JP3664122B2 - Information distribution apparatus, information distribution method, and information distribution program - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an information delivery apparatus, an information delivery method, and an information delivery program for delivering information corresponding to user attribute information registered for each user in advance to each user.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, there has been an information distribution apparatus that distributes information such as advertisements (hereinafter referred to as distribution information) provided by an advertiser to a user based on the registered contents of the user. In this information distribution apparatus, user attribute information indicating the type of distribution information desired to be distributed for each user is registered in advance. The information distribution apparatus stores a large amount of distribution information. The information distribution device extracts, for each user, distribution information suitable for the user based on the attribute information of the user from among a large number of distribution information stored in advance, and the distribution extracted here Information is distributed (transmitted) to a communication terminal device designated by the user, for example, a mobile phone.
[0003]
Accordingly, the information distribution apparatus can transmit only the type of distribution information required by the user to the user without transmitting the type of distribution information that the user is not interested in to the user.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the information distribution apparatus extracts distribution information to be distributed to users for each user. Specifically, for each user, using the attribute information of the user as a key, distribution information satisfying the attribute information of the user was extracted from a large number of distribution information stored in the main body. . For this reason, when new distribution information is added to the information distribution apparatus, the new distribution information is not distributed to the users whose distribution information has already been extracted, and services for users and advertisers are provided. There was a problem that it was not good.
[0005]
In addition, the distribution information includes limited information (for example, advertisement information, privilege information, discount information) that limits the number of distributions. The number of distributions is the total number of distributions of this distribution information to the user.
[0006]
Normally, users are managed in the order of registration. In addition, the distribution information is extracted in the order of registration. For this reason, the limited information is distributed to users who are relatively early in registration, and is hardly distributed to users who are late in registration. Therefore, there is a large difference in the number of distribution information between a user whose registration is distributed relatively early and a user whose registration is late and whose limited information is not distributed, and the service for users whose registration is slow is not good. There was a problem.
[0007]
The object of the present invention is to improve the service for users and advertisers by extracting users to be distributed to all registered users even for newly added distribution information. An object is to provide an information distribution device, an information distribution method, and an information distribution program.
[0008]
Moreover, this invention is providing the information delivery apparatus which improved the service with respect to a user by equalizing the number of delivery information delivered to a user.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The information distribution apparatus according to the present invention has the following configuration in order to solve the above-described problems.
[0010]
  (1) attribute information storage means for storing an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute;
  Identification code extraction means for extracting, from the attribute information storage means, an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions for the distribution information associated with the distribution conditions;
  Extraction information storage means for storing extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted by the identification code extraction means;
  Distribution information transmission means for transmitting distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means for each identification code And comprising
  The distribution information is information in which a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition,
  The extracted information storage means is a means for preferentially storing the extracted information for an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information.
[0011]
In this configuration, an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute are stored in the attribute information storage means. In addition, distribution conditions are associated with the distribution information.
[0012]
The identification code can be used as an identification code for identifying a user. The attribute information can be used as information indicating not only the user's name, gender, age, and occupation, but also user preferences such as hobbies and preferences. The distribution information is information distributed to users such as advertisements, news, weather forecasts, traffic information, and the like, and can restrict the sex, age, etc. of the users to be distributed according to the associated distribution conditions. For example, users who distribute distribution information can be limited to women in their 20s and men in their 30s.
[0013]
The identification code extraction means extracts from the attribute information storage means an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions, using the distribution conditions associated with the distribution information as a key. The extracted information storage means stores extracted information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted by the identification code extracting means. The distribution information transmitting unit transmits the distribution information associated with the identification code to the transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage unit.
[0014]
In this way, the identification codes for transmitting the distribution information are extracted for all the identification codes whose attribute information is stored in the attribute information storage means, that is, all users. That is, it is possible to eliminate users who are not subject to determination as to whether to transmit distribution information. Therefore, even newly added distribution information can be distributed to many users who need the distribution information, and the service for users and advertisers can be improved.
[0015]
The transmission destination corresponding to the identification code may be, for example, a portable communication terminal device such as a mobile phone owned by the user, a portable notebook personal computer, or a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant). It may be a fixed communication terminal device such as a telephone set or a fax machine installed in a person's house. The distribution information is transmitted by a method according to the communication terminal device on the receiving side, such as e-mail, image information, and audio information.
[0017]
  Also,On delivery termsIsThere is a delivery limit number that limits the number of times the delivery information can be sent.Distribution information storage meansExtraction information is preferentially stored for identification codes with a small number of distribution information associated with the extraction information storage means. Thereby, the distribution information in which the number of transmissions is limited is not distributed intensively to some users, and the number of distribution information distributed to the users can be equalized. Therefore, the service for users can be improved.
[0018]
Usually, an advertiser such as a company or a store determines an advertising cost in advance and requests distribution of the advertisement. On the other hand, the advertisement cost actually charged is calculated based on the total number of users to whom the advertisement (distribution information here) has been distributed, that is, the number of times the advertisement has been transmitted. For this reason, the advertiser restricts the number of transmissions according to the distribution conditions, thereby preventing the advertiser from being charged for the advertising cost exceeding the predetermined advertising cost.
[0019]
  (2) Attribute information storage means for storing an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute;
  Identification code extraction means for extracting, from the attribute information storage means, an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions for the distribution information associated with the distribution conditions;
  Extraction information storage means for storing extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted by the identification code extraction means;
  Distribution information transmission means for transmitting distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means for each identification code And comprising
  The extraction information storage means preferentially applies to an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information when a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition. Means for storing the extracted information;
[0020]
  In this configuration, for distribution information in which a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition, an identification code with a small number of distribution information items associated with the extracted information storage unit , Preferentially store the extracted information. As a result, distribution information with a limited number of transmissions is not distributed intensively to some users, and the above (1), The number of distribution information distributed to users can be made equal. Therefore, the service for users can be improved.
[0025]
  (3The extracted information is information in which a distribution information number for identifying the distribution information is associated with the identification code.
[0026]
In this configuration, when there is an error in the distribution information, it is possible to prevent distribution information with an error from being distributed thereafter by only correcting the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit.
[0027]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an information distribution apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.
[0028]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an information distribution system to which an information distribution apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is applied. Here, a system that distributes information (distribution information referred to in the present invention) to users who mainly use commuter passes for commuting and attending school will be described as an example.
[0029]
In FIG. 1, 1 is a railway company which is a public transportation. The railroad company 1 is provided with a server device 11 that performs issuance management of tickets such as commuter passes and designated tickets, train operation management, and management of personal information relating to users who have issued commuter passes. 2 is a station. In the station 2, an automatic ticket gate 21, an automatic checkout machine 22, a commuter pass issuing machine 23, and the like are installed. Reference numeral 25 denotes a host device for managing passengers at the station 2, to which an automatic ticket gate 21 and an automatic checkout machine 22 are connected. The host device 25 is connected to the server device 11 of the railway company 1 via a public line. The commuter pass issuing machine 23 is not connected to the host device 25 but is connected to the server device 11 of the railway company 1 through a public line.
[0030]
Reference numeral 3 denotes an information distribution center. The information distribution center 3 is provided with an information distribution apparatus 31 that is an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the information distribution device 31. The information distribution apparatus 31 includes a control unit 311 that controls the operation of the main body, a distribution information storage unit 312 that stores distribution information distributed to users in an accumulative manner, and the name, age, gender, and hobby of each user. Attribute information storage unit 313 that stores attribute information such as preferences and manages users, extraction information storage unit 314 that stores distribution information indicating distribution information associated with each user, and A transmission unit 315 that transmits (distributes) distribution information, and a reception unit 316 that receives information transmitted from other devices.
[0031]
The distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 includes various types of information such as news, weather forecasts, traffic information, and the like as well as advertisements requested to be distributed from advertisers such as companies and stores to users. It is.
[0032]
5 is the Internet. The information distribution device 31 installed in the information distribution center 3 is connected to the Internet 5 or a public line (including a dedicated line) by wire or wirelessly. The server device 11 and the host device 25 described above are also connected to the Internet 5.
[0033]
In addition, an advertiser host device (not shown) that is a provider of distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 of the information distribution device 31 is also connected to the Internet 5. The advertiser host device can change or delete the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 via the Internet 5.
[0034]
Reference numeral 6 denotes a user who uses the commuter pass 7 for commuting and attending school, and reference numeral 8 denotes a mobile phone owned by the user 6. The mobile phone 8 has a function of receiving electronic mail. Reference numeral 8 may be a portable personal computer (so-called notebook personal computer) having a cellular phone function, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistants), or other non-portable communication equipment such as a FAX apparatus. Also good.
[0035]
The automatic ticket gate 21 is a device that restricts the entrance of the user 6 to the station premises and the exit from the station premises, and is installed at the ticket gate of the station 2. The settlement machine 22 is a device that settles the fare for the passenger who has passed over when leaving the station yard. The commuter pass issuing machine 23 is a device that issues the commuter pass 7.
[0036]
The commuter pass 7 issued by the commuter pass issuing machine 23 includes not only information indicating the valid section and the valid period, but also a user identification code that can identify the user 6 who is the owner of the commuter pass 7. Are recorded as magnetic data (see FIG. 3).
[0037]
This user identification code is a code set in the commuter pass issuing machine 23 for identifying the commuter pass when the commuter pass 7 is issued. The user 6 who uses the issued commuter pass 7 is specified. It can be used as a user identification code.
[0038]
In addition, the attribute information storage unit 313 of the information distribution device 31 installed in the information distribution center 3 stores, for each user 6, the user identification code recorded on the commuter pass 7 owned by the user 6 and the usage. The attribute information indicating the attribute of the person 6 is stored in association with each other. The attribute information includes information indicating whether or not the user wishes to distribute the distribution information, the user's name, age, gender, occupation, the type of distribution information desired to be distributed, and distribution information not desired to be distributed. Necessary / unnecessary of train timetable delivery, Necessary / unnecessary of train delay guidance delivery, destination of delivery information (e-mail address), delivery preference when boarding, delivery preference when getting off, boarding section ( (Including via stations), home phone numbers, office phone numbers, etc. (see FIG. 4).
[0039]
The distribution information not desired to be distributed is, for example, an advertiser name if the distribution information is provided from a specific advertiser, and is a region name if the distribution information is for a specific region. Further, in the boarding section, the station shown on the left side in FIG. 4 is a station near the house, and the station shown on the right side is a station near the place of work or school.
[0040]
The user 6 enters the attribute information on the application form when purchasing the commuter pass 7, and the attendant issues the commuter pass 7 by inputting the attribute information entered in the commuter pass issuing machine 23. The commuter pass issuing machine 23 transmits the input attribute information to the server device 11 and the information distribution device 31 of the railway company 1.
[0041]
As described above, the user identification code is set by the commuter pass issuing machine 23 when the commuter pass 7 is issued, and is transmitted to the server device 11 and the information distribution device 31 together with the attribute information. The commuter pass issuing device 23 issues the commuter pass 7 in which the valid section, the expiration date, and the user identification code are recorded.
[0042]
Further, the user 6 can update the attribute information stored in the attribute information storage unit 313 such as change, addition, and deletion at an arbitrary timing. Specifically, the user 6 can access the information distribution apparatus 31 via the Internet 5 by operating a personal computer, and can update his / her attribute information stored in the attribute information storage unit 313. Further, the attribute information of the user 6 stored in the attribute information storage unit 313 can also be updated in the information distribution apparatus 31.
[0043]
In this embodiment, the following description will be made assuming that the mail address of the user 6 stored as the attribute information is the mail address of the mobile phone 8 owned by the user 6. This e-mail address is a distribution destination (transmission destination) of distribution information.
[0044]
The distribution information storage unit 312 of the information distribution device 31 stores a plurality of distribution information provided by the advertiser. These distribution information can also have the following distribution conditions. The distribution condition is a condition for classifying the user 6 who distributes the distribution information and the user 6 who does not distribute the distribution information, and can be freely set by the advertiser. For example, in the case of an advertiser that provides distribution information for women, the user 6 who distributes the distribution information can be limited to only women. That is, the distribution information can be set not to be distributed to men. Also, the age group (20s, 30s, etc.) can be set. Furthermore, it is possible to set a delivery limit number that limits the number of delivery information transmissions.
[0045]
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit. The distribution information storage unit 312 stores distribution conditions (see FIG. 5A) and distribution information (see FIG. 5B) in association with each other. The distribution information is given a distribution information number for identifying the distribution information. The example shown in FIG. 5 is a delivery condition that narrows down the user group that delivers delivery information to women, ages 20-29, and people who go through Shinjuku Station.
[0046]
The effective period of the distribution information is limited to the period from September 1, 2001 to October 31, 2001. After the valid period, this distribution information is not distributed to the user 6. The distribution limit number is 300 times, and the distribution is not distributed to 301 or more users 6 in total. Further, the distribution information number is K0001.
[0047]
Next, the automatic ticket gate 21 will be described. The automatic ticket gate 21 is a device that restricts entry of a user into or out of a station. FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the automatic ticket gate 21, and FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the appearance of the automatic ticket gate 21.
[0048]
The automatic ticket gate 1 includes a control unit 211 that controls the operation of the main body, a storage unit 212 that stores information used during the operation and information generated during the operation, a clock unit 213 that clocks the current time, and a host device. A transmission unit 214 that transmits information to 25, an insertion detection unit 215 that detects that a ticket such as a commuter pass or a ticket has been inserted into the main body, a transport unit 216 that transports the ticket inserted into the main body, A reading unit 217 that reads data recorded on the transported ticket and a door driving unit 218 that opens and closes a door 218a that restricts the passage of the user 6 are provided. The automatic ticket gate 21 closes the door 218a and prohibits the user 6 from passing through the passage, thereby restricting the user 6 from entering or leaving the station.
[0049]
The automatic ticket gate 21 includes an insertion port 216a for inserting a ticket on the right side of the entrance of the passage, and a discharge port 216b for discharging the ticket inserted in the main body on the right side of the exit. Between the insertion port 216a and the discharge port 216b, a transport path 216c for transporting a boarding ticket is provided. The insertion port 216a is provided with an insertion detection sensor 215a that detects insertion of a ticket. When the insertion detection sensor 215a detects the insertion of the boarding ticket, the transport unit 216 transports the boarding ticket inserted into the insertion port 216a to the discharge port 216b. Further, the magnetic head 217a reads data recorded on the boarding ticket being transported along the transport path 216c.
[0050]
In FIG. 7, if the direction of travel is toward the station, the automatic ticket gate 21 is for entry, and if the direction is from the station to the outside, it is the automatic ticket gate 21 for exit.
[0051]
Further, the storage unit 214 stores a gate code for identifying the own device and information indicating whether the own device is for entry or exit.
[0052]
In addition, by arranging the automatic ticket gate 21 for entrance and the automatic ticket gate 21 for exit facing each other across the passage, one passage can be used for bidirectional traffic.
[0053]
The operation of this information distribution system will be described below.
[0054]
First, the flow of information between devices in this information distribution system will be briefly described. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the flow of this information.
[0055]
The automatic ticket gate 21 reads information such as a user identification code, a valid period, and a valid section from the commuter pass 7 of the user 6 and transmits passage information to the information distribution device 31. The information distribution device 31 receives passage information from the automatic ticket gate 21. This passage information includes a user identification code, a valid period, a valid section, a gate code, a passage time, and entry / exit information. Details of the passage information will be described later. The information distribution device 31 distributes the distribution information to the mobile phone 8 of the user 6 by electronic mail based on the passing information transmitted from the automatic ticket gate 21. The user 6 can confirm the distribution information distributed from the information distribution device 31 in the mobile phone 8.
[0056]
In this embodiment, the automatic ticket gate 21 does not directly transmit the passage information to the information distribution device 31 but transmits the passage information to the information distribution device 31 via the host device 25 provided in the station 2. It is a configuration.
[0057]
Hereinafter, the operation of this information distribution system will be described in detail.
[0058]
First, the commuter pass 7 is inserted into the automatic ticket gate 21 so that the user 6 enters or leaves the station.
[0059]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the automatic ticket gate.
[0060]
Here, the automatic ticket gate 21 for entrance will be described as an example.
[0061]
When the automatic ticket gate 21 detects that the commuter pass 7 has been inserted into the insertion slot 216a by the insertion detection sensor 215a (s1), the transport unit 216 starts the operation of the transport path 216c and is inserted into the insertion slot 216a. The commuter pass 7 starts to be conveyed (s2). The commuter pass 7 is conveyed to the discharge port 216b.
[0062]
The reading unit 217 reads the user identification code, the valid period, and the valid section recorded as magnetic data on the commuter pass 7 being conveyed by the magnetic head 217a (s3). The control unit 211 determines whether the current time is within the valid period read in s3 (s4) and whether the current station is a station in the valid section (s5).
[0063]
When it is determined that the automatic ticket gate 21 is within the valid period and within the valid period, the pass information including the user identification code and the entrance information is transmitted to the host device 25 (s6), and the door 218a is opened (s7). Details of the passage information will be described later. This passage information is transferred from the host device 25 to the information distribution device 31 in real time.
[0064]
In addition, you may comprise so that the automatic ticket gate 21 may transmit passage information to the information delivery apparatus 31 directly.
[0065]
When the automatic ticket gate 21 transports the commuter pass 7 to the discharge port 216b (s8), it stops the operation of the transport path 216c (s9). The automatic ticket gate 21 waits for a time sufficient for the user 6 to pass (s10), and then closes the door 218a (s11). Therefore, the user 6 can enter the station through the passage.
[0066]
The user 6 enters the station with the commuter pass 7 transported to the discharge port 216b.
[0067]
On the other hand, if the automatic ticket gate 21 determines that it is not within the valid period at s4, or if it is determined that it is not within the valid section at s5, it determines whether or not the door 218a is open at s12 (s12). For example, the door is closed at s11, and passage of the passage to the user 6 is prohibited. Therefore, the user 6 cannot enter the station through the passage.
[0068]
In this case as well, the commuter pass 7 is transported to the discharge port 216b and returned to the user 6.
[0069]
Thus, the automatic ticket gate 21 reads the magnetic data (valid section, valid period, user identification code, etc.) stored in the inserted commuter pass 7 and permits the user 6 to enter the station. Judging whether or not.
[0070]
Here, the commuter pass 7 is a magnetic ticket in which the valid section, the valid period, the user identification code, etc. are recorded as magnetic data. However, the commuter pass 7 is a well-known non-contact type IC ticket or a contact type IC ticket. Alternatively, the mobile terminal 8 may be used as the commuter pass 7. In this case, the automatic ticket gate 21 can eliminate the insertion detection unit 215 and the conveyance unit 216. The reading unit 217 may be replaced with a configuration that can read the user identification code and the like from the commuter pass 7.
[0071]
Next, the passage information transmitted by the automatic ticket gate 21 in s6 will be described. In the passage information, in addition to the user identification code read from the commuter pass 7, the valid period, the valid section, the gate code identifying the own device stored in the storage unit 212, the passage time of the user 6, Entry / exit information indicating whether the user has entered the station or exited is included (see FIG. 10). The gate code may be information directly indicating a place where the automatic ticket gate 21 is installed, or may simply be a number for identifying the automatic ticket gate 21. In this case, information that can determine the installation location of the automatic ticket gate 21 may be stored on the information distribution apparatus 31 side using the gate code as a key.
[0072]
Further, the entrance / exit information of the passage information output from the entrance automatic ticket gate 21 is entrance, and the entrance / exit information of the passage information output from the exit automatic ticket gate 21 is exit.
[0073]
Furthermore, if the information distribution device 31 is configured to be able to determine whether the automatic ticket gate 21 is for entry or exit from the gate code, the entry / exit information shown in FIG. 10 can be made unnecessary.
[0074]
The host device 25 stores the passage information transmitted from the automatic ticket checker 21 accumulatively, and stores this passage information in real time via the Internet 5 or the public line to the information distribution center 3, that is, the information distribution device 31. Send. Further, the host device 25 transmits the passing information stored in an accumulated manner to the server device 11 installed in the railway company 1 at a predetermined timing. The server apparatus 11 collects and manages the usage status of each user 6 by storing and managing the passing information transmitted from the host apparatus 25.
[0075]
Next, the operation of the information distribution apparatus 31 installed in the information distribution center 3 will be described.
[0076]
The information distribution device 31 of this embodiment distributes distribution information to each user 6 whose attribute information is stored in the attribute information storage unit 313. Distribution information distributed to each user 6 is stored in the distribution information storage unit 312.
[0077]
For each piece of distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312, the information distribution apparatus 31 extracts a user identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions, and associates the distribution information with the extracted user identification code. A user extraction process for storing the extracted information indicating this in the extracted information storage unit 314 is executed in advance. When the information distribution device 31 receives the passage information, the information distribution device 31 searches the extracted information storage unit 314 using the user identification code included in the passage information as a key, and notifies the user 6 identified by the user identification code. On the other hand, distribution information based on the extracted information is distributed.
[0078]
The user extraction process is executed at night when there is no user 6 who uses the automatic ticket gate 21.
[0079]
A regular commuter pass 6 user per day
▲ 1 ▼ Enter a station near your home,
▲ 2 ▼ Leave from the station near the company or school,
▲ 3 ▼ Enter the station near the company or school,
▲ 4 ▼ Leave from a station near your home,
Pass through the automatic ticket gate a total of 4 times. The information distribution device 31 assumes that passage information is transmitted four times from the above (1) to (4) for each user 6, and uses the distribution information distributed to the user 6 for each of the four times. Predetermined by the person extraction process. Hereinafter, the user extraction process will be described in detail.
[0080]
11 and 12 are flowcharts showing the user extraction process.
[0081]
The information distribution device 31 executes the following process for all distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312.
[0082]
The information distribution device 31 reads out the distribution information and distribution conditions of the distribution information for the first distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 (s21), and is the distribution information for which the number of distribution restrictions is set? It is determined whether or not (s22). If it is determined in s22 that the distribution limit number is not set, the user identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution condition is extracted from the attribute information storage unit 313 (s23). At this time, it is also determined whether or not the distribution information is of a type satisfying the attribute information (whether it is a type desired by the user 6 such as fashion or sports).
[0083]
Here, the extracted information storage unit 314 will be described. The extracted information storage unit 314 has a configuration in which four distribution information storage areas (areas A to D) are assigned for each user identification code (see FIG. 13). Area A is an area for storing distribution information distributed to the user 6 when entering the station near the home, and area B is an area for storing distribution information distributed to the user 6 when leaving the station near the work place. C is an area for storing distribution information to be distributed to the user 6 when entering the station near the office, and an area D is an area for storing distribution information to be distributed to the user 6 when leaving the station near the home. In each of the areas A to D, a distribution information main body distributed to the user 6 is stored.
[0084]
As described above, the extracted information storage unit 314 stores information (extraction information referred to in the present invention) in which the distribution information is associated with the user identification code for each user 6.
[0085]
The information distribution device 31 stores the distribution information in the corresponding areas A to D of the user identification code extracted in s23 (s24). In s24, it is determined at which timing (1) to (4) the distribution information is optimal for the user 6 identified by the user identification code extracted in s23. The distribution information is stored in an area (any one of areas A to D) corresponding to the timing determined here. This determination may be made in consideration of the station (location) where the user 6 is heading. The information distribution apparatus 31 determines whether or not the determination of s23 has been made for all the users in s25, and if the determination of s23 has not been made for all the users, returns to s23 and performs the same processing for the remaining users. I do.
[0086]
On the other hand, if it is determined that all the users have been determined in s25, it is determined in s26 whether or not the processing after s21 has been performed on all the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 313. If it is determined in s26 that all the distribution information has not been performed, the target distribution information is changed to the next distribution information in s27, and the process returns to s21.
[0087]
Next, if it is determined that the distribution information is the distribution information set in s22, the extracted information storage unit 314 extracts all the user identification codes with the smallest distribution information associated at this time (s31). The user identification code extracted here is registered in the set A (s32). The number of pieces of distribution information associated with the user identification code is the total number of pieces of distribution information stored in the areas A to D corresponding to the user identification code, and is obtained by counting this.
[0088]
The information distribution apparatus 31 extracts a user identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution condition (s33), and determines whether or not the extracted user identification code is registered in the set A (s34). If it is determined in s34 that the identification code is registered in the set A, the distribution information is stored in the areas A to D corresponding to the user identification code extracted in s33 (s35). s35 is the same process as s24. The information distribution apparatus 31 deletes the user identification code storing the distribution information in s35 from the set A (s36).
[0089]
If it is determined in s34 that the identification code is not registered in the set A, the processes of s35 and s36 are not performed.
[0090]
The information delivery apparatus 31 performs the process of s33 on whether or not the number of delivery information stored in the extracted information storage unit 314 has reached the delivery limit number set in the delivery condition (s37) and all users. It is determined whether or not (s38). If it is determined in s37 that the stored number has reached the distribution limit number, or if it is determined that all users have been determined, the process jumps to s26. On the other hand, if it is determined in s37 that the stored number has not reached the distribution limit number, and it is determined in s38 that all the users have not been determined, the total number of user identification codes deleted from set A and the set The number of remaining identification codes of A is compared (s39).
[0091]
The total number of user identification codes deleted from the set A is the number of distribution information stored in the extracted information storage unit 314. In s39, it is determined whether or not the distribution information is associated with the majority of user identification codes registered in the set A.
[0092]
If the information distribution device 31 determines that the majority has been reached in s39, the information distribution device 31 extracts the user identification code with the next smallest distribution information associated (s40), and performs the processing after s32. If it is determined in s39 that the majority has not been reached, the processing after s33 is performed.
[0093]
As described above, the distribution information for which the number of distribution restrictions is set is stored in the extracted information storage unit 314 in association with the user identification code registered in the set A, and thus is distributed at this time. The distribution information is distributed to the user 6 with a small number of pieces of distribution information. Therefore, the number of distribution information distributed to each user 6 in which attribute information is stored can be made equal.
[0094]
In addition, when the distribution information is associated with the majority of user identification codes registered in the set A, the user identification code with the next small amount of distribution information is extracted and added to the set A. Therefore, the total number of user identification codes finally associated with the distribution information does not become extremely smaller than the number of distribution restrictions. Therefore, there is no problem that the distribution information for which the distribution limit number is set is hardly distributed to the user 6.
[0095]
Further, for the new distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 after the start of this process, all user identification codes whose attribute information is stored in the attribute information storage unit 313 are targeted for user extraction processing. Therefore, the distribution information newly stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 is also distributed to many users 6 who need the distribution information, and the service for the users 6 and the advertiser can be improved.
[0096]
Next, the distribution process of the information distribution apparatus 31 will be described. 14 and 15 are flowcharts showing the distribution process.
[0097]
When the information distribution device 31 receives the passage information transmitted from the host device 25 (s41), the user 6 uses the received passage information and the attribute information stored in the attribute information storage 313.
▲ 1 ▼ Did you enter a station near your house?
▲ 2 ▼ Did you leave the station near your place of work?
▲ 3 ▼ Whether you entered a station near your place of work,
▲ 4 ▼ Did you leave the station near your house?
▲ 5 ▼ Whether you entered a station near your home or a station near your place of work.
▲ 6 ▼ Have you left the station near your home and other stations near your place of work?
Is determined (s42 to s46).
[0098]
When it is determined that the user 6 has entered a station near the home, the information distribution apparatus 31 determines whether or not the area A corresponding to the user 6 has been transmitted (s47). If not transmitted in s47, the distribution information stored in the area A is transmitted by e-mail to the mobile phone 8 of the user 6 (s48). The mail address of the mobile phone 8 is registered as attribute information. When the distribution information stored in the area A is distributed to the user 6, the information distribution apparatus 31 deletes the distribution information stored in the area A and rewrites the area A to have been transmitted (s49). Furthermore, the information distribution apparatus 31 increments the counter for counting the number of transmissions provided for the distribution information transmitted to the user 6 (s50).
[0099]
If it is determined that the transmission has been completed in s47, the information distribution apparatus 31 ends this process without performing the processes in s48 to s50.
[0100]
The counter is provided for each piece of distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 and counts the number of times that each piece of distribution information is actually distributed to the user 6. Usually, the distribution fee charged to the advertiser is determined according to the number of distributions. This is because if the distribution information is almost the same for the distribution information that has not been distributed to the users 6 and the distribution information that has been distributed to a large number of users 6, an unfair feeling will arise among advertisers. It is. The information distribution apparatus 31 of this embodiment is configured so that an appropriate distribution fee can be charged to the advertiser by counting the actual number of distributions with the counter for each distribution information.
[0101]
Further, when the distribution information stored in the extracted information storage unit 314 is distributed, the distribution information is deleted from the extracted information storage unit 314 and rewritten to be transmitted. Will never be delivered.
[0102]
For example, when a user 6 who has entered a station near his / her home to go to work returns to his / her home for a lost item, and enters the station near his / her home again, The distribution information stored in A is distributed to the user 6, but the area A is already transmitted when the user reenters a station near his home with a forgotten item, and the same distribution information is given to the user 6. Never delivered.
[0103]
In addition, when the same distribution information is distributed to the same user 6 many times, not only the user 6 feels annoyed, but also the distribution fee charged to the advertiser for the above reasons is wasted, which is preferable. Absent.
[0104]
Further, in the processing of s42 to s46, if it is determined that the user 6 has left the station near the office, it is determined whether or not the area B has been transmitted (s51). The distribution information stored in the distribution information is distributed (s52), the area B is rewritten to be transmitted (s53), and the counter for counting the number of transmissions provided for the transmitted distribution information is incremented by one (s50).
[0105]
Further, in the processing of s42 to s46, if it is determined that the user 6 has entered the station near the office, it is determined whether or not the area C has been transmitted (s54). The distribution information stored in the distribution information is distributed (s55), the area C is rewritten to be transmitted (s56), and the counter for counting the number of transmissions provided for the transmitted distribution information is incremented by one (s50).
[0106]
Further, in the processing of s42 to s46, if it is determined that the user 6 has left the station near his home, it is determined whether or not the area D has been transmitted (s57). The stored distribution information is distributed (s58), the area D is rewritten to be transmitted (s59), and the counter for counting the number of transmissions provided for the transmitted distribution information is incremented by one (s50).
[0107]
If the information distribution apparatus 31 determines that the user 6 has entered a station other than the station near his / her home and the station near his work place in the processes of s42 to s46, where the user 6 is going to go from now on. Since the destination cannot be determined, the present process is terminated without transmitting the distribution information. Thereby, delivery information is not delivered to the user 6 wastefully.
[0108]
Finally, when the information distribution apparatus 31 determines that the user 6 has left the station near the home and a station near the work place in the processing of s42 to s46, the station from which the user 6 has left The distribution information that is in the vicinity and that is based on the attribute information of the user 6 is extracted from the distribution information storage unit 312 (s60). The information distribution apparatus 31 transmits the distribution information extracted in s60 to the mobile phone 8 of the user 6 by electronic mail (s61), and then performs the above s50.
[0109]
As described above, the information distribution apparatus 31 of this embodiment is provided with s46, s60, and s61, so that even when the user 6 gets off at a midway station in the valid section of the commuter pass 7, the user gets off the user 6. Information near the station can be distributed.
[0110]
In addition, since the information distribution device 31 has a configuration in which distribution information to be distributed to the user 6 is extracted in advance and stored in the extracted information storage unit 314, passage information of the user 6 is transmitted from the host device 25. When it comes, distribution information can be immediately transmitted to the user 6. Therefore, when the user 6 enters the station, the distribution information can be transmitted to the user 6 before getting on the train.
[0111]
In the above embodiment, the distribution information main body is stored in the areas A to D of the extracted information storage unit 314. However, instead of the distribution information main body, a distribution information number may be stored as shown in FIG. In this case, the processes s24 and s35 shown in FIGS. 11 and 12 may be replaced with s71 and s72, respectively (see FIGS. 16 and 17).
[0112]
In this way, the storage capacity of the extracted information storage unit 314 can be reduced.
[0113]
Further, when the configuration in which the delivery number is stored in the extracted information storage unit 314 is adopted, the processing of s48, s52, s55, and s58 in the delivery processing shown in FIG. 14 and FIG. It may be replaced with the process of ~ s83. Hereinafter, the process of s81-s83 shown in FIG. 19 is demonstrated.
[0114]
The information distribution apparatus 31 reads out the distribution information number stored in the area * (s81). Here, the area * indicates any one of the areas A to D, and is the area A when the process is replaced with s48, the area B when the process is replaced with s52, and the process when the process is replaced with s55. Area C is the area D when the process is replaced with the process of s58.
[0115]
The information distribution apparatus 31 searches the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage 312 using the distribution information number read in s81 as a key, and reads the distribution information assigned with the corresponding distribution information number (s82). The information distribution apparatus 31 transmits the distribution information read in s82 to the mobile phone 8 of the user 6 by electronic mail (s83).
[0116]
As described above, the information distribution apparatus 31 reads and transmits the corresponding distribution information from the distribution information storage unit 312 when transmitting the distribution information to the mobile phone 8 of the user 6, so that the information is stored in the distribution information storage unit 312. Correction can be easily performed when there is an error in the distributed information. Specifically, it is only necessary to correct the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312. For this reason, the effort concerning correction of distribution information can be reduced.
[0117]
Note that in the configuration in which the distribution information main body is stored in the extracted information storage unit 313, all the distribution information stored in the extracted information storage unit 313 needs to be corrected. That is, it is necessary to correct each of a plurality of pieces of the same distribution information.
[0118]
Next, another embodiment of the present invention will be described. This embodiment is an information distribution apparatus that equalizes distribution information distributed to the user 6 by the user extraction process shown in FIG.
[0119]
Hereinafter, the user extraction process of the information distribution apparatus 31 of this embodiment will be described in detail.
[0120]
In FIG. 20, the same step number (s **) is assigned to the same process as that shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.
[0121]
When the information distribution device 31 performs the processing of s21 and s22 described in the above embodiment and determines that the distribution information is the distribution limit number set in s22, the user stored in the attribute information storage unit 313 is stored. The order of the attribute information for every six is changed (s91). Thereafter, the processing of s23 and s24 is performed, and it is determined whether or not the number of distributions has been reached in s92. s92 is the same process as s37. Further, if it is determined in s92 that the number of distributions has not been reached, the processes of s25 to s27 are performed, and if it is determined that the number of distributions has been reached in s92, the processes of s26 and s27 are performed.
[0122]
If it is determined in s22 that the distribution limit is not set, the process of s91 is not performed.
[0123]
The information distribution device 31 determines whether to distribute the distribution information in the order in which the attribute information is stored in the attribute information storage unit 313. Therefore, by changing the order of the attribute information for each user 6 stored in the attribute information storage unit 313 in s91, the user 6 who distributes the distribution information for which the distribution limit count is set is a part of the users. Do not concentrate on 6. Thereby, the delivery information delivered to the user 6 can be made equal.
[0124]
Note that the extracted information storage unit 314 may store the distribution information number.
[0125]
Furthermore, the user extraction process may be the process shown in FIG.
[0126]
In this user extraction process, when the distribution information and distribution conditions are read in s101, all the user identification codes whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions are extracted from the attribute information storage unit 313 (s102). Next, it is determined whether or not the distribution information has a distribution limit number set (s103). If the distribution information has no distribution limit number set, the distribution information is extracted for each user identification code extracted in s102. (S105).
[0127]
On the other hand, if it is determined that the distribution information is set to the distribution limit number, the distribution information is sorted in the order of the user identification codes with the small number of distribution information associated at this time among the user identification codes extracted in s102. Is stored in one of the corresponding areas A to D (s104). In s104, when the distribution information storage count reaches the distribution limit count, the distribution information is not stored for the remaining user identification codes (user identification codes extracted in s102).
[0128]
The information distribution apparatus 31 determines whether or not all the distribution information stored in the distribution information storage unit 312 is completed in s106. If all the distribution information is not completed, the information distribution apparatus 31 proceeds to the target distribution information in s107. The distribution information is changed to return to s101.
[0129]
As described above, the distribution information for which the number of distribution restrictions is set is stored in the extraction information storage unit 314 in association with the use identification code with a small amount of distribution information associated at this time. The number of distribution information to be distributed can be made equal.
[0130]
The information distribution apparatus of the present invention can be applied to an information distribution system other than the information distribution system shown in the above embodiment. For example, when a user needs information, a system that transmits information to the information distribution apparatus together with the user identification code and the distribution information stored in the extracted information storage unit 314 by the information distribution apparatus, The present invention can also be applied to an information distribution system in which the information distribution apparatus 31 distributes information to the user 6 at an appropriate timing.
[0131]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, even when new distribution information is added at any timing, it can be distributed to many users who need the newly added distribution information. Improve service to advertisers.
[0132]
In addition, the number of pieces of distribution information distributed to each user can be equalized, and the service for the user can be improved.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of an information distribution system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration of an information distribution apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a commuter pass and data recorded in the commuter pass.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing attribute information managed by the user management apparatus.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of distribution information stored in an information distribution apparatus.
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration of an automatic ticket gate.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an external appearance of an automatic ticket gate.
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a flow of information in the information distribution system according to the embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation of the automatic ticket gate.
FIG. 10 is a diagram showing passage information transmitted from the automatic ticket gate.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing user extraction processing;
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing user extraction processing;
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a storage area of an extracted information storage unit.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing distribution processing.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing distribution processing.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing user extraction processing according to another embodiment;
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing user extraction processing according to another embodiment;
FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a storage area of an extracted information storage unit.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing distribution processing according to another embodiment.
FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a user extraction process according to another embodiment.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing user extraction processing according to another embodiment;
[Explanation of symbols]
3-Information distribution center
31-Information distribution device
312—Delivery information storage unit
313-Attribute information storage unit
314-Extraction information storage unit

Claims (7)

Attribute information storage means for storing an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute;
Identification code extraction means for extracting, from the attribute information storage means, an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions for the distribution information associated with the distribution conditions;
Extraction information storage means for storing extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted by the identification code extraction means;
Distribution information transmission means for transmitting distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means for each identification code And comprising
The distribution information is information in which a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition,
The extracted information storage means is means for preferentially storing the extracted information for an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information. Attribute information storage means for storing an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute;
Identification code extraction means for extracting, from the attribute information storage means, an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution conditions for the distribution information associated with the distribution conditions;
Extraction information storage means for storing extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted by the identification code extraction means;
Distribution information transmission means for transmitting distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means for each identification code And comprising
The extraction information storage means preferentially applies to an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information when a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition. An information distribution device as means for storing the extracted information. The extraction information, the information delivery apparatus according a to claim 1 or 2, information associating delivery information ID identifying the distribution information to the identification code. A first step of extracting an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution condition from attribute information storage means storing an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute of the distribution information associated with the distribution condition; ,
A second step of storing extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted in the first step in the extraction information storage unit;
A third step of transmitting, for each identification code, distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code, based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means; An information distribution method comprising:
The distribution information is information in which a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition,
The second step is an information distribution method in which the extracted information is preferentially stored in the extracted information storage unit with respect to an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information . A first step of extracting an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution condition from attribute information storage means in which an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute of the distribution information associated with the distribution condition are stored; ,
A second step of storing in the extraction information storage means extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted in the first step;
A third step of transmitting, for each identification code, distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means; An information distribution method comprising:
The second step is a distribution limit number of times that limits the number of transmissions of the distribution information to the distribution condition. Is set, the extracted information is preferentially stored in the extracted information storage means for an identification code with a small number of associated distribution information. A first step of extracting an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution condition from attribute information storage means storing an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute of the distribution information associated with the distribution condition; ,
A second step of storing extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted in the first step in the extraction information storage unit;
A third step of transmitting, for each identification code, distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code, based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means; An information distribution program for causing a computer to execute
The distribution information is information in which a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition,
The second step is an information distribution program in which the extracted information is preferentially stored in the extracted information storage unit with respect to an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information . A first step of extracting an identification code whose attribute information satisfies the distribution condition from attribute information storage means in which an identification code and attribute information indicating the attribute of the distribution information associated with the distribution condition are stored; ,
A second step of storing in the extraction information storage means extraction information indicating that the distribution information is associated with the identification code extracted in the first step;
A third step of transmitting, for each identification code, distribution information associated with the identification code to a transmission destination corresponding to the identification code based on the extracted information stored in the extracted information storage means; An information distribution program comprising
In the second step, when a distribution limit number for limiting the number of transmissions of the distribution information is set in the distribution condition, priority is given to an identification code having a small number of associated distribution information. An information distribution program which is a step of storing the extracted information in the extracted information storage means.

Images