JP7193228B2 - Information processing device, information processing method, information processing system and information processing program - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an information information processing device, an information processing method, an information processing system, and an information processing program.

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is known a commercial transaction method for buying and selling products using a locker device. With this method, the purchaser can purchase the merchandise stored in the storage unit by inserting cash into the locker device.

JP-A-2007-72983

However, the conventional method merely sells products using the locker device, and there is room for improvement in terms of improving convenience for users of the locker device.

The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing system, and an information processing program that can improve user convenience.

An information processing apparatus according to the present application includes an exhibition reception unit, a bid reception unit, and a successful bid processing unit. The exhibition acceptance unit accepts the exhibition of the article to be auctioned on condition that the article to be put up for auction is stored in the storage section of the locker device. The bid accepting unit accepts bids for the exhibits. The successful bid processing unit unlocks the storage unit storing the exhibited item on condition that the successful bidder of the exhibited item deposits the winning bid amount.

According to one aspect of the embodiments, it is possible to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, an information processing system, and an information processing program that can improve user convenience.

FIG. 1A is a diagram illustrating an example of commercial transactions performed using an auction system according to a first embodiment; FIG. 1B is a diagram illustrating an example of commercial transactions performed using the auction system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 1C is a diagram illustrating an example of commercial transactions performed using the auction system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an entire system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of an auction system according to the first embodiment; FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of exhibition information according to the first embodiment; FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a locker device according to the first embodiment; FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of locker information according to the first embodiment; FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of bid information according to the first embodiment; FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of successful bid information according to the first embodiment. FIG. 9A is a diagram illustrating temporary delivery according to the first embodiment; FIG. 9B is a diagram illustrating temporary delivery according to the first embodiment; FIG. 9C is a diagram illustrating temporary delivery according to the first embodiment; FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of temporary delivery information according to the first embodiment; FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user to whom product information is notified. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image generated by an image processing unit according to the first embodiment; FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the flow of auction processing by the auction server according to the first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the procedure of auction processing executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the procedure of the auction acceptance process executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the procedure of temporary delivery processing executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the procedure of immediate successful bid processing executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the procedure of bidding processing executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 19 is a flowchart of a process procedure of bidding process executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment; FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing the procedure of delivery processing executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure of returned-goods processing executed by the auction server according to the first embodiment. FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of a rental server according to the second embodiment; FIG. 23 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer that implements the functions of the auction server.

Modes for implementing an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, an information processing system, and an information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing apparatus, information processing method, information processing system, and information processing program according to the present application are not limited to these embodiments.

(First embodiment)
[1. Examples of commercial transactions using information processing systems]
An example of a commercial transaction using an auction system as the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1C. 1A to 1C are diagrams illustrating an example of commercial transactions performed using the auction system S according to the first embodiment. Here, an auction service will be described as an example of commercial transactions of products, but commercial transactions are not limited to auction services. For example, commercial transactions may be sales or rental of products.

First, an overview of the auction system S will be described with reference to FIG. 1A.

As shown in FIG. 1A, auction system S has locker device 1 and auction server 10 mounted on locker device 1 .

The locker device 1 has a display device 20, a reading device 30 for reading information such as an IC card, and a plurality of lockers (storage units) 40A to 40E.

The display device 20 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or the like having a touch panel function, and presents to the user information such as vacancy information of the lockers 40A to 40E and information on the products to be stored. The display device 20 also receives an input operation from the user via, for example, a touch panel.

The reader 30 is a device that reads information stored in, for example, an IC card owned by a user or a user terminal, and transmits the read information to the auction server 10 . Via the reading device 30, the user makes payments to the locker device 1, inputs information about products, and the like. Note that payment to the locker device 1 can also be performed by inserting cash into a money inserting unit (not shown). Also, information about products can be input using the touch panel function of the display device 20 described above.

The lockers 40A to 40E each include a storage door that can be opened and closed, and a locking unit (not shown) that can lock the lockers 40A to 40E by locking the storage door. can be stored. The storage door is provided with a transparent window so that the user can check the exhibits stored inside. Note that, hereinafter, the lockers 40A to 40E may be simply referred to as lockers 40 when they are not distinguished from each other.

The auction server 10 performs auction-related processing on the items stored in the lockers 40 . As a result, the auction server 10 provides users with services related to the auction of items to be exhibited.

A specific auction flow will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A to 1C. First, as shown in FIG. 1A, the auction server 10 accepts an auction by the exhibitor E by storing the exhibit in the locker 40A (step S1).

Next, as shown in FIG. 1B, when the bidder U1 inputs necessary information for bidding via the display device 20, the auction server 10 accepts the bid by the bidder U1 for the item in the locker 40A (step S2).

After that, it is assumed that a successful bidder for the exhibited item is determined after a certain period of time has elapsed since the item was put up for sale. The successful bidder is determined by the auction server 10 from among the bidders. As shown in FIG. 1C, the successful bidder pays the winning bid by holding an IC card (not shown) over the reading device 30, for example. The auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 on condition that the winning bid is paid. The successful bidder U2 receives the successful bid item from the locker 40 which is unlocked after payment (step S3).

In this way, the auction server 10 provides the auction service for the items stored in the locker device 1, so that the exhibitor E can omit the delivery process of the item that has been successfully bid, and the seller and the successful bidder can Exhibits can be exchanged without disclosing the address of the person. In addition, the bidder U1 can confirm the actual exhibited item and make a bid. In this manner, the auction server 10 provides the auction service via the locker device 1, thereby improving user convenience.

[2. Configuration of entire system S0]
Next, the configuration of the system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the overall system S0 according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the overall system S0 according to the first embodiment includes bidder terminals 2-1 to 2-n used by bidders U1 to Un and exhibition terminals 2-1 to 2-n used by sellers E1 to En. It has user terminals 3-1 to 3-n, a locker device 1, and an auction server 10 mounted on the locker device 1. FIG.

The bidder terminals 2-1 to 2-n, the exhibitor terminals 3-1 to 3-n, and the auction server 10 are connected via a network N so as to be able to communicate by wire or wirelessly. Note that the information processing system S according to the first embodiment may include a plurality of locker devices 1 and an auction server 10 mounted on each locker device 1 .

In addition, if the bidders U1 to Un are not distinguished, they may be simply referred to as bidder U, and if the bidder terminals 2-1 to 2-n are not distinguished, they may simply be referred to as bidder terminal 2. . In addition, when exhibitors E1 to En are not distinguished, they may be simply referred to as exhibitor E, and when exhibitor terminals 3-1 to 3-n are not distinguished, they may simply be referred to as exhibitor terminal 3. . Also, when the bidder U and the exhibitor E are not distinguished, they may simply be referred to as users. In addition to the bidder U and the exhibitor E, the users may include users who may receive the provision of the auction service.

A terminal used by a user is referred to as a user terminal. A user terminal may include an IC card or a mobile terminal having an IC card function in addition to a mobile terminal device such as a smart phone or a tablet. When the user terminal is an IC card or a mobile terminal having an IC card function, the auction server 10 directly communicates with the user terminal via the reading device 30 of the locker device 1 . As a method for performing communication between the auction server 10 and the user terminal without going through the network N in this manner, short-range communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) and NFC (Near Field Communication) can be used.

The auction server 10 is a server device that provides auction services. Details of the auction server 10 will be described later with reference to FIG. 2 shows the case where the auction server 10 is mounted on the locker device 1, the auction server 10 does not need to be mounted on the locker device 1, and is provided at a location different from the locker device 1. good too. In this case, the locker device 1 and the auction server 10 are connected via the network N, for example.

[3. Configuration of Auction System S]
Next, the auction system S according to the first embodiment will be explained using FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the auction system S according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, auction system S includes locker device 1 and auction server 10 .

[3.1. Locker Device 1]
The locker device 1 has a display device 20 , a reader 30 , a locker 40 , a camera 50 and a weight sensor 60 .

As described above, the display device 20 is, for example, a liquid crystal display or the like having a touch panel function, and presents the user with information about the products stored in the locker 40 . The display device 20 also functions as an input device that receives an input operation from a user via a touch panel, for example.

The reader 30 is, for example, a reader that reads a contactless IC card. For example, when a user brings an IC card close to the reader 30 as a user terminal, the reader 30 reads information stored in the IC card or stores predetermined information in the IC card. The function of the display device 20 as an input device and the reading device 30 are also collectively referred to as an input unit of the locker device 1 .

The locker 40 is a storage unit that stores items put up for auction. As described above, the locker 40 includes a storage door that can be opened and closed, and a locking unit that can lock the locker 40 by locking the storage door. The storage door is provided with a transparent window so that the user can check the exhibits stored inside.

The camera 50 is, for example, an imaging device (sensor) that is provided inside each of the plurality of lockers 40 and captures an image of the inside of the locker 40 . The camera 50 captures an image of the exhibit stored in the locker 40 . Also, the weight sensor 60 is provided, for example, in each of the plurality of lockers 40 , and detects the weight of the exhibits stored in the lockers 40 by detecting the weight inside the lockers 40 .

[3.2. auction server 10]
The auction server 10 has a communication section 11 , a control section 12 and a storage section 13 .

[3.2.1. communication unit 11]
The communication unit 11, for example, transmits and receives information to and from user terminals. The communication unit 11 has a first communication unit 11a and a second communication unit 11b. The first communication unit 11a is realized by, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like. And the 1st communication part 11a is connected with the network N by wire or radio|wireless, For example, it transmits/receives information between user terminals.

The second communication unit 11b transmits and receives information to and from a user terminal, which is a contactless IC card, via the reader 30 of the locker device 1, for example. That is, when the user holds the IC card over the reader 30, the second communication unit 11b transmits and receives information to and from the IC card. Note that communication between the second communication unit 11b and the user terminal is not limited to communication using a contactless IC card, and may be short-distance communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or NFC (Near Field Communication). good too.

[3.2.2. Storage unit 13]
The storage unit 13 is realized by, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a semiconductor memory device such as a flash memory, or a storage device such as a hard disk or an optical disk. The storage unit 13 stores exhibition information 13a, locker device information 13b, locker information 13c, bid information 13d, successful bid information 13e, and temporary delivery information 13f.

[3.2.2.1. Exhibition information 13a]
The exhibition information 13a is information about an exhibitor and information about an article for sale. Here, FIG. 4 shows an example of the exhibition information 13a according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 4, the exhibition information 13a includes information such as "exhibitor ID", "product ID", "exhibitor information", "exhibit information", "price information", and "storage locker information". be

“Seller ID” indicates identification information for identifying the seller E or the seller terminal 3 . The exhibitor ID may be identification information for identifying the exhibitor terminal 3 . “Product ID” indicates identification information for identifying the exhibited product. "Exhibitor information" indicates the personal information of the exhibitor E, and includes, for example, the e-mail address, exhibitor name, address, etc., which is the contact information of the exhibitor E. The "exhibited article information" includes the name (product name) of the exhibited article put up by the corresponding exhibitor E, image data, description, and the like.

The "price information" includes a starting price that indicates the price at the start of the auction of the item to be exhibited, a prompt decision price that indicates the price at which a successful bid can be made immediately, and the like. In this embodiment, the “price information” is set by the exhibitor E, but may be automatically set by the auction server 10 . The “storage locker information” indicates information about the locker in which the exhibit is stored, and includes, for example, the locker ID of the locker 40 .

For example, in FIG. 4, exhibitor E identified by exhibitor ID "E1" stores personal information such as an e-mail address and "notebook computer F-10" identified by product ID "P001" in locker 40A. Here is an example of an item that is being put up for sale.

[3.2.2.2. Locker device information 13b]
The locker device information 13b is information about the locker device 1 . Here, FIG. 5 shows an example of the locker device information 13b according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 5, the locker device information 13b includes information such as "locker device ID" and "installation position".

“Locker device ID” indicates identification information for identifying the locker device 1 on which the auction server 10 is mounted. "Installation position" indicates the installation position of the locker device 1, and includes, for example, the address of the locker device 1 and the like. Note that the "installation position" is not limited to the address of the locker device 1, and may be, for example, latitude and longitude. For example, FIG. 5 shows an example in which the locker device 1 identified by the locker device ID "L001" is installed at "A Station in Tokyo". Although FIG. 5 shows the locker device information 13b including information about one locker device 1, the locker device information 13b is not limited to this. For example, if the auction server 10 provides an auction service for a plurality of locker devices 1, the locker device information 13b includes information regarding the plurality of locker devices 1. FIG.

[3.2.2.3. locker information 13c]
The locker information 13c is information about the locker 40 that the locker device 1 has. Here, FIG. 6 shows an example of the locker information 13c according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 6, the locker information 13c includes information such as "locker ID", "usage" and "size".

"Locker ID" indicates identification information for identifying the locker 40, which is a storage unit that stores an exhibit. “Usage status” indicates whether or not the locker 40 is being used, that is, whether or not the locker 40 contains an article for sale. “Size” indicates the size of the locker 40 . For example, FIG. 6 shows an example in which locker 40A, which is identified by locker ID "40A" and whose size is "small", is in use.

[3.2.2.4. Bid information 13d]
The bid information 13d is information about a bid made for an exhibit. Here, FIG. 7 shows an example of the bid information 13d according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 7, the bid information 13d includes information such as "bidder ID", "product ID", "bidder information" and "bid amount".

"Bidder ID" indicates identification information for identifying the bidder U who has bid on the article. The bidder ID may be identification information for identifying the bidder terminal 2 . “Product ID” indicates identification information for identifying the article for which a bid was made. "Bidder information" indicates the personal information of the bidder U, and includes, for example, the bidder's U contact email address, bidder's name, address, and the like. "Bid price" indicates the bid price for the item, and is set by the bidder U, for example. For example, FIG. 7 shows an example in which a bidder U identified by a bidder ID "U1" is bidding on an article identified by a product ID "P001" with a bid amount "M1".

[3.2.2.5. successful bid information 13e]
The successful bid information 13e is information related to the successful bid of the exhibited item. Here, FIG. 8 shows an example of the successful bid information 13e according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 8, the successful bid information 13e includes information such as "product ID", "successful bidder ID", "successful bidder information", "successful bid price", and "payment information".

“Product ID” indicates identification information for identifying the exhibited article for which a successful bid was made. The “successful bidder ID” indicates identification information for identifying the successful bidder who has made a successful bid for the item. "Successful bidder information" indicates the personal information of the successful bidder, and includes, for example, the e-mail address, name and address of the successful bidder, which is the contact information of the successful bidder. The "successful bid price" indicates the successful bid price for the exhibited item. "Payment information" indicates whether or not the successful bidder has paid the winning bid.

For example, in FIG. 8, the item to be exhibited identified by the product ID "P001" is identified by the successful bidder ID "U1", and the successful bidder whose personal information such as the e-mail address is stored wins the bid for the winning bid "M1". and the winning bidder has made a payment.

[3.2.2.6. Temporary delivery information 13f]
The temporary delivery information 13f is information relating to the temporary delivery of the exhibited article from the locker 40 temporarily.

[Temporary delivery]
Temporary delivery will now be described with reference to FIGS. 9A to 9C. 9A to 9C are diagrams for explaining temporary delivery according to the first embodiment. In the auction system S according to the first embodiment, a user other than the exhibitor E can take out the exhibited item from the locker by depositing a deposit for the exhibited item put up by the exhibitor E. can be done. The deposit is refunded to the user when the user puts the exhibited item into the locker again. In this way, a process in which a user temporarily takes out an article for sale is referred to as temporary delivery.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 9A, for example, when the auction server 10 receives a request from the user to temporarily leave the exhibit stored in the locker 40A (step S11), the auction server 10 requests payment of a deposit (step S12). . Assume that the deposit amount is, for example, the prompt decision price of the article.

Next, as shown in FIG. 9B, the auction server 10 confirms that a deposit has been received from the user (step S13), and unlocks the locker 40A (step S14). Thereby, the user can take out the article stored in the locker 40A, and can actually check the article by hand.

Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 9C, when the user returns the exhibited item by storing it in the locker 40A (step S15), the auction server 10 determines that the returned item is returned by the exhibitor. It is detected whether or not E is an exhibited item (step S16). For example, when the storage door of the locker 40A is closed and the locker 40A is locked, the auction server 10 determines that the item stored before the locker 40A is unlocked and the returned item are the same item. Detect whether or not there is. The auction server 10 detects whether or not the items are the same by comparing the weights and images of the items stored before and after the locker 40A is unlocked and locked, for example. The auction server 10 that detects the same item refunds the deposit to the user (step S17).

The amount refunded by the auction server 10 in step S17 may be the same as or different from the deposit amount requested in step S12. For example, the auction server 10 may refund the amount to the user after deducting the amount corresponding to the time from when the item was taken out to when it was returned. In this way, the auction server 10 deducts from the deposit the amount corresponding to the time during which the item was taken out and refunds it to the user, thereby preventing the user from taking out the item for an unnecessarily long time. It is possible to suppress the damage of the exhibited items.

It should be noted that if a predetermined period of time has elapsed since the exhibited item was taken out, the auction server 10 assumes that the taken-out exhibited item has been successfully bid (purchased) immediately, and performs refund processing. That is, the auction server 10 does not refund the deposit to the user. In this way, the profits of the exhibitor E can be secured by assuming that the exhibited article has been successfully bid on immediately when the exhibited article is not returned.

Here, the deposit amount is the prompt decision price, but the present invention is not limited to this. The deposit amount may be higher or lower than the buyout price. Also, here, the deposit amount is automatically set by the auction server 10, but may be set by the exhibitor.

In addition, the exhibitor E may be allowed to decide whether or not to permit the temporary delivery of the exhibit. This is because, for example, if the exhibited item is a fragile item or an item whose value decreases when the user touches it, there is a possibility that the exhibitor E does not want the user to touch the exhibited item. It's for. In addition, in order to compensate for the product value of the exhibited item that decreases when the user touches it, for example, the auction server 10 pays the exhibitor E a consideration for the temporary delivery. As a result, it is possible to improve the possibility that the exhibitor E will permit the temporary delivery, and it is possible to make it easier for the user to pick up the exhibit and check it.

Note that even if the exhibitor E prohibits the exhibitor from leaving the exhibit temporarily, the user can confirm the exhibit from the window of the locker 40 or the image captured by the camera 50. For example, a bid can be placed after the actual confirmation.

Information related to the above-described temporary delivery of the article to be exhibited is stored in the storage unit 13 as the temporary delivery information 13f. FIG. 10 shows an example of the temporary delivery information 13f according to the first embodiment. In the example of FIG. 10, the temporary delivery information 13f includes information such as "product ID", "user ID", "user information", "deposit amount", "refund amount", "delivery time" and "return time". is included.

"Commodity ID" indicates identification information for identifying the exhibit that has been temporarily taken out. "User ID" indicates identification information for identifying a user who has temporarily taken out an article for sale. "User information" indicates user's personal information, and includes, for example, the user's contact email address, user name, address, and the like. The "deposit amount" indicates the amount of deposit received for the item to be exhibited. "Refund amount" indicates the amount refunded to the user.

"Delivery time" and "Return time" indicate the time when the article was taken out and the time when it was returned, respectively. Here, for example, the time when the locker 40 is unlocked is set as the leaving time, and the time when the locker 40 is locked is set as the return time, but the time is not limited to this. For example, the time when the weight in the locker 40 becomes almost zero may be set as the leaving time, and the time when the weight becomes more than zero may be set as the return time. Alternatively, the auction server 10 may set the delivery time and the return time based on the captured image of the inside of the locker 40 .

For example, in FIG. 10, an item for sale identified by the product ID "P001" is identified by the user ID "U1", and a user whose personal information such as an e-mail address is stored deposits an amount "X2". Thus, an example in which the vehicle is delivered at the delivery time "T01" is shown. Further, FIG. 10 shows an example in which the exhibit item identified by the product ID "P001" is returned at the return time "T11" and the refund amount "X3" is refunded to the user.

[3.2.3. control unit 12]
Return to FIG. The control unit 12 is realized by executing various programs stored in the storage unit 13 inside the auction server 10 using a RAM as a work area by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or the like. . Also, the control unit 12 is implemented by an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array).

The control unit 12 includes a product detection unit 12a, an exhibition reception unit 12b, a temporary delivery reception unit 12c, a bid reception unit 12e, a successful bid decision unit 12f, a delivery processing unit 12g, and a return processing unit 12h. The control unit 12 also includes an acquisition unit 12i, a notification unit 12j, a locker control unit 12k, an image processing unit 12n, a sensor information acquisition unit 12o, a deposit detection unit 12p, a refund processing unit 12q, and a payment processing unit. and a portion 12r. The control unit 12 realizes or executes information processing functions and actions described below. Note that the internal configuration of the control unit 12 is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG. 3, and may be another configuration as long as it performs information processing described later. Further, the connection relationship between the processing units of the control unit 12 is not limited to the connection relationship shown in FIG. 3, and may be another connection relationship.

[3.2.3.1. sensor information acquisition unit 12o]
The sensor information acquisition unit 12o acquires detection results of various sensors mounted on the locker device 1, such as the camera 50 and the weight sensor 60. FIG. The sensors mounted on the locker device 1 are not limited to the camera 50 and the weight sensor 60, and include, for example, a sensor that detects the open/closed state of the storage door of the locker 40 and a sensor that detects the locked state of the locker 40. may

[3.2.3.2. rocker control unit 12k]
The locker control section 12k controls each section of the locker device 1 . For example, the locker control unit 12k controls locking/unlocking of the locker 40 by controlling the locking unit of the locker 40 . Further, the locker control unit 12k may automatically close/open the storage door of the locker 40, for example.

[3.2.3.3. Product detection unit 12a]
The product detection unit 12a detects whether or not the locker 40 stores a product as an exhibit based on whether or not a predetermined operation has been performed on the locker 40 . The predetermined operations for the lockers 40 include, for example, opening/closing operations, unlocking/locking operations, and the like of storage doors of the lockers 40 . The product detection unit 12a detects whether or not a product, which is an exhibit item, is stored in the locker 40 when the locker 40 that has been unlocked and not in use is locked. The product detection unit 12a detects whether or not an exhibit has been stored, for example, based on the acquisition result of the sensor information acquisition unit 12o. Specifically, when the weight sensor 60 detects a weight equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold value, the merchandise detection unit 12a detects that an article has been stored. Alternatively, the product detection unit 12a may detect whether or not the article for sale has been stored based on the captured image captured by the camera 50 . In this case, the product detection unit 12a detects whether or not the exhibit has been stored using template matching, background difference, or the like, for example.

Further, the commodity detection unit 12a may detect that the commodity has been stored in the locker 40 when the commodity reception unit 12b, which will be described later, has received the commodity. In this manner, the product detection unit 12a can also detect whether or not an exhibit has been stored in the locker 40 based on information acquired from the user via the communication unit 11 or the display device 20. FIG. Note that the product detection unit 12a may detect whether or not an exhibit has been stored by combining the acquisition result of the sensor information acquisition unit 12o and the information input by the user.

[3.2.3.4. Exhibition accepting unit 12b]
The exhibition accepting unit 12b accepts an item for auction. For example, when the exhibitor E inputs seller information, exhibit information, price information, etc. via the display device 20, the exhibition acceptance unit 12b acquires these information and accepts the exhibition in the auction. In addition, the exhibition reception unit 12b associates the acquired information, the locker ID in which the exhibition article is stored, and the exhibitor ID, and stores them in the storage unit 13 as exhibition information 13a.

Note that the exhibition reception unit 12 b may acquire the exhibitor information, exhibit information, price information, and the like from the exhibitor terminal 3 via the communication unit 11 . Alternatively, if exhibitor information, exhibit information, price information, and the like are stored in a server or the like (not shown), the exhibit reception unit 12b may acquire this information via the communication unit 11. FIG.

The exhibition acceptance unit 12b accepts the exhibition and decides to start the auction when the product detection unit 12a detects that the exhibition is stored. Thus, the exhibitor E can start the auction by storing the exhibited article in the locker 40, and the convenience of the exhibitor E can be improved.

Here, it is assumed that the auction starts when the exhibitor E puts the exhibited item in the locker device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the exhibition accepting unit 12b may accept an auction from the exhibitor terminal 3 on condition that the exhibited item (successful bid item) is stored in the locker 40 before the successful bidder receives the successful bid item. . For example, the exhibitor E may be allowed to put up an exhibit through the exhibitor terminal 3 without storing the exhibit in the locker 40 . In this case, the bidder U makes a bid for the item to be exhibited via the bidder terminal 2, and the exhibitor E stores the item in the locker 40 after the successful bidder is determined, for example.

In this way, it is also possible to perform exhibition, bidding, etc. via the user terminal and use the locker device 1 to receive the successful bid item. As a result, the exhibitor E can start the auction without going to the locker device 1, and can store the exhibit in the locker 40 when it is convenient for the exhibitor E. Convenience can be improved. In addition, when the item to be put up is not sold, the seller E can omit return processing by the return processing unit 12h, which will be described later, thereby improving the convenience of the seller E. In this way, the exhibition reception unit 12b can improve convenience for users including the exhibitor E by starting an auction on the condition that the exhibition item is received.

[3.2.3.5. Temporary delivery reception unit 12c]
The temporary delivery acceptance unit 12c accepts the temporary delivery of exhibits in response to a request from a user. When a deposit of an amount corresponding to the exhibit requested by the user is received, the temporary delivery reception unit 12c instructs the locker control unit 12k to unlock the locker 40 containing the exhibit to be temporarily delivered. . The payment from the user is detected by a payment detection unit 12p, which will be described later.

The temporary delivery reception unit 12c associates the product ID of the exhibited article for which the temporary delivery is accepted, the amount of deposit paid by the user, and the delivery time, and stores them in the storage unit 13 as temporary delivery information 13f.

The temporary delivery reception unit 12c also functions as a return detection unit that detects whether or not the exhibited article taken out from the unlocked locker 40 is returned to the locker 40 concerned. For example, when the locker 40 is locked again after the locker 40 has been unlocked, the temporary leaving reception unit 12c determines whether the exhibit stored in the locker 40 before unlocking and the exhibit stored after locking are the same. detect whether or not The temporary delivery receiving unit 12c detects whether or not the exhibited articles are the same by comparing the weight of the exhibited articles before unlocking and the weight of the exhibited articles after locking, for example. Alternatively, the temporary delivery reception unit 12c may detect whether or not the items for sale are the same by comparing images captured by the camera 50. may be detected.

When it is detected that the exhibit taken out from the unlocked locker 40 has been returned to the locker, the temporary delivery reception unit 12c asks the user to deposit the amount after deducting the amount corresponding to the time when the exhibit was taken out. The refund processing unit 12q, which will be described later, is instructed to refund to . The temporary delivery reception unit 12c updates the temporary delivery information 13f by storing in the storage unit 13 the product ID that identifies the returned exhibit, the return time, and the refund amount in association with each other.

The temporary delivery reception unit 12c instructs the payment processing unit 12r, which will be described later, to pay the price for the temporary delivery to the exhibitor E who exhibited the temporarily delivered exhibit according to the amount of the deposit returned to the user.

[3.2.3.6. Bid accepting unit 12e]
The bid accepting unit 12e accepts a bid for an article in response to a bid request from a bidder U. The bid accepting unit 12e acquires information such as bidder information and a bid price from the bidder U through the display device 20. FIG. The bid receiving unit 12e associates the acquired information, the product ID for which the user U has bid, and the bidder ID, and stores them in the storage unit 13 as bid information 13d. In this way, the bid accepting unit 12e accepts bids for the items for sale via the locker device 1, so that the bidders U can actually check the items for sale before bidding. can be improved.

The bid receiving unit 12e may acquire the bidder information, the bid price, etc. from the bidder terminal 2 of the bidder U. Also, here, it is assumed that the bidder U makes a bid directly to the auction server 10 via the locker device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, a bidder U may use a bidder terminal 2 connected via a network N to make a bid. As a result, the bidder U can bid on the item for sale even from a place away from the place where the locker device 1 is installed, and convenience for the bidder U can be improved.

[3.2.3.7. successful bid determination unit 12f]
The successful bid decision unit 12f decides a successful bidder for the exhibited item based on the bids received by the bid receiving unit 12e. The successful bid determination unit 12f determines the bidder U with the highest bid amount as a successful bidder after a predetermined time has passed since the exhibition reception unit 12b accepted the exhibition of the product and the auction was started. The successful bid determination unit 12f associates the bidder ID and the bidder information of the bidder U, which has been determined as the successful bidder, with the product ID and the successful bid price of the exhibited item for which the successful bid was made, as the successful bidder ID and the successful bidder information, respectively. 13e in the storage unit 13.

In addition, in response to a request from a user, when a prompt decision price is paid, the successful bid decision unit 12f immediately makes a successful bid regardless of the elapsed time from the start of the auction, and decides the user who made the payment as the successful bidder. do. Further, the successful bid decision unit 12f determines that there is no successful bidder when there is no bidder U who has placed a bid on the item to be exhibited. In this way, the successful bid determination unit 12f determines the end of the auction by determining a successful bidder or no successful bidder.

The successful bid determination unit 12f updates the payment information of the successful bid information 13e when the payment detection unit 12p detects payment of the winning bid amount from the successful bidder.

[3.2.3.8. Delivery processing unit 12g]
The delivery processing unit (successful bid processing unit) 12g delivers the exhibited item (hereinafter also referred to as the successful bid item) to the successful bidder determined by the successful bid determination unit 12f. When the winning bidder information input by the winning bidder via the display device 20 matches the winning bidder information included in the winning bidder information 13e and the payment by the winning bidder is confirmed, the delivery processing unit 12g accepts the successful bid item. The locker controller 12k is instructed to unlock the locker 40. As a result, the successful bid item is handed over to the successful bidder.

Whether or not the successful bidder has paid the winning bid amount can be confirmed based on the payment information of the winning bid information 13e. If the payment information is "no", for example, the delivery processing unit 12g may request the successful bidder to pay. After the payment request, the delivery processing unit 12g delivers the successful bid item to the successful bidder when the payment detection unit 12p detects payment of the winning bid amount.

Also, here, the user inputs the winning bidder information via the display device 20, so that the delivery processing unit 12g confirms whether or not the user is the winning bidder. is not limited to this. For example, the successful bid determination unit 12f may issue credential information, and the successful bidder may input the credential information. An example of credential information is a pass code. Also, here, the successful bidder directly inputs the successful bidder information and the like via the display device 20 of the locker device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. The delivery processing unit 12g may acquire the winning bidder information and the like from the winning bidder terminal of the winning bidder.

If the successful bid item is not delivered by the delivery processing unit 12g for a predetermined period after the successful bid determination unit 12f has determined the successful bidder, that is, if the successful bidder does not appear to receive the successful bid item for a predetermined period of time, the successful bid determination unit 12f You may decide that there is no person. Alternatively, the successful bid decision unit 12f may decide, as a new successful bidder, the bidder U who has made a bid with the next highest bid amount after the successful bidder who did not appear to pick up the item.

[3.2.3.9. Returned goods processing unit 12h]
The returned-goods processing unit 12h is a processing unit that performs processing for returning the exhibited item to the exhibitor E when there is no bid for the exhibited item and the successful bid determination unit 12f determines that there is no successful bidder. When the exhibitor information input by the exhibitor E via the display device 20 matches the exhibitor information included in the exhibitor information 13a, the returned-goods processing unit 12h unlocks the locker 40 containing the exhibited article. The locker control unit 12k is instructed. As a result, the exhibit is returned to the exhibitor E.

For example, when the exhibition acceptance unit 12b accepts an exhibition from the exhibitor E on the condition that a deposit is paid, the return processing unit 12h instructs the refund processing unit 12q to refund the deposit. At this time, the returned-goods processing unit 12h may instruct the refund processing unit 12q to refund the deposit after deducting the commission for the auction. In this way, by receiving a deposit in the auction, it is possible to more reliably encourage the exhibitor E to return the exhibited item when there is no successful bidder.

Further, here, it is assumed that the exhibitor E directly inputs the exhibitor information via the display device 20 of the locker device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the exhibitor E may input the credential information issued by the exhibition acceptance unit 12b when accepting the auction exhibition. Alternatively, the delivery processing unit 12g may acquire exhibitor information and credential information from the exhibitor terminal 3 of the exhibitor E. FIG.

[3.2.3.10. Acquisition unit 12i]
The acquisition unit 12i acquires user behavior information. The behavior information acquired by the acquisition unit 12i includes, for example, user position information, route search results, information input by the user via the user terminal, and the like. The information input by the user via the user terminal includes, for example, information about the item for which the user wishes to make a successful bid, and information about the region in which the user wishes to receive the item when the item is successfully bid. The information input by the user via the user terminal includes information on actions (for example, keyword searches, product purchases, etc.) performed via the network N (see FIG. 2).

The behavior information acquired by the acquisition unit 12 i includes information on operations performed by the user on the auction server 10 and information on operations performed on the locker device 1 . The operations performed by the user on the auction server 10 include, for example, a listing operation, a bidding operation, a temporary leaving operation, a successful bid item receiving operation, and the like. Further, the operations performed on the locker device 1 include, for example, the opening/closing operation of the storage door of the locker 40, the unlocking/locking operation, and the information input operation through the display device 20 or the like.

The user from whom the acquisition unit 12i acquires the behavior information is not limited to the exhibitor E or the bidder U, but a user who has participated in an auction in the past, a user who has registered for the auction service, or the like. , includes users who may participate in the auction.

[3.2.3.11. notification unit 12j]
The notification unit 12j notifies the user of product information regarding the exhibited item based on the behavior information and the information regarding the transaction of the exhibited item acquired by the acquisition unit 12i. The product information notified by the notification unit 12j includes, for example, information regarding the start of an auction (trading), information regarding a bid, information regarding the end of an auction, and information regarding an operation performed by another user on an exhibit item such as temporary withdrawal. In addition, the information on the transaction of the exhibited items includes the installation position of the locker device 1, the arrangement of the lockers 40 in which the exhibited items are stored, the information on the exhibited items (type of exhibited item, price information, etc.), This includes operations (exhibition, bidding, temporary delivery, etc.) on exhibits performed by

For example, the notification unit 12j notifies the exhibitor E of a reception completion notification when the exhibition reception unit 12b has received the exhibition for the auction. In addition, the notification unit 12j notifies the user of information regarding the exhibited item for which the exhibited item has been accepted. In this way, the notification unit 12j notifies the user including the exhibitor E of the start of the auction by notifying the user including the exhibitor E of the reception completion notification and the information about the exhibited item.

In addition, when the notification unit 12j receives a temporary delivery from the user, the notification unit 12j notifies the user who requested the temporary delivery and the exhibitor E of information on the temporary delivery. Information related to temporary delivery includes completion of acceptance of temporary delivery, deposit amount information, exhibition item return deadline, deposit refund amount information according to the time the exhibited item was taken out, return completion of the exhibited item, and the like.

Note that the notification unit 12j may notify a user (another user) other than the user who requested the temporary delivery of the notification that the temporary delivery from the user is accepted. In this case, other users cannot confirm or bid on the exhibit because the exhibit has been temporarily taken out. The notification from the notification unit 12j allows other users to know that they cannot check the items for sale or make a bid without going to the locker device 1, thereby improving the user's convenience.

In addition, the notification unit 12j notifies the bidder U and the exhibitor E of information on the bid when the bid from the bidder U is accepted. In this case, the notification unit 12j may notify not only the bidders U who have bid on the article, but also the bidders U who have bid on the article in the past. In this way, by notifying past bidders U of the information about their bids, bidders U can know that, for example, the maximum bid price has been updated without going to the locker device 1 . Therefore, for example, even if the past bidders U do not visit the locker device 1 many times, they can make a bid again, and the convenience of the bidders U can be improved.

Further, the notification unit 12j notifies the successful bidder and the exhibitor E of information on the successful bid when the successful bid determination unit 12f has determined the successful bidder. As a result, the successful bidder can know that he or she has won the auction without having to go to the locker device 1, and the convenience of the successful bidder can be improved. In addition, by including credential information indicating the successful bidder in the information about the successful bid, the successful bidder can receive the successful bid item without fail. The notification unit 12j also notifies other bidders U who could not make a successful bid that the successful bidder has been determined, thereby notifying information regarding the end of the auction. As a result, the bidder U does not need to go to the locker device 1 to confirm the end of the auction, and convenience for the bidder U can be improved.

Further, the notification unit 12j notifies the successful bidder and the exhibitor E of information on the delivery process when the delivery processing unit 12g performs the delivery process of the successful bid item.

Further, the notification unit 12j notifies the exhibitor E of information indicating that there is no successful bidder when the successful bid determination unit 12f determines that there is no successful bidder. As a result, the exhibitor E can collect the exhibited article by performing return processing.

Here, an example of a user to whom information is notified by the notification unit 12j will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user to whom product information is notified. Here, a case where the notification unit 12j notifies product information regarding the start of an auction will be described as an example.

As shown in FIG. 11, the notification unit 12j notifies users (users U1 to U3 in the example of FIG. 11) located within a predetermined range R including the locker device 1 based on the location information of the users acquired by the acquisition unit 12i. Notify the product information to the customer. Here, in the example of FIG. 11 , the predetermined range R is assumed to be a range of radius r around the installation position of the locker device 1 .

For example, as shown in the image F2 of the user terminal 2-3 in FIG. 11, the product information notified by the notification unit 12j contains the product name (notebook computer F-10), the image of the product, and the product. Map information and the like indicating the location of the locker device 1 are included.

It should be noted that users to whom the notification unit 12j notifies product information are not limited to users located within the predetermined range R. For example, the notification unit 12j may notify product information to a user whose frequency of movement within a predetermined range R within a certain period of time in the past is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. Alternatively, for example, as shown in the user terminal 2-4 in FIG. 11, when a predetermined range R including station A where the locker device 1 is located is included in the route search result obtained by the obtaining unit 12i, such a route is searched. You may notify the product information to the user U4 who did.

Alternatively, for example, as shown in FIG. 11, the same product as the exhibited item is specified as the desired product (for example, a personal computer), and the area including the location of the locker device 1 is specified as the desired receiving area for the successful bid item (for example, Tokyo). Product information may be notified to the user U5. It is assumed that the user U5 has previously registered the desired product and the desired receiving area with the auction server 10 using the user terminal. Alternatively, the user U5 may register the desired product and desired receiving area via the locker device 1 . As the desired product, not only the product name but also the product category can be registered.

In this way, users who are located within the predetermined range R, users who are likely to move within the predetermined range R, and users who wish to make a successful bid for an item to be exhibited can participate in the auction by notifying them of product information regarding the start of the auction. Product information can be notified to a user who is highly likely to purchase the product.

Returning to FIG. 3, the notification unit 12j notifies the product information via the network N to the mail addresses stored in the storage unit 13 as the exhibitor information and the bidder information. Alternatively, the notification unit 12j may notify the user of the product information by displaying the product information on the display device 20, or the notification unit 12j may directly notify the user terminal of the product information via the locker device 1. can be Alternatively, the notification unit 12j may notify the user within the predetermined range R of the product information by displaying the product information on the digital silage within the predetermined range R including the locker device 1 .

[3.2.3.12. Receipt detection unit 12p]
The deposit detection unit 12p detects the presence or absence of deposit from the user. The deposit detection unit 12p accepts deposit of a predetermined amount from the user by, for example, reading information from an IC card, which is a user terminal, via the reading device 30 . Thereby, the deposit detection unit 12p detects the deposit from the user. Note that the deposit detection unit 12p may detect the deposit from the user by detecting cash inserted through the coin slot of the locker device 1, for example. Alternatively, when the user makes a payment using a payment agency service using a credit card or the like, the payment detection unit 12p accesses the payment history of the server that provides the payment agency service and detects whether or not payment has been made. good too.

[3.2.3.13. Refund processing unit 12q]
The refund processing unit 12q is a processing unit that refunds a deposit or the like to the user. The refund processing unit 12q refunds the amount of deposit to the user according to the instructions from the temporary delivery reception unit 12c and the return processing unit 12h. The refund processing unit 12q performs refund processing by writing information to an IC card, which is a user terminal, via the reading device 30, for example. Note that the refund processing unit 12q may perform refund processing by returning cash to the change return port of the locker device 1, for example. Alternatively, the refund processing unit 12q may perform the refund processing through a settlement agency service using a credit card or the like. Further, the refund processing unit 12q may perform a change return process of returning the change to the change return port when the deposit detection unit 12p accepts the deposit in cash.

[3.2.3.14. payment processing unit 12r]
The payment processing unit 12r is a processing unit that performs payment processing of the consideration for the temporary delivery and the successful bid price to the exhibitor E when the temporary delivery and delivery processing of the exhibited article is performed. The payment processing unit 12r pays the exhibitor E the consideration for the temporary delivery and the winning bid amount, for example, by deducting a handling fee. The payment processing unit 12r performs payment processing by, for example, writing information to an IC card, which is the exhibitor terminal 3, via the reading device 30. FIG. The payment processing unit 12r may perform payment processing by returning cash to the change return port of the locker device 1, for example.

[3.2.3.15. image processing unit 12n]
The image processing unit 12n generates an image to be displayed on the display device 20 of the locker device 1. FIG. FIG. 12 shows an example of the image F1 generated by the image processing unit 12n. FIG. 12 shows an example of an image F1 displayed when the user performs a predetermined operation on the locker device 1. As shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 12, the image F1 includes an image showing information about the items stored in each of the lockers 40A to 40E depending on whether or not the items to be exhibited are stored in each of the lockers 40A to 40E. . The image F1 includes, for example, the product name of the item to be exhibited, the product image, the current highest bid price (current price), the prompt decision (deposit in the case of temporary delivery) price, the number of bids, the remaining time until a successful bid, and the like. included. The image F1 also includes operation buttons indicating operations that can be performed by the user. The operation buttons include a button for confirming the details of the exhibited item ("view product details") and a button for requesting temporary delivery ("check by hand"). In addition, the operation buttons include a button for making an immediate bid ("Immediate bid"), a button for bidding, receiving a successful bid, and requesting an exhibition ("Bid", "Receive goods", "List"). is included.

Note that when the user selects a locker 40 and operates the "view product details" button, an image of the exhibit stored in the selected locker 40 is displayed on the display device 20, along with a description of the exhibit, etc. is displayed on the display device 20 . Here, the image of the article for sale may be a product image input by the seller E or an image captured by the camera 50 .

For example, if the position of the camera 50 can be changed, the captured image displayed on the display device 20 may be changed by the user operating the position of the camera 50 . This allows the user to check the images of the article for sale captured from a plurality of directions. Alternatively, the camera 50 may be fixed, and the photographing direction of the exhibit may be changed by rotating the exhibit using a turntable or the like.

Although the image F1 generated by the image processing unit 12n is displayed on the display device 20 here, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the image processing unit 12n may display the image F1 on the user terminal. Thereby, the user can operate the locker device 1 even from a place away from the locker device 1 . Since the temporary retrieval and receipt of a successful bid item are operations performed directly on the locker device 1, the buttons for performing such operations may be omitted from the image displayed on the user terminal by the image processing unit 12n, or may be made unselectable. You may Alternatively, the user may be allowed to make a reservation for temporary delivery or receipt of a successful bid item by selecting a button for performing such an operation. When a user makes a reservation for temporary leaving or receiving a successful bid, the auction server 10 prevents other users from performing temporary leaving or receiving a successful bid.

In this way, the auction server 10 may accept predetermined processes such as listing and bidding from user terminals. At this time, the auction server 10, on the condition that the exhibited item is stored in the locker 40 after the item is sold, in other words, before the item is delivered to the successful bidder. We accept submissions from In this way, the auction server 10 accepts predetermined processing such as listing and bidding from the user terminal, so that the user can perform the predetermined processing even from a place away from the locker device 1, thereby increasing the user's convenience. can be improved.

[4. Information processing flow]
Next, a procedure for information processing by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 13 to 21. FIG.

[4.1. Auction process flow]
First, the flow of auction processing will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of auction processing by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 13, the bidder U1 temporarily takes out the item put up by the exhibitor E, the bidders U1 and U2 place bids, and the bidder U1 wins the item. explain.

As shown in FIG. 13, when the auction server 10 receives an exhibition from an exhibitor E (step S21), the auction server 10 notifies bidders U1 and U2 of information on the exhibition, thereby notifying the start of the auction (step S22).

Next, the auction server 10, for example, receives a temporary withdrawal request from the bidder U1 (step S23), confirms receipt of the deposit (step S24), unlocks the locker 40, and removes the exhibit (step S24). S25). The auction server 10 returns the deposit to the bidder U1 (step S27) when the exhibited item is returned from the bidder U1 (step S26), and notifies the exhibitor E of information on the temporary delivery (step S28).

Subsequently, when the bid from the bidder U1 is received (step S29), information on the bid is notified to the exhibitor E (step S30). Similarly, when a bid from bidder U2 is accepted (step S31), information on the bid is notified to exhibitor E (step S32).

After that, when a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the auction, the auction server 10 determines a successful bidder (step S33). Here, it is assumed that bidder U1 is determined to be the successful bidder. The auction server 10 notifies the end of the auction by notifying the exhibitor E and the bidders U1 and U2 of the information regarding the successful bid (step S34).

Next, the auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 and takes out the item for which the bid was made (step S36) when the successful bid amount is received from the bidder U1 (step S35). The completion of delivery is notified (step S37).

[4.2. Auction Processing by Auction Server 10]
Next, auction processing executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the procedure of auction processing executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment. The auction server 10 executes the processing procedure of FIG. 14 in parallel for each locker 40 of the locker device 1 .

As shown in FIG. 14, the auction server 10 determines whether or not an exhibition request from the exhibitor E has been received (step S101). If no exhibition request has been received (step S101, No), the process returns to step S101 and waits for an exhibition request. On the other hand, when an exhibition request is accepted (step S101, Yes), an exhibition acceptance process is executed (step S102).

Next, the auction server 10 determines whether or not a temporary delivery request from the user has been received (step S103). If the temporary delivery request has not been received (step S103, No), the process proceeds to step S105. On the other hand, when the temporary delivery request is accepted (step S103, Yes), temporary delivery processing is executed (step S104).

Next, the auction server 10 determines whether or not an immediate bid request from the user has been received (step S105). If the immediate bid request has not been received (step S105, No), the process proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if an immediate successful bid request is accepted (step S105, Yes), an immediate successful bid process is executed (step S106).

Next, the auction server 10 determines whether or not it has received a bid request from the bidder U (step S107). If no bid request has been received (step S107, No), the process proceeds to step S109. When a bid request is received (step S107, Yes), a bid process is executed (step S108).

Next, the auction server 10 determines whether or not a predetermined period of time has passed since the start of the auction, and it is time to make a successful bid (step S109). If the bidding time has not yet come (step S109, No), the process returns to step S103. When it is time to make a successful bid (step S109, Yes), a successful bid process is executed (step S110).

Subsequently, the auction server 10 determines whether or not a successful bidder has been determined by the successful bid process (step S111). When the successful bidder is determined (step S111, Yes), the delivery process is executed (step S112). If the successful bidder has not been determined (step S111, No), return processing is executed (step S113).

It should be noted that the order of the processes relating to temporary delivery, immediate bidding, and bidding may be changed, or they may be executed at the same time.

[4.3. Listing acceptance process]
Next, the exhibition acceptance process executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 15 . FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing the procedure of the auction acceptance process executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

When the auction server 10 receives an exhibition request from the exhibitor E, the auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 and opens the storage door (step S201). Next, the auction server 10 determines whether or not the storage door of the locker 40 is closed (step S202). If the locker 40 is not closed (step S202, No), the process returns to step S202. On the other hand, if the door is closed (step S202, Yes), the auction server 10 acquires information included in the exhibition information 13a (step S203), and stores the exhibition information 13a in the storage unit 13 (step S204). Note that the processing of steps S202 and S203 may be switched in order or may be executed simultaneously.

Subsequently, the auction server 10 locks the locker 40 (step S205) and notifies the exhibitor E of completion of the exhibition (step S206). Next, the auction server 10 acquires the user's behavior information (step S207), and notifies the user of the exhibition information based on the acquired behavior information (step S208). This starts the auction.

[4.4. Temporary delivery process]
Next, the temporary delivery processing executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 16 . FIG. 16 is a flow chart showing the procedure of the temporary delivery process executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

The auction server 10 determines whether or not a deposit has been received from the user (step S301). If no deposit has been received (step S301, No), the auction server 10 returns to step S301. On the other hand, if a deposit has been received (step S301, Yes), the auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 (step S302).

Subsequently, the auction server 10 determines whether or not the storage door of the locker 40 is closed (step S303). If the storage door of the locker 40 is not closed (step S303, No), the process returns to step S303. On the other hand, if the door is closed (step S303, Yes), the auction server 10 locks the locker 40 (step S304), and determines whether or not the exhibited item has been returned (step S305). If the exhibited item has not been returned (step S305, No), the auction server 10 notifies the user of the purchase of the exhibited item (step S306). In this case, the deposit will not be refunded to the user. On the other hand, when the exhibited item is returned (step S305, Yes), the auction server 10 refunds the deposit to the user (step S307). The auction server 10 notifies the user of the information regarding the temporary delivery, and terminates the process (step S308).

[4.5. Immediate successful bid processing]
Next, the immediate successful bid process executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 17 is a flow chart showing the procedure of immediate successful bid processing executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

The auction server 10 determines whether or not the user has paid for the prompt decision price (step S601). If no payment has been received (step S601, No), the process ends. On the other hand, if payment has been received (step S601, Yes), the auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 (step S602) and immediately notifies the end of the auction by notifying the user and the exhibitor E of the successful bid completion ( step S603).

[4.6. Bidding process]
Next, the bidding process executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the procedure of bidding processing executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

The auction server 10 acquires bidder information including the bid price from the bidder U (step S401), and stores the bid information 13d in the storage unit 13 (step S402). The auction server 10 notifies the bidder U of the completion of the bidding (step S403), and notifies the user including the exhibitor E of information regarding the bidding (step S404).

[4.7. Bid processing]
Next, the bidding process executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing the procedure of bidding process executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

The auction server 10 determines whether there is a bidder U (step S501). If there is no bidder U (step S501, No), the auction server 10 determines that there is no successful bidder (step S502). If there is a bidder U (step S501, Yes), the auction server 10 determines the bidder U who submitted the highest bid price as the winning bidder (step S503).

[4.8. Delivery process]
Next, the delivery process executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 20 . FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing the procedure of delivery processing executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

The auction server 10 notifies the user, including the successful bidder, of the end of the auction by notifying the user of the information regarding the successful bid (step S701). Subsequently, the auction server 10 determines whether or not the successful bidder's delivery request has been received (step S702). The auction server 10 determines whether or not the successful bidder has made a delivery request based on, for example, successful bidder information and credential information. If the successful bidder's delivery request has not been received (step S702, No), the process returns to step S702. On the other hand, if the winning bidder's delivery request has been received (step S702, Yes), the auction server 10 determines whether or not the winning bidder has paid the winning bid (step S703). If no payment has been received (step S703, No), the process returns to step S703.

On the other hand, if payment has been received (step S703, Yes), the auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 (step S704), and notifies the user including the successful bidder and exhibitor E of the completion of delivery (step S705).

[4.9. Return processing]
Next, return-of-goods processing executed by the auction server 10 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 21 is a flow chart showing the procedure of return processing executed by the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment.

First, the auction server 10 notifies the end of the auction by notifying the exhibitor E that there is no successful bidder (step S801). Next, the auction server 10 determines whether or not the seller E's return request has been received (step S802). The auction server 10 determines whether or not the seller E has made a return request based on, for example, seller information and credential information. If the seller E's return request has not been received (step S802, No), the process returns to step S802. On the other hand, when the return request of the exhibitor E is received (step S802, Yes), the auction server 10 unlocks the locker 40 and returns the exhibited item (step S803).

[5. Modification]
The information processing system S according to the first embodiment may be embodied in various forms other than the above examples. For example, when an item for sale is stored in the locker device 1, the item for sale may be put up on an auction managed by the auction server 10 and also put up on an online auction. The net auction is managed by a net auction server (not shown) connected to the network N in FIG.

In this case, when an item is sold through the net auction server, the auction server 10 also reflects that the item has been successfully bid, and the transactions and the like performed in the net auction are installed in the locker device 1.例文帳に追加It is reflected in the auction on the auction server 10 . Similarly, it is assumed that auction transactions such as bidding and successful bids conducted by the auction server 10 are also reflected in auctions by the net auction server.

As described above, when an auction (for example, a net auction) managed by a server other than the auction server 10 is held in addition to the auction using the locker device 1, the auction server 10 and the net auction server cooperate with each other. You may make it manage the auction of an exhibit. As a result, users using the net auction server other than the users using the auction server 10 can bid on the items for sale, thereby improving user convenience.

(Second embodiment)
By the way, in the first embodiment, the information processing system (auction system) S based on the premise of buying and selling products in an auction, which is one form of commercial transactions, has been described. The components of information processing system S can be applied not only to auctions but also to other commercial transactions. For example, the components of the information processing system S can also be applied to a rental system that rents products. Therefore, in the second embodiment, an information processing system (rental system Sa) that provides a rental service as a commercial transaction will be described. The rental system Sa has a locker device 1 and a rental server 10a.

Note that the entire system according to the second embodiment has a rental server 10a instead of the auction server 10, a user U instead of the bidder U, and a user terminal instead of the bidder terminal 2. 2, the illustration and description are omitted.

[1. Configuration of Rental Server 10a]
A rental server 10a according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the rental server 10a according to the second embodiment. The rental server 10a shown in FIG. 22 is the same as that shown in FIG. 3 except that it does not include the bid reception unit 12e, the successful bid determination unit 12f, and the delivery processing unit 12g, and that it has a rental processing unit 22 instead of the temporary delivery reception unit 12c. It has the same configuration as the auction server 10 . The storage unit 13 shown in FIG. 22 stores the same information as the storage unit 13 shown in FIG. 3 except that the bid information 13d and successful bid information 13e are not stored, and the rental information 23 is stored instead of the temporary delivery information 13f. Remember. Therefore, the same components as those in FIG. 3 are assigned the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted. In the description of FIG. 3, the item to be exhibited should be read as a rental item, and the item put up for auction should be read as an item put up for rental service.

The rental processing unit 22 is a processing unit that performs rental processing including lending of rental products in response to requests from users. The rental processing unit 22 instructs the locker control unit 12k to unlock the locker 40 storing the rental product to be rented when the deposit of the amount corresponding to the rental product requested by the user is received. Note that the deposit from the user is detected by the deposit detection unit 12p.

The rental processing unit 22 associates the product ID of the rented rental product, the amount of deposit paid by the user, and the leaving time, and stores them as rental information 23 in the storage unit 13 .

The rental processing unit 22 functions as a return detection unit that detects whether or not the rental product rented from the unlocked locker 40 has been returned to the locker. For example, when the locker 40 is locked again after the locker 40 has been unlocked, the rental processing unit 22 determines whether the rental product stored in the locker 40 before unlocking is the same as the product stored after locking. to detect The rental processing unit 22 detects whether or not the rental products are the same, for example, by comparing the weight of the rental product before unlocking and the weight of the rental product after locking. Alternatively, the rental processing unit 22 may detect whether or not the items for sale are the same by comparing images captured by the camera 50 of the rental items. You may

When it is detected that the rented product has been returned to the locker 40, the rental processing unit 22 returns the deposit to the user after deducting the amount corresponding to the time during which the rental product was rented. direct to. The rental processing unit 22 updates the rental information 23 by storing in the storage unit 13 the product ID for identifying the returned rental product, the return time, and the refund amount in association with each other.

If the rental time is determined in advance, the rental processing unit 22 rents out the rental product upon receipt of the rental fee and deposit from the user corresponding to the rental time. In this case, the rental processing unit 22 refunds the deposit to the user when the rental product is returned.

In addition, as price information, the exhibition reception unit 12b stores in the storage unit 13 the rental fee according to the rental time instead of the starting price, and the deposit fee instead of the prompt decision price. Further, when the user returns the rental product, the return processing unit 12h requests the exhibitor E to collect (return) the rental product, and performs return processing. As a result, the exhibitor E can clean the product each time the product is rented, and can keep the value of the rental product high.

Alternatively, the return processing unit 12h may request collection (return) of the rental product from the exhibitor E and perform return processing when a predetermined period has elapsed since the rental product was exhibited. As a result, the exhibitor E can replace the rental product at regular intervals.

The commercial transaction services provided by the information processing system S are not limited to auctions and rental services. For example, the information processing system S may provide a sales service for exhibited items as a commercial transaction. In this case, the price information includes the selling price. In this way, even when the information processing system S provides a sales service, for example, by permitting temporary delivery before purchasing the product, the user can check the actual product, which is convenient for the user. can improve sexuality.

(others)
[1. program〕
The auction server 10 and the rental server 10a according to each embodiment described above are implemented by a computer 1000 configured as shown in FIG. 23, for example. The auction server 10 will be described below as an example. FIG. 23 is a hardware configuration diagram showing an example of a computer 1000 that implements the functions of the auction server 10. As shown in FIG. Computer 1000 has CPU 1100 , RAM 1200 , ROM 1300 , HDD 1400 , communication interface (I/F) 1500 , input/output interface (I/F) 1600 and media interface (I/F) 1700 .

The CPU 1100 operates based on programs stored in the ROM 1300 or HDD 1400 and controls each section. The ROM 1300 stores a boot program executed by the CPU 1100 when the computer 1000 is started up, a program depending on the hardware of the computer 1000, and the like.

The HDD 1400 stores programs executed by the CPU 1100, data used by the programs, and the like. Communication interface 1500 receives data from other devices via communication network 50N, sends the data to CPU 1100, and transmits data generated by CPU 1100 to other devices via communication network 50N.

The CPU 1100 controls output devices such as displays and printers, and input devices such as keyboards and mice, through an input/output interface 1600 . CPU 1100 acquires data from an input device via input/output interface 1600 . CPU 1100 also outputs the generated data to an output device via input/output interface 1600 .

Media interface 1700 reads programs or data stored in recording medium 1800 and provides them to CPU 1100 via RAM 1200 . CPU 1100 loads such a program from recording medium 1800 onto RAM 1200 via media interface 1700, and executes the loaded program. The recording medium 1800 is, for example, an optical recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a PD (Phase change rewritable disc), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. etc.

For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the auction server 10 according to the first embodiment, the CPU 1100 of the computer 1000 implements the functions of the control section 12 by executing programs loaded on the RAM 1200 . Data in the storage unit 13 is stored in the HDD 1400 . CPU 1100 of computer 1000 reads these programs from recording medium 1800 and executes them, but as another example, these programs may be obtained from another device via communication network 50N.

[2. others〕
Of the processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being automatically performed can be manually performed, or all or part of the processes described as being manually performed. Part can also be done automatically by known methods. In addition, information including processing procedures, specific names, various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified.

Also, each component of each device illustrated is functionally conceptual, and does not necessarily need to be physically configured as illustrated. In other words, the specific form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to the one shown in the figure, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in arbitrary units according to various loads and usage conditions. Can be integrated and configured.

Moreover, each embodiment described above can be appropriately combined within a range in which the processing contents are not inconsistent.

As described above, some of the embodiments of the present application have been described in detail based on the drawings. It is possible to carry out the invention in other forms with modifications.

Also, the above-mentioned "section, module, unit" can be read as "means" or "circuit". For example, the control unit can be read as control means or a control circuit.

S auction system 1 locker device 2 bidder terminal 3 exhibitor terminal 10 auction server 11 communication unit 12 control unit 12a product detection unit 12b exhibition reception unit 12c temporary delivery reception unit 12e bid reception unit 12f successful bid determination unit 12g delivery processing unit 12h returned goods Processing unit 12i Acquisition unit 12j Notification unit 12k Locker control unit 12n Image processing unit 12o Sensor information acquisition unit 12p Payment detection unit 12q Refund processing unit 12r Payment processing unit 10a Rental server 22 Rental processing unit 13 Storage unit 20 Display device 30 Reading device 40 Locker 50 Camera 60 Weight sensor

Claims (14)

an exhibition accepting unit that accepts an item to be put up for auction on the condition that the item to be put up for auction is stored in the storage unit of the locker device;
a bid accepting unit that accepts bids for the exhibit;
a successful bid processing unit that unlocks the storage unit storing the exhibited item on condition that the successful bidder of the exhibited item has paid the winning bid;
In response to a request from a user other than the exhibitor for the exhibited article, when a deposit of an amount corresponding to the exhibited article is received, temporary withdrawal of the exhibited article is received and the storage unit is opened. a temporary delivery reception unit that refunds the deposit when the exhibit is returned to the storage unit after unlocking;
An information processing device comprising: The exhibition reception unit
2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an offer to the auction is accepted using information about the article for sale input by the seller as exhibit information. The exhibition reception unit
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, when the item for sale is stored in the storage unit, the item for sale in the auction is accepted. further comprising a detection unit that detects whether or not the exhibit is stored in the storage unit;
The exhibition reception unit
4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein, when the detection unit detects that the article for sale is stored in the storage unit, the item to be put up for auction is accepted. The detection unit is
5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein it is detected whether or not the article for sale is stored in the storage section based on whether or not the storage section is locked. The detection unit is
6. The information according to claim 4 or 5, wherein it is detected whether or not the exhibit is stored in the storage section based on the information regarding the exhibit acquired by the sensor provided in the locker device. processing equipment. The detection unit is
Based on at least one of the captured image captured by the imaging device provided in the locker device and the weight of the exhibit acquired by the weight sensor, it is detected whether or not the exhibit is stored in the storage section. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, characterized by: Claims 1 to 7, characterized by further comprising a returned-goods processing unit that unlocks the storage section in which the put-up item is stored in order to return the put-up item to the exhibitor if the put-up item is not sold. The information processing device according to any one of . The exhibition reception unit
3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an item to be put up for auction is accepted on condition that the item to be put up is stored in the storage unit after a successful bid. The bid reception unit
10. The information processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the bid is accepted via an input unit of the locker device. The successful bid processing unit
11. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said storage unit is unlocked when payment of said successful bid price is accepted via said locker device. An information processing method executed by an information processing device,
an exhibition acceptance step of accepting the exhibition of the article for the auction on the condition that the article for the auction is stored in the storage unit of the locker device;
a bid acceptance step of accepting a bid for the exhibit;
a successful bid processing step of unlocking the storage unit storing the exhibited item on condition that the successful bidder of the exhibited item has paid the winning bid amount ;
In response to a request from a user other than the exhibitor for the exhibited article, when a deposit of an amount corresponding to the exhibited article is received, temporary withdrawal of the exhibited article is received and the storage unit is opened. a temporary delivery reception step of refunding the deposit when the exhibit is returned to the storage unit after unlocking;
An information processing method comprising : a locker device having a storage section;
an exhibition accepting unit that accepts an item to be put up for auction on the condition that the item to be put up for auction is stored in the storage unit;
a bid accepting unit that accepts bids for the exhibit;
a successful bid processing unit that unlocks the storage unit storing the exhibited item on condition that the successful bidder of the exhibited item has paid the winning bid;
In response to a request from a user other than the exhibitor for the exhibited article, when a deposit of an amount corresponding to the exhibited article is received, temporary withdrawal of the exhibited article is received and the storage unit is opened. a temporary delivery reception unit that refunds the deposit when the exhibit is returned to the storage unit after unlocking;
An information processing system characterized by having: an exhibition reception procedure for accepting the exhibition of the article for the auction on the condition that the article for the auction is stored in the storage unit of the locker device;
a bid acceptance procedure for accepting a bid for the exhibit;
An information processing program for causing a computer to execute a successful bid processing procedure for unlocking the storage section storing the exhibit on the condition that the successful bidder of the exhibit has paid the winning bid,
In response to a request from a user other than the exhibitor for the exhibited article, when a deposit of an amount corresponding to the exhibited article is received, temporary withdrawal of the exhibited article is received and the storage unit is opened. Temporary delivery reception procedure for refunding the deposit when the exhibit is returned to the storage unit after unlocking
An information processing program comprising:

Images