is information that identifies the ID storage medium 22 that the vending machine 2 is equipped with. The second identifier is, for example, information that identifies an ID storage medium 22 that has a short-range wireless communication function, such as an NFC identifier.

The group management unit 112 stores one or more pieces of group information. Group information is information for managing groups. A group is a group of two or more users. A group here is a collection of users who use the vending machine 2 together. A group is, for example, an organization such as a company or a department. Group information usually has two or more user identifiers. A burden flag may be associated with a user identifier. The burden flag is information indicating whether or not a user can be the party that pays the cost of a product when a group of two or more users purchases the product. When a group of two or more users purchases a product, the user identified by the user identifier that is associated with the burden flag pays the cost of the product. Payment usage information may be associated with a user identifier. Payment usage information is information used for payment. Payment usage information is, for example, a credit card number or a user ID of a payment app, but it may also be other information that can be used for payment.

The receiving unit 12 receives various instructions and information. The various instructions and information include, for example, purchase information and terminal information, which are described below.

The purchase information receiving unit 121 receives purchase information from one or more vending machines 2. Such vending machines 2 are vending machines that have accepted an instruction to purchase a product.

The purchase information is information related to the purchase of a product at the vending machine 2. The purchase information includes, for example, a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and a first identifier. The purchase information includes, for example, a vending machine identifier. The purchase information includes, for example, purchase time information.

The first identifier is information that identifies the vending machine 2. The product identifier is information that identifies a product. The product identifier is, for example, the identifier of the column of the vending machine 2, the product ID, and the product name. The vending machine identifier is information that identifies the vending machine 2. The purchase time information is, for example, information that identifies the time when the vending machine 2 obtained the product identifier and the first identifier. The purchase time information is, for example, information that identifies the time when a purchase instruction was input in the vending machine 2. The purchase time information is, for example, the time of day.

The user information receiving unit 122 receives user information from one or more user terminals 3. The user information is information transmitted from the user terminal 3 when purchasing a product. The user information includes a second identifier and a user identifier. The user information includes, for example, user time information.

The second identifier is an identifier of the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2, and is information that identifies the vending machine 2. The user time information is information that specifies the time when the user terminal 3 transmits the second identifier and the user identifier. The user time information is, for example, the time of day.

The processing unit 13 performs various types of processing. For example, the various types of processing are performed by the judgment unit 131 and the payment processing unit 132.

The determination unit 131 determines whether vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between the first identifier contained in the received purchase information and the second identifier contained in the received user information exists in the vending machine management unit 111.

The judgment unit 131 normally obtains a judgment result indicating whether or not to make a payment. Note that if the judgment result is information indicating that a payment should be made, this is a case in which the payment conditions are met.

The payment condition is, for example, satisfying the proximity condition and the vending machine condition. The payment condition is, for example, satisfying the vending machine condition.

The approximation condition is that the difference between the purchase time information contained in the purchase information and the user time information contained in the user information is within a threshold or shorter than the threshold.

The vending machine condition is that vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between a first identifier contained in the received purchase information and a second identifier contained in the received user information is present in the vending machine management unit 111.

The judgment unit 131 judges, for example, whether vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between a first identifier contained in the received purchase information and two or more second identifiers contained in the user information received from each of two or more user terminals is present in the vending machine management unit 111.

The user information received from each of two or more user terminals here is typically user information received simultaneously or within a time period within a threshold.

The determination unit 131, for example, determines whether group information having two or more user identifiers contained in user information received from two or more user terminals 3 exists in the group management unit 112.

The judgment unit 131 obtains a judgment result that payment will be made, for example, when vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between a first identifier contained in the received purchase information and two or more second identifiers contained in the user information received from each of two or more user terminals exists in the vending machine management unit 111, and group information having two or more user identifiers contained in the two or more user information exists in the group management unit 112.

The payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing when the judgment unit 131 obtains a judgment result that payment should be made. The payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing when it judges that the judgment unit 131 exists in the vending machine management unit 111.

The payment process is a process related to the payment of a user's product purchase at the vending machine 2. The payment process is a process for having the settlement party corresponding to the user identifier in the user information pay the amount corresponding to the product identifier in the purchase information.

The adjuster corresponding to a user identifier is, for example, the user identified by the user identifier, but may be a person other than the user. A person other than the user is, for example, the organization to which the user identified by the user identifier belongs, the guardian of the user identified by the user identifier, or a person who has some kind of relationship with the user identified by the user identifier. Also, it can be said that the adjuster corresponding to a user identifier is the adjuster corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier. The adjuster corresponding to a user may be the user.

The amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information may be all or part of the purchase price of the product identified by the product identifier contained in the purchase information. The amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information is the amount to be paid by the adjuster corresponding to the user identifier.

The payment process is, for example, a process for making a payment using payment information such as the user's credit card number. The process for making a payment is, for example, a process for sending payment information and the amount to a payment server. However, the payment process may also be a process that supports payment, or any process related to payment. In other words, the content of the payment process is not important.

When the judgment unit 131 judges that the vending machine management unit 111 has vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between the first identifier contained in the purchase information and the second identifier contained in the user information, the payment processing unit 132 performs a payment process to have the settlement person corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier contained in the user information pay the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information.

For example, when the judgment unit 131 judges that all of the vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier and each of two or more second identifiers is present in the vending machine management unit 111, the payment processing unit 132 performs a payment process to have the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information paid by a settlement person corresponding to any one or more users among the users identified by the user identifiers contained in each of the two or more pieces of user information.

It is preferable that the payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing only when the judgment unit 131 judges that group information having two or more second identifiers exists in the group management unit 112.

The payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing using only the user information received when the approximate condition is satisfied relative to when the purchase information receiving unit 121 received the purchase information.

The transmission unit 14 transmits various information and instructions. Examples of the various information and instructions include discharge instructions and payment completion information, which will be described later.

The payment completion information is information indicating that the payment has been completed. The transmission unit 14 transmits the payment completion information to the user terminal 3.

The instruction sending unit 141 sends an ejection instruction to the vending machine 2 when the payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing or when payment processing has been performed. An ejection instruction is usually an instruction to eject a product. An ejection instruction is usually an instruction to eject a product specified by the user from the vending machine 2. However, an ejection instruction may also be considered as an instruction to enable the user to remove the product. An ejection instruction may also be an instruction to unlock a storeroom in which products are sold (referred to as an "unlock instruction" as appropriate). An unlocking instruction may also be an instruction to unlock a car park or bicycle parking area, for example.

Various types of information are stored in the vending machine storage unit 21 that constitutes the vending machine 2. The various types of information are, for example, a first identifier.

The ID storage medium 22 stores a second identifier. Note that the second identifier is usually information different from the first identifier. The ID storage medium 22 is, for example, affixed to the vending machine 2. The ID storage medium 22 is, for example, inserted into the vending machine 2. The ID storage medium 22 is, for example, an NFC chip, an NFC card, or a medium on which a code is printed. The code corresponds to the second identifier. For example, the second identifier is embedded in the code. The code is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark) or a barcode, but it does not matter.

It is preferable that the ID storage medium 22 is a medium that is installed in the vending machine 2 without any modification to the internal mechanism of the vending machine 2.

The vending machine reception unit 23 receives various instructions and information. Various instructions and information are, for example, purchase instructions. A purchase instruction is an instruction to purchase a product. A purchase instruction is generated, for example, by pressing a button on the vending machine 2. A purchase instruction is associated with a product identifier.

Here, reception includes reception of instructions from buttons on the vending machine 2, reception of instructions input from an input device such as a touch panel, reception of information transmitted via a wired or wireless communication line, etc.

The vending machine processing unit 24 performs various types of processing. The various types of processing are, for example, processing performed by the vending machine configuration unit 241. The various types of processing are, for example, processing performed by a known vending machine 2.

The vending machine configuration unit 241 configures purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction accepted by the vending machine acceptance unit 23 and a first identifier of the vending machine storage unit 21. The product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction is, for example, a product identifier corresponding to the button pressed by the user.

The vending machine receiving unit 25 receives various information and instructions. For example, the vending machine receiving unit 25 receives a discharge instruction from the information processing device 1. For example, the vending machine receiving unit 25 receives a second identifier transmission instruction from the user terminal 3.

The vending machine transmission unit 26 transmits the purchase information configured by the vending machine configuration unit 241 to the information processing device 1.

The vending machine output unit 27 outputs various information. For example, the various information includes sound effects when a button on the vending machine 2 is pressed, and sound effects and information that correspond to an ejection command and indicate that payment has been completed.

Here, output is a concept that includes displaying on a display, projecting using a projector, printing on a printer, outputting sound, sending to an external device, storing on a recording medium, and passing on the processing results to other processing devices or other programs, etc.

The ejection unit 28 ejects products from the vending machine 2. When the vending machine receiving unit 25 receives an ejection instruction from the information processing device 1, the ejection unit 28 ejects the product corresponding to the ejection instruction. The product corresponding to the ejection instruction is, for example, a product corresponding to a product identifier contained in the ejection instruction, or a product corresponding to a purchase instruction (for example, a product corresponding to a button indicated by a user). Note that the process of a vending machine ejecting a product is a publicly known technique. Also, ejecting a product may be considered to include ejecting an exchange ticket for the product.

Various types of information are stored in the terminal storage unit 31 that constitutes the user terminal 3. The various types of information are, for example, a user identifier.

The terminal reception unit 32 receives various instructions and information. For example, various instructions and information are instructions to obtain a second identifier.

The second identifier acquisition instruction is an instruction to acquire the second identifier from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. The second identifier acquisition instruction is, for example, an instruction to launch an app that acquires the second identifier from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2.

The means for inputting various instructions and information can be anything, such as a touch panel, keyboard, mouse, or menu screen.

The terminal processing unit 33 performs various types of processing. For example, various types of processing are processing to convert received information, instructions, etc. into information, instructions, etc. with a structure to be transmitted. For example, various types of processing are processing to convert received information into information with a structure to be output.

The device processing unit 33 constructs user information having the second identifier and the user identifier received by the device receiving unit 35. The device processing unit 33 constructs user information having the second identifier, the user identifier, and the user time information received by the device receiving unit 35. The user time information is, for example, the current time obtained by the device processing unit 33 from a clock (not shown).

The terminal transmission unit 34 transmits various instructions and information. For example, the terminal transmission unit 34 transmits user information constructed by the device processing unit 33 to the information processing device 1. For example, the terminal transmission unit 34 transmits a second identifier transmission instruction to the vending machine 2.

The terminal receiving unit 35 receives various types of information. For example, the terminal receiving unit 35 receives a second identifier from the ID storage medium 22. For example, the terminal receiving unit 35 receives payment completion information from the information processing device 1.

The terminal output unit 36 outputs various information, such as payment completion information.

Here, output usually means showing on a display or projecting using a projector, but it can also be a concept that includes printing on a printer, sending to an external device, storing on a recording medium, passing the processing results to another processing device or another program, etc.

The storage unit 11, vending machine management unit 111, group management unit 112, vending machine storage unit 21, and terminal storage unit 31 are preferably non-volatile recording media, but can also be realized using volatile recording media.

The process by which information is stored in the storage unit 11, etc. is not important. For example, information may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc. via a recording medium, information transmitted via a communication line, etc. may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc., or information inputted via an input device may be stored in the storage unit 11, etc.

The receiving unit 12, the purchase information receiving unit 121, the user information receiving unit 122, and the terminal receiving unit 35 are typically realized by wireless or wired communication means, but may also be realized by means of receiving broadcasts.

The processing unit 13, judgment unit 131, payment processing unit 132, vending machine processing unit 24, vending machine configuration unit 241, and terminal processing unit 33 can usually be realized by a processor, memory, etc. The processing procedures of the processing unit 13, etc. are usually realized by software, and the software is recorded in a recording medium such as a ROM. However, they may also be realized by hardware (dedicated circuitry). The processor may be a CPU, MPU, GPU, etc., and the type is not important.

The transmission unit 14, the instruction transmission unit 141, the vending machine transmission unit 26, and the terminal transmission unit 34 are typically realized by wireless or wired communication means, but may also be realized by broadcasting means.

The ID storage medium 22 is usually realized by a non-volatile recording medium. It is preferable that the ID storage medium 22 has a communication function. The communication here is preferably, for example, short-range wireless communication, but the type of communication is not important.

The vending machine reception unit 23 is realized, for example, by buttons and a touch panel.

The discharge section 28 is realized by the product discharge mechanism of the vending machine 2.

The terminal reception unit 32 can be realized by a device driver for an input means such as a touch panel or keyboard, or control software for a menu screen, etc.

The terminal output unit 36 may or may not include an output device such as a display or speaker. The terminal output unit 36 may be realized by driver software for an output device, or by a combination of driver software for an output device and an output device, etc.

Next, an example of the operation of the vending machine system A will be described. First, an example of the operation of the information processing device 1 will be described using the flowchart in FIG. 4.

(Step S401) The purchase information receiving unit 121 determines whether or not purchase information has been received from the vending machine 2. If purchase information has been received, the process proceeds to step S402; if not, the process proceeds to step S404.

(Step S402) The processing unit 13 obtains the current time from a clock (not shown). Note that this current time is usually the purchase time information. Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new purchase information having the first identifier included in the purchase information received in step S401, the product identifier included in the purchase information, and the purchase time information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new purchase information in a buffer (not shown).

In step S402, the processing unit 13 does not need to acquire the purchase information. In such a case, the purchase information is included in the purchase information.

(Step S403) The judgment unit 131 judges whether or not unused user information exists in a buffer (not shown). If the user information exists, the process proceeds to step S407, and if not, the process returns to step S401. Note that unused user information is user information that is not associated with a completion flag, or user information that has resulted in an error.

(Step S404) The user information receiving unit 122 determines whether or not user information has been received from the user terminal 3. If user information has been received, the process proceeds to step S405; if not, the process proceeds to step S415.

(Step S405) The processing unit 13 acquires the current time from a clock (not shown). This current time is assumed to be user time information. Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new user information having the second identifier included in the user information received in step S404 and the user identifier and user time information included in the user information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new user information in a buffer (not shown). Note that in step S405, the processing unit 13 does not need to acquire the user time information. In such a case, the user time information is included in the user information.

(Step S406) The judgment unit 131 judges whether or not unused purchase information exists in a buffer (not shown). If the purchase information exists, the process proceeds to step S407, and if not, the process returns to step S401. Note that unused purchase information is purchase information that does not have a completion flag associated with it, or purchase information that has resulted in an error.

(Step S407) The judgment unit 131 performs a judgment process as to whether or not to perform payment processing. An example of the judgment process will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 5. The judgment process as to whether or not to perform payment processing is a process of judging whether or not the payment conditions are satisfied.

(Step S408) The payment processing unit 132 judges whether the judgment result in step S407 is "OK" or "NG". If it is "OK", proceed to step S409, and if it is "NG", return to step S401. Note that if the judgment result is "OK", it means that the payment conditions are met.

(Step S409) The payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing. An example of the payment processing is described using the flowchart in FIG. 6.

(Step S410) The processing unit 13 determines whether the payment has been completed normally. If the payment has been completed normally, the process proceeds to step S411. If the payment has not been completed normally, the process proceeds to step S413.

(Step S411) The processing unit 13 constructs an ejection instruction. The ejection instruction has, for example, one or more product identifiers contained in the purchase information that was the subject of the judgment process in step S407. The ejection instruction may, for example, not have a product identifier and may be only a command or flag to eject the product.

The instruction sending unit 141 also acquires the first identifier contained in the purchase information that was the subject of the judgment process in step S407. Next, the instruction sending unit 141 transmits the configured discharge instruction to the vending machine 2 identified by the first identifier.

(Step S412) The processing unit 13 assigns a completion flag to the purchase information that was the subject of the judgment process in step S407. The processing unit 13 also assigns a completion flag to the user information that was the subject of the judgment process in step S407. The processing unit 13 returns to the upper level process. Note that the completion flag is information that indicates that the information is for which payment has been made.

(Step S413) The processing unit 13 acquires an error code and/or an error message. The transmission unit 14 transmits the error code and/or an error message to the vending machine 2 identified by the first identifier contained in the purchase information that was the subject of the judgment process in step S407. The transmission unit 14 also transmits the error code and/or an error message to the user terminal 3 identified by the user identifier contained in the user information that was the subject of the judgment process in step S407.

(Step S414) The processing unit 13 deletes the purchase information that was the subject of the determination process in step S407 from a buffer (not shown). The processing unit 13 deletes the user information that was the subject of the determination process in step S407 from a buffer (not shown). Return to step S401.

(Step S415) The processing unit 13 performs timeout processing. Return to step S401. An example of the timeout processing will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. 7. The timeout processing is a process that is performed when it is determined that the received purchase information or user information will not be used for payment due to a timeout.

In the flowchart in Figure 4, processing ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt occurs to end processing.

Next, an example of the determination process in step S407 will be described using the flowchart in FIG.

(Step S501) The judgment unit 131 acquires the purchase time information contained in the purchase information to be inspected.

(Step S502) The judgment unit 131 acquires the first identifier included in the purchase information to be inspected.

(Step S503) The judgment unit 131 assigns 1 to the counter i.

(Step S504) The judgment unit 131 judges whether or not there is unprocessed i-th user information in a buffer (not shown). If there is i-th user information, the process proceeds to step S505; if not, the process proceeds to step S514.

(Step S505) The judgment unit 131 obtains the user time information included in the i-th user information.

(Step S506) The judgment unit 131 judges whether the purchase time information acquired in step S501 and the user time information acquired in step S505 satisfy the approximation condition. If the approximation condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S507, and if not, the process proceeds to step S513.

(Step S507) The judgment unit 131 obtains the second identifier included in the i-th user information.

(Step S508) The judgment unit 131 assigns 1 to counter j.

(Step S509) The judgment unit 131 judges whether the jth vending machine management information exists in the vending machine management unit 111. If the jth vending machine management information exists, the process proceeds to step S510; if not, the process proceeds to step S513.

(Step S510) The judgment unit 131 judges whether the first identifier acquired in step S502 and the second identifier acquired in step S507 satisfy the vending machine conditions for the jth vending machine management information. If the vending machine conditions are satisfied, the process proceeds to step S511, and if the vending machine conditions are not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S512. Note that the vending machine condition is that the jth vending machine management information is information that indicates a correspondence between the first identifier and the second identifier. The vending machine condition is, for example, that the jth vending machine management information is information that includes the first identifier and the second identifier.

(Step S511) The judgment unit 131 associates the purchase information of the inspection target with the i-th user information.

(Step S512) The judgment unit 131 increments the counter j by 1. Return to step S509.

(Step S513) The judgment unit 131 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S504.

(Step S514) The judgment unit 131 judges whether or not there is only one piece of user information associated with the purchase information in step S511. If there is only one piece of user information, the process proceeds to step S515; if there is not only one piece of user information, the process proceeds to step S517.

(Step S515) The judgment unit 131 assigns "OK" to the variable "judgment result".

(Step S516) The determination unit 131 assigns the product identifier to the variable "eject instruction". Then, the process returns to the upper level process. Note that the product identifier is the product identifier included in the received purchase information. Note that the determination unit 131 may obtain an eject instruction that does not include a product identifier.

(Step S517) The judgment unit 131 judges whether the user information associated with the purchase information in step S511 is 2 or more. If it is 2 or more, the process proceeds to step S518, and if it is 0, the process proceeds to step S525.

(Step S518) The judgment unit 131 acquires the user identifiers contained in each of the two or more pieces of user information associated with the purchase information.

(Step S519) The judgment unit 131 assigns 1 to the counter k.

(Step S520) The judgment unit 131 judges whether or not the kth group information exists in the group management unit 112. If the kth group information exists, the process proceeds to step S521; if not, the process proceeds to step S525.

(Step S521) The judgment unit 131 judges whether or not the two or more user identifiers acquired in step S518 satisfy the group condition for the kth group information. If the group condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S522, and if not, the process proceeds to step S524. Note that the group condition is, for example, that all of the two or more user identifiers are included in the group information.

(Step S522) The judgment unit 131 assigns "OK" to the variable "judgment result".

(Step S523) The judgment unit 131 assigns one or more product identifiers to the variable "ejection instruction". Then, the process returns to the upper level process. Note that each of the one or more product identifiers is a product identifier included in the received purchase information.

(Step S524) The judgment unit 131 increments the counter k by 1. Return to step S520.

(Step S525) The judgment unit 131 assigns "NG" to the variable "judgment result".

Next, an example of the payment process in step S409 will be described using the flowchart in FIG.

(Step S601) The payment processing unit 132 acquires one or more product identifiers included in the purchase information of the item to be inspected.

(Step S602) The payment processing unit 132 obtains the amount corresponding to each of the one or more product identifiers from a product database (not shown). If there are two or more product identifiers, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the total amount of the two or more amounts. The product database has two or more records that have a product identifier and the price of the product. The payment processing unit 132 may also obtain the amount included in the purchase information.

(Step S603) The payment processing unit 132 obtains a user identifier from the user information of one or more users to be inspected.

(Step S604) The payment processing unit 132 determines whether the number of user identifiers acquired in step S603 is two or more. If the number is two or more, the process proceeds to step S605; if the number is one, the process proceeds to step S606.

(Step S605) The payment processing unit 132 determines whether there is one user or two or more users who will pay the purchase price of the product based on the burden flags paired with the two or more user identifiers acquired in step S603. If there is one user, the process proceeds to step S606, and if there are two or more users, the process proceeds to step S608.

(Step S606) The payment processing unit 132 acquires a burden user identifier, which is the user identifier acquired in step S603. Alternatively, the payment processing unit 132 acquires a burden user identifier, which is the user identifier paired with the burden flag, from among the two or more user identifiers acquired in step S603. Note that the burden user identifier is the user identifier of the user who will bear the purchase price of the product.

(Step S607) The payment processing unit 132 performs processing to have the user identified by the paying user identifier pay the purchase price of the product.

(Step S608) The payment processing unit 132 divides the purchase price of the product by the number of users to calculate the split amount for each user.

(Step S609) The payment processing unit 132 assigns 1 to counter i.

(Step S610) The payment processing unit 132 determines whether the i-th burden user identifier exists. If the i-th burden user identifier exists, the process proceeds to step S611; if not, the process returns to the upper level process.

(Step S611) The payment processing unit 132 performs processing to have the user identified by the i-th paying user identifier pay the split amount.

(Step S612) The payment processing unit 132 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S610.

Next, an example of the timeout processing in step S415 will be explained using the flowchart in FIG.

(Step S701) The processing unit 13 obtains the current time from a clock (not shown).

(Step S702) The processing unit 13 assigns 1 to counter i.

(Step S703) The processing unit 13 determines whether or not unprocessed i-th purchase information exists in a buffer (not shown). If the i-th purchase information exists, the process proceeds to step S704; if it does not exist, the process proceeds to step S710. Note that unprocessed purchase information is purchase information that does not have a completion flag associated with it.

(Step S704) The processing unit 13 acquires the purchase time information contained in the i-th purchase information.

(Step S705) The processing unit 13 determines whether or not the purchase information acquired in step S704 satisfies the timeout condition with respect to the current time acquired in step S701. If the timeout condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S706, and if the timeout condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S709. Note that the timeout condition is that the difference between the two times is equal to or greater than a threshold value or is longer than the threshold value. The timeout condition is that a considerable amount of time has passed.

(Step S706) The processing unit 13 obtains the first identifier contained in the i-th purchase information.

(Step S707) The processing unit 13 obtains from the storage unit 11 an error code indicating that the i-th purchase information was not processed. The transmission unit 14 transmits the error code to the vending machine 2 identified by the first identifier obtained in step S706. Note that the error code may be an error message.

(Step S708) The processing unit 13 deletes the i-th purchase information from a buffer (not shown).

(Step S709) The processing unit 13 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S703.

(Step S710) The processing unit 13 assigns 1 to counter i.

(Step S711) The processing unit 13 determines whether or not unprocessed i-th user information exists in a buffer (not shown). If the i-th user information exists, the process proceeds to step S712; if it does not exist, the process returns to the upper level process. Note that unprocessed user information is user information that does not have a completion flag associated with it.

(Step S712) The processing unit 13 acquires the user time information contained in the i-th user information.

(Step S713) The processing unit 13 determines whether the user time information acquired in step S712 satisfies the timeout condition for the current time acquired in step S701. If the timeout condition is satisfied, the process proceeds to step S714, and if the timeout condition is not satisfied, the process proceeds to step S717.

(Step S714) The processing unit 13 obtains the user identifier contained in the i-th user information.

(Step S715) The transmission unit 14 transmits an error message to the user terminal 3 identified by the user identifier generated in step S714. The error message may be an error code.

(Step S716) The processing unit 13 deletes the i-th user information from a buffer (not shown).

(Step S717) The processing unit 13 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S711.

Next, an example of the operation of the vending machine 2 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 8.

(Step S801) The vending machine reception unit 23 determines whether a purchase instruction has been received. If a purchase instruction has been received, the process proceeds to step S802; if not, the process proceeds to step S809.

(Step S802) The vending machine configuration unit 241 obtains the product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction accepted in step S801.

(Step S803) The vending machine configuration unit 241 determines whether or not to configure purchase information. If the purchase information is to be configured, the process proceeds to step S806. If the purchase information is not to be configured, the process proceeds to step S804. Note that purchase information is configured, for example, when a time period equal to or greater than a threshold has elapsed since the first purchase instruction was received, or when information indicating completion of input of the purchase instruction has been received.

(Step S804) The vending machine reception unit 23 determines whether or not a purchase instruction has been received. If a purchase instruction has been received, the process proceeds to step S805, and if not, the process returns to step S803. The purchase instruction here is a purchase instruction for the second or subsequent product. The purchase instruction here is, for example, a purchase instruction input by a second or subsequent user.

(Step S805) The vending machine configuration unit 241 obtains the product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction accepted in step S804.

(Step S806) The vending machine configuration unit 241 obtains the first identifier from the vending machine storage unit 21.

(Step S807) The vending machine configuration unit 241 configures purchase information having the one or more acquired product identifiers and the first identifier acquired in step S805. Note that the purchase information may also include purchase time information, which is the current time.

(Step S808) The vending machine transmission unit 26 transmits the purchase information to the information processing device 1. Return to step S801.

(Step S809) The vending machine receiving unit 25 determines whether or not an ejection instruction has been received from the information processing device 1. If an ejection instruction has been received, the process proceeds to step S810; if not, the process proceeds to step S814.

(Step S810) The discharge unit 28 assigns 1 to counter i.

(Step S811) The discharge unit 28 determines whether or not the i-th product identifier corresponding to the discharge instruction exists. If the i-th product identifier exists, the process proceeds to step S812; if not, the process returns to step S801. Note that the i-th product identifier may be included in the discharge instruction, or may be stored in the vending machine storage unit 21.

(Step S812) The discharge unit 28 discharges the product identified by the i-th product identifier corresponding to the discharge instruction.

(Step S813) The ejection unit 28 increments the counter i by 1. Return to step S811.

(Step S814) The vending machine receiving unit 25 determines whether an error code or an error message has been received from the information processing device 1. If an error code or an error message has been received, the process proceeds to step S815; if not, the process returns to step S801.

(Step S815) The vending machine processing unit 24 performs processing according to the error code, etc. received in step S814. Return to step S801.

In the flowchart of FIG. 8, the ID storage medium 22 may, for example, receive a second identifier acquisition instruction and transmit the second identifier stored in the ID storage medium 22. Such second identifier is received by the user terminal 3.

In addition, in the flowchart in Figure 8, processing ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt occurs to end processing.

Next, an example of the operation of the user terminal 3 will be explained using the flowchart in Figure 9.

(Step S901) The terminal reception unit 32 determines whether or not an instruction to obtain a second identifier has been received. If an instruction to obtain a second identifier has been received, the process proceeds to step S902; if not, the process proceeds to step S906.

(Step S902) In response to receiving the instruction to obtain the second identifier, the terminal processing unit 33 or the terminal receiving unit 35 obtains the second identifier from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. Note that obtaining the second identifier is, for example, receiving the second identifier. Obtaining the second identifier is, for example, reading the second identifier from the ID storage medium 22.

(Step S903) The device processing unit 33 acquires the user identifier from the device storage unit 31.

(Step S904) The device processing unit 33 constructs user information having the second identifier and the user identifier. The user information may also include user time information, which is the current time.

(Step S905) The terminal transmission unit 34 transmits the user information configured in step S904 to the information processing device 1. Return to step S901.

(Step S906) The terminal receiving unit 35 determines whether or not information has been received. If information has been received, the process proceeds to step S907, and if information has not been received, the process returns to step S901. The information may be, for example, an error message, an error code, or a message indicating that the payment has been completed successfully.

(Step S907) The device processing unit 33 converts the received information into information structured for output. The device output unit 36 outputs the information. Return to step S901.

In the flowchart in Figure 9, processing ends when the power is turned off or an interrupt occurs to end processing.

Below, we will explain a specific example of the operation of vending machine system A in this embodiment.

The vending machine management table shown in FIG. 10 is stored in the vending machine management unit 111 of the information processing device 1. The vending machine management table is a table that manages vending machine management information. The vending machine management table manages one or more records having an "ID," a "first identifier," and a "second identifier." The "ID" is information that identifies the record and corresponds to the vending machine 2.

The group management unit 112 stores the group management table shown in FIG. 11. The group management table is a table for managing group information. The group management table manages one or more records having an "ID", "user identifier", "group identifier", "burden flag", and "payment usage information". The "ID" is information for identifying a record and is information corresponding to a user. The "group identifier" is an identifier for the group to which the user belongs. The burden flag "1" indicates that a user may be a burdener when two or more users in a group purchase a product. When a user corresponding to the burden flag "1" and a user not corresponding to the burden flag "1" purchase a product, only the user corresponding to the burden flag "1" will bear the cost of the product. The "payment usage information" is information used for payment for the purchase of a product. Here, the "payment usage information" is, for example, a credit card number or a user ID of a payment app.

In this situation, the following three specific examples will be described. Specific example 1 is a case where one user purchases a product from vending machine 2. Specific example 2 is a case where multiple users in the same group purchase products, with one user paying for the purchase. Specific example 3 is a case where multiple users in the same group purchase products and split the cost.

(Specific Example 1)
It is assumed that a user A inputs a second identifier acquisition instruction to his/her user terminal 3. The input of the second identifier acquisition instruction is, for example, the launch of an application for purchasing a product from the vending machine 2. It is assumed that the user A then brings his/her user terminal 3 close to the ID storage medium 22 (here, an NFC card) of the vending machine 2, as shown in Fig. 12 .

Next, it is assumed that the terminal receiving unit 35 receives the second identifier "NFC001" from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. Next, it is assumed that the terminal processing unit 33 acquires the user identifier "U0002" from the terminal storage unit 31. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 composes user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001" having the second identifier and the user identifier. Next, the terminal transmitting unit 34 transmits the user information to the information processing device 1.

Next, user A presses the button for the product he or she wishes to purchase from among the products on sale in vending machine 2.

Then, it is assumed that the vending machine reception unit 23 of the vending machine 2 has received a purchase instruction having the product identifier "G101" corresponding to that button. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 obtains the product identifier "G101" corresponding to the purchase instruction. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 obtains the first identifier "SIM0001" from the vending machine storage unit 21. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 configures purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier> G101" having that product identifier and that first identifier. Next, the vending machine transmission unit 26 transmits that purchase information to the information processing device 1.

Next, the user information receiving unit 122 of the information processing device 1 receives the user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001" from the user terminal 3 of user A. Next, the processing unit 13 acquires the current time "T ₁ " from a clock not shown. Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001 <user time information>T 1 " having the second identifier "NFC001" included in the received user information, the user identifier "U0002" included in the user information, and the _user time information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new user information in a buffer not shown.

The purchase information receiving unit 121 also receives purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier>G101" from the vending machine 2. Next, the processing unit 13 obtains the current time "T ₂ " from a clock (not shown). Next, the processing unit 13 composes new purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier> G101 <purchase time information> T ₂ " that has the first identifier included in the received purchase information, the product identifier included in the purchase information, and purchase time information "T ₂ " which is the current time. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new purchase information in a buffer (not shown).

Next, the determination unit 131 acquires the purchase time information " _T2 " included in the purchase information in a buffer (not shown). The determination unit 131 also acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" included in the purchase information.

The determination unit 131 also acquires the user time information "T ₁ " contained in the user information in a buffer (not shown). Next, the determination unit 131 determines that the difference between the purchase time information "T ₂ " and the user time information "T ₁ " is within a threshold value and thus satisfies the approximation condition.

Next, the judgment unit 131 obtains the second identifier "NFC001" included in the user information. Then, the judgment unit 131 composes information having the first identifier "SIM0001" and the second identifier "NFC001". Next, the judgment unit 131 judges that vending machine management information that matches this information exists in the vending machine management table (Figure 10). Note that this vending machine management information is the vending machine management information for "ID=1" in the vending machine management table (Figure 10). Next, the judgment unit 131 assigns "OK" to the variable "judgment result". In other words, the judgment unit 131 judges that the payment conditions are met.

Then, the payment processing unit 132 performs the payment process as follows. That is, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the product identifier "G101" included in the purchase information. Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the amount "150 yen" corresponding to each product identifier "G101" from a product database (not shown).

Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the user identifier "U0002" from the user information. Note that since only one piece of user information is received here, the user identifier "U0002" is the burden user identifier. Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the payment usage information "payment app ID1" that pairs with the user identifier "U0002". Next, the payment processing unit 132 settles the amount "150 yen" using the ID of the payment app that corresponds to the payment usage information "payment app ID1". Through this process, user A pays 150 yen.

Next, the processing unit 13 constructs an ejection instruction. Next, the instruction sending unit 141 sends the constructed ejection instruction to the vending machine 2 identified by the first identifier.

Next, the vending machine receiving unit 25 of the vending machine 2 receives the ejection instruction. Next, the ejection unit 28 ejects the product corresponding to the pressed button from the vending machine 2.

Through the above process, user A can obtain the product identified by product identifier "G101".

(Specific Example 2)
It is assumed that user A has input a second identifier acquisition instruction to his/her user terminal 3. It is also assumed that user B has input a second identifier acquisition instruction to his/her user terminal 3. Next, as shown in Fig. 13, it is assumed that user A and user B bring their respective user terminals 3(1) and 3(2) close to the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2 (see Fig. 13(a)).

Next, the terminal processing unit 33 of the user terminal 3 (1) acquires the second identifier "NFC001" from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 acquires the user identifier "U0002" from the terminal storage unit 31. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 constructs user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001" having the second identifier and the user identifier. Next, the terminal transmission unit 34 transmits the user information to the information processing device 1.

The terminal processing unit 33 of the user terminal 3 (2) also acquires the second identifier "NFC001" from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 acquires the user identifier "U0001" from the terminal storage unit 31. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 constructs user information "<user identifier>U0001 <second identifier>NFC001" having the second identifier and the user identifier. Next, the terminal transmission unit 34 transmits the user information to the information processing device 1.

Next, assume that user A presses the button for one of the products sold in vending machine 2. Also assume that user B presses the button for one of the products sold in vending machine 2 (see FIG. 13(b)).

Then, it is assumed that the vending machine reception unit 23 of the vending machine 2 has accepted a purchase instruction having a product identifier "G101" corresponding to the button pressed by user A. Also, it is assumed that the vending machine reception unit 23 of the vending machine 2 has accepted a purchase instruction having a product identifier "G102" corresponding to the button pressed by user B. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 acquires the product identifiers "G101" and "G102" corresponding to the purchase instruction. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" from the vending machine storage unit 21. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 configures purchase information "<First identifier> SIM0001 <Product identifiers> G101, G102" having the product identifier and the first identifier. Next, the vending machine transmission unit 26 transmits the purchase information to the information processing device 1.

Next, the user information receiving unit 122 of the information processing device 1 receives the user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001" from the user terminal 3 of user A. Next, the processing unit 13 acquires the current time "T ₃ " from a clock not shown. Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001 <user time information>T 3 " having the second identifier "NFC001" included in the received user information, the user identifier "U0002" included in the user information, and the user _time information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new user information in a buffer not shown.

Furthermore, the user information receiving unit 122 of the information processing device 1 receives the user information "<user identifier>U0001 <second identifier>NFC001" from the user terminal 3 of user B. Next, the processing unit 13 acquires the current time "T ₄ " from a clock not shown. Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new user information "<user identifier>U0001 <second identifier>NFC001 <user time information>T 4 " having the second identifier "NFC001" included in the received user information, the user identifier "U0001" included in the user information, and the user _time information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new user information in a buffer not shown.

The purchase information receiving unit 121 also receives purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier> G101, G102" from the vending machine 2. Next, the processing unit 13 obtains the current time "T ₅ " from a clock (not shown). Next, the processing unit 13 composes new purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier> G101, G102 <purchase time information> T ₅ " that has the first identifier included in the received purchase information, the product identifier included in the purchase information, and purchase time information "T ₅ " which is the current time. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new purchase information in a buffer (not shown).

Next, the determination unit 131 acquires the purchase time information "T ₅ " included in the purchase information in a buffer (not shown). The determination unit 131 also acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" included in the purchase information.

The determination unit 131 also acquires the user time information " _T3 " and " _T4 " contained in the two pieces of user information in a buffer (not shown). Next, the determination unit 131 determines that the difference between the purchase time information " _T2 " and each piece of user time information " _T1 " and " _T4 " is within a threshold value, and the two pieces of user time information satisfy the approximation condition.

Next, the determination unit 131 obtains the second identifier "NFC001" contained in each of the two pieces of user information. The determination unit 131 then constructs information having the first identifier "SIM0001" and the second identifier "NFC001". Next, the determination unit 131 determines that vending machine management information that matches this information exists in the vending machine management table (Figure 10). Note that this vending machine management information is the vending machine management information for "ID=1" in the vending machine management table (Figure 10).

Next, the determination unit 131 determines that there are two or more pieces of user information associated with the purchase information. Next, the determination unit 131 acquires the user identifiers "U10002" and "U10001" that belong to each of the two or more pieces of user information associated with the purchase information.

Next, the judgment unit 131 obtains the group identifiers "G1" and "G1" that are paired with one user identifier "U10002" and "U10001" from the group management table, and judges that the two group identifiers are the same. In other words, the judgment unit 131 judges that the group condition is met. Next, the judgment unit 131 assigns "OK" to the variable "judgment result". In other words, the judgment unit 131 judges that the payment condition is met.

Next, the payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing as follows. First, the payment processing unit 132 acquires two product identifiers "G101, G102" included in the purchase information of the inspection target. Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the amounts "150 yen, 180 yen" corresponding to each of the two product identifiers from a product database (not shown).

Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the user identifiers "U10002" and "U10001" from the two pieces of user information to be inspected. Next, the payment processing unit 132 determines that the acquired user identifier is two or more. Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the burden flags that are paired with each of the two acquired user identifiers ("-" for U10002, "1" for U10001). Next, based on the two burden flags, the payment processing unit 132 determines that the user who will bear the cost of purchasing the product is the one user paired with the user identifier "U10001".

Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the total amount of the products, "330 yen." Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the payment use information "credit card number 1" that pairs with the user identifier "U0001." Next, the payment processing unit 132 performs processing to settle the amount "330 yen" to the credit card number in the payment use information "credit card number 1." Through this processing, user B pays 330 yen with his credit card.

Next, the processing unit 13 constructs an ejection instruction. The ejection instruction has product identifiers "G101, G102". The instruction sending unit 141 also acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" contained in the purchase information that was the subject of the judgment process. Next, the instruction sending unit 141 transmits the constructed ejection instruction to the vending machine 2 identified by the first identifier.

Next, the vending machine receiving unit 25 of the vending machine 2 receives the ejection instruction. Next, the ejection unit 28 ejects the two products "G101, G102" corresponding to the pressed buttons from the vending machine 2 in sequence.

By performing the above process, user B and user C can each obtain the product they want. User B also buys user C a product (a drink in this case), and the two can toast together (see FIG. 13(c)).

(Specific Example 3)
It is assumed that user A has input a second identifier acquisition instruction to his/her user terminal 3. It is also assumed that user C has input a second identifier acquisition instruction to his/her user terminal 3. Next, it is assumed that user A and user C bring their respective user terminals 3(1) and 3(2) close to the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2, as shown in FIG.

Next, the terminal processing unit 33 of the user terminal 3 (1) acquires the second identifier "NFC001" from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 acquires the user identifier "U0002" from the terminal storage unit 31. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 constructs user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001" having the second identifier and the user identifier. Next, the terminal transmission unit 34 transmits the user information to the information processing device 1.

The terminal processing unit 33 of the user terminal 3 (2) also acquires the second identifier "NFC001" from the ID storage medium 22 of the vending machine 2. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 acquires the user identifier "U0003" from the terminal storage unit 31. Next, the terminal processing unit 33 constructs user information "<user identifier>U0003 <second identifier>NFC001" having the second identifier and the user identifier. Next, the terminal transmission unit 34 transmits the user information to the information processing device 1.

Next, assume that user A presses the button for one of the products sold in vending machine 2. Also assume that user C presses the button for one of the products sold in vending machine 2.

Then, it is assumed that the vending machine reception unit 23 of the vending machine 2 has accepted a purchase instruction having a product identifier "G101" corresponding to the button pressed by user B. Also, it is assumed that the vending machine reception unit 23 of the vending machine 2 has accepted a purchase instruction having a product identifier "G102" corresponding to the button pressed by user C. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 acquires the product identifiers "G101" and "G102" corresponding to the purchase instruction. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" from the vending machine storage unit 21. Next, the vending machine configuration unit 241 configures purchase information "<First identifier> SIM0001 <Product identifier> G101, G102" having the product identifier and the first identifier. Next, the vending machine transmission unit 26 transmits the purchase information to the information processing device 1.

Next, the user information receiving unit 122 of the information processing device 1 receives the user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001" from the user terminal 3 of user A. Next, the processing unit 13 acquires the current time "T ₆ " from a clock (not shown). Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new user information "<user identifier>U0002 <second identifier>NFC001 <user time information>T 6 " having the second identifier "NFC001" included in the received user information, the user identifier "U0002" included in the user information, and the user _time information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new user information in a buffer (not shown).

Furthermore, the user information receiving unit 122 of the information processing device 1 receives the user information "<user identifier>U0003 <second identifier>NFC001" from the user terminal 3 of user C. Next, the processing unit 13 acquires the current time " _T7 " from a clock (not shown). Next, the processing unit 13 constructs new user information "<user identifier>U0003 <second identifier>NFC001 <user time information>T7" having the second identifier "NFC001" included in the received user information, the user identifier "U0003" included in the user information, and the user _time information. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new user information in a buffer (not shown).

The purchase information receiving unit 121 also receives purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier> G101, G102" from the vending machine 2. Next, the processing unit 13 obtains the current time "T ₈ " from a clock (not shown). Next, the processing unit 13 composes new purchase information "<first identifier> SIM0001 <product identifier> G101, G102 <purchase time information> T ₈ " that has the first identifier included in the received purchase information, the product identifier included in the purchase information, and purchase time information "T ₈ " which is the current time. Next, the processing unit 13 accumulates the new purchase information in a buffer (not shown).

Next, the determination unit 131 acquires the purchase time information "T ₈ " included in the purchase information in a buffer (not shown). The determination unit 131 also acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" included in the purchase information.

The determination unit 131 also acquires the user time information " _T6 " and " _T7 " contained in the two pieces of user information in a buffer (not shown). Next, the determination unit 131 determines that the difference between the purchase time information " _T8 " and each piece of user time information " _T6 " and " _T7 " is within a threshold value, and that the two pieces of user time information satisfy the approximation condition.

Next, the determination unit 131 obtains the second identifier "NFC001" contained in each of the two pieces of user information. The determination unit 131 then constructs information having the first identifier "SIM0001" and the second identifier "NFC001". Next, the determination unit 131 determines that vending machine management information that matches this information exists in the vending machine management table (Figure 10).

Next, the determination unit 131 determines that there are two or more pieces of user information associated with the purchase information. Next, the determination unit 131 acquires the user identifiers "U10002" and "U10003" that belong to each of the two or more pieces of user information associated with the purchase information.

Next, the judgment unit 131 obtains the group identifiers "G1" and "G1" that are paired with one user identifier "U10002" and "U10003" from the group management table, and judges that the two group identifiers are the same. In other words, the judgment unit 131 judges that the group condition is met. Next, the judgment unit 131 assigns "OK" to the variable "judgment result". In other words, the judgment unit 131 judges that the payment condition is met.

Next, the payment processing unit 132 performs payment processing as follows. First, the payment processing unit 132 acquires two product identifiers "G101, G102" included in the purchase information of the inspection target. Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the amounts "150 yen, 180 yen" corresponding to each of the two product identifiers from a product database (not shown).

Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the user identifiers "U10002" and "U10003" from the two pieces of user information to be inspected. Next, the payment processing unit 132 determines that the acquired user identifiers are two or more. Next, the payment processing unit 132 acquires the burden flags that pair with each of the two acquired user identifiers ("-" for U10002, "-" for U10001). Next, based on the two burden flags, the payment processing unit 132 determines that there are two users who will bear the cost of purchasing the product.

Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the total amount of the products, "330 yen". Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the amount "165 yen", which is the amount obtained by splitting the amount "330 yen". Next, the payment processing unit 132 obtains the payment use information "payment app ID 1" that pairs with the user identifier "U0002" and the payment use information "credit card number 2" that pairs with the user identifier "U0003" from the group management table (Figure 11). Next, the payment processing unit 132 pays the amount "165 yen" using the ID of the payment app that corresponds to the payment use information "payment app ID 1". Through this process, user A pays 165 yen.

The payment processing unit 132 also performs processing to settle the amount "165 yen" to the credit card number in the payment use information "credit card number 2." Through this processing, user C pays 165 yen with his credit card.

Next, the processing unit 13 constructs an ejection instruction. The ejection instruction has product identifiers "G101, G102". The instruction sending unit 141 also acquires the first identifier "SIM0001" contained in the purchase information that was the subject of the judgment process. Next, the instruction sending unit 141 transmits the constructed ejection instruction to the vending machine 2 identified by the first identifier.

Next, the vending machine receiving unit 25 of the vending machine 2 receives the ejection instruction. Next, the ejection unit 28 ejects the two products "G101, G102" corresponding to the pressed buttons from the vending machine 2 in sequence.

By performing the above process, User A and User C can each obtain the product they want. Then, the two can toast together in harmony (see Figure 13(c)).

As described above, according to this embodiment, appropriate payment can be made using the user terminal 3 when using the vending machine 2.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, appropriate payment can be made using the user terminal 3 when two or more users use the vending machine 2.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, appropriate payment can be made using the user terminal 3 when a specific group of two or more users uses the vending machine 2.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, appropriate payment and product dispensing can be performed using the user terminal 3 when using the vending machine 2.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a vending machine 2 can be provided that allows appropriate payment using a user terminal 3 when using the vending machine 2.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a vending machine 2 can be provided that is equipped with an NFC medium that allows appropriate payment using a user terminal when using the vending machine.

Furthermore, according to this embodiment, a user terminal 3 can be provided that can make appropriate payments for use of a vending machine.

In this embodiment, the vending machine 2 may, for example, include a locked product storeroom or may be a locked product storeroom. Such a vending machine 2 is, for example, as shown in FIG. 14. In FIG. 14, 1401 is a normal vending machine and 1402 is a locked product storeroom. In this case, the above-mentioned process unlocks the product storeroom 1402, allowing the user to obtain products from the product storeroom 1402. Also, for example, after the user obtains the products, the product storeroom 1402 is locked.

The processing in this embodiment may be realized by software. This software may be distributed by software download or the like. This software may also be recorded on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM and distributed. This also applies to the other embodiments in this specification. The software that realizes the information processing device 1 in this embodiment is a program such as the following. In other words, this program causes a computer to function as a vending machine in which a first identifier that identifies the vending machine is stored, a vending machine having an ID storage medium in which a second identifier that identifies the vending machine is stored, a purchase information receiving unit that receives purchase information from the vending machine, which accepts a product purchase instruction and transmits purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and the first identifier, a user information receiving unit that receives user information including the second identifier and a user identifier from a user terminal that has acquired the second identifier from the ID storage medium, a determination unit that references a vending machine management unit in which one or more pieces of vending machine management information that are information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier and the second identifier are stored, and determines whether vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier contained in the purchase information and the second identifier contained in the user information exists in the vending machine management unit, and a payment processing unit that, when it is determined that the information exists in the vending machine management unit, performs a payment processing to have a settlement person corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier contained in the user information pay the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information.

The software for realizing the vending machine 2 in this embodiment is the following program. In other words, this program causes a computer that can access a vending machine storage unit that stores a first identifier that identifies a vending machine equipped with an ID storage medium that stores a second identifier that identifies a vending machine to function as a vending machine reception unit that receives product purchase instructions, a vending machine configuration unit that configures purchase information that has a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and the first identifier, and a vending machine transmission unit that transmits the purchase information to an information processing device.

The software that realizes the user terminal 3 in this embodiment is the following program. In other words, this program causes a computer that can access a terminal storage unit in which a user identifier is stored to function as a terminal acquisition unit that acquires the second identifier from an ID storage medium of a vending machine in which the second identifier is stored, and as a terminal transmission unit that transmits user information including the second identifier and the user identifier to an information processing device.

In the above program, the steps of transmitting information and receiving information do not include processing performed by hardware, such as processing performed by a modem or interface card in the transmission step (processing that is performed only by hardware).

The program may be executed by a single computer or multiple computers. In other words, the program may be executed by centralized processing or distributed processing.

Furthermore, in each of the above embodiments, it goes without saying that two or more communication means present in one device may be realized physically by one medium.

In addition, in each of the above embodiments, each process may be realized by centralized processing by a single device, or may be realized by distributed processing by multiple devices.

The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible, and it goes without saying that these are also included within the scope of the present invention.

As described above, the information processing device 1 of the present invention has the effect of enabling appropriate payment using a user terminal when using a vending machine, and is useful as a server that supports vending machine payments, etc.

A Vending machine system 1 Information processing device 2 Vending machine 3 User terminal 11 Storage unit 12 Receiving unit 13 Processing unit 14 Transmission unit 21 Vending machine storage unit 22 ID storage medium 23 Vending machine reception unit 24 Vending machine processing unit 25 Vending machine receiving unit 26 Vending machine transmitting unit 27 Vending machine output unit 28 Discharge unit 31 Terminal storage unit 32 Terminal receiving unit 33 Terminal processing unit 34 Terminal transmitting unit 35 Terminal receiving unit 36 Terminal output unit 111 Vending machine management unit 112 Group management unit 121 Purchase information receiving unit 122 User information receiving unit 131 Determination unit 132 Settlement processing unit 141 Instruction transmitting unit 241 Vending machine configuration unit

Claims (13)

a purchase information receiving unit that receives purchase information from the vending machine, the vending machine having a first identifier for identifying the vending machine stored therein and an ID storage medium having a second identifier for identifying the vending machine stored therein, the purchase information receiving unit receiving a purchase instruction for a product and transmitting purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and the first identifier;
a user information receiving unit that receives user information including the second identifier and a user identifier from a user terminal that has acquired the second identifier from the ID storage medium;
a determination unit that references a vending machine management unit in which one or more pieces of vending machine management information, which is information indicating the correspondence between a first identifier and a second identifier, is stored, and determines whether or not vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier contained in the purchase information and the second identifier contained in the user information exists in the vending machine management unit;
An information processing device comprising: a payment processing unit that, when it is determined that the judgment unit exists in the vending machine management unit, performs payment processing to have the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information borne by the settler corresponding to the user identifier contained in the user information. The user information receiving unit
receiving user information from each of two or more user terminals;
The determination unit is
refer to the vending machine management unit and determine whether or not vending machine management information indicating a correspondence between a first identifier contained in the purchase information and each of two or more second identifiers contained in the user information received from each of two or more user terminals exists in the vending machine management unit;
The payment processing unit,
An information processing device as described in claim 1, wherein when the judgment unit determines that all vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier and each of the two or more second identifiers exists in the vending machine management unit, a payment process is performed to have a settlement person corresponding to any one or more users among the users identified by the user identifiers contained in each of the two or more user information pay the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information. The determination unit is
Refer to a group management unit in which one or more pieces of group information having two or more user identifiers are stored, and determine whether or not group information having two or more second identifiers contained in the user information received from each of the two or more user terminals exists in the group management unit;
The payment processing unit,
The information processing device according to claim 2 , wherein the determination unit performs the settlement process only when it determines that group information having two or more second identifiers exists in the group management unit. The payment processing unit,
The information processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the payment process is performed using only user information received when a similarity condition is satisfied with respect to the time when the purchase information receiving unit received the purchase information. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising an instruction sending unit that sends an ejection instruction to the vending machine when the payment processing unit performs the payment processing or when the payment processing has been performed. a vending machine storage unit in which a first identifier for identifying a vending machine is stored;
an ID storage medium in which a second identifier for identifying the vending machine is stored;
a vending machine reception unit that receives product purchase instructions;
a vending machine configuration unit that configures purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and a first identifier;
a vending machine transmitting unit that transmits the purchase information to an information processing device. a vending machine receiving unit that receives a discharge instruction corresponding to the purchase information from the information processing device;
7. The vending machine according to claim 6, further comprising a discharge unit that, when the vending machine receiving unit receives the discharge instruction, discharges the product corresponding to the discharge instruction. The ID storage medium includes:
The vending machine according to claim 6 or 7, which is an NFC medium. a terminal storage unit in which a user identifier is stored;
a terminal acquisition unit that acquires the second identifier from an ID storage medium of the vending machine in which the second identifier is stored;
a terminal transmitting unit configured to transmit user information including the second identifier and the user identifier to an information processing device. An information processing method implemented by a purchase information receiving unit, a user information receiving unit, a determination unit, and a payment processing unit, comprising:
a purchase information receiving step of receiving purchase information from the vending machine, the purchase information receiving unit being a vending machine in which a first identifier for identifying the vending machine is stored and which has an ID storage medium in which a second identifier for identifying the vending machine is stored, the vending machine receiving an instruction to purchase a product, and transmitting purchase information having a product identifier and a first identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction;
a user information receiving step in which the user information receiving unit receives user information including a second identifier and a user identifier from a user terminal that has acquired the second identifier from the ID storage medium;
a determination step in which the determination unit refers to a vending machine management unit in which one or more pieces of vending machine management information, which is information indicating the correspondence between a first identifier and a second identifier, is stored, and determines whether or not vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier included in the purchase information and the second identifier included in the user information exists in the vending machine management unit;
and a payment processing step in which, when it is determined in the judgment step that the payment processing unit exists in the vending machine management unit, a payment processing is performed to have the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information borne by a settlement person corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier contained in the user information. An information processing method implemented by a terminal storage unit in which a user identifier is stored, a terminal acquisition unit, and a terminal transmission unit, comprising:
a terminal acquisition step of acquiring the second identifier from an ID storage medium of the vending machine in which the second identifier is stored,
The information processing method includes a terminal transmitting step in which the terminal transmitting unit transmits user information including the second identifier and the user identifier to an information processing device. Computer,
a vending machine having a first identifier for identifying the vending machine stored therein and an ID storage medium having a second identifier for identifying the vending machine stored therein, said vending machine receiving an instruction to purchase a product and transmitting purchase information having a product identifier corresponding to the purchase instruction and the first identifier, and a purchase information receiving unit receiving purchase information from said vending machine;
a user information receiving unit that receives user information including the second identifier and a user identifier from a user terminal that has acquired the second identifier from the ID storage medium;
a determination unit that references a vending machine management unit in which one or more pieces of vending machine management information, which is information indicating the correspondence between a first identifier and a second identifier, is stored, and determines whether or not vending machine management information indicating the correspondence between the first identifier contained in the purchase information and the second identifier contained in the user information exists in the vending machine management unit;
A program for functioning as a payment processing unit that performs payment processing for having the amount corresponding to the product identifier contained in the purchase information paid by the settler corresponding to the user identified by the user identifier contained in the user information when it is determined that the judgment unit exists in the vending machine management unit. A computer that can access a terminal storage unit in which a user identifier is stored,
a terminal acquisition unit that acquires the second identifier from an ID storage medium of the vending machine in which the second identifier is stored;
A program for causing a terminal to function as a terminal transmitting unit that transmits user information including the second identifier and the user identifier to an information processing device.

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