Information provision system, information provision device, and information processing program

Abstract

To provide services for each store via an information communication terminal without using an application program for each store in the information communication terminal. [Solution] A first storage means stores distribution information specified by a distributor in association with the distributor. When a first transmission means receives web access from an information communication terminal using a URL output by an output means, it transmits the distribution information stored in the first storage means in association with the distributor associated with the URL to the terminal. When a storage request is received from the terminal regarding the distribution information transmitted by the first transmission means, the storage means stores the target distribution information in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means. When a request is received from the terminal to view the information stored in the second storage means, the second transmission means transmits the information stored in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means to the terminal.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information providing system, an information providing device, and an information processing program. [Background technology]

[0002] In order to enable a user to receive store-specific services such as coupon services via the information communication terminal he or she uses, it has been necessary to install an application program for each store on the information communication terminal. Under these circumstances, it has been desired to be able to provide services for each store via an information communication terminal without using an application program for each store on the information communication terminal. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2021-39438 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide an information provision system, an information provision device, and an information processing program that can provide store-specific services via an information communication terminal without using an application program for each store on the information communication terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An information providing system according to an embodiment includes a first storage means, a second storage means, an output means, a first transmission means, an identification means, a saving means, and a second transmission means. The first storage means stores distribution information designated by a plurality of distributors, each associated with the corresponding distributor. The output means outputs one of the URLs associated with each of the plurality of distributors to allow an information communication terminal to acquire the information. When receiving web access from the information communication terminal via the URL output by the output means, the first transmission means transmits the distribution information stored in the first storage means associated with the distributor associated with the URL to the information communication terminal. The identification means identifies the user of the information communication terminal. When the information communication terminal requests storage of the distribution information transmitted by the first transmission means, the saving means saves the target distribution information in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means. When the information communication terminal requests viewing of the information stored in the second storage means, the second transmission means transmits the information stored in the second storage means associated with the user identified by the identification means to the information communication terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an information providing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the information server in FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of one record included in the store information database in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] FIG. 3 is a diagram schematically showing the configuration of one record contained in the personal management database in FIG. 2. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store terminal in FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the personal terminal in FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of interactions between an information server and a store terminal regarding the registration of distribution information. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of interactions between an information server and a personal terminal related to viewing of distributed information. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram of interactions between an information server and a personal terminal regarding browsing of stored information. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a My Page screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] An example of an embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, an information providing system will be described that provides information for providing services at each of a plurality of stores. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of an information providing system 100 according to this embodiment. The information providing system 100 includes an information server 1, a store terminal 2, a personal terminal 3, a tag writer 4, and a wireless tag 5. The information server 1 is capable of communicating with the store terminal 2 and the personal terminal 3 via a communication network 200.

[0008] The communication network 200 may be the Internet, a virtual private network (VPN), a local area network (LAN), a public communication network, a mobile communication network, or the like, either alone or in combination. For example, for communication between the information server 1 and the store terminal 2, it is assumed that the Internet, VPN, and LAN are used alone or in combination. For communication between the information server 1 and the personal terminal 3, it is assumed that a mobile communication network is used in combination with the Internet, VPN, or LAN.

[0009] The store terminal 2, tag writer 4, and wireless tag 5 are all installed in one store. The tag writer 4 and wireless tag 5 form a pair, and multiple pairs may be installed in one store. Multiple store terminals 2 may also be installed in one store. One store terminal 2 may be installed for multiple stores. The information provision system 100 includes store terminals 2, tag writers 4, and wireless tags 5 installed in multiple stores, but FIG. 1 shows only one of each installed in one store.

[0010] The personal terminal 3 is an information communication terminal carried by each customer who uses a plurality of stores equipped with wireless tags 5. Therefore, many personal terminals 3 may be included in the information providing system 100, but only one personal terminal 3 is shown in FIG. Each of the stores equipped with the wireless tag 5 provides a different service to customers. Such a service may include, for example, the distribution of coupons or information about the store.

[0011] The information server 1 is an information processing device that performs information processing (described later) to provide information to customers in order to provide the above-mentioned services. In other words, the information server 1 is an example of an information providing device. The store terminal 2 is an information communication terminal used by store staff to access the information server 1. The personal terminal 3 is an information communication terminal used by customers to access the information server 1. The tag writer 4 writes information to the wireless tag 5. The wireless tag 5 stores the information written by the tag writer 4 and transmits the information via wireless communication. In this embodiment, devices that comply with the NFC (near field communication) standard are used as the tag writer 4 and the wireless tag 5. Devices that comply with other standards, such as various RFID (radio frequency identification) standards, may also be used as the tag writer 4 and the wireless tag 5. In this embodiment, the paired tag writer 4 and wireless tag 5 are attached to a common housing, for example, and are always in a state where they can communicate with each other.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the information server 1. The information server 1 includes a processor 11, a main storage unit 12, a sub-storage unit 13, a communication unit 14, a transmission path 15, and the like. A computer is configured by connecting a processor 11, a main storage unit 12, and a sub-storage unit 13 via a transmission line 15. The processor 11 corresponds to the central part of the computer and executes information processing in accordance with an operating system and information processing programs such as application programs.

[0013] The main memory unit 12 corresponds to the main memory portion of the computer. The main memory unit 12 includes a read-only memory area and a rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 12 stores part of the information processing program in the read-only memory area. The main memory unit 12 may also store data necessary for the processor 11 to execute processes for controlling each part in the read-only memory area or the rewritable memory area. The main memory unit 12 uses the rewritable memory area as a work area for the processor 11.

[0014] The sub-storage unit 13 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. The sub-storage unit 13 may be, for example, an EEPROM (electric erasable programmable read-only memory), a HDD (hard disk drive), an SSD (solid state drive), or any other well-known storage device. The sub-storage unit 13 stores data used by the processor 11 in performing various processes and data generated by the processes in the processor 11. The sub-storage unit 13 may also store the information processing program. In this embodiment, the sub-storage unit 13 stores a distribution program PRA, which is one of the information processing programs. The distribution program PRA is an application program that describes the procedure for the distribution process to be performed by the processor 11, which will be described later. A portion of the storage area of ​​the sub-storage unit 13 is used to store a store information database DBA and a personal management database DBB.

[0015] The communication unit 14 executes communication processing for performing data communication via the communication network 200. The communication unit 14 can use an existing communication device, such as one for the Internet. The transmission path 15 includes an address bus, a data bus, and control signal lines, and transmits data and control signals exchanged between the connected components.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of one record REA included in the store information database DBA. The store information database DBA is a collection of records REA associated with each store that has installed a wireless tag 5 and has registered information to be distributed as described below.

[0017] Record REA includes fields FAA, FAB, FAC, FAD, and FAE. Field FAA is a field for setting a store number as an identifier of the associated store. Field FAB is a field for setting the store name of the associated store. Field FAC is a field for setting a first uniform resource locator (URL) assigned to the associated store. The first URL is assumed to be different from a first URL assigned to another store. Field FAD is a field for setting basic information from the information registered as information to be distributed regarding the associated store (hereinafter referred to as distribution information). Field FAE is a field for setting optional information from the information registered as distribution information regarding the associated store.

[0018] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of one record REB contained in the personal management database DBB. The personal management database DBB is a collection of records REB associated with each individual person who uses the information provision system 100.

[0019] Record REB includes fields FBA, FBB, FBC, and FBD. Field FBA is a field for setting personal identification information as an identifier of the associated individual. Field FBB is a field for setting a personal name declared in advance as the name of the associated individual. Field FBC is a field for setting basic information from the distribution information acquired by the associated individual. Field FBD is a field for setting optional information from the distribution information acquired by the associated individual.

[0020] For example, the hardware of an information processing device for an existing web server can be used as the hardware of the information server 1. Thus, in addition to the above components, the information server 1 may also include various devices or units that are included in an information processing device for an existing web server.

[0021] The information server 1 is transferred, for example, with the distribution program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 13. However, the distribution program PRA may be transferred separately from the hardware without the distribution program PRA stored in the sub-storage unit 13, or with a different version of the same application program stored in the sub-storage unit 13. The information server 1 may be configured by writing the distribution program PRA to the sub-storage unit 13 in response to the operation of any operator. The distribution program PRA may be transferred by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication via a network.

[0022] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the store terminal 2. The store terminal 2 includes a processor 21, a main storage unit 22, a sub-storage unit 23, an input unit 24, a display unit 25, a communication unit 26, an interface unit 27, a transmission path 28, and the like.

[0023] The functions of the processor 21, main memory unit 22, sub-memory unit 23, communication unit 26, and transmission path 28 are generally the same as those of the processor 11, main memory unit 12, sub-memory unit 13, communication unit 14, and transmission path 15, so a detailed description thereof will be omitted. However, the sub-memory unit 23 does not store the distribution program PRA, but stores the web access program PRB. Furthermore, the sub-memory unit 23 does not store the store information database DBA or the personal management database DBB. The web access program PRB is an application program for accessing the web via the communication network 200. As the web access program PRB, for example, a general-purpose web browser can be used.

[0024] The input unit 24 is used by the operator to input various instructions. Known input devices such as a touch sensor, a key switch, and a keyboard can be used alone or in combination as the input unit 24. An input device included in the input unit 24 is, for example, a touch sensor provided on a touch panel.

[0025] The display unit 25 performs various display operations to notify the operator of various types of information. As the display unit 25, well-known display devices such as a screen display device such as a liquid crystal display and a light-emitting device such as an LED (light emitting diode) lamp can be used alone or in combination. One of the display devices included in the display unit 25 is, for example, the display device provided in the above-mentioned touch panel.

[0026] The interface unit 27 is connected to another device such as the tag writer 4. The interface unit 27 interfaces the exchange of data with the connected device. As the interface unit 27, an existing USB (universal serial bus) controller or the like can be used.

[0027] For example, the hardware of an existing desktop or book-type general-purpose computer can be used as the hardware of the store terminal 2. Thus, in addition to the above-mentioned components, the store terminal 2 may also be equipped with various devices or units that are equipped in a desktop or book-type general-purpose computer.

[0028] The store terminal 2 is generally transferred with the web access program PRB stored in the sub-storage unit 23. However, the web access program PRB may be transferred separately from the hardware without the web access program PRB stored in the sub-storage unit 23, or with a different version of the same application program stored in the sub-storage unit 23. The store terminal 2 may be configured by writing the web access program PRB to the sub-storage unit 23 in response to an operator's operation. The web access program PRB may be transferred by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication via a network.

[0029] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the personal terminal 3. The personal terminal 3 includes a processor 31, a main storage unit 32, a sub-storage unit 33, an input unit 34, a display unit 35, a communication unit 36, a near field communication unit 37, a transmission path 38, and the like.

[0030] The functions of the processor 31, main memory unit 32, sub-memory unit 33, input unit 34, display unit 35, communication unit 36, and transmission path 38 are generally the same as those of the processor 11, main memory unit 12, sub-memory unit 13, input unit 24, display unit 25, communication unit 14, and transmission path 15, so a description thereof will be omitted. However, the sub-memory unit 33 does not store the distribution program PRA, but stores the web access program PRC. Furthermore, the sub-memory unit 33 does not store the store information database DBA or the personal management database DBB. The web access program PRC is an application program for performing web access via the communication network 200. As the web access program PRC, for example, a general-purpose web browser can be used.

[0031] The proximity communication unit 37 receives information wirelessly transmitted by the wireless tag 5. The proximity communication unit 37 can be configured to include an existing device that complies with the standard to which the wireless tag 5 complies. For example, the hardware of an existing smartphone or tablet terminal can be used as the hardware of the personal terminal 3. Thus, in addition to the above components, the personal terminal 3 may also be equipped with various devices or units that are equipped in an existing smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0032] The personal terminal 3 is transferred, for example, with the web access program PRD stored in the sub-storage unit 33. However, the web access program PRD may be transferred separately from the hardware without the web access program PRD stored in the sub-storage unit 33, or with a different version of the same application program stored in the sub-storage unit 33. The personal terminal 3 may be configured by writing the web access program PRD to the sub-storage unit 33 in response to an operation by an arbitrary worker. The web access program PRD may be transferred by recording it on a removable recording medium such as a magnetic disk, magneto-optical disk, optical disk, or semiconductor memory, or by communication via a network.

[0033] Next, the operation of the information providing system 100 configured as above will be described. Note that the content of the processes described below is an example, and it is possible to change the order of some processes, omit some processes, or add other processes as appropriate. For example, in the following description, in order to clearly explain the characteristic operations of this embodiment, some processes are omitted. For example, after transitioning from one processing state to another, the process may return to the processing state before the transition in response to an instruction from an operator, but such processes are not described. Or, for example, when an error occurs, processes may be performed to deal with the error, but such processes are not described.

[0034] (Register distribution information) FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram of the exchange between the information server 1 and the store terminal 2 regarding the registration of distribution information. First, if a store staff member wishes to distribute store information using the information providing system 100, he or she registers the target distribution information from the store terminal 2 to the information server 1. To do this, the staff member starts the web access program PRB on the store terminal 2 and then instructs web access using a second URL that has been predetermined for access from the store. This second URL is used in common for access to the information server 1 from multiple stores. The second URL is different from the first URL and is appropriately determined, for example, by the operator of the information server 1. Upon receiving this instruction, the processor 21 in the store terminal 2 proceeds to ACT201 in the information processing based on the web access program PRB. In ACT 201, the processor 21 accesses the information server 1 via the communication network 200 using the second URL.

[0035] When this access is received, the processor 11 in the information server 1 proceeds to ACT101. In ACT101, the processor 11 transmits to the store terminal 2 page data of a store login page for accepting login from the store. As ACT202, the processor 21 displays a store login screen on the display unit 25 in accordance with the page data of the store login page. The store login screen is a screen for inputting login information such as a predetermined store identifier and password for a store that uses the information provision system 100.

[0036] Although not shown in the figure, if the store has not yet been registered, the person in charge specifies registration. In response, the information server 1 and the store terminal 2 communicate with each other to register the store using a well-known procedure for user registration. Then, in the information server 1, the processor 11 adds a record REA associated with the store to the store information database DBA. At this time, the processor 11, for example, determines and sets a store number in field FAA of the record REA to be added so that the store can be distinguished from other stores. For example, the processor 11 sets the store name specified by the person in charge and notified by the store terminal 2 in field FAB of the record REA to be added. For example, the processor 11 determines and sets a first URL, different from the first URLs assigned to other stores, in field FAC of the record REA to be added. The processor 11 does not set valid information in fields FAD and FAE of the record REA to be added. Alternatively, the processor 11 may not include fields FAD and FAE in the record REA to be added.

[0037] The staff member follows the store login screen and inputs login information into the store terminal 2, for example, by performing a predetermined operation on the input unit 24. Note that the login information may be stored in the sub-storage unit 23, for example, and the processor 21 may use this stored login information as the login information input by the staff member.

[0038] In ACT203, the processor 21 requests the information server 1 to log in, along with notifying the information server 1 of the input login information. In ACT102, the processor 11 performs authentication processing to determine whether the accessing store has authorization to use the information provision system 100, based on the login information notified from the store terminal 2. This authentication processing may be a well-known processing. If the authentication is successful, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT103.

[0039] As ACT103, the processor 11 transmits to the store terminal 2 page data of an upload page for accepting upload of distribution information. As ACT204, the processor 21 displays an upload screen on the display unit 25 in accordance with the page data of the upload page. The upload screen is a screen for allowing a user to select distribution information and specify transmission of the corresponding distribution information.

[0040] The person in charge selects the information to be distributed that has been saved in the store terminal 2 as distribution information by, for example, a predetermined operation on the input unit 24, and then instructs uploading. In ACT 205 , the processor 21 uploads the distribution information to the information server 1 .

[0041] In ACT104, the processor 11 updates the store information database DBA. That is, the processor 11 searches the store information database DBA for a record REA in which a store number for identifying the currently logged-in store is set in the field FAA. Then, the processor 11 rewrites the fields FAD and FAE of the corresponding record REA.

[0042] Here, the store information includes at least basic information. The store information may include optional information. Whether optional information is included in the store information may be determined appropriately for each store. The type of information to be included as basic information and optional information may be determined appropriately for each store. Examples of basic information include store information, business hours, address, telephone number, availability of parking, available payment methods, pamphlets, or flyers. Examples of optional information include coupon information or limited-time event information.

[0043] Processor 11 writes the basic information contained in the uploaded distribution information into field FAD. If field FAD is not yet included in the corresponding record REA, processor 11 adds a field FAD in which the corresponding basic information is set. If basic information is already set in field FAD, processor 11 rewrites it with the basic information contained in the uploaded distribution information. If optional information is included in the uploaded distribution information, processor 11 writes the optional information into field FAE. If field FAE is not yet included in the corresponding record REA, processor 11 adds a field FAE in which the corresponding optional information is set. If optional information is already set in field FAE, processor 11 rewrites it with the optional information contained in the uploaded distribution information.

[0044] The processor 11 may determine a new first URL and set the first URL in the field FAC of the corresponding record REA. In this case, the processor 11 may not set valid information in the field FAC of the record REA that is added to the store information database DBA when registering the store, or may not include the field FAC. Thus, by storing the store information database DBA, the sub-storage unit 13 functions as a first storage means for storing distribution information specified by each of a plurality of stores as a plurality of distributors, in association with the respective stores.

[0045] In ACT105, the processor 11 transmits page data of an upload completion page for notifying the store terminal 2 that the upload has been completed. The processor 11 includes in this page data the first URL that is set in field FAC of record REA after completing the update in ACT104.

[0046] In ACT 206, the processor 21 displays an upload completion screen on the display unit 25 in accordance with the page data of the upload completion page. The upload completion screen is a screen for notifying the person in charge that the upload has been completed. In ACT 207, the processor 21 writes the first URL included in the page data of the upload completion page to the wireless tag 5 via the tag writer 4.

[0047] (Viewing and saving provided information) FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of the exchange between the information server 1 and the personal terminal 3 regarding the viewing of distribution information. When a customer of a store wishes to view information provided about the store, he or she brings the personal terminal 3 he or she carries close to the wireless tag 5. This initiates near-field communication between the wireless tag 5 and the near-field communication unit 37, and the first URL stored in the wireless tag 5 is received by the near-field communication unit 37. In other words, the first URL related to the store the customer is using is read by the personal terminal 3. The wireless tag 5 outputs the first URL associated with the store in which it is installed so that the personal terminal 3 can acquire it, and is an example of an output means. The unit including the tag writer 4 and the wireless tag 5 is an example of an output device.

[0048] In response to the first URL being received by the proximity communication unit 37, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT301 in the information processing based on the web access program PRC. In ACT 301, the processor 31 accesses the information server 1 via the communication network 200 using the first URL.

[0049] When this access is received, the processor 11 in the information server 1 proceeds to ACT111 in the information processing based on the distribution program PRA. As ACT111, the processor 11 transmits to the personal terminal 3 page data of a personal login page for accepting login from an individual.

[0050] As ACT302, the processor 31 displays a personal login screen on the display unit 35 in accordance with the page data of the personal login page. The personal login screen is a screen for inputting login information such as personal identification information and a password that identifies an individual who uses this information providing system 100.

[0051] Although not shown in the figure, if the customer has not yet completed personal user registration, the customer specifies user registration. In response, the information server 1 and the personal terminal 3 communicate with each other for personal user registration using a well-known procedure for user registration. Then, in the information server 1, the processor 11 adds a record REB associated with the relevant individual to the personal management database DBB. At this time, the processor 11 sets personal identification information specified by the customer in field FBA of the added record REB. Note that the personal identification information may be a character string, email address, phone number, or social media account arbitrarily specified by the customer. For example, the processor 11 sets the name or nickname specified by the customer in field FBB of the added record REB. The processor 11 does not set valid information in fields FBC and FBD of the added record REB. Alternatively, the processor 11 may not include fields FBC and FBD in the added record REB.

[0052] The customer follows the personal login screen and inputs login information into the personal terminal 3, for example, by performing a predetermined operation on the input unit 34. Note that the login information may be stored in the sub-storage unit 33, for example, and the processor 31 may use this stored login information as the login information input by the customer.

[0053] In ACT 303, the processor 31 requests the information server 1 to log in, along with notifying the information server 1 of the input login information. In ACT112, the processor 11 performs authentication processing to determine whether the accessing individual has authorization to use the information providing system 100, based on the login information notified from the personal terminal 3. This authentication processing may be a well-known processing. If the authentication is successful, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT113.

[0054] If the authentication here is successful, the processor 11 will identify the customer identified by the login information as the user of the personal terminal 3. Thus, by the processor 11 executing information processing based on the distribution program PRA, the computer with the processor 11 as its central part functions as an identification means.

[0055] As ACT113, processor 11 transmits page data of a distribution information page representing distribution information corresponding to the first URL used for access to personal terminal 3. That is, processor 11 searches for a record REA in which the first URL used for access is set in field FAC from the store information database DBA. Then, processor 11 transmits page data including the distribution information set in fields FAD and FAE of the corresponding record REA to personal terminal 3. In this way, processor 11 executes information processing based on distribution program PRA, and the computer with processor 11 as its central part functions as first transmission means.

[0056] In ACT 304, the processor 31 displays a distribution information screen on the display unit 35 in accordance with the page data of the distribution information page. The distribution information screen is a screen for allowing customers to view the distribution information. For example, if the distribution information includes various store information as basic information and coupon information that can be used in an upcoming sale as optional information, the distribution information screen is expected to be a screen that displays the store information and the coupon information.

[0057] When a customer wishes to use a coupon provided by the coupon information, the customer can specify that the distribution information be saved by, for example, a predetermined operation on the input unit 34. In response to this specification, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT305. In ACT 305, the processor 31 requests the information server 1 to store the data.

[0058] In ACT114, the processor 11 updates the personal management database DBB. That is, for example, the processor 11 adds a new record REB associated with the currently logged-in individual to the personal management database DBB. For example, the processor 11 sets the personal identification information included in the login information notified for the currently logged-in individual in field FBA of the record REB to be added. For example, the processor 11 sets the personal name applied for at the time of user registration, etc., in field FBB of the record REB to be added. For example, the processor 11 sets the basic information set in field FAD of the record REA found in ACT113 in field FBC of the record REB to be added. For example, the processor 11 sets the optional information set in field FAE of the record REA found in ACT113 in field FBD of the record REB to be added.

[0059] Thus, at this time, the processor 11 associates the distribution information sent to the personal terminal 3 in ACT113 with the individual and stores it in the sub-storage unit 13. In other words, the sub-storage unit 13 functions as a second storage means. Furthermore, by the processor 11 executing information processing based on the distribution program PRA, the computer with the processor 11 as its central part functions as a storage means.

[0060] As ACT115, the processor 11 transmits to the personal terminal 3 page data of a save completion page for notifying the completion of the save. In ACT 306, the processor 31 displays a save completion screen on the display unit 35 in accordance with the page data of the save completion page. The save completion screen is a screen for notifying the customer that the delivery information has been saved.

[0061] (Viewing stored information) FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram of the exchange between the information server 1 and the personal terminal 3 regarding the browsing of stored information. When a customer of the store wishes to view the distribution information stored as described above, the customer instructs web access using a third URL predetermined for personal access on the personal terminal 3 carried by the customer, for example, by a predetermined operation on the input unit 34. The third URL is used in common for access to the information server 1 by multiple customers. The third URL is different from the first URL and the second URL and is appropriately determined, for example, by the operator of the information server 1. Upon receiving the above instruction, the processor 31 of the personal terminal 3 proceeds to ACT 311 in information processing based on the web access program PRB. As ACT 311, the processor 31 accesses the information server 1 via the communication network 200 using the third URL.

[0062] When this access is received, the processor 11 in the information server 1 proceeds to ACT 121 in the information processing based on the distribution program PRA. As ACT121, the processor 11 transmits to the personal terminal 3 page data of a personal login page for accepting login from an individual.

[0063] As ACT312, the processor 31 displays a personal login screen on the display unit 35 in accordance with the page data of the personal login page. The personal login screen is a screen for inputting login information such as personal identification information and a password that identifies an individual who uses this information providing system 100.

[0064] The customer follows the personal login screen and inputs login information into the personal terminal 3, for example, by performing a predetermined operation on the input unit 34. Note that the login information may be stored in the sub-storage unit 33, for example, and the processor 31 may use this stored login information as the login information input by the customer.

[0065] In ACT 313, the processor 31 requests the information server 1 to log in, along with notifying the information server 1 of the input login information. In ACT122, the processor 11 performs authentication processing to determine whether the accessing individual has authorization to use the information providing system 100, based on the login information notified from the personal terminal 3. This authentication processing may be a well-known processing. If the authentication is successful, the processor 11 proceeds to ACT123.

[0066] If the authentication here is successful, the processor 11 will identify the customer identified by the login information as the user of the personal terminal 3. Thus, by the processor 11 executing information processing based on the distribution program PRA, the computer with the processor 11 as its central part functions as an identification means.

[0067] As ACT123, the processor 11 transmits page data of the personal page relating to the accessing individual to the personal terminal 3. That is, the processor 11 searches the personal management database DBB for a record REB in which the personal identification information included in the login information is set in field FBA. The processor 11 then transmits page data based on the basic information and optional information set in fields FBB, FBC, and FBD of the corresponding record REB to the personal terminal 3. In this way, the processor 11 executes information processing based on the distribution program PRA, and the computer with the processor 11 as its central part functions as a second transmission means.

[0068] As ACT314, the processor 31 displays a My Page screen on the display unit 35 in accordance with the page data of the My Page. The My Page screen is a screen that allows the customer to view the saved basic information and optional information. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the My Page screen. The My Page screen shown in Figure 10 displays the information set in field FBB in area ARA, the information set in field FBC in area ARB, and the information set in field FBD in area ARC.

[0069] For example, a customer can receive the coupon benefits displayed in the area ARC by presenting the My Page screen shown in Fig. 10 at a store. In other words, a customer can receive the store guide service or coupon service provided by the store via the personal terminal 3 without installing an application program for that service on the personal terminal 3. In other words, a customer can obtain a coupon by saving the distribution information that includes the coupon information. A request to save distribution information that includes the coupon information corresponds to a request to obtain information about the coupon based on the distribution information that introduces the coupon being distributed.

[0070] As described above, the information server 1 can store distribution information for providing services at a plurality of stores in the store information database DBA, each associated with a respective store. When the information server 1 receives access from a personal terminal 3 via a first URL, it transmits page data based on the distribution information associated with the first URL to the personal terminal 3. Thus, by having the personal terminal 3 obtain the first URL related to the distribution information of the store, the store can obtain distribution information for each store. This allows services such as coupon services for each store to be provided via the personal terminal 3 without using an application program for each store on the personal terminal 3.

[0071] This embodiment can be modified in various ways as follows. The tag writer 4 and the wireless tag 5 may be brought into close proximity to each other so that they can communicate with each other by a person in charge or the like when writing the first URL to the wireless tag 5. In this case, the tag writer 4 and the wireless tag 5 do not need to be paired, and the number of tag writers 4 and the number of wireless tags 5 installed in one store may be any. In this case, the wireless tag 5 corresponds to the output device. The output device may also be realized in another form, such as a signage device equipped with wireless tags 5.

[0072] The store information database DBA may be allowed to contain multiple records REA in which the same store number and store name are set in fields FAA and FAB, and the information set in fields FAC, FAD, and FAE is different from each other. This allows multiple wireless tags 5 to be installed in one store, and different first URLs to be stored in the multiple wireless tags 5, so that distribution information corresponding to the first URL read by the personal terminal 3 can be viewed.

[0073] One record REA may be allowed to include multiple sets of a field in which the first URL is set, a field in which basic information is set, and a field in which optional information is set. This makes it possible to install multiple wireless tags 5 in one store, store different first URLs in the multiple wireless tags 5, and allow distribution information corresponding to the first URL read by the personal terminal 3 to be viewed.

[0074] The association between the store number and the first URL may be managed by another method, such as using a database for login authentication.

[0075] To obtain the first URL on the personal terminal 3, various other methods may be appropriately adopted, such as displaying a two-dimensional code representing the first URL on a display device as an output means and reading the two-dimensional code using a code reading function provided on the personal terminal 3.

[0076] The personal management database DBB may contain multiple records REB in which the same personal identification information and personal name are set in fields FBA and FBB, but the information set in fields FBC and FBD is different. This makes it possible to store multiple pieces of delivery information for one customer.

[0077] A single record REB may contain multiple pairs of fields containing basic information and optional information, making it possible to store multiple pieces of delivery information for a single customer.

[0078] The store information database DBA and the personal management database DBB may be managed by separate information servers, and the information processing performed by the information server 1 may be distributed and executed by a plurality of information processing devices.

[0079] Some or all of the functions realized by the processors 11, 21, and 31 through information processing can be realized by hardware that executes information processing not based on a program, such as a logic circuit. Each of the above functions can also be realized by combining the above hardware, such as the logic circuit, with software control.

[0080] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0081] 100...information provision system, 200...communication network, 1...information server, 2...store terminal, 3...personal terminal, 4...tag writer, 5...wireless tag, 11,21,31...processor, 12,22,32...main memory unit, 13,23,33...sub-memory unit, 14,26,36...communication unit, 15,28,38...transmission path, 24,34...input unit, 25,35...display unit, 27...interface unit, 37...near-field communication unit.

Claims

1. a first storage means for storing distribution information designated by a plurality of distributors in association with each of the distributors; a second storage means; output means for outputting one of the uniform resource locators (URLs) associated with each of the plurality of distributors; a first transmitting means for transmitting, when receiving a web access from an information communication terminal using the URL output by the output means, distribution information stored in the first storage means in association with a distributor associated with the URL, to the information communication terminal; an identification means for identifying a user of the information communication terminal; a storage means for storing the distribution information transmitted by the first transmission means in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means when the information communication terminal requests storage of the distribution information; a second transmission means for transmitting, when a request for viewing of the information stored in the second storage means is received from the information communication terminal, the information stored in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means to the information communication terminal; An information provision system equipped with the above.

2. When a request for obtaining information about a coupon is made by the information communication terminal based on distribution information informing about the coupon being distributed, the saving means saves the information about the target coupon in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means. The information providing system according to claim 1 .

3. an information processing device including the first storage means, the second storage means, the first transmission means, the identification means, the saving means, and the second transmission means; an output device including the output means; The information providing system according to claim 1 , comprising:

4. a first storage means for storing distribution information designated by a plurality of distributors in association with each of the distributors; a second storage means; a first transmitting means for transmitting, when receiving a web access from an information communication terminal via a URL output by an output means for outputting one of the URLs associated with each of the plurality of distributors, distribution information stored in the first storage means in association with the distributor associated with the URL; and an identification means for identifying a user of the information communication terminal; a storage means for storing the distribution information transmitted by the first transmission means in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means when the information communication terminal requests storage of the distribution information; a second transmission means for transmitting, when a request for viewing of the information stored in the second storage means is received from the information communication terminal, the information stored in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means to the information communication terminal; An information providing device equipped with the above.

5. a first storage means for storing distribution information designated by a plurality of distributors in association with each of the distributors; a second storage means; A computer provided in an information providing device including the a first transmitting means for transmitting, when receiving a web access from an information communication terminal via a URL output by an output means for outputting one of the URLs associated with each of the plurality of distributors, distribution information stored in the first storage means in association with the distributor associated with the URL; and an identification means for identifying a user of the information communication terminal; a storage means for storing the distribution information transmitted by the first transmission means in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means when the information communication terminal requests storage of the distribution information; a second transmission means for transmitting, when a request for viewing of the information stored in the second storage means is received from the information communication terminal, the information stored in the second storage means in association with the user identified by the identification means to the information communication terminal; An information processing program that makes it function as such.

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