JP3566782B2 - Information providing terminal - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
[Industrial applications]
The present invention can execute an information providing service to a user by using information stored therein or by receiving information distribution from an information center storing information via an information communication network.In particular, the information fee billing system using the billing communication network such as VideotexInformation providing terminal to be usedAboutI do.
[0002]
2. Description of the Related Art
Conventionally, for example, a karaoke device is installed in a karaoke box, a restaurant, or the like, or a game device is installed in a game center, a shopping center, or the like. Had been recovered.
[0003]
As a conventional karaoke apparatus, for example, there has been a stand-alone type in which a medium storing information of karaoke music is set and karaoke performance is performed using the music information. In this case, for example, the owner of the karaoke apparatus goes out to buy the medium storing the karaoke song information, or the seller of the karaoke apparatus delivers the medium to the owner.
[0004]
Later, an online type karaoke system called “communication karaoke” using communication using digital signals of karaoke song information was born. In this case, the center apparatus transmits the karaoke music information to each karaoke apparatus using the information communication network, and the karaoke apparatus owner stores the medium storing the karaoke music information as described above. It eliminates the hassle of going out to buy or the seller of a karaoke device delivering media to the owner. In particular, there is an advantage that a new song can be acquired early.
[0005]
However, basically, as with the stand-alone type karaoke apparatus, the user goes to the place where the karaoke apparatus is installed and collects the fee from the owner of the karaoke apparatus. In this way, the transmission of music online does not require human intervention to add songs, but it is necessary to intervene, such as going to the place where the device is installed, to collect fees. there were.
[0006]
Therefore, the applicant of the present application, for example, in the application of Japanese Patent Application No. Hei 6-310691, uses an accounting communication network having an accounting function for collecting the information providing fee, thereby reducing the information providing fee without bothering humans. A technology that can be recovered was proposed. With this technology, it becomes very convenient to collect the information provision fee, whether it is the stand-alone type or the communication type described above. That is, even if the information stored in the information providing terminal is subjected to a charging process so that the information can be used, or the information is transmitted from an external information center to the information providing terminal after charging. , Fee collection will be very easy.
[0007]
Although the fee collection using the charging communication network has the above-mentioned basic merits, the following problems can be considered.
In other words, since the above-described charging to fee collection is usually performed by the party who finally collects the information provision fee (called an administrator), the owner of the information providing terminal executes only the charging in particular. There is no need to operate the input key or the like to be operated. For example, when a terminal installation company or the like requests distribution of karaoke song data by operating an input key, song data is distributed in response to the request, and billing is automatically performed along with the distribution. is there.
[0008]
Of course, when a new information providing terminal is installed, a contract or manual etc. should be presented, and if such a request for music data is made, it will be automatically charged if the terminal installation company etc. Can be announced. However, even if the contract or the instruction is attached, the terminal installation company or the like may appropriately operate without reading the contents. In addition, when a used information providing terminal is purchased and used, or when it is borrowed personally from a terminal installation company, etc., it cannot be said that the above contract or manual is reliable, and There is a possibility that it will be operated properly without knowing it. If billing is automatically performed by such an operation, the operator will not be aware that the operation being performed will be charged in the future, so the operator will They may be billed or collected, and they may be suspicious of the contents, or they may be dissatisfied with being charged without their knowledge.
[0009]
In this way, there is no need to pay money directly or use a credit card, etc., which is convenient in terms of toll collection as described above. It can cause trouble between the two.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and it is possible to easily realize collection of an information provision fee without human intervention. The information fee billing system is designed to execute the process only after confirmation by the user, etc., and to prevent troubles between the fee collecting side and the paying side.ToIt is intended to provide an effective information providing terminal by using the information providing terminal.
[0010]
Means for Solving the Problems, Functions and Effects of the Invention
The invention according to claim 1 which has been made to achieve the above object,An information providing terminal that provides a user with paid paid information and is capable of executing an information providing service in which the usage fee is settled after a period of time after receiving the information, the information providing terminal comprising: First communication means capable of accessing an information center via an information communication network having a communication function; and information used for an information providing service received from the information center via the information communication network and the first communication means. Information storage means for storing; information provision execution means for performing provision of information using information stored in the information storage means; and information to the information center via the first communication means and the information communication network. Information distribution requesting means for transmitting a distribution request signal; second communication means capable of accessing the charging center via a charging communication network having a charging function; Charging processing request means for transmitting a charging request signal to the charging center via a network, instruction input means for inputting various instructions, and transmission of an information distribution request signal by the information distribution request means via the instruction input means When the start of execution of the information distribution is instructed, before actually starting the transmission of the information distribution request signal, the display control means for displaying the contents of the fee collection rule relating to the information distribution on the display means, and the display means An information distribution request control for executing transmission of an information distribution request signal by the information distribution request means when a predetermined pay confirmation instruction is input through the instruction input means while the collection regulation contents are displayed. Information providing terminal comprising:It is.
[0011]
thisUse an information terminalAccording to the information fee charging system, when the information center distributes information to the information providing terminal, the charging processing requesting means of the information providing terminal transmits a charging request signal for requesting the charging center to execute charging. I do. Then, the charging center transmits the charging information via the charging communication network in response to the request.
[0012]
The charging communication network has a charging function of identifying information transmitted from the charging center to the information providing terminal, determining an amount to be charged, and charging the amount to the information providing terminal to which the information is transmitted. For example, a captain system and a dial cue two are known. Of the present inventionInformation charge using information providing terminalIn the system, the billing function of the billing communication network performs billing for the fee for using the pay information. The present inventionPertain toIn the system, the billing information transmitted from the billing center to the information providing terminal may have any content as long as the billing function can perform billing. That is, in the case of the system of the present invention, the information itself used for the information providing service is stored in the information storage means of the information providing terminal, and only for executing charging as a usage fee for the stored information, Since a billing communication network is used, the billing information itself may be meaningless information. Of course, if necessary, information having some content may be used as the billing information.
[0013]
In transmitting the billing information, the billing communication network such as the current captain system or dial queue two bills to the calling side (the side that made the call). Although the connection is made by calling, the configuration of the charging communication network is changed so as to charge the called side (the side receiving the call) by the collect call method, as already practiced in public telephone lines. As long as the information providing terminal is charged, the call may be made by the terminal or by the charging center.
[0014]
Here, when the execution of transmission of the information distribution request signal by the information distribution request unit is instructed through the instruction input unit, the display control unit transmits the information before actually starting the transmission of the information distribution request signal. The contents of the fee collection rules relating to the distribution are displayed on the display means.
[0015]
Then, when a predetermined pay confirmation instruction is input through the instruction input means while the charge collection contents are displayed on the display means, the information distribution request control means causes the information distribution request means to perform information distribution by the information distribution request means. Request signal transmission is executed.
[0016]
In other words, when the execution of transmission of the information distribution request signal is instructed via the instruction input means, the transmission processing of the information distribution request signal is not automatically started as it is, but first, the fee collection rule for the information providing service is provided. Is displayed and the user confirms the content. This is because when the information providing service is executed, the information providing service is executed without knowing that a predetermined fee is to be collected, and the fee is actually collected at a later date, and the contents of the collected information are suspicious. This is to prevent troubles such as hugging or dissatisfaction with having been charged unintentionally.
[0017]
Therefore, the user of the terminal confirms the contents of the fee collection rules, and issues a predetermined pay confirmation instruction if the user wants to execute the information providing service, for example, even if it is a paid information providing service. Only after receiving the instruction, the transmission of the information delivery request signal is actually started, and the charging request signal is also transmitted to the charging center. As described above, since the information providing service is not executed without the pay confirmation instruction, there is no possibility that the user is charged without his knowledge as described above.
[0018]
[0019]
Here, as described in claim 2,
Information according to claim 1Provision terminalAtThe information providing terminal, wherein the first communication means is a connection means for an information communication network which is a communication network different from a charging communication network to which the second communication means is connected.It may be constituted as.
[0020]
[0021]
[0022]
[0023]
The bookInformation fee billing using the information providing terminal of the inventionIn the system, in addition to delivering the entity information necessary to execute the information providing service from the information center to the information providing terminal, the system distributes only a simple key such as a decryption key and provides the entity necessary to execute the information providing service. A configuration in which the information is encrypted and held in advance by the information providing terminal can be considered. That is,ThisIn this system, all information that enables the information providing terminal to execute the information providing service is included in the information used for the information providing service.
[0024]
Thus, the present inventionInformation providing terminalIn,straightConversely, if you do not pay money, you will not be aware that the operation you are doing will be charged in the future, you will be actually collected at a later date, and you will feel suspicious about the contents of the collection , Or a process that involves the payment of a fee because it may cause trouble between the fee payer and the collector, such as remaining unsatisfied with being charged unintentionally. In the case of (1), the processing is executed only after confirmation by the installation company or the like, and troubles between the fee collecting side and the paying side can be prevented. In addition,In the information fee billing system using the information providing terminal of the present invention, since money is not paid directly or a credit card is not used, it is convenient in terms of fee collection as described above.
[0025]
The display control means in the information fee billing system may further include, in addition to the contents of the fee collection rule relating to the information providing service or the information distribution, a rule relating to the use of the information providing terminal accompanied by a fee collection. Can be displayed on the display means.
[0026]
This is because, in the information providing terminal, it is often the case that the information provision service or the processing related to the information distribution is charged, but in addition, in a general sense, the use of the information providing terminal requires collection of a fee. Since it may be accompanied, it can also be displayed and confirmed by a terminal installation company or the like.
[0027]
[0028]
[0029]
[0030]
[0031]
[0032]
[0033]
【Example】
Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
First, a first embodiment will be described. The first embodiment is based on the present invention.Use an information terminalThis is an example in which the information fee billing system is applied to a communication karaoke system.
[0034]
In the present communication karaoke system, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, a karaoke terminal 10 capable of executing karaoke performance using karaoke music data stored in a built-in hard disk 33, and the karaoke terminal 10 have a billing function. The karaoke terminal 10 is connected via a charging communication network 5 and transmits charging information to the karaoke terminal 10 so that the karaoke terminal 10 can be charged. An information center 3 that distributes data via an information communication network 7 is also connected. A plurality of karaoke terminals 10 are connected to the charging center 1 via a charging communication network 5, and a plurality of karaoke terminals 10 are also connected to the information center 3 via an information communication network 7. . The charging center 1 and the information center 3 are also connected by a public line.
[0035]
First, the configuration of the karaoke terminal 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 2, the karaoke terminal 10 has a hard disk 33 corresponding to information storage means for storing about thousands of karaoke music data, and also reproduces accompaniment music from the performance information in the karaoke music data. A reproduction circuit 35, a mixer amplifier 38 for mixing the accompaniment music from the audio reproduction circuit 35 and the sound input from the microphone 43 and outputting the mixed sound to the speaker 41, a lyric telop from the lyric information and background video information in the karaoke music data, and A screen display control device 26 for reproducing a background image and an operation panel 45 as an instruction input unit for a user to input an instruction to the karaoke terminal 10 are provided, and are constituted by a well-known CPU, ROM, RAM and the like. Is controlled by a central controller 31 as a control means, and input from a hard disk 33. Was based on the karaoke data, it is configured to be able to execute karaoke performance. That is, in this embodiment, the central control device 31 functions as an information provision execution unit by operating according to a predetermined karaoke performance program.
[0036]
Further, the karaoke terminal 10 is connected to the information center 3 via the information communication network 7 as a first communication control device 27 as a first communication means, and the second karaoke terminal connected to the accounting center 1 via the accounting communication network 5. And a second communication control device 28 as communication means, and these are also controlled by the central control device 31.
[0037]
Next, the function of the karaoke terminal 10 will be briefly described.
The karaoke terminal 10 can store several thousand karaoke music data in the hard disk 33, and can usually perform karaoke performance processing based on the stored karaoke music data. Also, new music data and the like, which are distributed from the information center 3 as needed, can be received and stored in the hard disk 33, and the number of music pieces that can be played can be sequentially increased.
[0038]
When performing a karaoke performance at the karaoke terminal 10, the user operates the operation panel 45 or a remote controller to select a song to be sung. Then, the central control device 31 executes a karaoke performance process according to a predetermined karaoke performance program.
[0039]
The karaoke performance process will be briefly described. The central control device 31 reads performance information, lyrics information, and background video information corresponding to the selected song from the hard disk 33. The background video information is transferred to the screen display control device 26, respectively. Based on the performance information input to the audio reproduction circuit 35, the audio reproduction circuit 35 synthesizes an analog performance signal, and then the synthesized performance signal is sent to a mixer amplifier 38 and electrically amplified. The singing voice of the user input through the microphone 43 is mixed at an appropriate ratio. The mixed audio signal is output to the outside as a performance sound by the speaker 41.
[0040]
On the other hand, the lyrics information output in synchronization with the performance information is synthesized (superimposed) with the background video signal in the screen display control device 26 and displayed on the television monitor 29. As a result, the TV monitor 29 displays the background video in a state where the lyrics telop is synthesized. Note that the television monitor 29 corresponds to a display unit.
[0041]
As shown in FIG. 3, the information center 3 includes a communication control device 77 connected to the karaoke terminal 10 via the information communication network 7, and a storage device 73 for storing karaoke music data to be distributed to the karaoke terminal 10. Are controlled by a host computer 71 as a central control device. Various devices such as an input device 75, a printer 79, and a CRT 81 are connected to the host computer 71. The storage device 73 also stores various control programs for operating the host computer 71, in addition to the karaoke song data.
[0042]
The information center 3 configured as described above can transmit karaoke music data to each karaoke terminal 10 via the information communication network 7. This transmission is performed in response to a distribution request from the karaoke terminal 10, and transmits a list of distribution target information, for example, a list of all new song data and a list of undistributed songs in the list. It operates to transmit music data for the music specified by the terminal 10 via the information communication network 7. This is a facility managed by the music data distribution company.
[0043]
Next, the configuration and functions of the charging center 1 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the charging center 1 includes a communication control device 57 connected to the karaoke terminal 10 via the charging communication network 5, and is controlled by a host computer 51 as a central control device. The host computer 51 is connected to a storage device 53 for storing various control programs and the like for operating the host computer 51, and various other devices such as an input device 55, a printer 59, and a CRT 61. Further, the communication control device 57 is connected to the communication control device 77 of the information center 3, and is capable of mutually communicating information.
[0044]
The storage device 53 stores information on song data that can be provided to the karaoke terminal 10, or a delivery table of song data distribution results to the karaoke terminal 10, song data, and the like. The charge table will be described. As for the fee for a song, for example, if the fee is the same for all songs, the basic fee per song is stored. If there is a difference in price between songs such as a new song being higher or a particular genre being cheaper, the basic fee for one new song or the basic fee for one song in a predetermined genre Is stored.
[0045]
The charging center 1 is also a facility of the music data distribution company. Therefore, it may be constituted by a host computer integrated with the information center 3 or may be constituted separately. In the present embodiment shown in FIG. 1 and the like, it is assumed that they are installed in different places.
[0046]
The charging center 1 configured as described above is connected to the karaoke terminal 10 before or after distributing the karaoke song data from the information center 3 when distributing the karaoke song data from the information center 3, and Billing information for billing the music data is transmitted via the billing communication network 5. When this accounting information is transmitted via the accounting communication network 5, a predetermined amount is charged to the karaoke terminal 10 as the transmission destination by the accounting function of the accounting communication network 5.
[0047]
Note that as the charging communication network 5 having such a charging function, a videotex communication network called a captain system, a dial queue two communication network, and the like are known as typical ones in Japan at present. In this embodiment, a Videotex communication network is assumed. The billing communication network 5 determines the type of data that the karaoke terminal 10 has received from the billing center 1 when data is exchanged via the communication network from the standpoint of data exchange. The amount to be charged is determined based on the acquired data. The charge charged in the charging communication network 5 is collected by a telephone carrier on behalf of the telephone charge for the karaoke terminal 10 and passed to a data distributor after deducting a commission.
[0048]
In the system of the present embodiment configured as described above, the karaoke terminal installation company requests new song data to the song data distribution company, and the song data distribution company distributes new song data to the karaoke terminal installation company. Will be performed as follows.
[0049]
First, when the terminal installation company or the like operates the operation panel 45 of the karaoke terminal 10 to set the song data request mode, the process for requesting new song data is started, but the process for requesting new song data is immediately started. Instead, first, a screen showing the contents of the charge collection rule as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the television monitor 29. This is because, for the acquisition of new music data, a predetermined fee is required instead of free of charge, so that the fact is first shown and the terminal installation company is notified.
[0050]
The karaoke terminal 10 does not only provide notification, but only after receiving a predetermined confirmation instruction, that is, after confirming that a new song data request is made after understanding that a fee is required. It connects to the charging center 1 via the communication network 5.
[0051]
Then, it transmits its own ID code and a request for a new song data list. On the other hand, the charging center 1 specifies the karaoke terminal 10 based on the received ID code, compares the past distribution result to the terminal with the song data currently stored on the host side, and Create an inventory. At this time, it is more convenient to create the catalog according to the genre of the music.
[0052]
Then, the list is transmitted to the karaoke terminal 10. The karaoke terminal 10 transmits a distribution request to the charging center 1 by designating a desired song from the list. This completes the specification of the music data to be distributed, and the charging center 1 transmits dummy charging information for charging a data fee for the requested music data to the karaoke terminal 10 via the Videotex communication network. . By executing the communication of the dummy data, the karaoke terminal 10 is charged on the videotex communication system, and the karaoke terminal 10 is later deducted from the bank account of the terminal installer together with the telephone charge.
[0053]
The actual result of the accounting process (the actual accounting result) is recorded in each of the accounting center 1 and the fee collection agency system constituting the accounting communication network 5. Then, the accounting center 1 transfers this accounting result to the information center 3 and confirms the completion of the accounting process. The information center 3 calls the corresponding karaoke terminal 10 based on the charging result received from the charging center 1 and distributes the charged music data to the terminal. Further, based on the recorded charging performance, the telephone operator passes the remainder of the data fee collected on behalf of the karaoke terminal installation business after the fee is deducted to the music data distribution business, which is the installation of the charging center 1. Will be.
[0054]
Control processing executed by the central control device 31 of the karaoke terminal 10, the information center 3, and the host computers 71 and 51 of the charging center 1 will be described with respect to specific processing contents for achieving the above functions.
First, the operation of the karaoke terminal 10 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
[0055]
When the power is turned on, the execution of this main routine is started. First, in the first step S1, initialization of the entire device such as resetting of the communication control devices 27 and 28 is performed. Next, in S2, it is checked whether or not the karaoke performance mode is specified as the operation specification of the karaoke terminal 10. If the karaoke terminal installation company specifies the karaoke performance mode, the process proceeds to S3, and if not, the process proceeds to S4.
[0056]
In S3, a subroutine for performing a karaoke performance process including reading the music data selected on the operation panel 45 from the hard disk 33 and converting the music data into an audio signal and subtitle display by the audio reproduction circuit 35 and the screen display control device 26. Call. The specific contents of the karaoke performance process will be briefly described. A message prompting the user to select a song, such as "Please select a song," is displayed on the screen of the television monitor 29. If there is a request for a song, the song data of the requested song is read from the hard disk 33, and the read song data is converted to an audio playback device. 35 and the screen display control device 26 perform karaoke performance by converting into audio signals and subtitle display. Since the details of the karaoke performance have been described above, a description thereof will be omitted, but when the performance of one tune is completed, a message prompting the tune selection is displayed again. If there is an instruction to cancel the karaoke performance mode, which is one operation mode in the karaoke terminal 10, the process in S3 ends and the process proceeds to S4.
[0057]
In S4, it is checked whether or not the music data request mode is specified by the karaoke terminal installation business as the operation specification of the karaoke terminal 10. The music data request mode can be specified by operating a predetermined key via the operation panel 45. If the song data request mode is specified, the process proceeds to S5, and if not, the process proceeds to S6.
[0058]
In S5, a music data request process is performed by calling a subroutine. This music data request processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
In the first step S10 of the music data request processing, the contents of the fee collection regulation are displayed. For example, the contents shown in FIG. 9 are displayed on the television monitor 29. The contents are announced that a separate fee is required to receive the distribution of new song data, and that the fee will be charged on top of the telephone fee of the telephone number currently used, After confirming the contents, the terminal installation business is urged to press a "song selection key" if the user wants to distribute a new song, and to press a "cancel key" if he does not want to distribute the new song.
[0059]
Therefore, if the terminal installation company does not know that the distribution of this new song is charged, the following two options can be made. One is that after understanding that it is a fee, if the user still wants to distribute, he or she can press the "tune selection key". On the other hand, if it is considered that distribution is not required if a fee is paid, a "cancel key" may be pressed.
[0060]
Therefore, in S11, it is determined whether the "tune selection key" is pressed and a confirmation instruction is given, and in S12, it is determined whether the "cancel key" is pressed and the new music distribution mode itself is canceled.
If the "tune selection key" is pressed and a confirmation instruction is given (S11: YES), the process proceeds to S13. However, if the "cancel key" is pressed and the new music distribution mode itself is canceled (S12). : YES), this routine is terminated without executing the processing after S13, and the process returns to S6 in FIG.
[0061]
In S13, the connection with the charging center 1 is established. The karaoke terminal 10 is connected to the charging communication network 5 via the second communication control device 28, and is connected to the charging center 1 via the charging communication network 5. After the connection process with the charging center 1 is completed, the process proceeds to S14.
In S14, the music menu information is received from the charging center 1. The song menu information is automatically created by the charging center 1 based on the relationship between the past distribution results and the song data stored in the center, as described above. This is a list of undistributed songs. The karaoke terminal 10 proceeds to S15 after the reception of the music menu information is completed.
[0062]
In S15, the music menu information received in S14 is decrypted, and it is determined whether or not the menu selection has been performed so as to indicate a required music data distribution request. For example, the song menu information is displayed on the television monitor 29, and the karaoke terminal installation company operates the operation panel 45 to make a selection. When the selection is completed (S15: YES), the process proceeds to S16.
[0063]
In S16, the music menu selection information is transmitted to the charging center 1. After the transmission of the music menu selection information in S16 is completed, the process proceeds to S17.
In S17, the charging information transmitted from the charging center 1 is received and recorded in the hard disk 33 as a response to the music menu selection information. When the recording in the hard disk 33 is completed, the process proceeds to S18, and the connection with the charging center 1 is released.
[0064]
When the music data request processing is completed in this way, the process proceeds to S6 in the flowchart of FIG.
In S6, it is checked whether or not a connection request from the information center 3 has occurred. If so, the process proceeds to S7; otherwise, the process proceeds to S2.
[0065]
In S7, the distribution of the music data from the information center 3 is received and recorded on the hard disk 33, and a subroutine is called to perform processing for receiving the billing information from the billing center 1. This music data reception processing will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
[0066]
In the first step S30 of the music data receiving process, a connection is made in response to a call from the information center 3. After the connection is completed, the process proceeds to S31, where the music data transmitted from the information center 3 is received, and the received music data is saved in the built-in hard disk 33.
[0067]
Then, after completion of the music data reception / save processing, the flow shifts to S32, and the connection with the information center 3 is released.
After the disconnection in S32 is completed, this subroutine is finished, the process returns to the step S2 in the flowchart of FIG. 2, and the processes from S2 onward are repeatedly executed until the power is turned off.
[0068]
The above is the operation of the CPU 31 of the karaoke terminal 10, and performs each process of performing karaoke, requesting music data to be distributed, and receiving the distributed music data.
Next, the operation of the information center 3 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG.
[0069]
The information center 3 executes the processing from the step of S40 after the power is turned on.
In S40, initialization of the entire device such as resetting of the communication control device 77 is performed. After the processing of S40 ends, the process moves to S41.
In S41, it is checked whether there is a connection request from the charging center 1. If there is, the process proceeds to S42, and if not, the process of S41 is repeated.
[0070]
In S42, connection with the charging center 1 is performed in response to a connection request from the charging center 1. After the connection is completed, the process proceeds to S43.
In S43, music piece data distribution request information is received from the charging center 1. The song data distribution request information is information relating to the purchase of the billing information by connecting the karaoke terminal 10 to the billing center 1 via the billing communication network 5, and more specifically, there are a plurality of karaoke terminals. The information indicates which karaoke terminal has purchased the billing information and which song data has been purchased. The information center 3 performs a process of distributing music data corresponding to the purchased billing information to the corresponding karaoke terminal 10 based on the information from the billing center 1.
[0071]
After the completion of the reception of the music piece data distribution request information in S43, the process proceeds to S44. In S44, the connection with the charging center 1 is released. After the disconnection is completed, the process proceeds to S45.
In S45, it is determined whether or not the distribution of the music data is necessary. If necessary, the process proceeds to S46, and if not, the process proceeds to S41. Whether or not distribution of the music data is necessary is determined based on whether or not the music data distribution request information has been received in S43.
[0072]
In S46, the karaoke terminal 10 that has made the music data distribution request is called via the information communication network 7 with reference to the music data distribution request information received in S43. After the completion of this process, the flow shifts to S47.
In S47, the music data corresponding to the billing information purchased by the connected karaoke terminal 10 is distributed with reference to the music data distribution request information received in S43. After the music data distribution is completed, the process proceeds to S48.
[0073]
In S48, the connection with the connected karaoke terminal 10 is released. After the disconnection is completed, the process proceeds to S41,
The above is the operation of the host computer 71 of the information center 3. The karaoke terminal 10 that has received the music data distribution request information from the charging center 1 and referred to the contents thereof, A process of transmitting music data corresponding to the purchased billing information is performed.
[0074]
Next, the operation of the charging center 1 will be described based on the flowchart of FIG. After the power is turned on, the charging center 1 executes the processing from step S60.
In S60, initialization of the entire device such as resetting of the communication control device 57 is performed. Then, the flow shifts to S61, where it is checked whether or not there is a connection request from the karaoke terminal 10. If there is, the process proceeds to S62, and if not, the process of S61 is repeated, and a standby state is set.
[0075]
In S62, the connection with the karaoke terminal 10 is made in response to the connection request from the karaoke terminal 10. After the connection is completed, the process proceeds to S63.
In S63, music menu information is transmitted. More specifically, in the case of the song data request process shown in S5 of FIG. 4, song menu information which is a list of undistributed song data is transmitted to the karaoke terminal 10.
[0076]
After the transmission process is completed, the process shifts to S64, where music menu selection information as a response from the karaoke terminal 10 is received.
After the completion of the reception of the song menu selection information, the process proceeds to S65, where the selected song data is specified based on the menu selection information, and dummy data for charging the specified song data for a data fee is transmitted. . Since this charging information is dummy data, it is meaningless data for the karaoke terminal 10. However, for the charging center 1 and the charging communication network 5 including the fee collection agent system, which karaoke terminal 10 This is important as information for determining whether or not billing has been performed. The charging center 1 records this charging information as a charging result. The toll collection system, which constitutes the billing communication network 5 between the karaoke terminal 10 and the billing center 1, is based on the billing information and gives the installation company of the corresponding karaoke terminal 10 an additional telephone charge. It collects information fees.
[0077]
When the transmission of the billing information is completed, the process proceeds to S66, and the connection with the karaoke terminal 10 is released. After the connection release processing is completed, the flow shifts to S67, where the accounting result as a result of the processing of S62 to S64 is recorded in the storage device 53 as music data distribution request information. Further, addition to the distribution results in the storage device 53 is also performed. After this processing ends, the flow shifts to S68.
[0078]
In S68, the information center 3 is called via a public line, and a connection for data transfer is made. After the connection process is completed, the process proceeds to S69, and the music data distribution request information recorded in the storage device 53 in S67 is transmitted to the information center 3. After the completion of the transmission process, the process shifts to S70, and the connection with the information center 3 is released. After the connection release processing is completed, the flow shifts to S61, and the above processing is repeated.
[0079]
The operation of the host computer 51 of the charging center 1 has been described above. A connection is made in response to a connection request from the karaoke terminal 10 via the charging communication network 5, the charging information corresponding to the specified music data is transmitted, and the charging result is recorded. Is recorded and transferred to the information center 3 to distribute the requested music data to the karaoke terminal 10.
[0080]
Finally, the function of the toll collection system constituting the billing communication network 5 as the telephone company equipment will be described. The karaoke terminal 10 and the charging center 1 exchange data via a fee collection agent system constituting the charging communication network 5. At this time, the toll collection system obtains information on which karaoke terminal 10 is to be charged from a position located in the middle of data exchange.
[0081]
The telephone operator collects the acquired amount in a form that is added to the karaoke terminal installation company, which is the owner of the karaoke terminal 10, when requesting a telephone charge, and sends it to the music data distribution company, which is the information provider. We have a service to pass. This in itself is well known as Videotex at NTT.
[0082]
As is apparent from the above description, according to the communication karaoke system of the present embodiment, when the karaoke terminal installation company operates the operation panel 45 to set the music data request mode in the karaoke terminal 10, first, FIG. Is displayed on the television monitor 29 as shown in FIG. The contents are announced that a separate fee is required to receive the distribution of new song data, and that the fee will be charged on top of the telephone fee of the telephone number currently used, After confirming the content, the user is prompted to press a "song selection key" if he / she wants to distribute a new song, and to press a "cancel key" if he / she does not want to.
[0083]
Therefore, if the terminal installation company does not know that the distribution of this new song is charged, the following two options can be made. One is that after understanding that it is a fee, if the user still wants to distribute, he or she can press the "tune selection key". On the other hand, if it is considered that distribution is not required if a fee is paid, a "cancel key" may be pressed.
[0084]
Only when the song selection key is pressed and a confirmation instruction is issued, that is, after confirming that a fee is required, it is confirmed that the request is a new song data request, is not made. The music data is received from the information center 3. Regarding collection of the distribution fee of the music data to the karaoke terminal 10, a proxy service by a telephone company can be used, and the burden on the music data distribution company can be reduced.
[0085]
As described above, by using the accounting communication network 5, the terminal installation business does not have to pay money directly or use a credit card, and thus it is convenient in terms of collecting fees. Conversely, if you do not pay the money directly, you will not be aware that the operation you are doing will be charged in the future, you will be actually collected at a later date, and you will feel suspicious about the contents of the collection. It can also be a source of trouble between the payer and the collector, such as being dissatisfied with the fact that they were charged without their knowledge. In other words, in the above-described example, a distribution request is made without knowing that the distribution of the new music is charged, and the user later knows for the first time that the fee has been collected.
[0086]
In the above embodiment, before the distribution of the new song for which the payment is started, the fact that the fee is charged is displayed, and the processing is executed only after confirmation by the terminal installation company. Trouble between the collection side and the payment side can be prevented beforehand.
[0087]
Further, in the above embodiment, not only the request for new song data distribution is requested, but also the song menu information is received from the charging center 1 and displayed on the television monitor 29, for example, as shown in S14 to S16 in FIG. The karaoke terminal installation company operates the operation panel 45 to transmit music menu selection information selected to the charging center 1. Therefore, only the selected music is distributed from the information center 3.
[0088]
Displaying the song menu information and prompting the selection also corresponds to the display of the prescribed contents regarding the use of the information providing terminal with fee collection in the present invention. That is, the tunes that can be distributed from the information center 3 and have not been distributed may be different for each karaoke terminal 10. For example, if the song data request has not been executed for a long time, the karaoke terminal 10 may have tens or hundreds of undistributed new song data. In such a case, simply requesting the distribution of new song data may result in a high billing at a time. Even if the new song data has not been distributed for dozens or hundreds of songs, some songs are unnecessary at that time.
[0089]
Therefore, displaying the song menu information first, distributing only the selected item, that is, the one for which the distribution was requested after understanding the payment of the fee, and collecting the fee will prevent financial troubles. Can be prevented. Considering this point, it is preferable to display the fee information when displaying the music menu information. That is, the total fee for having all undistributed new song data distributed is displayed, or the unit price of one song is displayed. For example, even if it is not necessary to judge whether each song in the song menu information is necessary or unnecessary, it may be determined that a total fee is desired and distribution of all songs is desired at this rate. In addition, since the total fee is too expensive, the user does not wish to distribute all songs, but also judges whether each song in the song menu information is necessary or unnecessary, and decides that only the selected song is desired. May be done.
[0090]
As described above, the fee varies depending on the number of songs desired to be distributed, etc. In order to avoid financial trouble, the fee information is displayed, and a selection is made in consideration of the fee information. Is preferred.
Note that the present embodiment is shown in a communication sequence diagram as shown in FIGS.
[0091]
FIG. 10 shows a communication sequence between the karaoke terminal 10 and the charging center 1. First, after the karaoke terminal 10 calls the charging center 1 via the charging communication network 5 and is connected, Submit password.
The charging center 1 performs terminal collation based on the password, and if the terminal is registered as one in the communication karaoke system, returns a message indicating that the collation is normal.
[0092]
After the karaoke terminal 10 receives this collation normal and the charging center 1 is ready to accept, the karaoke terminal 10 makes an inquiry about the presence or absence of new music data.
The charging center 1 receives the inquiry and searches for new music data for the karaoke terminal, and transmits a response to the inquiry to the karaoke terminal 10. That is, a response indicating whether or not there is new song data, and if there is corresponding new song data, the song menu information is transmitted.
[0093]
The karaoke terminal 10 determines whether there is new song data based on the answer result, and if there is new song data, selects a predetermined song from the song menu information and purchases the new song data from the charging center 1. Send a request corresponding to the application.
The charging center 1 transmits dummy data for charging a fee corresponding to the purchase price to the karaoke terminal 10 in response to the request. In response, the karaoke terminal 10 disconnects from the charging center 1.
[0094]
When the above processing is completed, the communication shown in FIG. 11 is executed between the charging center 1 and the information center 3. First, the charging center 1 calls and connects to the information center 3 via a public line, and the music data Send a distribution request. Upon receiving this request, the information center 3 returns a reception completion. Receiving this, the charging center 1 disconnects the connection with the information center 3.
[0095]
When the above processing is completed, the communication shown in FIG. 12 is executed between the information center 3 and the karaoke terminal 10. First, the information center 3 calls and connects to the karaoke terminal 10 via the information communication network 7. Then, the new music data specified by the distribution request is transmitted. Then, upon completion of reception from the karaoke terminal 10, the connection is disconnected.
[0096]
In this way, the communication is delivered in the order of “Karaoke terminal 10” → “Charging center 1” → “Information center 3” → “Karaoke terminal 10”, and paid distribution of new music data is executed.
Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment is based on the present invention.Use an information terminalThis is an example in which the information fee charging system is applied to a game system.
[0097]
As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the present game system uses a game terminal 130 capable of executing a game using game software stored in a built-in CD-ROM 133, and a billing communication having a billing function with the game terminal 130. A charging center 110 is connected via the network 120 and is capable of executing charging for the game terminal 130 by transmitting charging information to the game terminal 130. A plurality of game terminals 130 are connected to the charging center 110 via a charging communication network 120. Note that the billing communication network 120 is assumed to be a Videotex communication network, as in the first embodiment.
[0098]
As shown in FIG. 14, the game terminal 130 includes a CD-ROM 133 as information storage means for storing several types of game software, and a key input device 135 to which a joystick 138 operated by a user when playing a game is connected. And a screen display control device 136 for outputting the game screen to the television monitor 139. These are controlled by a central control device 131 including a well-known CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like, and are configured to be able to execute the game. Have been. That is, the central control device 131 operates according to the game software input from the CD-ROM 133, thereby functioning as an information provision execution unit.
[0099]
Further, the game terminal 130 includes a communication control device 137 as a second communication unit connected to the charging center 110 via the charging communication network 120, which is also controlled by the central control device 131.
In the case of the second embodiment, the game software stored in the CD-ROM 133 is set with a usage fee per hour, and the game terminal 130 measures the game execution time and reduces the usage fee. The calculation process is performed. In addition, the central control device 131 of the game terminal 130 also functions as a billing process requesting unit, and executes a process of transmitting billing request information to the billing center 110 via the communication control device 137. Specifically, it is set so that the billing request process is executed every time the game is played. At that time, a predetermined amount is notified to the billing center 110 as billing request information, and the billing center 1 Will be transmitted.
[0100]
Note that the billing center 110 and the billing communication network 120 have the same configurations as those in the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.
In the second embodiment, contents similar to the contents of the fee collection regulation shown in FIG. 9 are displayed on the television monitor 139 before playing the game. In other words, you will be informed that a separate fee is required to implement this game, and that the fee will be charged on top of the telephone fee for the telephone number currently used, and After the confirmation, the user is prompted to press the "execute key" if he wishes to distribute the new song, and to press the "cancel key" if he does not.
[0101]
Therefore, if the user does not know that this game is paid, the user can make the following two choices. One is to press the "execution key" if the user wants to execute again after understanding that it is charged. On the other hand, if the user does not want to execute the job if the user pays a fee, the user can press the "cancel key".
[0102]
Even in this case, you will not be aware that the operation you are performing will be charged in the future, and you will be actually collected at a later date and feel suspicious about the contents of the collection or if you do not know Before the start of the paid game, it may cause troubles between the payer and the collector, such as dissatisfaction with having been charged on their own. Since it is displayed that the fee is charged and the process is executed only after confirmation by the user, it is possible to prevent trouble between the fee collecting side and the paying side.
[0103]
In particular, in the case where free games and paid games are mixed, if it is intended to be a free game, it is easy for a fee to be charged at a later date. It is necessary to describe which game is charged, for example, in the instruction manual, etc., but before the game is started, it indicates that the game is charged and there is a confirmation by the user It is certain that the processing is executed for the first time.
[0104]
As described above, the present inventionInformation providing terminalaboutUse thisTwoBased on information communication systemAlthough the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiment, the present invention is not limited to this, and various modes can be adopted without departing from the spirit of the present invention. For example, in the first embodiment, the delivery of the karaoke music is charged, but the delivery of the music is automatically performed, and every time a karaoke performance is instructed as in the second embodiment. In other words, a system that requires a fee each time for the performance of one songUse forYou may.
[0105]
Further, in the first embodiment, the fee collection rule for the distribution of the music data is displayed, and in the second embodiment, the fee collection rule for the execution of the game as the information providing service is displayed. The present invention is not limited to this, and it is also preferable to display the contents of the regulation regarding the use of the karaoke terminal 10 or the use of the game terminal 130 with the charge collection.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a communication karaoke system according to a first embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a karaoke terminal which is a component of the system of the first embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an information center and a billing center which are components of the system of the first embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing main processing in the karaoke terminal of the first embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a music data request process in the karaoke terminal of the first embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating music data reception processing in the karaoke terminal of the first embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing main processing in the information center of the first embodiment.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a first half of a main process in the charging center according to the first embodiment.
FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of fee collection regulation contents displayed on the television monitor of the karaoke terminal of the first embodiment.
FIG. 10 is a communication sequence diagram in the first embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a communication sequence diagram in the first embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a communication sequence diagram in the first embodiment.
FIG. 13 is a schematic configuration diagram of a game system according to a second embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a game terminal which is a component of the system of the second embodiment.
[Explanation of symbols]
1: Billing center 3: Information center 5: Billing communication network
7 information communication network 10 karaoke terminal 26 screen display control device
27 first communication control device 28 second communication control device 29 television monitor
31 central control device 33 hard disk 35 audio reproduction circuit
38 ... mixer amplifier 41 ... speaker 43 ... microphone
45 ... Operation panel
51, 71: Host computer 53, 73: Storage device
55, 75 ... input device 57, 77 ... communication control device
59, 79 ... Printer
110: billing center 120: billing communication network 130: game terminal
131 central control device 135 key input device 136 screen display control device
137: Communication control device 138: Joystick 139: TV monitor

Claims (3)

An information providing terminal that provides a user with paid information to be distributed and is capable of executing an information providing service in which the usage fee is settled after a period of time after receiving the information,
A first communication means accessible to information center via the information communication network with information communication function,
Information storage means for storing information used for an information providing service received from the information center via the information communication network and the first communication means;
Information provision execution means for performing provision of information using information stored in the information storage means,
Information distribution requesting means for transmitting an information distribution request signal to the information center via the first communication means and the information communication network;
Second communication means capable of accessing the charging center via a charging communication network having a charging function;
Charging processing requesting means for transmitting a charging request signal to the charging center via the second communication means and the charging communication network;
Instruction input means for inputting various instructions,
When the execution of transmission of the information distribution request signal by the information distribution request means is instructed via the instruction input means, before the actual execution of the transmission of the information distribution request signal, a fee collection rule for the information distribution is provided. Display control means for causing the display means to display the contents of
When a predetermined pay confirmation instruction is input via the instruction input means while the charge collection contents are displayed on the display means, the information distribution request means executes transmission of an information distribution request signal. An information providing terminal comprising: The information providing terminal according to claim 1 ,
The information providing terminal according to claim 1, wherein the first communication means is a connection means for an information communication network which is a communication network different from a charging communication network to which the second communication means is connected. The information providing terminal according to claim 1 or 2 ,
The display control means is capable of displaying, on the display means, the contents of the provision of the information provision terminal with the charge collection in addition to the contents of the charge collection provisions relating to the information providing service or information distribution. An information providing terminal characterized by the following.

Images