JP5662630B2 - Point management device, point management method, and point management program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a point management apparatus, a point management method, and a point management program used for managing points generated when purchasing a product using a point service or using a service.

  Conventionally, a point service (point system) is independently operated by a company that provides the point service, and the point use destination is often limited for each company, that is, for each type of point. In recent years, there are also companies that have made it possible to exchange points between different companies.

  Also, in recent years, for example, the point exchange source and the point exchange destination company are designated, such as “Exchange point of company A to point of company B”, and the designated point exchange point is designated. There is a service that enables searching for an optimal order of companies to be exchanged to exchange point exchange destination points, that is, a mutual exchange route (for example, see Non-Patent Document 1 below).

  Conventionally, for example, when seller identification information, transaction information, authentication information, and purchaser information presented by a seller are transmitted from a mobile terminal, payment is performed after authentication is performed in a payment computer, and a payment completion notification is sent to the mobile terminal. There is a technique of transmitting to the seller's device (for example, see Patent Document 1 below).

JP 2001-319155 A POI SEEK Co., Ltd. (Representative: Atsushi Sato), “Point exploration club”, [online], April 2006 “Point exploration club” service started, POI SEEK Co., Ltd. [searched December 28, 2007] Internet <URL: http://www.poitan.net/>

  However, with the above-described conventional technology, it is possible to exchange points between different companies. However, depending on the type of user-owned points held by the user, the point to the company point desired by the user can be obtained. In some cases, redemption is not possible, and it is not always possible to realize the point exchange desired by the user, and there is a problem that the procedure forcing the user to exchange the point is complicated or complicated. .

  Specifically, for example, when the exchange work of the target points is not completed at one exchange service site, the point exchanger exchanges the points in advance using the above-mentioned “point exploration club” or the point explanation site of the corresponding company. I often needed to find out the route, its fees, the time it took to exchange, and the minimum number of points to exchange.

  Furthermore, such a series of point exchange work requires the number of login authentications for each service site required for the exchange, or individually operates each required operation according to a unique interface different for each service site, In addition, there are cases where it is not possible to redeem the target corporate points unless they have been redeemed for the corporate points issued by the point exchange program providing site that they do not want. In addition, it is not possible to exchange a plurality of points of any kind in a single operation with points of an arbitrary company for one or more desired points.

  In addition, since exchanges between points between different companies require several days to complete the exchange, points can be exchanged using the exchange route searched using the conventional technology that enables the above-described exchange route search. Even if it is done, the exchanger must take care of the case where the exchange point is long and the exchanged point cannot be used immediately if it passes through multiple companies until the point exchange is completed. It was.

  In order to eliminate the above-described problems caused by the prior art, the present invention can realize point exchange desired by a user without depending on the type of user-owned points, and can improve user convenience. An object is to provide a point management device, a point management method, and a point management program.

  In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the point management device according to the present invention obtains identification information of the user, information about the point exchange source, and information about the point exchange destination from the user information processing device. Based on information received by the receiving means, the information received by the receiving means, information relating to the number of user-retained points of the point exchange source associated with the identification information of the user, and association with the identification information of the user The acquisition means for acquiring information on the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination, and the number of user-owned points at the point exchange source acquired by the acquisition means are subtracted and updated, and the subtraction is supported Update by adding the number of points to the number of user-owned points of the point exchange destination acquired by the acquisition means And point exchange process unit, to the user of the information processing apparatus, characterized by comprising a transmitting means for transmitting a processing result by the redemption processing means.

  In the point management device according to the present invention, in the above invention, the receiving unit further receives information on the number of exchange target points to be exchanged, and the point exchange processing unit is acquired by the acquisition unit. The number of points to be exchanged is updated by subtracting the number of points to be exchanged from the number of points held by the user at the point exchange source, and the number of points corresponding to the subtraction is added to the number of points owned by the user at the point exchange destination obtained by the obtaining means And updating.

  The point management apparatus according to the present invention is the point management device according to the above-mentioned invention, wherein the point exchange processing means has a predetermined conversion ratio predetermined to the number of points corresponding to the subtraction from the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source. The number of points multiplied by a numerical value based on the above is added to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination and updated.

  In the point management device according to the present invention, the point exchange processing unit is based on a predetermined conversion ratio that is predetermined for the number of points to be added to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination. The number of points multiplied by the numerical value is updated by subtracting from the number of points owned by the user of the point exchange source.

  The point management apparatus according to the present invention is the point management apparatus according to the above-mentioned invention, wherein the transmission means acquires the point exchange source and the point exchange acquired by the acquisition means before the point processing by the point exchange processing means is performed. Information regarding the number of user-owned points of at least one of the above is transmitted to the information processing apparatus of the user.

  In the point management device according to the present invention, in the above invention, at least one of the information regarding the point exchange source and the information about the point exchange destination is displayed as information specifying the point exchange source or the point exchange destination. It is acquired by being read by the information processing apparatus of the user from a projection, printing, digging, or embedded medium, and transmitted to the receiving means.

  In the point management device according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the user information processing device is a portable terminal device.

  In the point management apparatus according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, at least one of the receiving unit and the transmitting unit uses a short message service (SMS).

  In the point management device according to the present invention as set forth in the invention described above, the user identification information is a telephone number of the portable terminal device.

  Further, the point management method according to the present invention is a point management method using a point management device connectable to a user information processing device, from the user information processing device, the user identification information, Receiving step for receiving information relating to point exchange source and information relating to point exchange destination, and the user-retained points of the point exchange source associated with the identification information of the user based on the information received by the receiving step An acquisition step of acquiring information on the number, and information on the number of user-owned points of the point exchange destination associated with the identification information of the user, and the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source obtained by the acquisition step And the number of points corresponding to the subtraction is updated. A point exchange processing step for updating by adding to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination, and a transmission step for transmitting a processing result by the point exchange processing step to the information processing apparatus of the user. The management apparatus is executed.

  Further, the point management program according to the present invention is a point management program to be executed by a point management device connectable to a user information processing device, from the user information processing device, the user identification information, Receiving step for receiving information relating to point exchange source and information relating to point exchange destination, and the user-retained points of the point exchange source associated with the identification information of the user based on the information received by the receiving step An acquisition step of acquiring information on the number, and information on the number of user-owned points of the point exchange destination associated with the identification information of the user, and the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source obtained by the acquisition step And the number of points corresponding to the subtraction is updated by the acquisition step. A point exchange processing step of adding and updating the number of user-owned points of the point exchange destination acquired in the step, and a transmission step of transmitting the processing result of the point exchange processing step to the information processing device of the user; Are executed by the point management device.

  According to the point management device, the point management method, and the point management program according to the present invention, the user desires the user-owned points by a simple procedure (operation) without depending on the types of user-owned points. The points can be exchanged for the other points, and the point exchange results are communicated immediately after the completion of the point exchange, so that the exchanged points can be used immediately.

  Exemplary embodiments of a point management apparatus, a point management method, and a point management program according to the present invention will be explained below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

(System configuration of point management system)
First, a system configuration of a point management system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a system configuration of a point management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, the point management system includes a point management device 110, a user information processing device 120, and a store information processing device 130. The point management device 110 is a computer device managed by a company that operates a point exchange service, and can be realized by a general-purpose computer device. The hardware configuration of the computer apparatus will be described later (see FIG. 2). The point management device 110 is connected to a network 140 such as the Internet, and can communicate with an external device connected to the network 140.

  The user information processing apparatus 120 has a communication function, and is provided so as to be able to communicate with the point management apparatus 110 connected to the network 140 via the network 140. The information processing apparatus 120 of the user can be realized by a mobile phone owned by the user, for example. The hardware configuration of the mobile phone will be described later (see FIG. 3). The user information processing device 120 is not limited to a portable device, and may be realized by a computer device such as a personal computer.

  The store information processing apparatus 130 is provided so as to be able to communicate with the point management apparatus 110 via the network 140. The information processing device 130 in the store is a computer device managed by a company that can exchange points in the point exchange service of this embodiment, and can be realized by a general-purpose computer device, for example.

(Hardware configuration of computer device)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the computer apparatus. The computer apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2 implements the point management apparatus 110 and the information processing apparatus 130 in the store. In addition, this computer apparatus can also realize the information processing apparatus 120 of the user.

  In FIG. 2, the computer apparatus includes a CPU 201, ROM 202, RAM 203, HDD (hard disk drive) 204, HD (hard disk) 205, FDD (flexible disk drive) 206, and an example of a removable recording medium. FD (flexible disk) 207, display 208, KB (keyboard) 209, mouse 210, scanner 211, network I / F (interface) 212, and printer 213. Each component is connected by a bus 214.

  Here, the CPU 201 controls the entire computer device. The ROM 202 stores a program such as a boot program. The RAM 203 is used as a work area for the CPU 201. The HDD 204 controls data read / write with respect to the HD 205 according to the control of the CPU 201. The HD 205 stores data written under the control of the HDD 204.

  The FDD 206 controls reading / writing of data with respect to the FD 207 according to the control of the CPU 201. The FD 207 stores data written under the control of the FDD 206. In addition to the FD 207, the removable recording medium may be a CD-ROM (CD-RW), MO, DVD (Digital Versatile Disk), or the like. The display 208 displays a window (browser) relating to data such as a document, an image, and function information as well as a cursor, icons, and tool boxes, and can be realized by a CRT, a TFT liquid crystal display, a plasma display, or the like.

  The KB 209 includes keys for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions, etc., and performs data input. The mouse 210 performs cursor movement, range selection, window movement, size change, and the like. A trackball, a joystick, or the like may be used instead of or in addition to the mouse 210 as long as it has the same function as a pointing device.

  The scanner 211 optically reads an image. The network I / F 212 is connected to the network 140 through a communication line, and is connected to an external device via the network 140. The network I / F 212 controls an interface between the network 140 and the inside, and controls data input / output from the computer apparatus. The printer 213 prints image data and document data, and can be realized by a laser printer, an inkjet printer, or the like.

(Hardware configuration of mobile phone)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of the mobile phone. In FIG. 3, the mobile phone includes a CPU 301, a ROM 302, a RAM 303, a display 304, a KB 305, a communication I / F 306, a camera 307, a microphone 308, and a speaker 309. Each component is connected by a bus 310.

  The CPU 301 controls the entire mobile phone. The ROM 302 stores programs such as a boot program and a point exchange application. The point exchange application may be installed in advance when the mobile phone is manufactured, or may be downloaded by a user operation.

  The RAM 303 is used as a work area for the CPU 301. The display 304 displays a set mode (manner mode, drive mode, etc.) and various marks, icons, tool boxes, and the like indicating the reception state of radio waves, and is mainly realized by a liquid crystal display such as a TFT liquid crystal display.

  The KB 305 includes keys for inputting characters, numerical values, various instructions, etc., and performs data input. A communication I / F 306 is connected to the network 140 through a communication line, and manages an interface between the network 140 and the inside of the portable phone. The communication I / F 306 controls data input / output with the point management apparatus 110 via the network 140.

  The camera 307 captures an imaging target by operating the KB 305 and generates image data. The generated image data is stored in the RAM 303 or the like. The microphone 308 inputs voice data obtained by analog / digital conversion of the user's voice, and the speaker 309 outputs voice obtained by digital / analog conversion of voice data transmitted from the other party.

(Functional configuration of the point management device 110)
Next, a functional configuration of the point management apparatus 110 according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram showing a functional configuration of the point management apparatus 110 according to the present invention. In FIG. 4, the point management apparatus 110 includes a receiving unit 401, an acquiring unit 402, a point exchange processing unit 403, a transmitting unit 404, a user database (DB) 420, and a conversion ratio database (DB) 430. I have.

  The receiving unit 401 receives a point exchange request transmitted from the information processing apparatus 120 of the user. The point exchange request is transmitted from the information processing apparatus 120 of the user when an instruction operation for requesting execution of the point exchange process in the point management apparatus 110 is performed in the information processing apparatus 120 of the user. The point exchange request includes identification information of a user who requests point exchange, information about a point exchange source, information about a point exchange destination, and the like.

  The identification information of the user is information that can identify the user who requests the point exchange. For example, when the information processing apparatus 120 of the user is a mobile phone, the phone number of the mobile phone can be used. Examples of the user identification information include an e-mail address set in the user information processing apparatus 120, an account issued by the point management apparatus 110 for each user information processing apparatus 120, and a mobile phone individual identification number. May be used instead of the telephone number.

  In this embodiment, point exchange refers to exchanging (converting) user-owned points at the point exchange source to user-owned points at the point exchange destination among user-owned points held by the user. The point exchange source and the point exchange destination are arbitrarily designated by the user whenever points are exchanged.

  The information regarding the point exchange source may be identification information of the point exchange source, and the information regarding the point exchange destination may be identification information of the point exchange destination. The point exchange source and point exchange destination identification information is information that can identify the type of user-owned points, such as the point-of-use point issuer or the point service that can use the user-owned points. It is arbitrarily set in advance by an administrator of 110 or the like.

  The point service is realized by generating a user-owned point when the user uses a predetermined point service and providing a user with a predetermined privilege in exchange for the generated user-owned point. Specifically, the user-owned points are generated when payment is made using a credit card or a predetermined point card, for example, and issued from the credit card or point card issuer used for the payment.

  A user possession point can be specified based on the information which user DB420 memorizes. The user DB 420 stores information on user-owned points for each user identification information (see, for example, FIG. 6). The information related to user-owned points includes information that can identify the type of user-owned points, and information that can specify the number of user-owned points identified by the information. Information that can specify the number of user-owned points is realized by numerical information that represents the number of user-owned points, for example.

  The user DB 420 stores, for example, numerical information directly representing the number of user-owned points as information that can specify the number of user-owned points. Specifically, the user DB 420 can realize its function by, for example, the ROM 202, the RAM 203, the HD 205, the FD 207, and the like. The user DB 420 is not limited to being provided integrally with the point management device 110, and may be provided separately.

  The information that can specify the number of user-owned points may be stored in a storage area provided at a location different from the user DB 420 and can be connected via a network or the like. This storage area can be provided in, for example, a DB managed by a company that is the point issuer, or an IC chip provided in a credit card or a point card.

  In this case, user DB420 memorizes the information which can specify the storage area of a user possession point as information which can identify the number of user possession points. The information that can specify the storage area is realized by, for example, the URI of the DB managed by the company that is the point issuer, the identification number of the IC card that stores the points, and the like.

  The receiving unit 401 may receive a point exchange request including information regarding the number of exchange target points to be exchanged. In this case, the receiving unit 401 receives information regarding the number of exchange target points in addition to the user identification information, the information regarding the point exchange source, and the information about the point exchange destination. The number of points to be exchanged represents the number of points to be exchanged for points.

  The number of points to be exchanged may be the number of points used for point exchange among the user-owned points of the point exchange source, or may be the number of points to be added to the point exchange destination by point exchange. The number of points to be exchanged is arbitrarily designated by the user when designating the point exchange source and the point exchange destination, for example. Specifically, the receiving unit 401 can realize its function by the network I / F 212, for example.

  The acquisition unit 402 acquires user possession point information based on the information received by the reception unit 401. The user possession point information includes information indicating the number of user possession points of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination among the user possession points identified by the user identification information received by the receiving unit 401. .

  Further, the acquisition unit 402 may acquire information related to the number of exchange target points based on the information received by the reception unit 401. Specifically, the acquiring unit 402 acquires information representing the number of exchange target points included in the point exchange request received by the receiving unit 401, for example.

  Specifically, the information regarding the number of user-owned points at the point exchange source includes, for example, identification information of the point exchange source and information that can specify the number of user-owned points identified by the identification information. Further, the information regarding the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination specifically includes, for example, identification information of the point exchange destination and information capable of specifying the number of user-owned points identified by the identification information. Yes. The acquisition unit 402 searches for corresponding information using information stored in the user DB 420 as a key, and acquires the searched information.

  Further, the acquisition unit 402 may acquire information related to a predetermined conversion ratio based on information received by the reception unit 401. The predetermined conversion ratio is used when the user-owned points are converted from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination, and differs depending on the combination of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination. For example, the predetermined conversion ratio may be a different value if the point exchange destination is different even if the point exchange source is the same, and may be a different value if the point exchange source is different even if the point exchange destination is the same. .

  The acquisition unit 402 acquires information on a predetermined conversion ratio using information stored in the conversion ratio DB 430 (see FIG. 7). The conversion ratio DB 430 stores information that can specify the conversion ratio for each combination of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination. Specifically, the information that can specify the conversion ratio can be, for example, numerical information indicating the conversion ratio for each combination of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination.

  The information that can specify the conversion ratio is not limited to the numerical information that represents the conversion ratio, and may be information that can specify the storage area that stores the numerical information that represents the conversion ratio. In this case, the acquisition unit 402 accesses the corresponding storage area based on the information stored in the conversion ratio DB 430, and acquires numerical information stored in the storage area.

  Points can be exchanged when a point exchange source company and a point exchange destination company have a point exchange agreement. Point exchange tie-ups may be canceled when there is little demand and there is no merit of continuing point exchange tie-ups. Obtaining numerical information stored in the corresponding storage area for each point exchange This makes it possible to perform highly reliable point exchange based on the latest information.

  Specifically, the conversion ratio DB 430 can realize its function by, for example, the ROM 202, the RAM 203, the HD 205, the FD 207, and the like. The user DB 420 is not limited to being provided integrally with the point management device 110, and may be provided separately.

  Specifically, in the acquisition unit 402, for example, the CPU 201 executes a program stored in the ROM 202 using the RAM 203 as a work area, and receives information transmitted from the information processing apparatus 120 of the user via the network I / F 212. The function can be realized.

  The point exchange processing unit 403 performs point exchange processing based on the information acquired by the acquisition unit 402. The point exchange process is performed by subtracting and updating the number of user-owned points at the point exchange source, and adding the number of points corresponding to the subtraction to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination obtained by the obtaining unit 402. This is done by updating. The point exchange process is performed, for example, when a point exchange request transmitted from the user information processing apparatus 120 is received.

  Further, the point exchange processing unit 403 specifically, for example, when there are 100 point-owned user-owned points, the point-exchange source user-owned points are subtracted to 0 (zero) points. Update to Also, the point exchange processing unit 403 adds 100 points to the user-retained points at the point exchange destination and updates them. The point exchange process is performed by such an update process with subtraction and addition.

  The point exchange processing unit 403 subtracts the number of points to be exchanged from the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source acquired by the acquisition unit 402 when the information on the number of points to be exchanged is received by the receiving unit 401. In addition, the number of points corresponding to the subtraction is added to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination acquired by the acquisition unit 402 and updated.

  When 100 points of the exchange source are used as the number of exchange target points, the point exchange processing unit 403 subtracts 100 points from the number of user possession points of the exchange source and adds 100 points to the user possession points of the point exchange destination Perform point exchange processing. In this case, the number of points increased to the exchange destination is indeterminate, and is calculated based on, for example, a conversion ratio determined in advance between the point exchange source and the point exchange destination.

  When 100 points of the exchange source are the number of points to be exchanged and the conversion ratio is 0.95, the point exchange processing unit 403 subtracts 100 points from the number of user-owned points of the exchange source and uses the point exchange destination A point exchange process is performed in which 95 points are added to the person-owned points.

  The conversion ratio DB 430 stores information on the conversion ratio for each combination of point exchange source and point exchange destination. Specifically, the conversion ratio DB 430 can realize its function by, for example, the ROM 202, the RAM 203, the HD 205, the FD 207, and the like. The conversion ratio DB 430 is not limited to being provided integrally with the point management device 110, and may be provided separately.

  When the conversion ratio is 1, the point exchange processing unit 403 adds the same number of points as the number of points subtracted from the number of user-owned points at the exchange source to the number of user-owned points at the exchange destination. That is, the point exchange process of subtracting 100 points from the user-owned points of the exchange source and adding 100 points to the user-owned points of the point exchange destination is performed when the conversion ratio is 1.

  When the exchange destination 100 points are used as the exchange target point number, the point exchange processing unit 403 subtracts the number of points such that the exchange destination user possession point number becomes 100 points from the exchange source user possession point number. At the same time, 100 points are added to the user possession points of the exchange destination. In this case, the number of subtraction points from the exchange source is indeterminate, and is calculated based on, for example, a conversion ratio determined in advance between the point exchange source and the point exchange destination.

  When 100 points of exchange destinations are the number of exchange target points and the conversion ratio is 0.50, the point exchange processing unit 403 subtracts 200 points from the number of user-owned points of the exchange source and uses the point exchange destination The point exchange process of adding 100 points to the person-owned points is performed.

  In this way, the point exchange processing unit 403 uses the number of points obtained by multiplying the number of points corresponding to the subtraction from the number of points owned by the user of the point exchange source by a numerical value based on a predetermined conversion ratio determined in advance. Perform point exchange processing that is updated by adding to the number of points held by the owner.

  In addition, the point exchange processing unit 403 obtains a point number obtained by multiplying the number of points added to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination by a numerical value based on a predetermined conversion ratio determined in advance. Update by subtracting from the number. The predetermined conversion ratio uses the value acquired by the acquisition unit 402 based on the information acquired by the reception unit 401.

  Specifically, the point exchange processing unit 403 can realize its function by, for example, the CPU 201 executing a program stored in the ROM 202 using the RAM 203 as a work area.

  The transmission unit 404 transmits the processing result by the point exchange processing unit 403 to the information processing apparatus 120 of the user. The processing result includes, for example, the number of user-owned points at the point exchange source after the point exchange process and the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination. The processing result may include the conversion ratio used in the point exchange process. Thereby, even when the conversion ratio is updated, the latest conversion ratio can be notified to the user.

  Further, the transmission unit 404 uses information regarding the number of user-owned points of at least one of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination acquired by the acquisition unit 402 before the point processing by the point exchange processing unit 403 is performed. The information may be transmitted to the information processing apparatus 120 of the person. Thereby, it is possible to guide in advance whether or not the point exchange process based on the number of exchange target points designated by the user can be performed.

  In addition, the transmission unit 404 transmits a processing result by the point exchange processing unit 403 using a short message service (SMS). For example, when the user information processing apparatus 120 is a mobile phone, the transmission unit 404 transmits a short message with the phone number of the mobile phone as a destination.

  SMS is a service for transmitting a predetermined number of characters (or information having a predetermined capacity or less) inserted into a message described in a predetermined format to a transmission destination. In SMS, a short message is transmitted by designating the telephone number of a portable telephone as a transmission destination as a destination. The transmission of the processing result is not limited to the one using SMS, and any message system that can prevent (or detect) falsification and duplication may be used.

  The SMS transmits a short message directly from the transmission source of the short message to the transmission destination when the line between the transmission source and the transmission destination of the short message is connected. SMS transmits / receives a short message when the transmission source and the transmission destination of the short message are connected by a telephone line without going through the public network 140 such as the Internet. Accordingly, the short message can be transmitted in real time without leaking the short message (information included in the short message).

  In SMS, a short message is stored in a dedicated server when a mobile phone as a transmission destination is in a call or out of service area, and the stored short message is periodically transmitted for a predetermined period. Note that the SMS is not limited to providing a server for storing a short message, but may be a method that does not transmit a short message when the transmission source of the short message cannot be connected to the transmission destination.

  For example, SMS may be performed based on a standard different for each telecommunications company (carrier), or may be performed based on a standard unified among all carriers. Instead of SMS, EMS (Enhanced Messaging Service) or MMS (Multimedia Messaging Service) can also be used.

  Since there is a limit to the amount of information that can be inserted into a short message, it is preferable to include information with higher priority when sending processing results using SMS. The priority order of information included in the short message can be arbitrarily set by an operator of the point management apparatus 110, for example. Thus, even when there is a limit on the amount of information that can be transmitted, it is possible to transmit effective information when using the use point.

  When there is a limit on the amount of information that can be inserted into the SMS, a series of information may be divided and transmitted to a plurality of SMSs in order to avoid the limit. In this case, it is desirable to describe link information such as a transaction identification number for each SMS as a group. The link information is desirably identification information that can explain that the link information is unique within the effective period of the SMS. As a result, SMS can be applied even in transactions where the amount of information increases.

(Functional configuration of user information processing apparatus 120)
Next, a functional configuration of the information processing apparatus 120 for the user according to the present invention will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a functional configuration of the information processing apparatus 120 of the user according to the present invention. In FIG. 5, the user information processing apparatus 120 includes an input unit 501, a transmission / reception unit 502, a storage unit 503, and a display unit 504.

  The input unit 501 receives input of information from the user to the information processing apparatus 120. The input unit 501 accepts input of information according to the input operation when an input operation is performed in the KB 305. The input unit 501 receives, for example, input of information regarding a point exchange source and information regarding a point exchange destination, and an operation for instructing execution of a point exchange process based on the input information.

  At least one of the information relating to the point exchange source and the information relating to the point exchange destination may be included in a barcode such as a two-dimensional code and printed on paper or the like. In this case, the input unit 501 can be realized by analyzing image data generated by imaging by the camera 307 and receiving input of information included in the image data.

  In this case, by printing the information about the point exchange source and the information about the point exchange destination on different barcodes, it is possible to capture either barcode as information about the point exchange source or information about the point exchange destination become. Further, the barcode is not limited to the one printed on paper, but may be a medium displayed / projected or dug or embedded in a display, for example.

  Further, the bar code may include information indicating an execution instruction for the point exchange process, an execution instruction for an advance inquiry for the point exchange process, and the like. In this case, the user can input an instruction to execute a point exchange process, an instruction to execute a prior inquiry for a point exchange process, or the like by simply imaging the corresponding barcode without operating the KB 305.

  A plurality of the above barcodes may be provided on the same medium (paper, display, plastic, metal, jelly, stone or rock, medium projected on gas or solid), and a point exchange map may be used. By using the point exchange map, it becomes easier for a user such as a point exchange source or a point exchange destination to find a target barcode. For example, the user's information processing apparatus 120 is operated to search for a desired barcode. It is possible to input information used for the point exchange process without performing the complicated operation. Further, when various bar codes to be found in the point exchange map of the same medium do not exist, they may be taken in from a point exchange map or various bar code information of another medium and used in combination.

  At least one of the information relating to the point exchange source and the information relating to the point exchange destination may be stored in an IC chip engraved in paper. In this case, by reading the information stored in the IC chip, it becomes possible to accept the input of information to the information processing apparatus 120 of the user, and the information processing apparatus 120 of the user reads the information stored in the IC chip ( A configuration that realizes a reader function and a reading (reader) function is provided as the input unit 501. The configuration for realizing the reading (reader) function and the reading (reader) function of the information stored in the IC chip can be realized by using various known techniques, and thus description thereof is omitted.

  Specifically, the function of the input unit 501 can be realized by, for example, the KB 305, the camera 307, the communication I / F 306, and the like. Further, although not shown, information may be input using various sensors such as an infrared sensor and an acceleration sensor mounted on or connected to the portable terminal as the input unit 501.

  The transmission / reception unit 502 transmits / receives data to / from an external device, for example, transmits information received by the input unit 501 to the point management device 110. Specifically, the transmission / reception unit 502 can realize its function by, for example, the communication I / F 306.

  The storage unit 503 stores information received by the input unit 501 and information received by the transmission / reception unit 502. For example, the storage unit 503 stores the processing result of the point exchange processing unit 403 in a nonvolatile memory such as the ROM 302. Specifically, the storage unit 503 can realize its function by the ROM 302 and the RAM 303, for example.

  The display unit 504 displays information received by the input unit 501 and information stored in the storage unit 503. Specifically, the display unit 504 displays, for example, a short message reception screen indicating a processing result by the point exchange processing unit 403. Specifically, the function of the display unit 504 can be realized by the display 304, for example.

(Example of user DB)
Next, a user database (DB) will be described. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the user DB. In FIG. 6, the user DB 420 stores a mobile phone number and a point number balance in association with each other. The mobile phone number represents the mobile phone number of a mobile phone (hereinafter referred to as “mobile phone 120”) that implements the information processing apparatus 120 of the user, and realizes user identification information. The point number balance represents the number of user-owned points and realizes information on the number of user-owned points.

  The user DB 420 stores the e-mail address set for each mobile phone 120 in association with the mobile phone number and the point number balance. The user identification information may be realized by an e-mail address instead of the mobile phone number, or may be realized by a credit card number owned by the user.

  The user DB 420 stores an account associated with the mobile phone number. The account is issued by the point management device 110 and is used for authentication when the mobile phone 120 connects to the point management device 110. User identification information can also be realized by this account. Each account has a sufficient login authentication function. Since the login authentication and its method can be realized using various known techniques, the description thereof is omitted.

  In addition, the user DB 420 stores information on the number of user-owned points and point types in association with each other and for each mobile phone number. The number of user-owned points is stored separately for each point type, and identification information for identifying the point type is associated with each number of user-owned points.

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the conversion ratio DB. The conversion ratio DB 430 shown in FIG. 7 is used when performing point exchange processing that takes into account fluctuations in the value of points. In FIG. 7, the conversion ratio DB 430 stores the conversion ratio in association with each combination of the point exchange source identification information and the point exchange destination identification information. The conversion ratio differs depending on the combination of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination. For example, the conversion ratio from the point exchange source A to the point exchange destination B is different from the conversion ratio from the point exchange source B to the point exchange destination A.

  In addition to the conversion ratio, the conversion ratio DB 430 stores a conversion fee in association with each combination of point exchange source identification information and point exchange destination identification information. By using the conversion ratio DB 430 shown in FIG. 7, the point management fee 110 can be added or subtracted as a service provided by the point management device 110, or the exchange fee or campaign point can be added or subtracted for each company point. You can also. In this case, the conversion fee required when subtracting from the point exchange source and the conversion fee required when adding to the point exchange destination can be used separately.

  The conversion fee includes, for example, a subtraction fee calculated before the ratio calculation and an addition fee calculated after the ratio calculation. In the conversion ratio DB 430, the subtraction fee and the addition fee may be stored separately. In the conversion ratio DB 430, a conversion fee associated with information that can specify whether the fee is a fee at the time of subtraction or a fee at the time of addition may be stored.

  For example, instead of a hub-type point exchange program, in order to obtain revenue from point exchange with the network model as in the embodiment of the present invention, advertising revenue, interest in affiliated deposits, collective fees from affiliates, and metered fees Etc. Of these, the pay-per-use fee is set such that, for example, 1 exchange = 10 point fee.

  The exchange fee may be positive as well as negative during the campaign period. In this case, when the points are exchanged during the campaign period, the exchange fee set for the campaign or the number of points corresponding to the exchange fee is added to the user-owned points.

  In FIG. 7, for example, the conversion ratio at the point exchange from the point service A to the B card point service is 0.90, and the conversion ratio at the point exchange from the B card point service to the point service A is 0.95. Has been. Moreover, even if the conversion ratio is the same point type, it varies greatly depending on the point exchange destination. In FIG. 7, for example, the conversion ratio from the P department store to the B card point service is 0.40, and the conversion ratio from the P department store to the D card point is 1.25. The conversion ratio can be arbitrarily determined and set according to the point exchange source or point exchange destination.

  The proportion of the reserve (the reserve ratio of the funds) corresponding to the number of points is not clear in corporate accounting, and varies from company to company. Therefore, in addition to the case where the equivalent exchange is performed on a ratio basis, the equivalent exchange may be performed on a provision reserve basis. For example, if company X's point 100p is a reserve of 100 yen, but Y company's point is 100p and the source is 50 yen, the conversion ratio DB method will calculate 1: 2 directly. In the case of exchange, the ratio may be calculated indirectly such as 1: (100 yen ÷ 50 yen) using the original funds table per point.

(Point exchange map)
Next, the point exchange map will be described. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the point exchange map. In FIG. 8, a point exchange map 800 is used for point exchange using the point exchange system of this embodiment. The point exchange map 800 shows a plurality of barcodes 801a to 806a for companies (or services and systems) 801 to 806 that issue points and provide services and systems that can use the points.

  Each of the company barcodes 801a to 806a includes identification information of each company. The company identification information is information unique to each company, and can be realized by code information configured by listing arbitrary numbers, alphabets, symbols, or the like. The identification information of a company becomes identification information of a point exchange source when designated as a point exchange source, and becomes identification information of a point exchange destination when designated as a point exchange destination. The company bar code is shown along with the company logo. Thereby, it is possible to prevent an error in reading the bar code of the company.

  The point exchange map 800 shows bar codes 811 and 821 that can specify the processing operations 810 and 820. The barcodes 811 and 821 that can specify the processing operation may include a program that performs the processing operation. The barcode that can specify the processing operation may be shown together with the description of the processing operation content, thereby preventing reading errors.

  Further, the program for performing the processing operation may be stored on the point management apparatus 110 side. In this case, the bar code that can specify the processing operation includes the identification information of the processing operation, and the point management apparatus 110 stores the identification information of the processing operation and the address indicating the storage location of the program that performs the processing operation or the program. deep.

(Processing procedure of the point management device 110)
Next, the processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110 will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110. In FIG. 9, first, it waits until it receives a point exchange request transmitted from the mobile phone 120 (step S901: No).

  In step S901, when a point exchange request is received (step S901: Yes), user-owned point information is acquired based on information included in the received point exchange request (step S902). In step S902, the point exchange source, the point exchange destination, the number of user-owned points at the point exchange source, the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination, and the like are acquired.

  Next, point exchange processing is performed based on the user possessed point information acquired in step S902 (step S903). In step S903, the number of points owned by the user at the point exchange source is subtracted to 0 (zero), and the number of points subtracted is added to the number of points owned by the user at the point exchange destination. As a result, all the user-owned points at the point exchange source are exchanged for the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination.

  After that, the processing result of the point exchange process in step S903 is transmitted to the mobile phone 120 that is the transmission source of the point exchange request acquired in step S901: Yes (step S904), and the series of processes ends.

  Next, another processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110. In FIG. 10, first, it waits until a point exchange request transmitted from the mobile phone 120 is received (step S1001: No).

  In step S1001, when a point exchange request is received (step S1001: Yes), user-owned point information is acquired based on information included in the received point exchange request (step S1002). Then, it is determined whether or not the point exchange request received in step S1001 includes information regarding the number of exchange target points (step S1003).

  The execution order of the process of step S1002 and the process of step S1003 may be reversed. That is, it may be determined whether or not the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request, and thereafter the user-owned point information may be acquired.

  In step S1003, if the point exchange request does not include information regarding the number of points to be exchanged (step S1003: No), the same point exchange process as the point exchange process of step S903 in FIG. 9 described above is performed (step S1004). ). Thereafter, the processing result of the point exchange process is transmitted to the mobile phone 120 that is the transmission source of the point exchange request acquired in step S1001: Yes (step S1005), and the series of processes ends.

  On the other hand, in step S1003, when the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request (step S1003: Yes), a point exchange process different from step S1004 is performed (step S1006). In step S1006, the number of exchange target points is subtracted from the number of user possession points at the exchange source, and the number of exchange target points subtracted is added to the user possession points at the point exchange destination.

  Next, another processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110. In FIG. 11, first, it waits until a point exchange request transmitted from the mobile phone 120 is received (step S1101: No).

  In step S1101, when a point exchange request is received (step S1101: Yes), user-owned point information is acquired based on information included in the received point exchange request (step S1102). And a conversion ratio is acquired based on the acquired user possession point information (step S1103).

  In step S1103, the conversion ratio DB 430 is used to obtain a conversion ratio corresponding to the combination of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination included in the point exchange request. In step S1103, information about the conversion ratio (conversion ratio information) such as information that can identify the corresponding conversion ratio is acquired. Specifically, numerical information representing the conversion ratio is acquired, for example.

  Next, point exchange processing is performed based on the information acquired in steps S1102 and S1103 (step S1104). In step S1104, the number of user-owned points at the point exchange source is subtracted to 0 (zero). Moreover, the number of points multiplied by the numerical value based on the conversion ratio corresponding to the number of subtracted points is calculated, and the calculated number of points is added to the user holding point of the point exchange destination.

  Thereafter, the processing result of the point exchange process in step S1104 is transmitted to the mobile phone 120 that is the transmission source of the point exchange request acquired in step S1101: Yes (step S1105), and the series of processes is terminated.

  Next, another processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110. In FIG. 12, first, it waits until a point exchange request transmitted from the mobile phone 120 is received (step S1201: No).

  In step S1201, when a point exchange request is received (step S1201: Yes), user-owned point information is acquired based on information included in the received point exchange request (step S1202). And a conversion ratio is acquired based on the acquired user possession point information (step S1203). In step S1203, the same processing as in step S1103 in FIG. 11 described above is performed, and for example, the conversion ratio corresponding to the combination of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination included in the point exchange request is acquired using the conversion ratio DB 430. .

  Next, it is determined whether or not the point exchange request received in step S1201: Yes includes information regarding the number of exchange target points (step S1204). The processing order of steps S1202 and S1203 and the processing of step S1204 may be reversed. That is, it may be determined whether or not the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request, and thereafter the user-owned point information is obtained and the conversion ratio is obtained.

  Furthermore, the processing order of step S1203 and step S1204 may be reversed. That is, after acquiring user-owned point information, it may be determined whether or not the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request, and thereafter the conversion ratio may be obtained.

  In step S1204, when the point exchange request does not include information regarding the number of points to be exchanged (step S1204: No), the same point exchange process as the point exchange process of step S1104 in FIG. 11 described above is performed (step S1205). ). Thereafter, the processing result of the point exchange process is transmitted to the mobile phone 120 that is the transmission source of the point exchange request acquired in step S1201: Yes (step S1206), and the series of processes ends.

  On the other hand, in step S1204, when information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request (step S1204: Yes), a point exchange process different from step S1205 is performed (step S1207). In step S1207, different point exchange processing is performed depending on whether the number of points to be exchanged is for a point exchange source or a point exchange destination.

  When the point exchange source is targeted, in step S1207, the number of exchange target points is subtracted from the number of user-owned points of the exchange source. In step S1207, the number of points multiplied by the numerical value based on the conversion ratio corresponding to the subtracted exchange point number is calculated, and the calculated point number is added to the point possessed by the user exchange point.

  If the point exchange destination is the target, in step S1207, the number of points is calculated based on the conversion ratio so that the value after multiplication becomes the number of points to be exchanged. Then, the calculated number of points is subtracted from the number of user-owned points at the exchange source, and the number of points to be exchanged is added to the number of user-owned points at the exchange destination. After the point exchange process in step S1207, the process proceeds to step S1206.

  Next, another processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110 will be described. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the point management apparatus 110. In FIG. 13, first, it waits until it receives a point exchange request transmitted from the mobile phone 120 (step S1301: No).

  In step S1301, when a point exchange request is received (step S1301: Yes), user-owned point information is acquired based on information included in the received point exchange request (step S1302). And a conversion ratio is acquired based on the acquired user possession point information (step S1303). In step S1303, the same processing as step S1103 in FIG. 11 described above is performed.

  Next, it is determined whether or not the point exchange request received in step S1301: Yes contains information on the number of exchange target points (step S1304). The processing order of steps S1302 and S1303 and the processing of step S1304 may be reversed. That is, it may be determined whether or not the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request, and thereafter the user-owned point information is obtained and the conversion ratio is obtained.

  Furthermore, the processing order of step S1303 and step S1304 may be reversed. That is, after acquiring user-owned point information, it may be determined whether or not the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request, and thereafter the conversion ratio may be obtained.

  In step S1304, if the point exchange request does not include information on the number of points to be exchanged (step S1304: No), a prior inquiry process is performed (step S1305). In step S1305, the same calculation as in step S1104 in FIG. 11 described above is performed. However, in step S1305, only the calculation is performed, and the user possession points in the user DB 420 are not updated.

  Then, the processing result (preprocessing result) in step S1305 is transmitted to the portable telephone 120 that is the transmission source of the point exchange request acquired in step S1301: Yes (step S1306). When the mobile phone 120 receives the information transmitted from the point management device 110 in step S1306, the mobile phone 120 displays a prior inquiry screen based on the received information (see FIG. 14-2). A description of the processing procedure in the mobile phone 120 is omitted.

  By transmitting the pre-processing result for executing the actual point exchange process, that is, the pre-inquiry result, the change of the user-owned points due to the point exchange to the user before the point exchange process is actually performed. (Before updating the user possession points in the user DB). In addition, this allows the user to know the point exchange processing result in advance, and to cancel (cancel) the point exchange process if, for example, the conversion ratio is low and the advantage is low even if the point exchange is performed. Is also possible.

  On the other hand, in step S1304, when the information regarding the number of points to be exchanged is included in the point exchange request (step S1304: Yes), pre-inquiry processing different from step S1305 is performed (step S1307). In step S1307, the same calculation as in step S1207 in FIG. 12 described above is performed. However, in step S1307, only the calculation is performed, and the user possession points in the user DB are not updated. Thereafter, the process proceeds to step S1306, and the pre-inquiry result is transmitted to the mobile phone 120.

  Next, it is determined whether an exchange execution request has been received from the portable telephone 120 that has transmitted the processing result in step S1306 (step S1308). If the exchange execution request has not been received (step S1308: No), it is determined whether or not to stop the process (step S1309).

  In step S1309, it is determined that the process is to be stopped when the information transmitted from the mobile phone 120 to stop the process is received. Further, in step S1309, it may be determined that the process is to be stopped when there is no response from the mobile phone 120 when a predetermined time elapses after the processing result is transmitted in step S1306.

  In step S1309, when the process is not stopped (step S1309: No), the process returns to step S1308. Further, when the process is stopped in step S1309 (step S1309: Yes), the series of processes is ended as it is.

  In step S1308, when an exchange execution request is received (step S1308: Yes), point exchange processing is performed (step S1310). In step S1310, any one of the point exchange processes described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 12 described above is performed based on information included in the point exchange request, user possessed point information, presence / absence of exchange target point information, and the like.

  After the point exchange process, the processing result of the point exchange process is transmitted to the mobile phone 120 that is the transmission source of the point exchange request acquired in step S1301: Yes (step S1311), and the series of processes ends.

  Next, an example of a display screen on the mobile phone 120 will be described. FIGS. 14A and 14B are explanatory diagrams illustrating display screen examples in the mobile phone 120. FIGS. The display screen of FIG. 14A is displayed on the display 304 of the mobile phone 120 when the point exchange application is activated on the mobile phone 120 and there is an instruction operation for displaying a screen for inputting the number of points to be exchanged. The

  In FIG. 14A, an area 1410 in the display screen 1401 displays the number of exchange target points input by the user's operation. Any number can be input as the number of points to be exchanged. The display screen 1401 is provided with an area 1420 for inputting whether the number of points to be exchanged input in the area 1410 is for a point exchange source or a point exchange destination.

  The display screen 1401 displays instruction keys 1430, 1440, and 1450 for instructing the next operation. The instruction key 1430 is operated when instructing execution of a prior inquiry with the input content. The instruction key 1440 is operated when instructing execution of the point exchange process with the input content. When the instruction key 1440 is operated, execution of the point exchange process is started without performing a prior inquiry. The instruction key 1450 is operated to stop all processing.

  The point exchange processing may involve not only the two companies, the point exchange source and the point exchange destination, but also the third or more companies to be relayed (point exchange to). In other words, in order to exchange a user-owned point at a point exchange source with a user-owned point at a point exchange destination, it may be necessary to go through a plurality of point exchange processes for points of a plurality of companies.

  Specifically, the point management device 110, for example, has an optimal number of user points at the point exchange destination after conversion when there are a plurality of exchange routes when exchanging P company points for Q company points. Such an exchange route may be selected. For example, when 100 points of P company are converted into M company points after conversion to 100 points, the number of user-owned points added at the exchange destination is 70 points. To do.

  On the other hand, when 100 points of Company P are converted into points of Company N after conversion to points of Company N, the number of user-owned points added at the exchange destination is 95 points. To do. In this case, the point management apparatus 110 employs an exchange route that converts the points to the points of the N company and then the points to the points of the Q company.

  When the instruction keys 1430 and 1440 are operated, the point management apparatus 110 selects an exchange route that optimizes the number of user points at the point exchange destination after conversion without any user operation. Also good. As a result, the convenience of the user can be improved.

  A display screen 1402 in FIG. 14B is displayed on the mobile phone 120 when a pre-inquiry result is received from the point management device 110. The display screen 1402 displays information 1460 for guiding that the point exchange process can be executed with the contents inquired in advance, and information 1470 for guiding the number of user-owned points after the point exchange process.

  In the display screen 1402, the number of user-owned points after the point exchange process may be the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination or the number of user-owned points (balance) at the point exchange source. Both of them may be used.

  15-18 is explanatory drawing which shows another example of a point exchange map. In FIG. 15, the point exchange map 1400 displays a plurality of barcodes 801a to 806a for the companies 801 to 806 described above. The point exchange map 1400 displays bar codes 811, 821, and 1511 that can specify the processing operations 810, 820, and 1510. In addition to the processing operations 810 and 820 described above, the processing operation 830 is a processing operation that interrupts a process being executed.

  In FIG. 16, the point exchange map 1600 displays bar codes 802a, 803a, 804a, and 806a of companies 802, 803, 804, and 806 designated by the user among bar codes of companies that can be subjected to point exchange processing. Has been. The companies 802 and 803 designated as point exchange sources and their barcodes 802a and 803a, and the companies 804 and 806 designated as point exchange destinations and their barcodes 804a and 806a are graphic information 1610 and 1620 indicating the contents of exchange processing. , 1630.

  Graphic information 1610, 1620, 1630 is a visual representation of the conversion ratio (or equivalent information) 1611 for point exchange, the time (days) 1612 required to complete the point exchange, and the point exchange source and point exchange destination. It includes an arrow 1613 and the like. By using the arrow 1613, the point exchange source and the point exchange destination can be easily visually guided at a glance.

  When the processing operation is “Purchase” instead of “Point exchange”, the direction of the arrow in “Purchase” does not necessarily match the direction of the arrow in “Point exchange”. That is, when purchasing, since the user-owned points move to the purchase destination, the direction of the arrow may be opposite to that at the time of point exchange.

  In the point exchange map 1600, expressions using arrows may be avoided depending on the contents of the processing operation, and words representing the processing operation may be displayed. As a result, in the case where confusion is likely to occur by expressing the moving direction of the user possession point with an arrow, it is possible to avoid the display of the arrow and avoid the confusion in advance.

  In FIG. 17, the point exchange map 1700 includes companies 802, 803, 804, 804, 803, 804 designated by the user among the barcodes of companies that can be the target of point exchange processing, as in the point exchange map 1600 shown in FIG. 806 bar codes 802a, 803a, 804a, and 806a are displayed. The companies 802 and 803 designated as point exchange sources and their barcodes 802a and 803a, and the companies 804 and 806 designated as point exchange destinations and their barcodes 804a and 806a are graphic information 1710 and 1720 indicating the contents of exchange processing. , 1730.

  The graphic information 1710, 1720, and 1730 includes a barcode and an arrow. The bar codes in the graphic information 1710, 1720, and 1730 include tag information for instructing point exchange from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination. The tag information for instruction includes, for example, a conversion ratio (or information equivalent thereto) at the time of point exchange. The tag information for instruction may include information related to point exchange such as the time (number of days) required to complete point exchange.

  Even if the tag information for instruction is point exchange between two companies 803 and 806, the contents differ depending on which company becomes a point exchange source and a point exchange destination. For example, the point information in which the company 803 is the point exchange source and the company 806 is the point exchange destination and the point exchange in which the company 806 is the point exchange source and the company 803 is the point exchange destination have different contents of the tag information for instruction. .

  The arrows in the graphic information 1710, 1720, and 1730 visually represent the point exchange source and the point exchange destination. By using arrows in the graphic information 1710, 1720, and 1730, the point exchange source and the point exchange destination can be easily visually guided at a glance.

  The user can instruct the point exchange operation with one operation by reading the bar code in the graphic information 1710, 1720, and 1730 using the mobile phone 120. In addition, when the conversion tag or the like is included in the instruction tag information, the user can easily obtain information regarding point exchange.

  In FIG. 18, the point exchange map 1800 displays bar codes 802a, 803a, 804a, and 806a of companies 802, 803, 804, and 806 designated by the user among bar codes of companies that can be subjected to point exchange processing. Has been. As shown in FIG. 18, the point exchange may include a plurality of point exchange sources or a plurality of point exchange destinations. Alternatively, point exchange may include a plurality of point exchange sources and point exchange destinations. As a result, when M and N are arbitrary natural numbers, it is possible to realize point exchange in which the point exchange source and the point exchange destination correspond M to N.

  In this case, the point exchange source and the point exchange destination are associated with each other by graphic information 1810, 1820, 1830, and 1840 indicating the contents of the exchange process. Graphic information 1810, 1820, 1830, and 1840 are respectively a bar code including tag information for instructing point exchange from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination, and the point exchange source and the point exchange destination visually. And an arrow to express.

  In the point exchange maps 1500, 1600, 1700, and 1800 shown in FIGS. 15 to 18, the logo marks of the companies 801 to 806 and their barcodes 801 a to 806 a may be displayed in 3D (three-dimensional). When a plurality of logo marks of each company 801 to 806 and their barcodes 801a to 806a are displayed, for example, only the logo mark and barcode of a specific company designated by a mouse or cursor operation are brought forward. (Or larger than the others) may be displayed (see reference numeral 803 in FIG. 18). Further, the display priority at this time may be determined by a method of displaying a frequently occurring object in front using the focus history of some recent mice or cursors.

  On the contrary, the logo mark and barcode of the company which is not specified may be displayed small. As a result, even when the display area is limited, it is possible to increase the number of company logos and barcodes displayed in the point exchange map, thereby realizing more information expression. This makes it possible to create a combined map of the map type and the array type (the combined map is not particularly limited to 3D (solid)).

  By using the point exchange map 800, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800, in this embodiment, input (designation) such as a point exchange source, a point exchange destination, a processing operation, etc. is input to the point exchange map 800, 1500, 1600. This can be done by reading the bar codes displayed on 1700 and 1800.

  As a result, there is no need for key input or complicated instructions when exchanging points, and point exchange instructions can be given with an intuitive operation while viewing the displayed point exchange maps 800, 1500, 1600, 1700, 1800. Since it can be completed, even a user (digital divide) who is not good at using computer devices such as the portable phone 120 and personal computer can realize a system that can easily exchange points.

  As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to add the user-owned points of the point exchange source to the user-owned points of the point exchange destination without depending on the type of user-owned points, The result can be transmitted to the information processing apparatus 120 of the user. As a result, it is possible to exchange points for the types of points desired by the user and to inform the user that the points have been exchanged, thereby improving the convenience of the user. Can do.

  Also, according to this embodiment, the point exchange source user-owned points can be directly converted to point exchange destination user-owned points, so the point exchange is completed as compared with the case of passing through multiple companies Can be shortened. Accordingly, it is possible to promptly notify the user that the point exchange has been performed, and the convenience of the user can be improved.

  Further, according to this embodiment, only the number of points to be exchanged can be set as a point exchange process target. As a result, the number of user-owned points of the quantity desired by the user can be used for point exchange, so that the convenience of the user can be improved.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, even when the point exchange from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination is not equivalent, the user possession point of the point exchange source is not dependent on the type of the user possession point. The points can be added to the points owned by the user, and the result can be transmitted to the information processing apparatus 120 of the user. As a result, regardless of the point exchange conversion ratio from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination, points can be exchanged for the types of points desired by the user, thereby improving user convenience. Can do.

  Further, according to this embodiment, even when the point exchange from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination is not equivalent, the desired number of points can be set at the point exchange destination without depending on the type of user-owned points. The points can be added to the user possession points, and the result can be transmitted to the information processing apparatus 120 of the user. As a result, regardless of the point exchange conversion ratio from the point exchange source to the point exchange destination, it is possible to add the number of points desired by the user to the type of points desired by the user. It is possible to improve the performance.

  Further, according to this embodiment, it is possible to guide whether or not point exchange according to designated conditions (point exchange source, point exchange destination, number of exchange target points, etc.) is possible. As a result, the number of user-owned points can be updated only when the point exchange desired by the user is possible, thus preventing the user-owned points from being inadvertently updated and The convenience can be improved.

  In addition, according to this embodiment, it is possible to guide the point exchange result according to the designated condition before actually performing the point exchange. As a result, the number of user-owned points can be updated only when the user is satisfied with the point exchange result, thus preventing the user-owned points from being updated inadvertently. It is possible to improve the performance.

  Further, according to this embodiment, it is possible to facilitate the input operation of information for specifying a point exchange source or a point exchange destination and to prevent an information input error. As a result, information regarding the point exchange source and the point exchange destination can be accurately input without increasing the work burden on the user, thereby preventing the re-execution of the input work and improving the convenience of the user. Can do.

  Further, according to this embodiment, by using a portable terminal device such as the portable phone 120 as the user information processing device 120, the user exchanges points at the store where the points are used. Can be used effectively.

  Further, according to this embodiment, the SMS is used for communication between the point management device 110 and the user information processing device (portable phone) 120, whereby the point management device 110 and the user information processing device are used. The security of information transmitted to and received from the (mobile phone) 120 can be ensured.

  SMS is often made cheaper than e-mail or free of charge, depending on the carrier's strategy. For this reason, by using SMS for communication between the point management device 110 and the user information processing device (mobile phone) 120, the convenience of the user is improved and the use of point utilization is expected. Can do.

  Further, according to this embodiment, by using the user identification information as the telephone number of the mobile phone 120, it is possible to make the user ID easy to remember. It is possible to provide a point service that is easy to use for the user by preventing the occurrence of a situation in which points cannot be exchanged due to forgetting.

  As described above, according to the point management device, the point management method and the point management program, the user-owned points are exchanged for the types of points desired by the user without depending on the types of user-owned points, The point exchange result can be communicated early after the point exchange is completed. As a result, the point exchange desired by the user can be realized without depending on the type of the user-owned points, and the convenience of the user can be improved.

  The point management method described in the present embodiment can be realized by executing a program prepared in advance on a computer such as a personal computer or a workstation. This program is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a hard disk, a flexible disk, a CD-ROM, an MO, and a DVD, and is executed by being read from the recording medium by the computer. The program may be a transmission medium that can be distributed via a network such as the Internet.

  As described above, the point management device, the point management method, and the point management program according to the present invention are useful for managing points generated when purchasing products using the point service or using the service. It is suitable for a point management device that manages points in a specific type.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the system configuration | structure of the point management system concerning embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of a computer apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the hardware constitutions of a portable telephone. It is explanatory drawing which shows the functional structure of the point management apparatus concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows the functional structure of the information processing apparatus of the user concerning this invention. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of user DB. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of conversion ratio DB. It is explanatory drawing which shows an example of a point exchange map. It is a flowchart (the 1) which shows the process sequence of a point management apparatus. It is a flowchart (the 2) which shows the process sequence of a point management apparatus. It is a flowchart (the 3) which shows the process sequence of a point management apparatus. It is a flowchart (the 4) which shows the process sequence of a point management apparatus. It is a flowchart (the 5) which shows the process sequence of a point management apparatus. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows the example of a display screen in a mobile telephone. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows the example of a display screen in a portable telephone. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) which shows another example of a point exchange map. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) which shows another example of a point exchange map. It is explanatory drawing (the 3) which shows another example of a point exchange map. It is explanatory drawing (the 4) which shows another example of a point exchange map.

Explanation of symbols

110 point management device 401 receiving unit 402 obtaining unit 403 point exchange processing unit 404 transmitting unit 420,600 user DB
430,700 Conversion ratio DB
800, Point exchange map 1401, 1402 Display screen 1500 Point exchange map 1600 Point exchange map 1700 Point exchange map 1800 Point exchange map

Claims (10)

Receiving means for receiving, from the user information processing device, identification information of the user, point management instruction information including point inquiry instruction information and point exchange instruction information, information about the point exchange source, and information about the point exchange destination;
Based on the information received by the receiving means, information on the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source associated with the user identification information, and the point exchange destination associated with the user identification information Acquisition means for acquiring information on the number of user-owned points of
When the point management instruction information received by the receiving means is point exchange instruction information, the point holding source user acquired by the acquiring means is subtracted and updated, and the subtraction is supported. Point exchange processing means for adding the number of points to the user exchanged point number of the point exchange destination acquired by the acquisition means and updating it, and
Transmitting means for transmitting a processing result by the point exchange processing means to the information processing apparatus of the user;
With
The point management instruction information, information relates to information and redemption destination for the previous SL redemption source, the point management instruction, information specifying the point exchange source and redemption destination is displayed so as to be visually recognized, Acquired from the projected, printed, dug or embedded medium by the information processing apparatus of the user by reading at least information identifying the point exchange source in an order ahead of information identifying the point exchange destination And is transmitted to the receiving means. The receiving means further receives information on the number of exchange target points to be exchanged,
The point exchange processing means subtracts and updates the number of points to be exchanged from the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source acquired by the acquisition means, and acquires the number of points corresponding to the subtraction by the acquisition means The point management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the point management apparatus is updated by adding to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination.   The point exchange processing means is configured such that the number of points obtained by multiplying the number of points corresponding to the subtraction from the number of points owned by the user of the point exchange source by a numerical value based on a predetermined conversion ratio determined in advance. The point management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the point management apparatus is updated by adding to the number of possessed points.   The point exchange processing means is configured to multiply the number of points added to the number of user-owned points at the point exchange destination by the number of points multiplied by a numerical value based on a predetermined conversion ratio determined in advance. The point management apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the point management apparatus updates by subtracting from the number.   The transmission means transmits information on the number of user-owned points of at least one of the point exchange source and the point exchange destination acquired by the acquisition means before the point processing by the point exchange processing means is performed. The point management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the point management apparatus transmits the information to an information processing apparatus of a user.   The point management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the user information processing apparatus is a portable terminal apparatus.   7. The point management apparatus according to claim 6, wherein at least one of the receiving unit and the transmitting unit uses a short message service (SMS).   The point management device according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the identification information of the user is a telephone number of the portable terminal device. A point management method using a point management device connectable to a user information processing device,
A receiving step of receiving identification information of the user, point management instruction information including point inquiry instruction information and point exchange instruction information, information about the point exchange source, and information about the point exchange destination from the information processing apparatus of the user; ,
Based on the information received by the receiving step, information on the number of user-retained points of the point exchange source associated with the user identification information, and the point exchange destination associated with the user identification information An acquisition process for acquiring information on the number of user-owned points
When the point management instruction information received by the reception process is point exchange instruction information, the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source acquired by the acquisition process is subtracted and updated, and the subtraction is supported A point exchange processing step of adding and updating the number of points acquired by the acquisition step to the number of user holding points of the point exchange destination, and
A transmission step of transmitting a processing result by the point exchange processing step to the information processing apparatus of the user;
To execute the point management device,
The point management instruction information, information relates to information and redemption destination for the previous SL redemption source, the point management instruction, information specifying the point exchange source and redemption destination is displayed so as to be visually recognized, Acquired from the projected, printed, dug or embedded medium by the information processing apparatus of the user by reading at least information identifying the point exchange source in an order ahead of information identifying the point exchange destination And transmitting to the point management apparatus. A point management program to be executed by a point management device connectable to a user information processing device,
A receiving step of receiving identification information of the user, point management instruction information including point inquiry instruction information and point exchange instruction information, information about the point exchange source, and information about the point exchange destination from the information processing apparatus of the user; ,
Based on the information received by the receiving step, information on the number of user-retained points of the point exchange source associated with the user identification information, and the point exchange destination associated with the user identification information An acquisition process for acquiring information on the number of user-owned points
When the point management instruction information received by the reception process is point exchange instruction information, the number of user-owned points of the point exchange source acquired by the acquisition process is subtracted and updated, and the subtraction is supported A point exchange processing step of adding and updating the number of points acquired by the acquisition step to the number of user holding points of the point exchange destination, and
A transmission step of transmitting a processing result by the point exchange processing step to the information processing apparatus of the user;
To execute the point management device,
The point management instruction information, information relates to information and redemption destination for the previous SL redemption source, the point management instruction, information specifying the point exchange source and redemption destination is displayed so as to be visually recognized, Acquired from the projected, printed, dug or embedded medium by the information processing apparatus of the user by reading at least information identifying the point exchange source in an order ahead of information identifying the point exchange destination And is transmitted to the point management device.

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