JP7132892B2 - Sales method, sales device and program - Google Patents

Description

The present disclosure relates to a sales method, sales device and program.

In recent years, there are vending machines equipped with communication functions. For example, in Patent Document 1, a vending machine is connected to a user's mobile communication terminal, and when the user of the mobile communication terminal approaches the vending machine, information about the vending machine is delivered to the mobile communication terminal. , was disclosed to draw attention to the vending machine.

JP 2017-151715 A

However, since the total amount of products that can be stored in a vending machine is limited, it may happen that the vending machine is out of stock or out of stock and the user cannot purchase what he or she wants. For example, in the invention of Patent Document 1, even if a user receives information about a vending machine installed nearby and moves to the vending machine, there is a risk that the product that the user wants to purchase is sold out and cannot be purchased. be.

Moreover, if the user's experience of purchasing from a vending machine is monotonous, it may be difficult for the user to gain motivation to go to the vending machine and make a purchase.

Therefore, there is a demand for a technology that enhances user satisfaction and provides a new purchasing experience.

According to one embodiment, a vending method is provided for vending merchandise using a vending device. The vending device includes a control section and a storage section. The sales method includes a first step in which the control unit accepts from the user the specification of the product that the user wishes to purchase, regardless of whether the user can purchase it with the sales device; and a third step of giving a reward to the user when the product is purchased by another purchasing means.

According to one embodiment, a vending device for vending merchandise is provided. The vending device includes a control section and a storage section. The vending device comprises a first step in which the control unit accepts from the user a specification of a product that the user wishes to purchase regardless of whether the user can purchase the product with the vending device; and a third step of giving a reward to the user when the product is purchased by another purchasing means.

According to one embodiment, a program is provided for selling merchandise with a vending device. The vending device includes a processor and memory. The program instructs the processor to perform a first step of accepting from the user the specification of the product that the user wishes to purchase, regardless of whether the user can purchase it at the vending device, A second step of notifying to prompt purchase of a product and a third step of giving a reward to the user when the product is purchased by another purchasing means are executed.

According to the present disclosure, it is possible to increase user satisfaction and provide a new purchasing experience.

It is a figure showing composition of the whole selling system in a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the vending apparatus in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the terminal device in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the structure of the server in the 1st Embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the sales apparatus information database in the 1st Embodiment of this invention, and a user information database. It is a flow chart which shows an example of a flow of processing of a vending device in a 1st embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows the example of a screen of the sales apparatus in the 1st Embodiment of this invention, and a terminal device.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are given the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<First embodiment>
<1 Overall Configuration of Sales System 1>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a sales system 1 according to this embodiment.

The sales system 1 is a system for selling products specified by a user by connecting a plurality of sales devices, a user's terminal device, and a server. As shown in FIG. 1, the sales system 1 includes a plurality of sales devices (FIG. 1 shows a sales device 10A and a sales device 10B; hereinafter collectively referred to as "sales device 10"), and a terminal. It includes a device 20 and a server 30 . The sales device 10, the terminal device 20, and the server 30 are connected so as to be able to communicate with each other.

The sales device 10 is installed in a facility such as an airport, a service area of an expressway, or the like, which is used by an unspecified number of people when they move from one place to another. Therefore, the sales device 10 can be used by tourists and the like. The sales device 10 is not limited to this, and may be installed in commercial facilities such as shopping malls and commercial buildings. Therefore, the sales device 10 can be used by customers who visit the commercial facility for the purpose of shopping, receiving services, or the like. Moreover, the vending device 10 may be installed on an office floor, outdoors, or the like. Therefore, sales apparatus 10 can be used by employees working on office floors or the like, customers moving outdoors, and the like.

As shown in FIG. 1 as a vending device 10, the vending device 10 includes a communication IF (Interface) 12, an input device 13, an output device 14, a memory 15, a storage section 16, and a product supply mechanism driving section 17. , a processor 19 . The vending device 10 also has a reception mechanism for receiving cash input from the user, an outlet for the user to take out the product from the vending device 10, a power supply device, and the like.

The communication IF 12 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals so that the vending device 10 communicates with an external device. For example, when the sales device 10 outputs a beacon signal, it communicates with the terminal device 20 responding to the beacon signal via the communication IF 12 and receives a signal from the terminal device 20 .

The input device 13 is an input device (for example, a touch panel, a touch pad, a pointing device such as a mouse, physical buttons, etc.) for receiving an input operation from a user.

The output device 14 is an output device (display, speaker, etc.) for presenting information to the user.

For example, the selling device 10 includes a touch screen (the input device 13 is a touch panel and the output device 14 is a display) for accepting product designation from the user while presenting product information to the user.

The memory 15 temporarily stores programs and data processed by the programs, and is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

The storage unit 16 is a storage device for storing data, and is, for example, a flash memory or a HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

Under the control of the processor 19, the product supply mechanism drive unit 17 drives a mechanism that takes out the product specified by the user from the stock and moves it to the discharge port.

The optical reading mechanism 18 is a mechanism for optically acquiring information, such as a scanner, camera, infrared sensor, or the like.

For example, if the optical reading mechanism 18 is a camera, the vending device 10 detects that the user has approached within a certain distance from the vending device 10 by analyzing the image captured by the camera. In this case, the sales device 10 may identify a pre-registered user (for example, the user pre-registers a photographed image of the user's face) by performing image analysis on the photographed image.

Further, for example, if the optical reading mechanism 18 is a scanner, the sales device 10 scans a ticket, certificate, etc. for the user to use a transportation service, thereby obtaining the nationality of the user, the address of the user, and the movement of the user. Information such as destination can be obtained. For example, the sales device 10 acquires information about the user by reading the user's airline ticket (in which the boarding flight number, boarding time, boarding gate, etc. are described), the user's passport, etc., using the optical reading mechanism 18 . be able to.

The processor 19 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of arithmetic units, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

The server 30 includes a communication IF 32 , an input/output IF 33 , a memory 35 , a storage 36 and a processor 39 .

The communication IF 32 is an interface for inputting and outputting signals for the server 30 to communicate with an external device.

The input/output IF 33 functions as an interface with an input device for receiving input operations from the user and an output device for presenting information to the user.

The memory 35 temporarily stores programs and data processed by the programs, and is a volatile memory such as a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory).

The storage 36 is a storage device for storing data, such as a flash memory or HDD (Hard Disc Drive).

The processor 39 is hardware for executing an instruction set described in a program, and is composed of arithmetic units, registers, peripheral circuits, and the like.

The vending machine 10 is equipped with a communication function as described above. In the following description, the vending device 10 will be described as an example of a vending machine that sells products related to specific content.

Examples of content include (i) content provided by executing a program such as a game program, (ii) content mainly provided as still images (comics, etc.), and (iii) mainly provided video. Contents (animations, movies, etc.), (iv) contents mainly composed of characters (light novels, etc.), and the like.

Merchandise related to contents includes stuffed toys of characters appearing in these contents and toys such as goods used by characters in contents.

In addition, the sales device 10 may be used to obtain a right to use content (prepaid card, etc.), a terminal device, or a product (memory card, SIM (Subscriber Identity Module Card) card, mobile router, etc.) to use the terminal device. Character content may be associated with these products), and vending machines that sell daily necessities related to eating and drinking, such as beverages, sweets, and instant foods, and other products.

The sales device 10 is connected to the terminal device 20 by, for example, short-range wireless communication, for example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) communication, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy) communication, NFC (Near field communication) (registered trademark), or WiFi (registered trademark). Wireless Fidelity (registered trademark) communication or the like. A user can purchase a product by inserting cash into the vending device 10, or can purchase a product using electronic money.

The terminal device 20 is a device operated by each user. The terminal device 20 is implemented by a terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet compatible with a mobile communication system. In addition, the terminal device 20 may be, for example, a stationary PC (Personal Computer) or a laptop PC.

The terminal device 20 is communicably connected to the server 30 via a network. The terminal device 20 is a wireless base station compatible with communication standards such as 5G and LTE (Long Term Evolution), and a wireless LAN router compatible with wireless LAN (Local Area Network) standards such as IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers). is connected to the network by communicating with the communication device.

The server 30 is a computer connected to a network that manages information on each sales device and information on users, and includes, for example, a PC and a server device. Server 30 and sales device 10 may be connected via terminal device 20 or via a network.

The network in the sales system 1 is composed of a wired or wireless network, and includes, for example, a mobile phone network, a PHS (Personal Handy-phone System) network, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network), 3G (3rd Generation), LTE ( Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), 5G, Wi-SUN (Wireless Smart Utility Network), LPWA (Low Power Wide Area Network) such as LoRaWAN, WiMax (registered trademark), infrared communication, Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. compliant network.

<1.1 Configuration of vending device>
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of sales device 10 that constitutes sales system 1 of Embodiment 1. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 2 , vending device 10 includes wireless communication section 101 , storage section 102 , and control section 103 .

The wireless communication unit 101 performs processing for the sales device 10 to communicate with an external device.

Storage unit 102 stores data and programs used by vending device 10 . The storage unit 102 stores own device information 181 regarding the own vending device. The self-machine information 181 includes the device ID of the self-machine vending machine, the installation location, the inventory information of the products sold by the self-machine, the sales history, and the like.

The control unit 103 performs functions shown as various modules by the processor of the vending device 10 performing processing according to a program.

The reception control module 1041 controls processing for the sales device 10 to receive a signal from an external device according to a communication protocol.

The transmission control module 1042 controls processing for transmitting signals from the vending device 10 to external devices according to a communication protocol.

The designation receiving module 1043 receives from the user designation of a product that the user wishes to purchase regardless of whether or not the product can be purchased with the sales device 10 .

The own machine inventory matching module 1044 compares the type and quantity of the specified product with the own machine information 181 stored in the storage unit 102 so as to confirm whether the specified product can be sold by the own machine. do.

The money processing module 1045 controls cash or electronic money acceptance processing and change refund processing.

The commodity delivery module 1046 carries out delivery processing of the commodity specified by the user.

The notification module 1047 notifies the user of information to the effect that the product can be purchased by another means of purchase when the designated product cannot be purchased by the user's own device.

<1.2 Configuration of terminal device>
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of the terminal device 20 that constitutes the sales system 1 of the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal device 20 includes a plurality of antennas (antenna 211, antenna 212), wireless communication units (first wireless communication unit 221, second wireless communication unit 222) corresponding to each antenna, and operation Reception unit 230 (including touch-sensitive device 231 and display 232), audio processing unit 240, microphone 241, speaker 242, position information sensor 250, camera 260, storage unit 280, and control unit 290 and including. The terminal device 20 also has functions and configurations not particularly shown in FIG. 3 (for example, a battery for retaining power, a power supply circuit for controlling power supply from the battery to each circuit, etc.). As shown in FIG. 2, each block included in the terminal device 20 is electrically connected by a bus or the like.

The antenna 211 radiates a signal emitted by the terminal device 20 as radio waves. Antenna 211 also receives radio waves from space and provides a received signal to first wireless communication section 221 .

The antenna 212 radiates a signal emitted by the terminal device 20 as radio waves. Antenna 212 also receives radio waves from space and provides a received signal to second wireless communication section 222 .

The first wireless communication unit 221 performs modulation/demodulation processing and the like for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 211 so that the terminal device 20 communicates with other wireless devices. The second wireless communication unit 222 performs modulation/demodulation processing for transmitting and receiving signals via the antenna 212 so that the terminal device 20 communicates with other wireless devices. The first wireless communication unit 221 and the second wireless communication unit 222 are communication modules including a tuner, a received signal strength indicator (RSSI) calculation circuit, a cyclic redundancy check (CRC) calculation circuit, a high frequency circuit, and the like. The first radio communication unit 221 and the second radio communication unit 222 perform modulation/demodulation and frequency conversion of radio signals transmitted/received by the terminal device 20 and give received signals to the control unit 290 .

The operation accepting unit 230 has a mechanism for accepting user input operations. Specifically, operation accepting unit 230 is configured as a touch screen and includes a touch sensitive device 231 and a display 232 . The touch-sensitive device 231 receives input operations of the user of the terminal device 20 . The touch-sensitive device 231 detects the user's touch position on the touch panel by using, for example, a capacitive touch panel. The touch-sensitive device 231 outputs a signal indicating the user's touch position detected by the touch panel to the control unit 290 as an input operation.

The display 232 displays data such as images, moving images, and text under the control of the control unit 290 . The display 232 is implemented by, for example, an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display.

The audio processor 240 modulates and demodulates the audio signal. Audio processing section 240 modulates the signal supplied from microphone 241 and supplies the modulated signal to control section 290 . Also, the audio processing unit 240 provides an audio signal to the speaker 242 . The audio processing unit 240 is implemented by, for example, a processor for audio processing. The microphone 241 receives an audio input and provides an audio signal corresponding to the audio input to the audio processing section 240 . The speaker 242 converts the audio signal provided from the audio processing unit 240 into audio and outputs the audio to the outside of the terminal device 20 .

The position information sensor 250 is a sensor that detects the position of the terminal device 20, and is, for example, a GPS (Global Positioning System) module. A GPS module is a receiving device used in a satellite positioning system. The satellite positioning system receives signals from at least three or four satellites, and detects the current position of the terminal device 10 equipped with a GPS module based on the received signals. Note that the method of detecting the position of the terminal device 20 is not limited to obtaining the output result of the position information sensor 250 . Alternatively, the terminal device 20 may communicate with a radio base station and detect the position of the terminal device 20 based on the signal received from the radio base station. In addition, the terminal device 20 communicates with the sales device 10, and the terminal device 20 receives information presented by the sales device 10 based on a signal (such as information identifying the sales device 10) received from the sales device 10. The position of the terminal device 20 may be detected by reading (such as reading a code displayed on the vending device 10 using an image captured by the camera 260 of the terminal device 20).

The camera 260 is a device for receiving light with a light receiving element and outputting it as a photographed image. The camera 260 is, for example, a depth camera that can detect the distance from the camera 260 to the subject.

The storage unit 280 is configured by, for example, a flash memory or the like, and stores data and programs used by the terminal device 20 . In one aspect, storage unit 280 stores user information 281 and game program 282 .

The user information 281 includes a user ID that identifies the user, user attribute information, purchase history, and the like. The user attribute information includes, for example, the user's age, sex, address, nationality, destination, and the like.

The user information 281 also includes, as user attribute information, data used by the user to use content such as games, comics, and animations when the user uses the content. For example, if the content is a game, the user information 281 includes information on game content acquired by the user by executing a game based on the game program 282, information on the history of game play, and the like. The information on the game content acquired by the user includes, for example, information on characters, game items, etc. acquired by the user through playing the game. If the content is a cartoon (e-book, etc.) or video content such as animation, the user information 281 is information indicating which content the user owns (purchase history of e-books, etc. purchased by the user). etc.), or information on content that the user has viewed. It should be noted that the information about the game content acquired by the user is not limited to being held by the terminal device 20, and may be managed by the server 30 or the like.

The game program 282 is a program for providing a game to the user by being executed on the terminal device 20 .

The control unit 290 reads a program stored in the storage unit 280 and executes instructions included in the program, thereby controlling the operation of the terminal device 20 . The control unit 290 is, for example, an application processor. The control unit 290 functions as an input operation reception unit 291, a transmission/reception unit 292, a data processing unit 293, and a notification control unit 294 by operating according to a program.

The input operation reception unit 291 performs processing for receiving a user's input operation to the input device such as the touch sensitive device 231 . The input operation reception unit 291 determines whether the user's operation is a flick operation, a tap operation, or a drag (swipe) operation based on information on the coordinates at which the user touches the touch-sensitive device 231 with a finger or the like. The type of operation, such as whether it is an operation or not, is determined.

The transmission/reception unit 292 performs processing for the terminal device 20 to transmit/receive data to/from an external device such as the server 30 according to a communication protocol.

The data processing unit 293 performs processing according to a program to perform computation on data input by the terminal device 20, and outputs the computation result to a memory or the like.

The notification control unit 294 performs processing for presenting information to the user. The notification control unit 294 performs processing for displaying a display image on the display 232, processing for outputting sound to the speaker 242, processing for causing the camera 260 to vibrate, and the like.

<1.3 Configuration of Server 30>
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the server 30. As shown in FIG. As shown in FIG. 4 , the server 30 functions as a communication section 301 , a storage section 302 and a control section 303 .

The communication unit 301 performs processing for the server 30 to communicate with an external device.

The storage unit 302 stores data and programs used by the server 30 . The storage unit 302 stores a sales device information database 381, a user information database 382, and the like.

The sales device information database 381 is a database for holding information on each sales device in the sales system 1 . Details will be described later.
User information database 382 is a database for holding information of each user in sales system 1 . Details will be described later.

The control unit 303 exhibits functions shown as various modules when the processor of the server 30 performs processing according to a program.

The reception control module 3041 controls processing for the server 30 to receive a signal from an external device according to a communication protocol.

The transmission control module 3042 controls the processing by which the server 30 transmits signals to external devices according to the communication protocol.

The sales device information collation module 3043 collates the product type and quantity specified by the sales device 10 with the sales device information stored in the storage unit 302 .

The rewarding module 3044 controls the process of rewarding users.

<2 Data structure>
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the data structure of the sales device information database 381 and the user information database 382 stored by the server 30. As shown in FIG.

<2.1 Sales device information database>
The sales device information database 381 is a database for holding information on each sales device in the sales system 1 . Specifically, each vending device 10A, 10B in the vending system 1 notifies the server of its own device information at a predetermined timing. Then, the server manages the information of each vending device based on the contents of the notification.

As shown in FIG. 5, each record of the sales device information database 381 includes the item “device ID”, the item “installation location”, the item “product inventory list”, the item “sales history”, and the like. Specifically, the item "product inventory list" includes the item "type", the item "inventory quantity", and the item "reserve information".

The item "device ID" is information for identifying each vending device.
The item "installation location" is information indicating the location where each sales device is installed. The information indicating the location where the vending device is installed includes, for example, the name of the facility where the vending device is installed, the location of the vending device in the facility (building hierarchy, location on the floor, etc.). may be Also, the information indicating the position where the vending device is installed may include coordinates consisting of latitude and longitude.

The item "product inventory list" is information indicating inventory information of each vending device. Specifically, the item "type" indicates the type of product sold by each vending device, and the item "inventory quantity" indicates the number of each type of product sold by each vending device. , the item "reservation information" indicates the type and number of products reserved at each vending device. For example, the sales device accepts an instruction to reserve the product for a specific user, even if the product is in stock. For example, the vending device stores information on the product to be reserved in association with the information of the specified user so that the specified user can purchase the character goods through the vending device (preventing the purchase from being out of stock). . As a result, the sales device determines the quantity of the product to be sold to other users, not the specific user who is making the reservation, by subtracting the quantity indicated in the item "reserve information" from the item "inventory quantity". (Quantity of products that can be sold by the vending device to users other than the user who holds them = the number shown in the “inventory quantity” - the number shown in the “reserve information”).

The item "sales history" is information indicating the type, number, date and time of sale, etc. of products sold by each vending device.

From the vending device information database 381, it is possible to grasp the type and number of products that can be purchased from each vending device, basic information and sales status of each vending device.

<2.2 User Information Database>
The user information database 382 is a database for holding information on each user who uses the sales system 1 . Specifically, each terminal device 20 in the sales system 1 notifies each user information to the server when connected to the server 30 . Then, the server manages the information of each user based on the content of the notification.

Each record of the user information database 382 includes the item “user ID”, the item “attribute information”, the item “purchase history”, and the like. Specifically, the item "attribute information" includes the item "age", the item "sex", the item "address", and the item "destination".

The item "user ID" is information for identifying each user.

The item “attribute information” is information indicating attributes of the user, such as age, gender, address, destination, etc. of the user.

The item "purchase history" is information indicating the date and time of purchase, the type and number of purchased products, the device ID of the vending device used, etc., when the user purchases a product.

With the user information database 382, each user's basic information and purchase history can be grasped.

<3 Processing flow>
A sales method for selling products using a sales device will be described below.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing an example of the processing flow of the sales system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The sales system 1 includes a first sales device 10A, a second sales device 10B, a terminal device 20, and a server 30, which are a plurality of sales devices. In addition, the sales device (first sales device 10A, second sales device 10B) transmits information for specifying the user who uses the sales device by communication between the terminal device 20 held by the user and the sales device. Although the description assumes that the information is acquired, the information for specifying the user may not be acquired by the sales device.

In step S601A, the first vending device 10A presents a plurality of products to the user regardless of whether the user can purchase them with the first vending device 10A. Specifically, the first sales device 10A presents the product to the user as an object of purchase even though the product is out of stock in the first sales device 10A. In addition, even if the first vending device 10A has an item in stock, the item has been reserved by another user and there is no quantity that can be sold to the user. The product is presented to the user for purchase.

In step S603A, the first selling device 10A receives from the user the specification of the product that the user wishes to purchase.

In step S605A, the first sales device 10A determines whether or not the product specified by the user can be sold to the user. The first sales device 10A compares the product specified by the user with the quantity of the product that can be sold to the user. In addition, when the product specified by the user is a reserved product, the first sales device 10A specifies the identification information of the user who has reserved the product and the user who uses the first sales device. by comparing with the information of , it is determined whether the user is a user who can provide the reserved product (a user who can sell the product). The first vending device 10A performs the processing of step S607A if the first vending device can sell the product, and otherwise performs the processing of step S609A.

In step S607A (if YES in step S605A), the first vending device 10A ejects the product specified by the user from the first vending device 10A and updates the inventory information of the first vending device 10A. That is, for a product specified by the user and discharged from the first vending device 10A, the inventory quantity of the product indicated in the inventory information is subtracted according to the discharged quantity of the product. The first selling device 10A transmits the inventory information to the server 30 in response to updating the inventory information (or each time a predetermined cycle arrives).

In step S<b>631 , server 30 receives the inventory information of each vending device and updates the inventory information of each vending device managed by server 30 .

At step S609A (NO at step S605A), the first sales device 10A inquires about another purchasing means for enabling the user to purchase the product specified by the user. For example, the first sales device 10A communicates with the server 30 and inquires about information on another sales device that can obtain the product specified by the user.

In step S633, server 30 receives from first sales device 10A an inquiry about another means of purchase for the user to purchase the product specified by the user. In response to receiving the inquiry, the server 20 refers to the sales device information database 381 to specify another sales device (second sales device 10B) that has the inventory of the product. In addition, the server 20 collates inventory information to determine whether the product specified by the user can be purchased at the website selling the product. The server 20 responds to the first sales device 10A with information on another sales device having inventory, information on a website selling the product, etc., as another means of purchase.

In step S611A, the first sales device 10A notifies the user to purchase the product specified by the user by another means of purchase. Specifically, the first vending device 10A issues a notification prompting the user to make a purchase using another vending device, a notification prompting the user to purchase the product by accessing a specific website via the Internet, and the like. When the first sales device 10A presents the user with another sales device (second sales device 10B) that has the product specified by the user in stock, the first sales device 10A, based on the information on the installation location of the other sales device, , it may be determined whether or not to prompt the customer to move to the other vending device and purchase the item. For example, if the other vending device is within a certain distance from the first vending device 10A, or is located in the same facility as the first vending device 10A or in a nearby facility, the user is asked to It is also possible to send a notification prompting the user to move to and purchase the product.

Here, when the first sales device 10A notifies the user to urge the user to make a purchase by another means of purchase, it means that the user is rewarded for making a purchase by the other means of purchase. It may also include notifying.

The reward for the user may be, for example, a reward related to the content that the user is using. For example, if the content is a game, the rewards associated with the content used by the user may include game objects that can be used in gameplay, usage rights to play the game, and virtual currency that can be consumed during the game. , the ability to change game objects that cannot normally be obtained through gameplay, the ability to change game parameters referenced in gameplay (for example, the effect of increasing the probability of obtaining a character can be obtained for a certain period of time, etc.), and the ability to play a predetermined game unit. It is also possible to provide the user with a reward such as becoming Here, if the remuneration to be given to the user includes a character related to the product that the user requested to purchase in step S603A (for example, when selling a stuffed animal of a certain game character as a product), Rewards related to the character (game objects related to the character, an effect of increasing the probability of obtaining the character through game play, etc.) may be included.

Alternatively, the reward may be a task provided to the user in the content that the user is using. For example, if the content is a game, the user is provided with a predetermined game task (also called a mission or the like) as a reward. By achieving these game tasks through game play, the user can obtain game items and the like corresponding to the game tasks.

Such rewards are awarded to users in a variety of ways.

For example, the user may be rewarded in the form of data, parameters, or the like through communication between the sales device 10 or the terminal device 20 . Specifically, the vending device 10 or the terminal device 20 may communicate with the server 30 to provide the user with a reward such as a game item in association with the user's game account.

Alternatively, as a reward, information for specifying the content of the reward may be given to the user, and the user may obtain the reward using the information. For example, code data is given to the user and stored in the terminal device 20 . The terminal device 20 can cause the terminal device 20 or the server 30 to store that the code data has been read by communicating based on the information read by the code data. The terminal device 20 or the server 30 rewards the user in response to the terminal device 20 reading the code data.

Alternatively, the reward may be given to the user in the form of an article such as a coupon, merchandise, or a medium containing code information. For example, the sales device 10 may provide the user with the goods as rewards by means of the product supply mechanism driving section 17 .

The reward may also be related to location information. For example, the reward may be a game task provided in association with predetermined position information in the game, or a game object that can be used by the user moving to the predetermined position information. For example, in a game, the user is provided with a game object that is associated with the position of the second vending device 10B in the real world and that allows the user to obtain a game item or the like when the user approaches within a certain distance from the position. You can do it.

In step S613A, when the first sales device 10A receives an operation from the user to approve the purchase of the product by the other purchase means, the first sales device 10A notifies the server 20 of the purchase by the user by the other purchase means. Notify that you have performed an operation to accept.

In step S635, the server 20 transmits the stock reservation and the information of the user for the product specified by the user to the computer device managing another purchasing means. For example, server 20 reserves inventory and transmits user information to a second sales device 10B capable of selling a product specified by the user as another means of purchase.

In step S615B, the second selling device 10B receives from the server 20 the product to be kept in stock and the information of the user who purchases the product. The second vending device 10B reserves the product specified by the user on the first vending device 10A so that the user can purchase the product. For example, at least one of the second vending device 10B and the server 30 performs a process of setting aside the inventory of the product in the second vending device 10B in association with information for specifying the user. The second vending device 10B updates the number of sellable inventories, and with respect to the reserved inventory, until a purchase process is received from the user who made the reservation, or until a certain period of time elapses after the inventory is reserved, another Make it unpurchasable by the user.

In step S617B, the second selling device 10B accepts from the user an operation to purchase the product specified by the user on the first selling device 10A, and sells the product to the user.

In step S637, the server 30 rewards the user for purchasing the product by another purchasing means.

Note that a device other than the server 30 may provide the reward to the user. For example, when a product is purchased by the second vending device 10B, the second vending device 10B may communicate with the user's terminal device 20, and the second vending device 10B may reward the user. Alternatively, the first vending device 10A may give the reward to the user. For example, in step S613A, the first selling device 10A may reward the user by accepting an operation from the user to approve the purchase of the product by another purchasing method. When the first vending device 10A or the second vending device 10B gives a reward to the user, the terminal device 20 and the first vending device 10A or the second vending device 10B do not need to communicate with the server 30. may reward the user for communicating with.

As a result, when the user cannot purchase what the user wants from the first vending device 10A, the second vending device 10B prompts the user to purchase the product, thereby solving problems such as non-arrival and out-of-stock, thereby satisfying the user. It is possible to provide a new purchasing experience by enhancing the feeling.

(1) The processing described in each step above may be configured as follows.

(2) For example, in step S611A, by outputting at least one of a moving image, a still image, or a sound of a character associated with the product specified by the user, information (for example, a second sales (guidance information such as the position of the device 10B and the movement route to the second vending device 10B) may be presented to the user.

As a result, it is possible to give a feeling of anticipation by the character presentation and improve the user's willingness to purchase.

(3) As described above, in step S611A, information regarding Internet sales of the designated product may be displayed on at least one of the user's terminal device (20) and the sales device (10).

As a result, it is possible to encourage the purchase of the product not only through the sales device, but also through Internet sales.

(4) In step S611A, guidance information about the second sales device 10B is displayed on at least one of the terminal device 20 and the sales device 10, and when the user is moving to the second sales device 10B, the terminal device 20 Navigation information for the user to move from the position of the first vending device 10A to the position of the second vending device 10B may be displayed.

Thereby, it is possible to provide more detailed guidance information and encourage the purchase of the product at the second vending device 10B.

(5) In step S611A, if there are a plurality of separate sales devices from which the designated product can be purchased, the user can move among the plurality of separate sales devices according to the installation location of each sales device and the attributes of the user. You may display the guidance information regarding the 2nd vending apparatus 10B nearest first.

One example is a situation in which a plurality of vending machines are installed at an airport and a user intends to purchase merchandise from the vending machines before boarding an airplane. When the designated product cannot be purchased from the first sales device 10A used by the user, the server 30 collates the sales device information database 381 and the user information database 382, and selects a plurality of stores where the designated product can be purchased. Guidance information about the second vending device 10B closest to the boarding gate to be used by the user among other vending devices is presented.

This can solve problems such as non-arrival and out-of-stock. In addition, it is possible to improve the efficiency of service provision by the business company in the area where the sales device is installed. For example, when the sales device is installed at an airport, it can help the airline to operate on time by prompting the user to go to the boarding gate to board the plane as soon as possible before the departure time of the plane. .

(6) In step S611A, another purchasing method may be presented regardless of whether the product can be sold by the first sales device 10A used by the user.

As an example, a plurality of vending devices are installed at an airport, a user intends to purchase an item using the vending device before boarding an airplane, and the specified item can be purchased from the first vending device 10A used by the user. Nevertheless, the server 30 checks the vending device information database 381 and the user information database 382, and selects the second vending device closest to the boarding gate to be used by the user, among a plurality of vending devices from which the specified product can be purchased. Guidance information about the vending machine 10B is presented.

As a result, it is possible to improve the efficiency of the business company's service provision in the area where the sales device is installed, in addition to the sale of products.

(7) In step S637, a reward may be given to the user according to the distance from the first vending device 10A to the second vending device 10B as another means of purchase. For example, a reward may be given to the user according to the linear distance from the first vending device 10A to the second vending device 10B or the moving distance determined by the moving route for the user to move between the vending devices. good. For example, the longer the distance or time, the more advantageous the reward for the user may be given. A reward that is advantageous to the user may be, for example, a large amount of reward. Rewards that are advantageous to the user may be rewards of good quality. It is also possible to make it easier to

As a result, the willingness to move to the second vending device can be enhanced.

(8) In step S637, points (value information) that can be used in the sales device or Internet sales may be given by purchasing the product in the second sales device 10B.

As a result, it is possible to increase the willingness to purchase the product using the second vending device 10B.

(9) In steps S613A and S635, when the user is moving from the first sales device 10A to the second sales device 10B, the first sales device 10A or the server 30 sends the content related to the specified product to the terminal device. 20 may be delivered.

As a result, the movement to the second vending device 10B can be made entertaining, and the user's desire to move and purchase can be enhanced.

(10) In step S637, hold as data the result information that the product is purchased by the second sales device 10B as a result of the first sales device 10A urging the user to purchase the product by another means of purchase. You may

Thereby, the vending device information database 381 and the user information database 382 can be updated to better understand the behavior of the user. For example, in step S613A, an operation to approve the purchase by another purchasing means is received from the user, and if the user makes a purchase by the other purchasing means, a notification prompting the user to purchase is sent in step S611A. You can measure the effect of what you have done.

(11) In step S603A, designation of a plurality of products sold by the vending device may be accepted in one operation. For example, all types of products that can be purchased from the vending device may be purchased with one purchase operation. Here, if there are products that cannot be purchased from the first vending device 10A, guidance information regarding the second vending device 10B from which these products can be purchased is presented.

As a result, it is possible to meet the needs of tourists who want to buy in bulk using the vending device.

Indoor facilities such as airports and shopping malls, and even outdoors, places where vending machines can be installed are limited. For example, if a vending machine is to be installed in a place where there is a lot of traffic and is easily seen, the cost of installing it in that place tends to increase. For example, in the case of an airport, the passage from the arrival gate to the transfer to public transportation such as a train or bus is relatively busy. On the other hand, even if the cost of installing a vending machine is relatively low in an inconspicuous place, it is difficult for users to notice it, and as a result, it is difficult to use the vending machine. be.

On the other hand, according to the example described in the above embodiment, a plurality of sales devices are linked to sell products, so the user is urged to voluntarily move from a conspicuous place to an inconspicuous place in the facility, for example. be able to. Therefore, the total cost for installing multiple vending devices can be reduced.

<4 Screen example>
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing screen examples of the sales device and the terminal device according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

A screen example (A) in FIG. 7 shows a screen example of the first vending device 10A used by the user. The same screen example (A) shows a situation displayed to the user on the display section of the first vending machine 10A. This corresponds to step S601A in FIG.

As shown in the screen example (A), designation of a product that the user wishes to purchase is accepted regardless of whether the product can be purchased at the first sales device 10A. The first vending machine 10A displays to the user not only the vending machine itself but all the commodities sold by the vending system 1. - 特許庁In the screen example (A), the sales apparatus 10A accepts designation from the user, and if the designated product cannot be sold by itself, the screen transitions to the screen example (B).

Screen example (B) in FIG. 7 shows a situation in which the user is presented with another means of purchase by which the specified product can be sold. This corresponds to step S611A in FIG.

As shown in the screen example (B), the user is presented with guidance information regarding the second sales device 10B where the specified product can be purchased. Specifically, information such as the installation location of the second vending device 10B, the distance from the first vending device 10A, and the characteristics related to the attributes of the user are presented.

Note that the screen example (B) may be displayed on the terminal device 20 of the user.

In the example screen (C) of FIG. 7, in step S613A of FIG. A situation is shown in which the terminal device 20 displays the navigation information from the first vending device 10A to the second vending device 10B. When the user purchases a product using the second sales device 10B (step S617B), the screen transitions to example (D).

Screen example (D) in FIG. 7 shows a situation in which a reward is given to the user by purchasing a product using another purchasing method. This corresponds to step S637 in FIG.

As shown in the screen example (D), when the designated product is purchased by the second sales device 10B, information indicating that a reward has been given is transmitted to the terminal device 20 of the user and displayed.

<5 Modifications>
(1) Effect when a plurality of vending devices are interlocked: The first vending device 10A and the second vending device 10B may be installed side by side. As a result, the first vending device 10A and the second vending device 10B can be interlocked to present images, sounds, etc., including product information, etc. to the user.

For example, it is assumed that no user is making a purchase at the second vending device 10B while the user is specifying a product at the first vending device 10A and performing an operation for purchase. In this case, by displaying a screen as if a character were to move from the first vending device 10A to the second vending device 10B, users around the first vending device 10A and the second vending device 10B A user other than the user) can be directed to the second vending device 10B. As a result, the user who performs the purchase operation on the first vending device 10A can make the purchase without feeling rushed because other users' attention is directed to the second vending device 10B. It makes shopping easier. It can also contribute to improving the inventory turnover rate of the second vending device 10B.

(2) Conditions and Timing of Reward Giving: In the description of the above embodiments, it is explained that a reward is given to the user in response to the user making a purchase using another means of purchase. , the timing of reward provision is not limited to the above example. For example, when the user performs an operation (step S613A) to approve the purchase by another means of purchase on the sales device 10A, a reward may be given to the user (for example, a game task may be provided). .

(3) Recommendation of product to user: In the above embodiment, when receiving product designation from the user (step S601A), the sales apparatus 10 displays a message to recommend a specific product to the user according to the user's attribute. and output audio. For example, when the sales device 10 acquires information that identifies a user by communicating with the user's terminal device 20, etc., the history of the user's game play, information on game objects obtained by playing the game, etc. Refer to it and decide which products to recommend to the user. For example, the sales device 10 may determine, as a product to be recommended to the user, a product related to a character that the user has been operating in the game for more than a certain period of time. Alternatively, the server 30 may determine product information recommended to the user and respond to inquiries from the sales device 10 .

(4) Alternative purchasing experience: In the description of the above embodiments, (i) when the first vending device is out of stock and cannot sell the product, and (ii) when the product is reserved for a specific user. If there is not enough to sell to the user, and (iii) if the product is in stock and can be sold to the user, but the user is urged to purchase the product by another means of purchase, then 2. The user is urged to move to the sales device and purchase the product.

Alternatively, a plurality of users may work together to simultaneously purchase products using a plurality of sales devices. Here, product designation, payment, and product discharge may be performed by a plurality of vending machines. For example, the first sales device 10A accepts the designation of the product, the second sales device 10B makes the payment for the product, and either or both of the first sales device 10A and the second sales device 10B stock the inventory held by each sales device. may be discharged. In either the first vending machine 10A or the second vending machine 10B, the designation of the commodity is accepted and the payment is made. It may be done in both.

When sales device 10 or server 30 or the like determines that a plurality of specific users are using a plurality of sales devices 10, product purchases using a plurality of sales devices 10 can be performed by the specific users. may be accepted from For example, a first user using a first vending device designates a second user. First vending device 10A or server 30 associates and stores the first user and the second user. It should be noted that the server 30 may hold information indicating relationships between users (friend information of each user, information of users followed by each user, etc.) in advance by accepting each user's friend registration or the like. may be When the second vending device 10B or the server 30 determines that the second user is using the second vending device 10B, either the first vending device 10A or the second vending device 10B specifies and Payment may be made and the product may be discharged by both at the same time.

According to the above modified example, it is possible to improve the turnover rate of the vending device by having a plurality of people work together to purchase the product. Also, it is possible to provide a new purchasing experience in which a plurality of people purchase products using a plurality of vending devices.

<Appendix>
The items described in the above embodiments will be added below.

(Appendix 1)
A sales method for selling products by means of a vending device (10) comprising control units (19, 103) and storage units (15, 16, 102), wherein a user purchases a control unit using one vending device. A receiving means (S603A) for receiving designation of a product desired to be purchased from a user at one sales device regardless of whether or not the designated product is a product that can be purchased at one sales device. At some point, a supply means for supplying products by a product supply mechanism driving section of one vending device and a notification for notifying a user to purchase a product by a purchasing means different from that of the one vending device. Means (S611A) and providing means (S613A, S637) for giving a reward to the user when the product is purchased by another purchasing means after notification by the notifying means.

(Appendix 2)
In (Appendix 1), in response to the designation of a product that cannot be purchased by the user with the one vending device, the providing means drives and controls the product supply mechanism driving section of the one vending device (S605A). The user is notified without notice (S611A).

(Appendix 3)
(Supplementary Note 1) or (Supplementary Note 2), wherein the notification means includes, as another means of purchase, a notification that prompts the purchase of a product that cannot be purchased by one sales device by another sales device that can be sold. (S611A).

(Appendix 4)
In (Supplementary Note 3), when the control unit receives an operation from the user to approve the purchase by another sales device after the notification by the notification means (S613A), the other sales device , functions as a request means for executing a request to reserve the stock of the designated product for the user (S613A, S635).

(Appendix 5)
(Appendix 3) or (Appendix 4), wherein the notification means displays guide information on the other sales device on at least one of the user's terminal device and the sales device, and the user moves to the other sales device. In the process, the user's terminal device guides the moving route to another sales device.

(Appendix 6)
According to any one of (Appendix 3) to (Appendix 5), the control unit is caused to set information on the user's destination point, and the notification means is configured to set the information on the installation position of the one sales device and the information on the user's destination point. According to the information, guidance information about other vending devices close to the user's destination point among a plurality of other vending devices capable of purchasing commodities that cannot be purchased by the vending device is notified.

(Appendix 7)
In any one of (Appendix 3) to (Appendix 6), in the granting means, according to at least one of the distance or time related to the movement from the one sales device to the other sales device, the user Decide what rewards to give.

(Appendix 8)
A mode according to any one of (Supplementary note 1) to (Supplementary note 7), wherein the receiving means acquires information indicating the user's attribute, thereby allowing the user to specify product information corresponding to the attribute. to the user.

(Appendix 9)
Any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 8), including notifying by outputting at least one of a moving image, a still image, or a sound of a character associated with the product in the notifying means.

(Appendix 10)
Any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 9), wherein in the notification means, another purchase means regardless of whether the product can be sold by the sales device (10A) used by the user present.

(Appendix 11)
Any of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 10), value information that can be used when using content related to the product by purchasing the product with another purchase means in the granting means, or , value information that can be used on a vending device or other means of purchase as a reward.

(Appendix 12)
According to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 11), the providing means distributes, as a reward, content related to the product to the terminal device associated with the user.

(Appendix 13)
(Supplementary Note 12), wherein in the providing means, when the content associated with the product is a game based on a game program, the content is provided to the user's terminal device by providing the user with game tasks in the game. deliver to

(Appendix 14)
(Appendix 13), wherein the game task provided to the user includes a game task associated with the location information of another purchase means, and the user moves to a position indicated by the location information to obtain the game task Give the user a reward corresponding to

(Appendix 15)
According to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 14), the providing means holds, as data, information indicating the result of the purchase of the product by another purchasing means by notifying the notifying means.

(Appendix 16)
According to any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 15), the accepting means accepts designation of a plurality of commodities sold by the vending device (10) in one purchase operation.

(Appendix 17)
In any one of (Appendix 1) to (Appendix 16), the accepting means accepts an operation for purchasing a product in another sales device by another user associated with the user.

(Appendix 18)
(Appendix 17), wherein the vending device includes a first vending device (10A) associated with the first user and a second vending device (10B) associated with the second user, wherein the first vending device: Receiving an operation of designating a product from a first user, receiving an operation of paying for the designated product from either the first vending device or the second vending device, and receiving at least one of the first vending device or the second vending device Either discharges the designated product.

Reference Signs List 10, 10A, 10B vending device 101 wireless communication unit 102 storage unit 103 control unit 20 terminal device 221 first wireless communication unit 222 second wireless communication unit 280 storage unit 290 control unit 230 operation reception Unit (touch screen), 30 Server, 301 Communication Unit, 302 Storage Unit, 303 Control Unit, 381 Sales Device Information Database, 382 User Information Database

Claims (20)

A sales method for selling products by means of a vending device comprising a control unit, a storage unit, and a product supply mechanism driving unit,
the control unit,
receiving means for receiving, from the user at the one selling device, designation of a product that the user wishes to purchase, regardless of whether the user can purchase the product at the one selling device;
When the designated product is a product that can be purchased from the one vending device, the product supply mechanism driving section of the one vending device functions as a supply means for supplying the product,
The selling method, wherein the accepting means accepts designation of a plurality of products sold by the selling device by one purchase operation . a notification means for notifying the user to purchase the product by a purchase means different from the one selling device;
2. The sales method according to claim 1, wherein after notification by said notifying means, said product is purchased by said another purchasing means, and functions as granting means for granting a reward to said user. In the notification means, in response to the designation of a product that cannot be purchased by the user at the one vending device, without drive-controlling the product supply mechanism driving section of the one vending device, the 3. The sales method according to claim 2 , wherein said notification is made to the user. 4. The method according to claim 2 or 3 , wherein in said notification means, as said separate purchase means, said notification prompting purchase of goods that cannot be purchased by said one sales apparatus by another sales apparatus that can be sold is provided. sales method. Further, the control unit
After the notification by the notification means, when an operation to approve the purchase by the other sales device is received from the user, the stock of the designated product is sent to the other sales device by the user. 5. The method of selling according to claim 4 , wherein the sales method functions as a requesting means that executes a request to put aside the product. In the notification means, guidance information regarding the other sales device is displayed on at least one of the terminal device of the user and the sales device, and in the process of the user moving to the other sales device, the terminal of the user is displayed. 6. The sales method according to claim 4 or 5 , wherein the device guides the movement route to the other sales device. causing the control unit to set information on the user's destination point;
In the notification means, according to the information regarding the installation position of the one sales device and the information regarding the destination point of the user, among a plurality of other sales devices from which a product that cannot be purchased by the sales device can be purchased 7. The sales method according to any one of claims 4 to 6 , wherein guidance information regarding other sales devices near said user's destination is notified. 8. A remuneration to be given to the user is determined according to at least one of a distance and a time involved in movement from the one vending device to the other vending device in the giving means. The sales method according to item 1. from claim 2 , wherein the receiving means acquires information indicating the attribute of the user, and presents the information on the product corresponding to the attribute to the user in a manner that the user can designate the information; 9. The sales method according to any one of 8 . 10. The sale according to any one of claims 2 to 9 , wherein said notification means outputs at least one of a moving image, a still image, or a sound of a character associated with said product to give said notification. Method. 11. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 10 , wherein the notifying means presents the alternative purchase means regardless of whether the product can be sold by the sales device used by the user. Sales method as described. Value information that can be used when using content related to the product by purchasing the product with another purchase means in the provision means, or value information that can be used with the sales device or another purchase means as the remuneration, the sales method according to any one of claims 2 to 11 . 13. The sales method according to any one of claims 2 to 12 , wherein said providing means distributes, as said reward, content related to said product to a terminal device associated with said user. In the providing means, when the content related to the product is a game based on a game program, the content is distributed to the terminal device of the user by providing the user with game tasks in the game. 14. The sales method according to claim 13 . The game task provided to the user includes a game task associated with the location information of the separate purchase means, and the user responds to the game task by moving to a position indicated by the location information. 15. The method of selling according to claim 14 , wherein said reward is given to said user. 16. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 15 , wherein said providing means holds, as data, information indicating a result of said product being purchased by said another purchase means by said notification of said notification means. how to sell. 17. The selling method according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein said accepting means accepts an operation for purchasing a product in another selling device by another user associated with said user. the vending devices include a first vending device associated with a first user and a second vending device associated with a second user;
receiving an operation of designating a product from the first user in the first selling device;
Receiving an operation to pay for the designated product from either the first vending device or the second vending device;
18. The sales method according to claim 17, wherein at least one of said first vending device and said second vending device discharges said designated merchandise. A vending device for vending commodities comprising a control section, a storage section, and a commodity supply mechanism drive section,
the control unit,
receiving means for receiving, from the user at the one selling device, designation of a product that the user wishes to purchase, regardless of whether the user can purchase the product at the one selling device;
When the designated product is a product that can be purchased from the one vending device, the product supply mechanism driving section of the one vending device functions as a supply means for supplying the product,
A vending device, wherein, in the receiving means, designation of a plurality of products sold by the vending device is received by one purchase operation . A program for selling merchandise by means of a vending device comprising a processor and a memory,
The program causes the processor to:
a step of receiving, from the user at the one sales device, designation of a product that the user wishes to purchase, regardless of whether the user can purchase the product at the one sales device;
when the designated product is a product that can be purchased from the one vending device, causing the product supply mechanism driving section of the one vending device to supply the product ;
The program , wherein, in the receiving step, designation of a plurality of products sold by the vending device is received by one purchase operation .

Images