Information processing apparatus and information processing method

Abstract

The present invention addresses the problem of contributing to inventory reduction. In order to solve this problem, an information processing device (4) is provided with a setting unit (72) and an imparting unit (73). The setting unit (72) sets the point assignment rate on the basis of the inventory information of the product. The assigning unit (73) assigns to the user a point corresponding to the assigning rate at the time of purchasing the product.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The disclosed embodiments relate to an information processing device and an information processing method. Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, for example, there is known a technique for giving points to store visitors or the like in conjunction with their store visits (for example, see Patent Document 1).

[0003] In the prior art.

[0004] Prior art literature

[0005] Patent Literature

[0006] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2020-64430 Summary of the Invention

[0007] (Technical problem to be solved by the invention)

[0008] In the prior art, by awarding points, it is possible to increase the purchasing desire of store visitors. However, regarding the awarding of points, there is room for improvement from the perspective of inventory management.

[0009] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object of the present invention is to contribute to inventory reduction.

[0010] (Technical solutions for solving technical problems)

[0011] An information processing device according to one aspect of the invention includes a setting unit and an awarding unit. The setting unit sets a point awarding rate based on visitor information. The awarding unit awards points according to the set awarding rate to a user.

[0012] An information processing device according to one aspect of the technical solution includes a receiving unit, a setting unit, and an awarding unit. The receiving unit receives award rate information regarding the award rate of points from a store terminal device. The setting unit sets the award rate of points based on the award rate information received by the receiving unit. The awarding unit awards points to a user according to the award rate set by the setting unit.

[0013] An information processing device according to one aspect of the technical solution includes a setting unit and an awarding unit. The setting unit sets a point awarding rate based on product disposal cost information. The awarding unit awards points to a user according to the set awarding rate.

[0014] An information processing device according to one aspect of the technical solution includes a setting unit and a notification unit. The setting unit sets the amount of points to be awarded to a user for purchasing a product based on inventory information of the product for which the user has completed a purchase procedure. The notification unit notifies the user of the amount of points set by the setting unit.

[0015] (Effects of the Invention)

[0016] According to one aspect of the technical solution, it is possible to contribute to inventory reduction. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically showing the dynamic integration system according to the first embodiment.

[0018] Figure 2 This is a block diagram schematically showing a terminal device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3 This is a block diagram schematically showing a store device according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 4 This is a block diagram schematically showing the information processing device according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 This is a diagram showing an example of a user information database.

[0022] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing an example of a store information database.

[0023] Figure 7 This is a graph showing the relationship between the remaining days and the grant rate.

[0024] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing an example of “store ID”, “product ID”, and “expiration date information” stored in the store information database.

[0025] Figure 9 This is a diagram showing an example of a settlement information database.

[0026] Figure 10 This is a graph showing the relationship between products and grant rates.

[0027] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the first embodiment.

[0028] Figure 12 This is a diagram schematically showing an example of a computer hardware configuration that functions as at least one of a terminal device, a store device, and an information processing device.

[0029] Figure 13 This is a block diagram schematically showing a store device according to the second embodiment.

[0030] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing an example of the granting rate information according to the second embodiment.

[0031] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing an example of a store information database according to the second embodiment.

[0032] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing an example of a settlement information database according to the second embodiment.

[0033] Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the second embodiment.

[0034] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the relationship between volume information and the granting rate according to the third embodiment.

[0035] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing an example of “store ID,” “product ID,” and “disposal cost information” stored in the store information database according to the third embodiment.

[0036] Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the relationship between products and payout rates according to the third embodiment.

[0037] Figure 21 This is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the third embodiment.

[0038] Figure 22 This is a block diagram schematically showing an information processing device according to a fourth embodiment.

[0039] Figure 23 This is a diagram showing an example of “store ID,” “product ID,” “expiration date information,” and “quantity” stored in the inventory information table according to the fourth embodiment.

[0040] Figure 24 This is a diagram showing an example of a product information table according to the fourth embodiment.

[0041] Figure 25 This is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the fourth embodiment.

[0042] Figure 26 This is a diagram illustrating the process of notifying information related to points.

[0043] Figure 27 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for notifying information related to points.

[0044] Figure 28 This is a flowchart illustrating the process of notifying information related to points. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0045] The present invention will be described below by way of embodiments, but the following embodiments do not limit the technical aspects of the present invention. In addition, the combination of features described in the embodiments is not necessarily essential to the technical aspects of the invention.

[0046] [1. First embodiment]

[0047] Reference Figure 1 The point granting system according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 1 This is a block diagram schematically showing the dynamic integration system 1 according to the first embodiment.

[0048] The dynamic points system 1 includes a terminal device 2, a store device 3, and an information processing device 4. The information processing device 4 is connected to the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via a network N by wired or wireless communication. The network N is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet, and is composed of one or more networks.

[0049] also, Figure 1 The number of devices included in the dynamic integration system 1 shown is not limited to Figure 1 The number of each device can be more than 2.

[0050] Terminal device 2 is a device used by the user. Terminal device 2 is a device capable of performing settlements using electronic money, etc. Terminal device 2 may be a smart device such as a smartphone or tablet, a wearable device such as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a smartwatch, a head-mounted display, or smart glasses.

[0051] The terminal device 2 is connected to the network N through wireless communication networks such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation; fourth generation mobile communication system), 5G (5th Generation: fifth generation mobile communication system), Bluetooth (registered trademark), wireless LAN (Local Area Network) and other short-range wireless communications, and can communicate with the information processing device 4.

[0052] Reference Figure 2 The terminal device 2 will be described. Figure 2This is a block diagram schematically showing the terminal device 2 according to the first embodiment.

[0053] The terminal device 2 includes a communication unit 10 , a display unit 11 , an input unit 12 , a positioning unit 13 , a camera 14 , a control unit 15 , and a storage unit 16 .

[0054] The communication unit 10 is connected to the network N via a wired or wireless connection. The communication unit 10 transmits and receives information to and from the information processing device 4 via the network N.

[0055] The display unit 11 is a display device that displays various information. For example, the display unit 11 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electro-luminescent display (OLED). The display unit 11 may be a touch panel display, but is not limited thereto.

[0056] The input unit 12 is an input device that receives various operations from the user. For example, the input unit 12 includes buttons for inputting characters, numbers, etc. Alternatively, the input unit 12 may be an I / O port, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, or the like. Furthermore, if the display unit 11 is a touch panel display, a portion of the display unit 11 functions as the input unit.

[0057] The positioning unit 13 receives signals (radio waves) transmitted from GPS (Global Positioning System) satellites and, based on the received signals, obtains location information (e.g., latitude and longitude) indicating the current location of the terminal device 2, which is its own device. In other words, the positioning unit 13 determines the position of the terminal device 2. GPS is merely one example of a GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0058] In addition, the positioning unit 13 records the location to be used together with information such as settlement performed by the terminal device 2, for example, when the terminal device 2 has the function of an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag equivalent to a contactless IC card used in stores, events, etc., or has the function of reading an RFID tag.

[0059] The camera 14 includes, for example, an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), and a lens.

[0060] The storage unit 16 is implemented by, for example, a semiconductor memory device such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or flash memory, or a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or an optical disk. The storage unit 16 stores various programs, various data, and the like.

[0061] The control unit 15 is a controller that includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM, input / output ports, and various circuits. Furthermore, the control unit 15 can be configured using hardware such as an integrated circuit (IC) such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 15 includes a transmitter 20, a receiver 21, and a processor 22.

[0062] The transmission unit 20 transmits various information input by the user using the input unit 12 and various information located by the positioning unit 13 to the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 10. When the terminal device 2 has already made a payment, the transmission unit 20 can transmit the payment information to the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 10.

[0063] The receiving unit 21 can receive various information provided by the information processing device 4 and requests for various information from the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 10. For example, the receiving unit 21 can receive information related to the point awarding rate set by the information processing device 4. The received information related to the point awarding rate can be displayed on the display unit 11. This allows the user to know the point awarding rate.

[0064] The processing unit 22 controls the entire terminal device 2, including the display unit 11. For example, the processing unit 22 can output various information transmitted by the transmission unit 20 and various information received from the information processing device 4 by the reception unit 21 to the display unit 11 for display. For example, when a payment application such as electronic money is activated, the processing unit 22 can perform payment executed by the terminal device 2.

[0065] For example, when terminal device 2 reads a QR code (registered trademark) installed at a store and performs payment, processing unit 22 performs payment on terminal device 2. If payment is completed on terminal device 2, processing unit 22 generates payment information. The generated payment information is transmitted to information processing device 4 via transmission unit 20 and communication unit 10.

[0066] The settlement information includes information such as "user ID", "store ID", "product ID", "product amount", "total amount", "settlement date and time", and "settlement number".

[0067] "User ID" is an identifier that identifies the user. "Store ID" is an identifier that identifies the store. "Product ID" is an identifier that identifies the product. Alternatively, "Product ID" may be "Product Name," which is information indicating the name of the product sold at the store. "Product Amount" is the amount of the product. "Total Amount" is the total of the "Prices" for the products included in the settlement information. "Settlement Date and Time" is the date and time when the settlement information was received. "Settlement Number" is information that identifies the settlement information.

[0068] The store device 3 is, for example, a personal computer or a POS server having a communication function. Figure 3 The store device 3 will be described. Figure 3 This is a block diagram schematically showing a store device 3 according to the first embodiment. A store is a store that sells goods. Examples of stores include convenience stores and supermarkets.

[0069] The store device 3 includes a communication unit 30, a control unit 31, and a storage unit 32. The communication unit 30 is connected to the network N via a wired or wireless connection. The communication unit 30 transmits and receives information to and from the information processing device 4 via the network N.

[0070] The storage unit 32 is realized by, for example, a semiconductor memory element such as a RAM or a flash memory, or a storage device such as an HDD, an SSD, or an optical disk. The storage unit 32 stores various programs, various data, and the like.

[0071] The control unit 31 is a controller, for example, including a microcomputer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, input / output ports, and various circuits. Alternatively, the control unit 31 may be implemented as hardware, such as an integrated circuit (IC) such as an ASIC or FPGA. The control unit 31 includes a transmitter 40, a receiver 41, and a processor 42.

[0072] The transmitting unit 40 transmits inventory information to the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 30. The inventory information includes a "store ID," a "product ID," and "expiration date information." Expiration date information is information related to the expiration date of a product. Expiration date information includes any of a use-by date, a tasting date, and a consumption date. Expiration date information is set according to the type of product. Expiration date information is set for each product. That is, even for identical products, separate expiration date information is set for each product. For example, even for identical products with different tasting dates, different expiration date information is set for each product.

[0073] If a store's settlement device (e.g., a POS register) has already settled using electronic currency, for example, by reading a QR code displayed on the terminal device 2 at the store's reader, the transmitter 40 transmits the settlement information to the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 30. For store-side settlement using electronic currency, the barcode displayed on the terminal device 2 can be read. If the terminal device 2 has an RFID tag function, store-side settlement using electronic currency can be performed by reading information from the RFID tag. Furthermore, store-side settlement using electronic currency can include settlement using credit cards.

[0074] The receiving unit 41 can receive various information provided by the information processing device 4 and various information requests from the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 30. For example, the receiving unit 41 can receive information related to the point award rate set by the information processing device 4. The received information related to the point award rate is displayed on a monitor installed in the store, for example. This allows users to know the point award rate.

[0075] The processing unit 42 controls the entire store device 3. For example, the processing unit 42 generates inventory information. The processing unit 42 generates inventory information for each product.

[0076] For example, if a QR code displayed on the terminal device 2 is read by a reader at the store and payment is made at the store's payment device, the processing unit 42 generates payment information. The generated payment information is transmitted to the information processing device 4 via the transmission unit 40 and the communication unit 30.

[0077] Reference Figure 4 The information processing device 4 will be described. Figure 4This is a block diagram schematically showing the information processing device 4 according to the first embodiment.

[0078] The information processing device 4 includes a communication unit 50, a control unit 51, and a storage unit 52. The communication unit 50 is connected to the network N via a wired or wireless connection. The communication unit 50 transmits and receives information to and from the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the network N.

[0079] The storage unit 52 is implemented by a semiconductor memory device such as RAM or flash memory, or a storage device such as HDD, SSD, or optical disk. The storage unit 52 includes a user information database 60, a store information database 61, and a payment information database 62. Each database includes data in the form of one or more tables.

[0080] The user information database 60 is a database that stores various information related to the user. Figure 5 As shown, for example, information of "user ID", "name", "sex", "age", "address", and "number of points" is stored. Figure 5 It is a diagram showing an example of the user information database 60 .

[0081] "Name", "Gender", "Age" and "Address" are attribute information indicating the user's name, gender, age and address respectively. In addition, "Name", "Gender", "Age" and "Address" are only examples of user attribute information. User attribute information can be any attribute such as demographic attributes (demographic attributes) and psychological attributes (psychological attributes). In addition, Figure 5 In the example shown, "name" is described as an abstract term "AABB" for convenience, but it is assumed that specific information is stored in "AABB."

[0082] "Points" are the number of reward points a user holds. Users can use their "Points" to purchase products. Furthermore, users can use their "Points" to receive services. "Points" can be used as part of payment for the purchase of products or the provision of services.

[0083] For example, for "0001" of "User ID", "AABB", "Male", "30 years old", "Minato-ku, Tokyo" and "120" are stored in association as information of "name", "sex", "age", "address" and "number of points", respectively.

[0084] The store information database 61 is a database that stores various information related to the store. Figure 6 As shown, for example, information of "store ID", "store name" and "address" is stored. "Store name" and "address" are attribute information indicating the name of the store and the address, respectively. Figure 6 It is a diagram showing an example of the store information database 61.

[0085] The store information database 61 also stores "remaining days" and "credit rate." "Remaining days" refers to the number of days remaining until the product expires. For example, "remaining days" refers to the number of days remaining until the product expires. The "credit rate" indicates the ratio of points awarded to the user to the payment amount. The credit rate represents the rate of increase or decrease relative to a pre-set base credit rate and is a coefficient of variation corresponding to the remaining days.

[0086] For example, in the store information database 61, if Figure 7 As shown, the "remaining days" and the "payment rate" are stored in association with each other. Figure 7 This graph shows the relationship between the remaining days and the bonus rate. The fewer days remaining, the higher the bonus rate. In other words, the fewer days remaining, the more points are awarded to the user.

[0087] For example, if the remaining days are "30 days or more," the bonus rate is "1." On the other hand, if the remaining days are "less than 1 day," the bonus rate is "9." This means that if you purchase an item with a remaining days of "less than 1 day," you will earn nine times as many points as if you purchased an item with a remaining days of "30 days or more."

[0088] also, Figure 7 The relationship between "Days Remaining" and "Grant Rate" shown is just one example and is not limited to this. Furthermore, the "Grant Rate" relative to "Days Remaining" is set for each product. For example, different "Grant Rates" may be set for different products even if the "Days Remaining" is the same. Furthermore, the "Grant Rate" can also be set relative to the "Time Remaining." For example, if the number of days remaining is "less than 1 day," the "Grant Rate" can also be set relative to the "Time Remaining." For example, the shorter the "Time Remaining," the greater the "Grant Rate."

[0089] In addition, the inventory information of the merchandise of each store is stored in the store information database 61. Specifically, in the store information database 61, "expiration date information" is stored in association with "store ID" and "product ID".

[0090] For example, in the store information database 61, if Figure 8 As shown, the "expiration date information" is stored in association with the "store ID" and the "product ID". Figure 6: is a diagram showing an example of "store ID", "product ID" and "expiration date information" stored in the store information database 61. Figure 8 In the figure, for the sake of convenience, the store name is shown as "store ID" and the "product name" is shown as "product ID".

[0091] For example, the information database stores expiration information of "March 10, 2023" for "ABC milk" at store A. If store A has multiple stocks of "ABC milk," expiration information is stored for each "ABC milk."

[0092] The settlement information database 62 is a database that stores the settlement information of each store. Figure 9 As shown, for example, information such as "user ID", "store ID", "product ID", "product amount", "total amount", "settlement date and time", "settlement number" and "points awarded" is stored. Figure 9 It is a diagram showing an example of the settlement information database 62.

[0093] "Points awarded" is information related to points awarded when a user purchases a product, for example. "Points awarded" is set and stored for each "product ID."

[0094] For example, if a user with user ID "0001" purchases product "a000" with electronic money at store "aaaa" at 7:10 AM on March 10, 2023, the information for each transaction is stored in association with user ID "0001." Specifically, information for store ID "aaaa" and product ID "a000" are stored in association with user ID "0001." In addition, the information of "120 yen" as the "product amount" and "120 yen" as the "total amount" is associated with "0001" of the "user ID" and stored. In addition, the information of "2023 / 3 / 10 / 7:10" as the "settlement date and time" and "A0110" as the "settlement number" are associated with "0001" of the "user ID" and stored. In addition, the information of "1" as the "points awarded" is associated with "0001" of the "user ID" and stored.

[0095] The control unit 51 is a controller, and includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU, ROM, RAM, input / output ports, and various circuits. Furthermore, the control unit 51 can be configured as hardware, such as an integrated circuit such as an ASIC or FPGA. The control unit 51 includes a receiving unit 70, a transmitting unit 71, a setting unit 72, and an assigning unit 73.

[0096] The receiving unit 70 can receive various information provided by the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. For example, the receiving unit 70 obtains user information related to the user from the terminal device 2 via the communication unit 50. The user information includes "user ID," "name," "gender," "age," and "address." The user information is stored in the user information database 60.

[0097] The receiving unit 70 obtains store information from the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The store information includes "store ID," "store name," and "address." The receiving unit 70 obtains inventory information from the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. Specifically, the receiving unit 70 obtains inventory information for each store's products from each store device 3.

[0098] The receiving unit 70 acquires payment information from the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The payment information is acquired from the terminal device 2 or the store device 3 according to the payment method.

[0099] The transmission unit 71 can transmit information on, for example, the rate of awarding points to the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The transmission unit 71 transmits the number of points owned by the user to the terminal device 2 owned by the user.

[0100] Based on the acquired inventory information, the setting unit 72 stores the expiration date information of each product in each store in the store information database 61. The setting unit 72 reads the "store ID," "product ID," and "expiration date information" from the inventory information and stores them in the store information database 61.

[0101] The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the inventory information of the products. The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate for each product in each store based on the inventory information obtained from each store. When settlement information is obtained, the setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the inventory information.

[0102] The setting unit 72 extracts the information necessary for granting points from the settlement information. Specifically, the setting unit 72 reads the "store ID," "product ID," and "settlement date and time" from the settlement information as the information necessary for granting points.

[0103] The setting unit 72 reads out a "store ID" that matches the read "store ID" from the store information database 61. The setting unit 72 reads out a "product ID" that matches the "product ID" read out as the required information from among the "product IDs" in the "store ID" read out from the store information database 61.

[0104] Setting unit 72 reads "expiration date information" associated with "product ID" read from store information database 61. Setting unit 72 calculates the payout rate based on "expiration date information" read from store information database 61 and "settlement date and time" read as payout necessary information.

[0105] Specifically, the setting unit 72 calculates the "remaining days" at the time of purchase based on the "expiration date information" and the "settlement date and time." Using the "remaining days" and "bonus rate" data stored in the store information database 61, the setting unit 72 reads the "bonus rate" corresponding to the calculated "remaining days" and sets the bonus rate for the purchased product. The shorter the time (number of days) until the expiration date of the purchased product, the larger the bonus rate. The setting unit 72 sets the bonus rate for each purchased product.

[0106] Granting unit 73 grants points to the user based on the grant rate set by setting unit 72. Granting unit 73 grants points to the user based on the grant rate when purchasing goods. Granting unit 73 reads the "user ID," "goods ID," and "goods price" from the settlement information as information necessary for granting. Granting unit 73 reads the "goods price" associated with the "goods ID" that matches the read "goods ID."

[0107] The awarding unit 73 calculates the points for the purchased items using the set "award rate" and awards points to the user. For example, the awarding unit 73 multiplies the read "item price" by the base award rate and the award rate to calculate the points for each item. The calculated points are stored in the settlement information database 62 as "points awarded" in association with the "user ID."

[0108] The granting unit 73 adds the calculated points to the current number of points of the user, thereby granting points to the user. The granting unit 73 adds the calculated points to the "number of points" stored in the user information database 60, in association with the "user ID." The "number of points" after the calculated points are added is stored in the user information database 60. In other words, the "number of points" stored in the user information database 60 is updated.

[0109] The granting unit 73 transmits the updated “number of points” to the terminal device 2 via the transmitting unit 71 and the communicating unit 50. Thus, the updated “number of points” is notified to the user.

[0110] Here, refer to Figure 10 The following describes the payout rate when a product is purchased at store A using electronic money or by a user. Figure 10 This is a graph showing the relationship between products and the grant rate. The product was purchased on March 5, 2023.

[0111] At store A, users purchase "ABC Milk," "DEF Pudding," and "XYZ Soy Sauce" using electronic money. The expiration date for "ABC Milk" is March 10, 2023. The expiration date for "DEF Pudding" is March 5, 2023. The expiration date for "XYZ Soy Sauce" is July 5, 2023.

[0112] The number of days remaining until the expiration date of "ABC Milk" is "5 days", so for example Figure 5 The displayed "remaining days" corresponds to "5 days or more and less than 14 days." Therefore, the "grant rate" for "ABC milk" is "4."

[0113] In addition, the "remaining days" until the expiration date of "DEF Pudding" is "0 days", so for example Figure 5 The displayed "remaining days" corresponds to "less than 1 day". Therefore, the "grant rate" for "DEF Pudding" becomes "9".

[0114] In addition, the "remaining days" until the expiration date of "XYZ soy sauce" is more than 30 days. Therefore, for example, Figure 5 The displayed "remaining days" corresponds to "30 days or more." Therefore, the "grant rate" for "XYZ soy sauce" becomes "1."

[0115] Thus, for example, when using electronic money to purchase a product with a short expiration date, the award rate is high, and the user can obtain a large number of points.

[0116] Next, refer to Figure 11 The point granting process according to the first embodiment will be described. Figure 11 1 is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the first embodiment. It is assumed here that the inventory information is acquired from the store device 3 and the expiration date information is stored in the store information database 61 .

[0117] The information processing device 4 obtains payment information from the store device 3 or the terminal device 2 (S100). The information processing device 4 reads out the necessary information for payment from the payment information (S101). Specifically, the information processing device 4 reads out the "user ID," "store ID," "product ID," "payment date and time," and "product amount" as the necessary information for payment from the payment information.

[0118] The information processing device 4 sets the bonus rate for each purchased product (S102). The information processing device 4 reads the "store ID" that has the necessary information, the "store ID" that matches the "product ID," and the "product ID" from the store information database 61, and reads the "expiration date information" associated with the read "product ID." The information processing device 4 calculates the "remaining days" of the product based on the "settlement date" and the "expiration date information," reads the "bonus rate" based on the calculated "remaining days," and sets the bonus rate for each product.

[0119] The information processing device 4 awards points to the user (S103). The information processing device 4 calculates the points for each purchased item. The information processing device 4 multiplies the "item price" of each item by the base award rate and the award rate to calculate the points for each item. The information processing device 4 awards the calculated points to the user. The information processing device 4 reads the "points" associated with the "user ID" from the user information database 60 and adds the calculated points to the read "points."

[0120] The information processing device 4 includes a setting unit 72 and an awarding unit 73. The setting unit 72 sets the awarding rate of points based on the inventory information of the product. The awarding unit 73 awards points to the user according to the awarding rate when purchasing the product.

[0121] The information processing device 4 sets the point award rate for products based on inventory information, thereby encouraging users to purchase products and promoting their purchases. Therefore, the information processing device 4 can contribute to inventory reduction in stores.

[0122] The stock information includes the expiration date information of the product. The shorter the time until the expiration date of the product, the larger the bonus rate is set by the setting unit 72.

[0123] Thus, the information processing device 4 can, for example, contribute to the sales of products with a short shelf life. For example, the information processing device 4 can reduce the number of products discarded due to expired shelf lives. In other words, the information processing device 4 can contribute to reducing the amount of products that are discarded. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can contribute to reducing the cost of discarding products. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can contribute to reducing the amount of work required to discard products. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can contribute to the sales of products and increase store sales.

[0124] The setting unit 72 sets the payout rate for each product. This allows the information processing device 4 to set a payout rate based on, for example, the shelf life of each product. Consequently, the information processing device 4 can set a payout rate based on the length of time until the shelf life of each product. This can contribute to reducing the number of products discarded due to, for example, expired shelf lives.

[0125] The inventory information of the product may further include the inventory quantity information of the product. The setting unit 72 of the information processing device 4 sets the bonus rate to be larger as the inventory quantity of the product increases.

[0126] The information processing device 4 can contribute to the sales of products in large quantities by setting a high award rate for products in large quantities.

[0127] The product inventory information may further include product expiration information and product inventory information. For example, the setting unit 72 of the information processing device 4 sets a higher bonus rate for products with a short expiration date and a large inventory.

[0128] Thereby, the information processing device 4 can contribute to the sales of products that have a short expiration date and are in large quantities, for example.

[0129] Furthermore, product inventory information can be managed in the cloud. For example, the management information can be managed by the information processing device 4. The information processing device 4 can manage the inventory quantity and expiration information of products in each store based on sales information sent from the store device 3.

[0130] Figure 12 This diagram schematically illustrates an example of the hardware configuration of a computer 1200 that functions as at least one of the terminal device 2, the store device 3, and the information processing device 4. A program installed in computer 1200 can cause computer 1200 to function as one or more "units" of the apparatus described in this embodiment, or can cause computer 1200 to perform operations associated with the apparatus described in this embodiment or the one or more "units," and / or can cause computer 1200 to perform processes described in this embodiment or stages of such processes. Such a program can be executed by CPU 1212 to cause computer 1200 to perform specific operations associated with some or all of the blocks in the flowcharts and block diagrams described in this specification.

[0131] The computer 1200 of this embodiment includes a CPU 1212, a RAM 1214, and a graphics controller 1216, which are interconnected via a host controller 1210. The computer 1200 also includes input / output units such as a communication interface 1222, a storage device 1224, a DVD drive, and an IC card drive, which are connected to the host controller 1210 via an input / output controller 1220. The DVD drive may be a DVD-ROM drive or a DVD-RAM drive. The storage device 1224 may be a hard disk drive or a solid-state drive. The computer 1200 also includes input / output units such as a ROM 1230 and a keyboard, which are connected to the input / output controller 1220 via an input / output chip 1240.

[0132] The CPU 1212 operates according to programs stored in the ROM 1230 and the RAM 1214 , thereby controlling each unit. The graphics controller 1216 acquires image data generated by the CPU 1212 from a frame buffer provided in the RAM 1214 or from the graphics controller itself, and displays the image data on the display device 1218 .

[0133] The communication interface 1222 communicates with other electronic devices via a network. The storage device 1224 stores programs and data used by the CPU 1212 in the computer 1200. The DVD drive reads programs and data from a DVD-ROM or the like and provides them to the storage device 1224. The IC card drive reads programs and data from an IC card and / or writes programs and data to an IC card.

[0134] The ROM 1230 stores a boot program and the like executed by the computer 1200 upon activation, and / or programs depending on the hardware of the computer 1200. The input / output chip 1240 can also connect various input / output units to the input / output controller 1220 via a USB port, a parallel port, a serial port, a keyboard port, a mouse port, and the like.

[0135] The program is provided on a computer-readable storage medium such as a DVD-ROM or IC card. The program is read from the computer-readable storage medium, installed in the storage device 1224, RAM 1214, or ROM 1230, also examples of computer-readable storage media, and executed by the CPU 1212. The information processing described in these programs is read by the computer 1200, enabling collaboration between the program and the various types of hardware resources described above. A device or method can be constructed by implementing information manipulation or processing based on the use of the computer 1200.

[0136] For example, when communication is performed between the computer 1200 and an external device, the CPU 1212 can execute a communication program loaded into the RAM 1214 and instruct the communication interface 1222 to perform communication processing based on the processing described in the communication program. Under the control of the CPU 1212, the communication interface 1222 reads transmission data stored in a transmission buffer provided in the RAM 1214, the storage device 1224, a DVD-ROM, or an IC card, and transmits the read transmission data to the network, or writes reception data received from the network to a reception buffer provided on the recording medium.

[0137] Furthermore, the CPU 1212 can read all or a required portion of a file or database stored in an external recording medium such as the storage device 1224, a DVD drive (DVD-ROM), or an IC card from the RAM 1214, and perform various types of processing on the data in the RAM 1214. The CPU 1212 can then write the processed data back to the external recording medium.

[0138] Various types of information such as various types of programs, data, tables, and databases can be stored in the recording medium and subjected to information processing. The CPU 1212 can perform various types of processing on the data read from the RAM 1214, including various types of operations, information processing, conditional judgments, conditional branches, unconditional branches, information retrieval / replacement, etc., specified by the instruction sequence of the program, as described anywhere in this disclosure, and write the results back to the RAM 1214. In addition, the CPU 1212 can retrieve information from files, databases, etc. in the recording medium. For example, in the case where a plurality of entries are stored in the recording medium, each entry having an attribute value of a first attribute associated with an attribute value of a second attribute, the CPU 1212 can search for an entry that is consistent with the condition specifying the attribute value of the first attribute from the plurality of entries, read the attribute value of the second attribute stored in the entry, and thereby obtain the attribute value of the second attribute associated with the first attribute that meets the predetermined condition.

[0139] The above-described program or software module can be stored in a computer-readable storage medium on or near the computer 1200. Alternatively, a recording medium such as a hard disk or RAM provided in a dedicated communication network or a server system connected to the Internet can be used as a computer-readable storage medium, thereby providing the program to the computer 1200 via the network.

[0140] The boxes in the flowcharts and block diagrams in this embodiment may represent stages of a process for performing an operation or a "section" of a device for performing an operation. Specific stages and "sections" may be implemented by dedicated circuits, programmable circuits provided together with computer-readable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium, and / or processors provided together with computer-readable instructions stored on a computer-readable storage medium. Dedicated circuits may include digital and / or analog hardware circuits, and may include integrated circuits (ICs) and / or discrete circuits. Programmable circuits may include, for example, field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) and programmable logic arrays (PLAs), including reconfigurable hardware circuits such as logical product, logical sum, exclusive or, negated logical product, negated logical sum, and other logical operations, flip-flops, registers, and storage elements.

[0141] A computer-readable storage medium may include any tangible device capable of storing instructions to be executed by an appropriate device, and as a result, a computer-readable storage medium having instructions stored therein includes a product of instructions that can be executed to create a means for performing the operations specified in the flowchart or block diagram. Examples of computer-readable storage media include electronic storage media, magnetic storage media, optical storage media, electromagnetic storage media, semiconductor storage media, and the like. More specific examples of computer-readable storage media include floppy disks (registered trademark), magnetic disks, hard disks, random access memories (RAM), read-only memories (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memories (EPROM or flash memory), electrically erasable programmable read-only memories (EEPROM), static random access memories (SRAM), compact disk read-only memories (CD-ROMs), digital versatile disks (DVDs), Blu-ray disks (registered trademarks), memory sticks, integrated circuit cards, and the like.

[0142] Computer-readable instructions may include source code or object code described in any combination of assembly instructions, instruction set architecture (ISA) instructions, machine instructions, machine-dependent instructions, microcode, firmware instructions, state-setting data, or one or more programming languages ​​such as Smalltalk (registered trademark), JAVA (registered trademark), C++, or an object-oriented programming language, and an existing procedural programming language such as the "C" programming language or similar programming languages.

[0143] In order to cause a processor or programmable circuit of a general-purpose computer, a special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device to generate a unit for performing the operations specified in the flowchart or block diagram and execute computer-readable instructions, the computer-readable instructions may be provided to the processor or programmable circuit of the general-purpose computer, special-purpose computer, or other programmable data processing device locally or via a wide area network (WAN) such as a local area network (LAN) or the Internet. Examples of the processor include computer processors, processing units, microprocessors, digital signal processors, controllers, microcontrollers, etc.

[0144] (Second embodiment)

[0145] Next, the second embodiment will be described. Here, the description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. The description of the same configuration as the first embodiment may be omitted. In the second embodiment, points can be awarded to users at an appropriate award rate corresponding to the store's conditions.

[0146] Specifically, the store device 3 according to the second embodiment can perform processing such as setting the point award rate, as described later. Therefore, the store device 3 is used by a person with authority to set the point award rate (e.g., a store manager (user)), but is not limited to this. Furthermore, the store device 3 is an example of a store terminal device.

[0147] Reference Figure 13 The store device 3 will be described. Figure 13 This is a block diagram schematically showing a store device 3 according to the second embodiment.

[0148] In addition to the aforementioned communication unit 30, control unit 31, and storage unit 32, the store device 3 also includes an input unit 33. The input unit 33 is, for example, an input device for accepting various operations from the store manager. For example, the input unit 33 includes buttons for inputting text, numbers, etc. Alternatively, the input unit 33 may be an input / output port (I / O port), a USB port, or a touch-panel display.

[0149] For example, information regarding the rate at which points are awarded (described later) is input to the input unit 33. The award rate information is input for each store based on the store's status. The store's status includes, for example, the status of events held in the store's surrounding area. Furthermore, while an example of inputting the award rate information via the input unit 33 is shown here, this is not limiting. For example, the control unit 31 may automatically set the award rate information based on, for example, the status of events held.

[0150] The storage unit 32 stores payout rate information 45 , activity information 46 , various programs, various data, and the like.

[0151] Reference Figure 14 The grant rate information 45 will be described. Figure 14 : is a diagram showing an example of the grant rate information 45 according to the second embodiment. Figure 14 As shown, the grant rate information 45 stores information such as “store ID”, “product name”, “expiration date”, “number”, and “grant rate”.

[0152] "Store ID" is an identifier for identifying a store. "Product Name" is information indicating the name of a product sold in a store. "Expiration Date" is expiration date information related to the expiration date of a product. Expiration date information includes any one of a usage date, a tasting date, and a consumption date. In addition, expiration date information may also include the manufacturing date and time of the product. Expiration date information is set according to the type of product. Expiration date information is set for each product. That is, even for the same product, expiration date information is set separately for each product. For example, even for the same product, if the tasting date is different, different expiration date information is set for each product.

[0153] "Quantity" indicates the number of points in stock. "Rate" indicates, for example, the percentage (%) of points awarded to a user relative to the settlement amount. The rate is set for each product. Furthermore, the rate can be set based on the expiration date of each product. For example, even if the same product has different trial periods, a different rate can be set for each trial period.

[0154] For example, for the "store ID" "aaaa", "ABC lunch box", "2023 / 6 / 4 (remaining days: 3 days)", "3", and "1" are stored as information on "product name", "expiration date", "number of items", and "grant rate" in association with each other. As another example, for the "store ID" "aaaa", "ABC lunch box", "2023 / 6 / 3 (remaining days: 2 days)", "2", and "3" are stored as information on "product name", "expiration date", "number of items", and "grant rate" in association with each other.

[0155] In this way, in the granting rate information 45, it is usually set that the closer the expiration date of the product is, the greater the granting rate is. That is, the fewer the remaining days, the more points are granted to the user. In this way, users can be encouraged to purchase products with a near expiration date. Therefore, in the second embodiment, for example, it is possible to contribute to the sales of products with a short time until the tasting date of the product. In addition, in the second embodiment, it is possible to reduce the number of products discarded due to the expiration of the tasting date, in other words, it is possible to contribute to the reduction of products to be discarded. In addition, in the second embodiment, it is possible to contribute to the reduction of the disposal costs of products, in other words, it is possible to contribute to the reduction of the disposal operations of products. In addition, in the second embodiment, it is possible to contribute to the sales of products and to the increase in the sales of the store. In addition, the above-mentioned "normal time" refers to a situation where no events are held around the store, but is not limited to this.

[0156] However, as described above, if the bonus rate is set so that the closer the product's expiration date is, the store's profits may be reduced by the increased bonus rate. Furthermore, if an event (such as a sports meet, concert, or rally) is held near a store, users attending the event may purchase products, leading to a tendency for the store to sell more products than usual. Furthermore, these users consume (use) the purchased products at the event, before or after the event, so there is a tendency for the store to purchase products with a near expiration date even without setting a higher bonus rate.

[0157] Therefore, in the second embodiment, the shop side can set the rate of awarding points according to the shop's status (here, the presence or absence of activities), thereby suppressing the reduction of the shop's profit. Figure 14 In the figure, the payout rate when the event is held is shown in brackets.

[0158] like Figure 14 As shown in the figure, when an event is held around the store on the day when the product is sold in the store, the grant rate is changed to a rate lower than the grant rate when no event is held (i.e., normal time). For example, the "grant rate" of products named "ABC lunch box" and "DEF milk" is set to "1" which is lower than the normal grant rate regardless of the product's expiration date. In addition, although Figure 14 , the example in which the “payout rate” during an event is set to be lower than the payout rate during normal times is shown, but the present invention is not limited thereto and may be set to be lower than the payout rate during normal times.

[0159] Items for which such a bonus rate is set are purchased, for example, by users participating in an event. Therefore, in the second embodiment, compared to a situation where the bonus rate is set to increase as the expiration date of an item approaches, it is possible to suppress a reduction in the store's profits. In other words, it is possible to award points to users at an appropriate bonus rate that suits the store's circumstances.

[0160] Back to Figure 13 As explained above, event information 46 is information related to events held near the store. Event information 46 includes, but is not limited to, information such as the date and content of the event. Event information 46 can be input and stored by the store manager or retrieved and stored from an external server (not shown).

[0161] The transmission unit 40 of the control unit 31 transmits the award rate information including the inventory status of the goods and the award rate of points for each product to the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 30 (see Figure 14 ) In addition, the other processing performed by the transmission unit 40 and the processing performed by the reception unit 41 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore the description thereof is omitted here.

[0162] The processing unit 42 controls the entire store device 3. For example, the processing unit 42 generates payout rate information. For example, the processing unit 42 generates payout rate information reflecting the payout rate input via the input unit 33 and corresponding to the store's conditions. This generated payout rate information is transmitted to the information processing device 4 via the transmission unit 40 and the communication unit 30.

[0163] Furthermore, the processing unit 42 may generate payout rate information based on the event information 46. For example, if the product's sales date coincides with an event date included in the event information 46, the processing unit 42 may generate payout rate information including a payout rate for the event date (i.e., a payout rate appropriate to the store's conditions).

[0164] For example, when a store's reader reads a QR code displayed on terminal device 2 and payment is made using the store's payment device, processing unit 42 generates payment information. The generated payment information is transmitted to information processing device 4 via transmission unit 40 and communication unit 30.

[0165] The information processing device 4 will be described (see Figure 4 The storage unit 52 of the information processing device 4 according to the second embodiment includes a user information database 60, a store information database 61, and a settlement information database 62. The user information database 60 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore its description is omitted here.

[0166] The store information database 61 is a database that stores various information related to the store. Figure 15 As shown, for example, information of "store ID", "store name", "address", "product name", "expiration date", "number", and "grant rate" is stored. Figure 15This is a diagram showing an example of the store information database 61 according to the second embodiment.

[0167] "Store name" and "Address" are attribute information indicating the name of the store and the address respectively. "Product name", "Expiration date", "Quantity" and "Grant rate" are attribute information indicating the store name and address respectively. Figure 14 The information of the grant rate shown is the same, so the description here is omitted. Figure 15 In the example, an event is being held around the store with the store ID "aaaa", while no event is being held around the store with the store ID "bbbb".

[0168] from Figure 15 It can be seen that in the store with "store ID" "aaaa", the "grant rate" is set to "1" for the product with "product name" "ABC lunch box" and "expiration date" "2023 / 6 / 2 (remaining days: 1 day)". On the other hand, in the store with "store ID" "bbbb", the "grant rate" is set to "5" for the product with "product name" "ABC lunch box" and "expiration date" "2023 / 6 / 2 (remaining days: 1 day)".

[0169] As described above, in the second embodiment, even for the same product and the same time limit, the payout rate is set differently depending on the situation of each store.

[0170] Settlement information database 62 (see Figure 4 ) is a database storing the settlement information of each store. In the settlement information database 62, as shown in FIG. Figure 16 As shown, for example, information such as "user ID", "store ID", "product name", "product amount", "total amount", "settlement date and time", "settlement number" and "points awarded" is stored. Figure 16 It is a diagram showing an example of the settlement information database 62 according to the second embodiment.

[0171] "Points awarded" is information related to points awarded when a user purchases a product, for example. "Points awarded" is set and stored for each product (each product name).

[0172] For example, if a user with user ID "0001" purchases products named "ABC lunch" and "DFE milk" using electronic money at store "aaaa" at 10:00 on June 1, 2023, the information for each transaction is stored in association with user ID "0001." Specifically, information about "aaaa" as the store ID, "ABC lunch" and "DFE milk" as the product names are stored in association with user ID "0001." Furthermore, information about "600 yen" and "100 yen" as the product amounts, and "700 yen" as the total amount, is stored in association with user ID "0001." Furthermore, information about "2023 / 6 / 1 / 10:00" as the payment date and time, and "A0110" as the payment number, are stored in association with user ID "0001." Furthermore, information of “6” and “1” as “points awarded” is associated with “0001” of “user ID” and stored.

[0173] As another example, if a user with user ID "0002" purchases products named "ABC lunch" and "DFE milk" using electronic money at store "bbbb" at 10:00 on June 1, 2023, the payment information is stored in association with user ID "0002." Specifically, information about "bbbb" as the "store ID," "ABC lunch," and "DFE milk" as the "product names" are stored in association with user ID "0002." Furthermore, information about "600 yen" and "100 yen" as the "product amounts," and "700 yen" as the "total amount" are stored in association with user ID "0002." Furthermore, information about "2023 / 6 / 1 / 10:00" as the "payment date and time," and "B1841" as the "payment number" are stored in association with user ID "0002." Furthermore, information of "30" and "6" as "points awarded" is associated with "0002" of "user ID" and stored.

[0174] Thus, in the second embodiment, even if a user with "user ID" "0001" and a user with "0002" purchase the same product (specifically, the same product with the same expiration date), the granting rate is set differently depending on the situation of the store, so the points granted to each user also differ depending on the store where the purchase was made.

[0175] The control unit 51 according to the second embodiment (see Figure 4) includes a receiving unit 70, a sending unit 71, a setting unit 72 and an assigning unit 73.

[0176] The receiving unit 70 can receive various information provided by the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. For example, the receiving unit 70 obtains user information related to the user from the terminal device 2 via the communication unit 50. The user information includes "user ID," "name," "gender," "age," and "address." The user information is stored in the user information database 60.

[0177] The receiving unit 70 obtains store information from the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. Specifically, the receiving unit 70 obtains store information for each store from each store device 3. The store information includes information such as the inventory status of products and the point award rate for each product. Specifically, the store information includes information such as "store ID," "store name," "address," "product name," "expiration date," "number of units," and "award rate." The store information is stored in the store information database 61.

[0178] In this manner, the receiving unit 70 receives the awarding rate information related to the awarding rate of points from the shop device 3. The receiving unit 70 is an example of a receiving unit.

[0179] The receiving unit 70 acquires payment information from the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The payment information is acquired from the terminal device 2 or the store device 3 according to the payment method.

[0180] The transmission unit 71 can transmit information on the point award rate included in the store information database 61 to the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The transmission unit 71 transmits the number of points owned by the user to the terminal device 2 held by the user.

[0181] The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate. Specifically, the setting unit 72 reads the store information database 61 and sets the point award rate based on the award rate information contained in the store information database 61. In other words, the setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the award rate information received from the store device 3.

[0182] As described above, the payout rate of the payout rate information is set on the store side and reflects the store's status. Therefore, the setting unit 72 can set the payout rate according to the store's status (for example, the presence or absence of an event).

[0183] The award rate information also changes based on sales date information, which indicates the date on which the item eligible for points was sold at the store. Furthermore, the award rate information changes based on event information related to events held near the store. For example, the award rate information changes based on whether the item was sold at the store on a normal day, such as when an event is being held, or on a day when an event is being held.

[0184] Specifically, regarding the granting rate information, if an event is held around the store on the day when the store sells products that are eligible for points granting, the granting rate information will be changed to a rate lower than the granting rate when no event is held (i.e., under normal circumstances).

[0185] The award rate information may also be changed based on expiration date information related to the expiration date of the product to which points are awarded. For example, the award rate may be increased as the time until the expiration date of the product is shorter.

[0186] In addition, although Figure 15 , the example in which the point award rate during an event is set to the same value regardless of the product expiration date is shown, but the present invention is not limited to this. In other words, if the award rate is lower than the award rate during non-event periods (i.e., normal periods), the point award rate during an event can be increased as the time until the product expiration date is shorter.

[0187] Furthermore, the award rate information is set for each product to which points are awarded. Therefore, the setting unit 72 can, for example, set an award rate based on the expiration date or inventory status of each product. Specifically, the setting unit 72 can set an award rate for each product such that the shorter the time until the expiration date, the higher the award rate. Alternatively, the setting unit 72 can set an award rate for each product such that the higher the inventory level, the higher the award rate.

[0188] The setting unit 72 outputs information on the granting rate set as described above to the granting unit 73 .

[0189] The awarding unit 73 awards points to the user according to the set awarding rate. For example, the awarding unit 73 awards points to the user based on the settlement information and the set awarding rate.

[0190] Specifically, the assigning unit 73 extracts the information necessary for assignment from the settlement information. More specifically, the assigning unit 73 reads the "user ID," "store ID," "product name," "product price," "total price," and "settlement date and time" from the settlement information as the information necessary for assignment. Based on the "store ID" and "settlement date and time," the assigning unit 73 identifies the store where the settlement was made and the date and time of the settlement.

[0191] The awarding unit 73 then calculates the points for the "total amount" using the award rate set for each product by the store, and awards the points to the user. For example, the awarding unit 73 multiplies the "product amount" by the award rate set for each product to calculate the points for each product. The calculated points are stored in the settlement information database 62 as "points awarded" in association with the "user ID."

[0192] The granting unit 73 adds the calculated points to the current number of points of the user, thereby granting points to the user. The granting unit 73 associates the calculated points with the "number of points" stored in the user information database 60, and stores the added "number of points" in the user information database 60. In other words, the "number of points" stored in the user information database 60 is updated.

[0193] The granting unit 73 transmits the updated “number of points” to the terminal device 2 via the transmitting unit 71 and the communicating unit 50. Thus, the updated “number of points” is notified to the user.

[0194] Next, refer to Figure 17 The point granting process according to the second embodiment will be described. Figure 17 This is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the second embodiment.

[0195] The information processing device 4 receives and accepts the payout rate information from the store device 3 (step S200). The information processing device 4 then sets the payout rate of points based on the payout rate information (step S201).

[0196] Next, the information processing device 4 obtains the settlement information (step S202). For example, the information processing device 4 obtains the settlement information from the terminal device 2 or the store device 3. Next, the information processing device 4 extracts the necessary information from the settlement information (step S203). For example, the information processing device 4 extracts the necessary information from the settlement information, such as the "user ID," "store ID," "product name," "product price," "total amount," and "settlement date and time."

[0197] Next, the information processing device 4 calculates the points awarded to the user (step S204). For example, the information processing device 4 multiplies the "product price" by the award rate set for each product to calculate the points for each product. The information processing device 4 then awards the calculated points to the user (step S205).

[0198] As described above, the information processing device 4 according to the second embodiment includes an accepting unit (receiving unit 70), a setting unit 72, and an awarding unit 73. The accepting unit accepts award rate information regarding the award rate of points from the store terminal device (store device 3). The setting unit 72 sets the award rate of points based on the award rate information accepted by the accepting unit. The awarding unit 73 awards points to the user according to the award rate set by the setting unit 72.

[0199] Thus, the information processing device 4 can award points to users at an appropriate award rate that matches the store's situation. Specifically, the information processing device 4 receives information about the award rate for points set at the store based on the store's situation (e.g., the presence or absence of events near the store), and sets the award rate based on the received award rate information. This allows points to be awarded to users at an award rate that matches the store's situation.

[0200] Furthermore, the award rate information is modified based on sales date information, which indicates the date on which the item for which points are awarded was sold at the store. Specifically, in the second embodiment, the award rate information can be modified based on, for example, whether the item was sold at the store on a normal day, such as when an event is being held, or on a day when an event is being held. Thus, the information processing device 4 can award points to the user at a rate that matches the date on which the item was sold at the store.

[0201] Furthermore, the payout rate information can be modified based on event information related to events held near the store. Specifically, in the second embodiment, the payout rate information can be modified between normal times and event days, for example, when events are being held. Consequently, the information processing device 4 can award points to users at a rate that matches the presence or absence of events held near the store.

[0202] Furthermore, if an event is held near a store on a day when a product eligible for point awarding is sold at the store, the award rate in the award rate information is changed to a rate equal to or lower than the award rate when no event is held.

[0203] Thus, the information processing device 4 can, for example, suppress the reduction of the store's profit. That is, for example, if the granting rate is set so that the closer the expiration date of the product is, the larger the granting rate is, the store's profit may sometimes be reduced in accordance with the portion where the granting rate is increased. In addition, if an event is held around the store, users who participate in the event will consume the purchased goods when participating in the event or before and after participating in the event. Therefore, for goods with a near expiration date, there is a tendency to purchase them even if a high granting rate is not set. Therefore, in the second embodiment, by setting the granting rate in the above manner, the reduction of the store's profit can be suppressed compared to the case where the granting rate is set so that the closer the expiration date of the product is, for example, the larger the granting rate is. In other words, points can be granted to users at an appropriate granting rate corresponding to the situation of the store.

[0204] The award rate of the award rate information is changed according to the expiration date information related to the expiration date of the product to which the points are awarded.

[0205] Thus, the information processing device 4 can, for example, be configured to increase the award rate the shorter the time until a product expires, thereby encouraging users to purchase products with a near expiration date. Therefore, the information processing device 4 can, for example, contribute to the sale of products with a short expiration date. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can reduce the number of products discarded due to expired expiration dates; in other words, it can contribute to reducing the amount of discarded products. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can contribute to reducing the cost of discarding products; in other words, it can contribute to reducing the amount of work required to discard products. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can contribute to the sale of products and can contribute to an increase in store sales.

[0206] The award rate of the award rate information is set for each commodity to be awarded points.

[0207] Thus, the information processing device 4 can set, for example, a grant rate based on the expiration date and inventory status of each product. Specifically, the information processing device 4 can set a higher grant rate for each product as the shorter the time until the expiration date. This can, for example, contribute to reducing the number of products discarded due to expiration. Furthermore, the information processing device 4 can set a higher grant rate for each product as the number of products in stock increases. This can, for example, contribute to reducing a store's inventory.

[0208] (Third embodiment)

[0209] Next, the third embodiment will be described. The description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. The description of components similar to the first embodiment may be omitted. The third embodiment can contribute to reducing the cost of discarding products.

[0210] Specifically, in the store device 3 according to the third embodiment (see Figure 3 ), the transmitting unit 40 of the control unit 31 transmits the discarding cost information to the information processing device 4 via the communication unit 30. The discarding cost information includes a "store ID," a "product ID," and "volume information." Volume information is information related to the volume of the product. Volume information is set for each product. The remaining processing performed by the transmitting unit 40 and the processing performed by the receiving unit 41 are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore their description is omitted.

[0211] The processing unit 42 controls the entire store system 3. For example, the processing unit 42 generates disposal cost information. The processing unit 42 generates disposal cost information for each product. For example, the processing unit 42 is connected to a measuring device (not shown) that measures the volume of purchased products and obtains volume information indicating the volume of the products measured by the measuring device from the measuring device. The processing unit 42 then generates volume information that categorizes the obtained volume of the products into categories such as S (Small), M (Medium), or L (Large), and generates disposal cost information that includes this volume information.

[0212] Furthermore, the processing unit 42 may be configured to generate disposal cost information that includes a volume range encompassing the acquired volume of the product as volume information. For example, in this case, the processing unit 42 generates volume information that categorizes the acquired volume of the product into volume ranges, such as less than 500 cubic centimeters, greater than 500 cubic centimeters and less than 1000 cubic centimeters, or greater than 1000 cubic centimeters, and generates disposal cost information that includes this volume information. Furthermore, the processing unit 42 may be configured to generate disposal cost information that includes the exact acquired volume of the product itself as volume information.

[0213] When the store's reader reads a QR code displayed on the terminal device 2 and the store's payment device performs payment, the processing unit 42 generates payment information. The generated payment information is transmitted to the information processing device 4 via the transmission unit 40 and the communication unit 30.

[0214] The information processing device 4 will be described (see Figure 4 The storage unit 52 of the information processing device 4 according to the third embodiment includes a user information database 60, a store information database 61, and a settlement information database 62. The user information database 60 is the same as that of the first embodiment, and therefore its description is omitted here.

[0215] The store information database 61 is a database that stores various information related to the store. In the store information database 61, for example, information of "store ID", "store name" and "address" is stored (see Figure 6 ).

[0216] The store information database 61 also stores product volume information and allocation rates. Volume information refers to the volume of each product. For example, volume information indicates the volume of each product, such as S (Small), M (Medium), or L (Large). In this case, the product volume can be classified into two or more types.

[0217] Furthermore, "volume information" may be information indicating the classification result of each product's volume into a given volume range that includes that volume. The given volume ranges include, for example, less than 500 cubic centimeters, 500 cubic centimeters or more and less than 1000 cubic centimeters, and 1000 cubic centimeters or more. Furthermore, the volume ranges may be two or four or more. Furthermore, "volume information" may be the volume of each product itself.

[0218] The "payout rate" is a value indicating the ratio of points awarded to the user to the settlement amount. The payout rate is the rate of increase or decrease relative to a preset reference payout rate and is a coefficient of variation according to the volume information included in the disposal cost information.

[0219] For example, in the store information database 61, if Figure 18 As shown, the "volume information" and the "granting rate" are stored in association with each other. Figure 18 This diagram shows the relationship between volume information and the payout rate according to the third embodiment. The larger the volume of the product indicated by the volume information, the higher the payout rate is set. In other words, the larger the volume of the product indicated by the volume information, the more points are awarded to the user.

[0220] For example, if the volume information is "S," the bonus rate is "1." If the volume information is "M," the bonus rate is "3." And if the volume information is "L," the bonus rate is "5." This means that if you purchase an item with "M" volume information, you'll earn three times as many points as if you purchased an item with "S" volume information, and if you purchase an item with "L" volume information, you'll earn five times as many points as if you purchased an item with "S" volume information.

[0221] also, Figure 18The relationship between "volume information" and "grant rate" shown is merely an example and is not limited thereto. Furthermore, the "grant rate" for "volume information" is set for each product. For example, different "grant rates" can be set for different products even if they have the same "volume information."

[0222] Additionally, the "rate" can be set for the product's "weight information." "Weight information" is information related to the weight of each product. For example, weight information indicates the classification result of each product's weight into categories such as L (Light), M (Medium), or H (Heavy). In this case, the product weight can be classified into two or more categories.

[0223] Alternatively, "weight information" may be information indicating the classification result of each product's weight into a given weight range that includes that weight. The given weight ranges include less than 100g, 100g or more and less than 500g, and 500g or more. Furthermore, the weight ranges may be two or four or more. Alternatively, "weight information" may be the weight of each product itself.

[0224] If the "payout rate" is set based on the "weight information" of the product, the greater the weight of the product indicated by the weight information, the greater the "payout rate" is set. In other words, the greater the weight of the product indicated by the weight information, the more points are awarded to the user.

[0225] Furthermore, the "attribution rate" can also be set for "generated amount information" of carbon dioxide generated by incinerating products. "Generation amount information" is information related to the amount of carbon dioxide generated by incinerating products. For example, generation amount information indicates the classification results of each product's weight into categories such as SA (Small Amount), MA (Medium Amount), or LA (Large Amount). In this case, the number of product weight categories can be two or four or more.

[0226] Alternatively, the "generation amount information" may be information indicating a classification result of the carbon dioxide generation amount generated by each product being incinerated into a predetermined generation amount range including the generated amount. Alternatively, the "generation amount information" may be the carbon dioxide generation amount itself generated by each product being incinerated.

[0227] If the "earning rate" is set based on the "production volume information" of a product, the greater the amount of carbon dioxide generated as indicated by the production volume information, the higher the "earning rate" is set. In other words, the greater the amount of carbon dioxide generated as indicated by the weight information, the more points the user will be awarded.

[0228] Furthermore, the store information database 61 stores the disposal cost information of the products in each store. Specifically, the store information database 61 stores the "disposal cost information" in association with the "store ID" and the "product ID."

[0229] For example, in the store information database 61, if Figure 19 As shown, the "disposal cost information" is stored in association with the "store ID" and the "product ID". Figure 19 : is a diagram showing an example of "store ID", "product ID" and "disposal cost information" stored in the store information database 61 according to the third embodiment. Figure 19 In the figure, for convenience of explanation, the store name is shown as "store ID" and the "product name" is shown as "product ID".

[0230] For example, in the information database, for the "ABC rice ball" of store A, the discard cost information of "S" is stored. In addition, when there are multiple stocks of "ABC rice balls" in store A, the discard cost information is stored for each "ABC rice ball". In addition, the settlement information database 62 (refer to Figure 4 ) is the same as the first embodiment, so the description here is omitted.

[0231] The control unit 51 according to the third embodiment (see Figure 4 ) includes a receiving unit 70, a sending unit 71, a setting unit 72 and an assigning unit 73.

[0232] The receiving unit 70 can receive various information provided by the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. For example, the receiving unit 70 obtains user information related to the user from the terminal device 2 via the communication unit 50. The user information includes "user ID," "name," "gender," "age," and "address." The user information is stored in the user information database 60.

[0233] The receiving unit 70 obtains store information from the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The store information includes "store ID," "store name," and "address." The receiving unit 70 obtains disposal cost information from the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. Specifically, the receiving unit 70 obtains disposal cost information for products at each store from each store device 3.

[0234] The receiving unit 70 acquires payment information from the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The payment information is acquired from the terminal device 2 or the store device 3 according to the payment method.

[0235] The transmission unit 71 can transmit information on, for example, the rate of awarding points to the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The transmission unit 71 transmits the number of points owned by the user to the terminal device 2 held by the user.

[0236] The setting unit 72 stores the volume information of each product for each store in the store information database 61 based on the acquired disposal cost information. The setting unit 72 reads the "store ID," "product ID," and "volume information" from the disposal cost information and stores them in the store information database 61.

[0237] The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the discarding cost information of the product. The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate for each product at each store based on the discarding cost information obtained from each store. If settlement information is obtained, the setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the discarding cost information.

[0238] The setting unit 72 extracts the information necessary for granting points from the settlement information. Specifically, the setting unit 72 reads the "store ID" and the "product ID" from the settlement information as the information necessary for granting points.

[0239] The setting unit 72 reads out a "store ID" that matches the read "store ID" from the store information database 61. The setting unit 72 reads out a "product ID" that matches the "product ID" read out as the required information from among the "product IDs" in the "store ID" read out from the store information database 61.

[0240] The setting unit 72 reads the "discarding cost information" associated with the "product ID" read from the store information database 61. The setting unit 72 sets the payout rate associated with the "volume information" included in the "discarding cost information" read from the store information database 61 as the payout rate for the product with the "product ID" extracted from the settlement information.

[0241] Specifically, the setting unit 72 uses the "volume information" and "payout rate" data stored in the store information database 61, reads the "payout rate" corresponding to the calculated "volume information," and sets the payout rate for the purchased item. The larger the volume of the purchased item, the greater the payout rate. The setting unit 72 sets the payout rate for each purchased item.

[0242] The granting unit 73 grants points to the user according to the granting rate set by the setting unit 72. Figure 20The following describes the payout rate when a product is purchased at store A using electronic money or by a user. Figure 20 This is a diagram showing the relationship between products and payout rates according to the third embodiment.

[0243] At store A, the items "ABC Rice Ball," "DEF Ramen," and "XYZ Lunch Box" were purchased using electronic money. The discarding cost information for "ABC Rice Ball" is "S." The discarding cost information for "DEF Ramen" is "M." The discarding cost information for "XYZ Lunch Box" is "L."

[0244] The "volume information" included in the discard cost information of "ABC rice ball" is "S". Figure 18 The “grant rate” corresponding to “S” of the “volume information” shown is “1”, and therefore the “grant rate” for the “ABC rice ball” becomes “1”.

[0245] Furthermore, the "volume information" included in the disposal cost information for "DEF Ramen" is "M". Figure 18 The “dispensing rate” corresponding to “M” of the “volume information” shown is “3”, and therefore the “dispensing rate” for “DEF ramen” becomes “3”.

[0246] Furthermore, the "volume information" included in the disposal cost information of "XYZ lunch box" is "L". Figure 18 The “payout rate” corresponding to “L” of the “volume information” is shown to be “5”, and therefore the “payout rate” for the “XYZ lunch box” is “5”.

[0247] In this way, when a large-volume product is purchased using electronic money, for example, the award rate becomes higher, and the user can obtain more points.

[0248] Next, refer to Figure 21 The point granting process according to the third embodiment will be described. Figure 21 3 is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the third embodiment. It is assumed here that the disposal cost information and the volume information are acquired from the store device 3 and stored in the store information database 61 .

[0249] The information processing device 4 obtains payment information from the store device 3 or the terminal device 2 (S300). The information processing device 4 reads out the necessary information for payment from the payment information (S301). Specifically, the information processing device 4 reads out the "user ID," "store ID," "product ID," "payment date and time," and "product amount" as the necessary information for payment from the payment information.

[0250] The information processing device 4 sets the payout rate for each purchased product (S302). The information processing device 4 reads the "store ID" that has the necessary information, the "store ID" that matches the "product ID," and the "product ID" from the store information database 61, and reads the "disposal cost information" associated with the read "product ID." Based on the "volume information" included in the "disposal cost information," the information processing device 4 reads the "payout rate" associated with the "volume information" and sets the payout rate for each product.

[0251] The information processing device 4 awards points to the user (S303). The information processing device 4 calculates the points for each purchased item. The information processing device 4 multiplies the "item price" value of each item by the base award rate and the award rate to calculate the points for each item. The information processing device 4 awards the calculated points to the user. The information processing device 4 reads the "points" associated with the "user ID" from the user information database 60 and adds the calculated points to the read "points."

[0252] As described above, the information processing device 4 according to the third embodiment includes a setting unit 72 and an awarding unit 73. The setting unit 72 sets the point awarding rate based on the product's disposal cost information. The awarding unit 73 awards the user the points corresponding to the set awarding rate. The disposal cost is, for example, a fee paid by a store to a disposer for collecting and disposing of products that have expired, such as by-product dates, by-product dates, or by-product dates, and are therefore unsaleable to users.

[0253] Therefore, the information processing device 4 can, for example, set a higher point award rate for users who purchase products with a high discarding cost than for users who purchase products with a low discarding cost. This encourages the purchase of products with a high discarding cost, thereby contributing to reducing the discarding cost of products in stores.

[0254] Furthermore, the disposal cost information includes product volume information. Furthermore, the larger the product volume, the larger the payout rate set by the setting unit 72. This allows the information processing device 4 to encourage the purchase of bulky products. This can reduce the product disposal cost, for example, when a disposer requests a fee commensurate with the volume of the discarded products being collected.

[0255] In addition, when the discarding cost information includes the weight information of the commodity, the setting unit 72 sets the bonus rate to be larger as the weight of the commodity is larger. In this case, Figure 18 "S", "M", "L" and Figure 19The "S", "M", and "L" in the "disposal cost information" shown are replaced with "L (Light)", "M (Medium)", and "H (Heavy)", respectively.

[0256] The information processing device 4 can thereby promote the purchase of heavy commodities, and thus reduce commodity disposal costs when, for example, a disposer charges a fee corresponding to the weight of discarded commodities to be collected.

[0257] Furthermore, when the disposal cost information includes information on the amount of carbon dioxide generated by incinerating the product, the setting unit 72 sets the allocation rate to a larger value as the amount of carbon dioxide generated by incinerating the product increases.

[0258] In this case, Figure 18 "S", "M", "L" of the "Volume Information" shown, and Figure 19 "S", "M", and "L" in the "disposal cost information" shown are replaced with "SA (Small Amount)", "MA (Medium Amount)", and "LA (Large Amount)", respectively.

[0259] Thus, the information processing device 4 can promote the purchase of products that generate a large amount of carbon dioxide when incinerated, so that, for example, when a waste handler requests a fee corresponding to the amount of carbon dioxide generated by the incineration of the discarded products to be recycled, the disposal cost of the products can be reduced.

[0260] (Fourth embodiment)

[0261] Next, the fourth embodiment will be described. The description will focus on the differences from the first embodiment. The description of the same configurations as the first embodiment may be omitted. The fourth embodiment can contribute to inventory reduction.

[0262] Reference Figure 22 An information processing device 4 according to a fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 22 This is a block diagram schematically showing an information processing device 4 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0263] The storage unit 52 of the information processing device 4 according to the fourth embodiment includes a user information database 60 , a store information database 61 , a product information database 63 , and a payment information database 62 .

[0264] The user information database 60 is a database that stores various information related to the user. The user information database 60 includes a user information table. Figure 5) is the same as the first embodiment, so the description here is omitted.

[0265] The store information database 61 is a database that stores various information related to stores. The store information database 61 includes a store information table, a grant rate table, and a stock information table 61a. The store information table of the store information database 61 (see Figure 6 ) and the grant rate table (refer to Figure 7 ) is the same as the first embodiment, so the description here is omitted.

[0266] The inventory information table 61a stores inventory information of products at each store. Specifically, the store information database 61 stores "expiration date information" and "quantity" in association with "store ID" and "product ID."

[0267] For example, in the inventory information table 61a, if Figure 23 As shown, "expiration date information" and "quantity" are stored in association with "store ID" and "product ID". Figure 23 This is a diagram showing an example of “store ID”, “product ID”, “expiration date information”, and “quantity” stored in the inventory information table 61 a according to the fourth embodiment.

[0268] For example, in the inventory information table 61a, for the product "ABC Milk" (product ID "a000") in store A (store ID "aaaa"), the expiration date is "March 10, 2023" and the quantity is "2". In addition, if there are multiple stocks of the same product with different expiration information in store A, a record is stored in the inventory information table 61a for each expiration information. Figure 23 In the example of , there are two records with product ID "a000" and different expiration date information in the inventory information table 61a.

[0269] The product information database 63 is a database storing information related to products. The product information database 63 includes a product information table 63a.

[0270] In the product information table 63a, if Figure 24 As shown, for example, information such as "product ID", "product name", "category", and "product price" is stored. Figure 24 It is a diagram showing an example of the product information table 63a according to the fourth embodiment.

[0271] For example, in Figure 24 In FIG. 1 , it is shown that the product name of the product with the product ID “a000” is “ABC milk”, the category is “milk”, and the product price is “120 yen”.

[0272] The settlement information database 62 is a database that stores the settlement information of each store. The settlement information database 62 includes a settlement information table. The settlement information table of the settlement information database 62 (see Figure 10 ) is the same as the first embodiment, so the description here is omitted.

[0273] The control unit 51 according to the fourth embodiment includes a receiving unit 70 , a transmitting unit 71 , a setting unit 72 , and an assigning unit 73 .

[0274] The receiving unit 70 can receive various information provided by the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. For example, the receiving unit 70 obtains user information related to the user from the terminal device 2 via the communication unit 50. The user information includes "user ID," "name," "gender," "age," and "address." The user information is stored in the user information table of the user information database 60.

[0275] The receiving unit 70 acquires store information and inventory information from the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The receiving unit 70 acquires settlement information from the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50.

[0276] The transmission unit 71 can transmit information on, for example, the rate of awarding points to the terminal device 2 and the store device 3 via the communication unit 50. The transmission unit 71 transmits the number of points owned by the user to the terminal device 2 held by the user.

[0277] The setting unit 72 stores the expiration date information of each product for each store in the stock information table 61a based on the acquired stock information. The setting unit 72 reads the "store ID," "product ID," and "expiration date information" from the stock information and stores them in the stock information table 61a.

[0278] The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the inventory information of the products. The setting unit 72 sets the point award rate for each product in each store based on the inventory information obtained from each store. When settlement information is obtained, the setting unit 72 sets the point award rate based on the inventory information.

[0279] The setting unit 72 extracts the information necessary for granting points from the settlement information. Specifically, the setting unit 72 reads the "store ID," "product ID," and "settlement date and time" from the settlement information as the information necessary for granting points.

[0280] The setting unit 72 reads out the "store ID" that matches the read "store ID" from the inventory information table 61a. The setting unit 72 reads out the "product ID" that matches the "product ID" read out as the required information from the "store ID" read out from the inventory information table 61a.

[0281] The setting unit 72 reads the "expiration date information" associated with the "product ID" read from the inventory information table 61a. The setting unit 72 calculates the payment rate based on the "expiration date information" read from the inventory information table 61a and the "settlement date and time" read as payment required information.

[0282] Specifically, the setting unit 72 calculates the "remaining days" at the time of purchase based on the "expiration date information" and the "settlement date and time." Using the "remaining days" and "reward rate" data stored in the reward rate table of the store information database 61, the setting unit 72 reads the "reward rate" corresponding to the calculated "remaining days" and sets the reward rate for the purchased product. The shorter the time (number of days) until the purchase product's expiration date, the greater the reward rate. The setting unit 72 sets the reward rate for each purchased product.

[0283] Granting unit 73 grants points to the user based on the grant rate set by setting unit 72. Granting unit 73 grants points to the user based on the grant rate when purchasing goods. Granting unit 73 reads the "user ID," "goods ID," and "goods price" from the settlement information as information necessary for granting. Granting unit 73 reads the "goods price" associated with the "goods ID" that matches the read "goods ID."

[0284] The awarding unit 73 uses the set "award rate" to calculate the points for the purchased items and award points to the user. For example, the awarding unit 73 multiplies the read "item amount" by the base award rate and the award rate to calculate the points for each item. The calculated points are stored in the settlement information table of the settlement information database 62 as "points awarded" in association with the "user ID."

[0285] The granting unit 73 adds the calculated points to the current user's points to grant the user points. The granting unit 73 adds the calculated points to the "points" stored in the user information table of the user information database 60, in association with the "user ID." The "points" obtained by adding the calculated points are stored in the user information table of the user information database 60. In other words, the "points" stored in the user information table of the user information database 60 are updated.

[0286] The granting unit 73 transmits the updated “number of points” to the terminal device 2 via the transmitting unit 71 and the communication unit 50. Thus, the updated “number of points” is notified to the user.

[0287] Next, refer to Figure 25 The point granting process according to the fourth embodiment will be described. Figure 254 is a flowchart illustrating the point granting process according to the fourth embodiment. It is assumed here that the inventory information is acquired from the store device 3 and the expiration date information is stored in the inventory information table 61a.

[0288] The information processing device 4 obtains payment information from the store device 3 or the terminal device 2 (S400). The information processing device 4 reads out the necessary information for payment from the payment information (S401). Specifically, the information processing device 4 reads out the "user ID," "store ID," "product ID," "payment date and time," and "product amount" as the necessary information for payment from the payment information.

[0289] The information processing device 4 sets the bonus rate for each purchased product (S402). The information processing device 4 reads the "store ID" and the "product ID" that match the "store ID" and "product ID" that are assigned the necessary information from the inventory information table 61a, and reads the "expiration date information" associated with the read "product ID." The information processing device 4 calculates the "remaining days" of the product based on the "settlement date" and the "expiration date information," reads the "bonus rate" for the calculated "remaining days," and sets the bonus rate for each product.

[0290] The information processing device 4 awards points to the user (S403). The information processing device 4 calculates the points for each purchased item. The information processing device 4 multiplies the "item price" value of each item by the base award rate and the award rate to calculate the points for each item. The information processing device 4 awards the calculated points to the user. The information processing device 4 reads the "points" associated with the "user ID" from the user information table in the user information database 60 and adds the calculated points to the read "points."

[0291] [Example: Notification of Points-Related Information Before Purchase]

[0292] The information processing device 4 according to the fourth embodiment can notify the user of information related to points before the user purchases (pays for) a product.

[0293] Figure 26 1 is a diagram illustrating a process of notifying information related to points. Figure 26 As shown, a shopping cart 6 equipped with a shopping basket is equipped with a terminal device 2. The cart 6 is equipped with a stand on which the terminal device 2 can be placed. For example, the terminal device 2, which is a smartphone, is placed on the stand equipped on the cart 6.

[0294] The user causes the terminal device 2 to read the information of the product 81 to be purchased. The terminal device 2 captures an image of a barcode or the like attached to the package of the product 81 using the camera 25 to read the information of the product 81.

[0295] The terminal device 2 reads the content of the product 81 whose product ID is "a000" (product name is "ABC milk") and whose expiration date information is "2023 / 3 / 10". In addition, it is assumed that the expiration date information here is a tasting date.

[0296] After the user causes the terminal device 2 to read the information of the product 81 , the user places the product 81 into the shopping basket provided in the shopping cart 6 .

[0297] The user causes the terminal device 2 to read the product information, which is an example of a purchase procedure performed by the user. The terminal device 2 transmits the fact that the purchase procedure has been performed to the information processing device 4 together with the read product information.

[0298] The setting unit 72 sets the amount of points (eg, the award rate) awarded to the user for purchasing the product based on the inventory information of the product the user has purchased. The method for setting the award rate executed by the setting unit 72 is as described above.

[0299] The transmission unit 71 notifies the user of the amount of points set by the setting unit 72. The transmission unit 71 transmits data for displaying the amount of points and related information to the terminal device 2 to make the notification.

[0300] The transmitting unit 71 causes the display unit 11 of the terminal device 2 to display Figure 27 Thus, the transmission unit 71 functions as a notification unit. Figure 27 This is a diagram showing an example of a screen for notifying information related to points.

[0301] The information of the commodity 81 whose information is read by the terminal device 2 is displayed in the area 111a of the screen 111. Figure 27 As shown, the following contents are displayed in the area 111a: the product name of the product 81 is "ABC milk", the tasting period (expiration period information) is "2023 / 3 / 10", and the points awarded are "1 point".

[0302] For example, for a product whose product ID is "a000" and whose expiration date information is "2023 / 3 / 10", the greater the stock quantity (the quantity stored in the stock information table 61a), the more points are awarded.

[0303] Thus, the information processing device 4 indicates that more points are awarded to products with a short expiration date or products with a large inventory, thereby encouraging users to purchase such products. As a result, the information processing device 4 contributes to inventory reduction.

[0304] In addition, the sending unit 71 can also notify the amount of points set for a second product that meets the conditions, which is a product different from the first product for which the user has completed the purchase procedure. The information of the first product is displayed in area 111a of the screen 111, and the information of the second product is displayed in area 111b.

[0305] For example, transmission unit 71 also notifies the user of the amount of points assigned to a second product, which is of the same category as the first product and which, upon purchasing, grants the user more points than the first product. Product 81 is "ABC milk, expiring on March 10, 2023," which corresponds to the first product.

[0306] Thus, the information processing device 4 can encourage the user to purchase products that are assigned more points, that is, can encourage the user to take purchasing actions that are more effective in reducing inventory.

[0307] Assume that the date and time when screen 111 is displayed is "2023 / 3 / 5 15:50." In this case, "ABC milk with a tasting period of 2023 / 3 / 8" has a shorter expiration date than product 81, so purchasing it will earn more points (e.g., 4 points) than product 81.

[0308] The transmitting unit 71 displays a message such as “4 points will be awarded for ABC milk with a tasting period of 2023 / 3 / 8!” on the area 111b. “ABC milk with a tasting period of 2023 / 3 / 8” is an example of the second product.

[0309] In this manner, the transmitting unit 71 can also notify the amount of points set for a second product that is of the same category as the first product and has a shorter time limit than the first product until the predetermined time limit for each second product.

[0310] Furthermore, "FFF milk with a tasting period of 2023 / 3 / 6" has a shorter expiration date and a larger stock quantity than product 81 (see stock information table 61a), so purchasing it will earn more points (e.g., 8 points) than product 81.

[0311] The transmitting unit 71 displays a message in the area 111b such as "Although it is from another manufacturer, if it is FFF milk with a refurbishment period of 2023 / 3 / 6, 8 points will be awarded!" "ABC milk with a refurbishment period of 2023 / 3 / 8" is an example of the second product.

[0312] In this manner, the transmitting unit 71 also notifies the amount of points set for a second product that is in the same category as the first product and whose stock quantity is smaller than that of the first product.

[0313] Here, according to Figure 24 In the product information table 63a, the categories of "ABC milk" and "FFF milk" are both "milk." Even if the manufacturer and brand of the first product are different, if the category is the same, the sending unit 71 can notify the product as the second product.

[0314] "ABC milk" and "FFF milk" are brands of products in the category "milk." The manufacturers of "ABC milk" and "FFF milk" may be different from each other.

[0315] Furthermore, whether the transmission unit 71 notifies information and whether the transmission unit 71 notifies information of a second product whose manufacturer is different from that of the first product can be switched depending on the user or the store.

[0316] Figure 28 Flowchart 1 is a flowchart illustrating the process of notifying information related to points. Figure 28 As shown, the information processing device 4 reads information about the product put into the shopping cart (S500). The information processing device 4 can read the product information via the terminal device 2. The product put into the shopping cart is an example of a product that the user has completed a procedure for purchasing.

[0317] Next, the information processing device 4 obtains inventory information and allocation information of products of the same category (S501). Products of the same category may include, for example, products of the same brand but different expiration date information than the product for which the purchase procedure was performed, or products of different brand and manufacturer than the product for which the purchase procedure was performed.

[0318] Then, the information processing device 4 sets the payout rate (the amount of points to be awarded) for each product based on the acquired information (S502), and displays the payout rate for each product on the terminal device 2 (S503).

[0319] Although the present invention has been described above using the embodiments, the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the above embodiments. It is obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes or improvements can be made to the above embodiments. It is clear from the description of the technical solution that the form after applying such changes or improvements can also be included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0320] It should be noted that the order in which actions, processes, steps, and stages, etc., of the devices, systems, programs, and methods described in the claims, specifications, and drawings may be executed in any order, unless specifically indicated by the phrases "before," "prior to," etc., and the output of a previous process is not used in a subsequent process. Even if the action flow in the claims, specifications, and drawings is described using phrases such as "first," "next," etc. for convenience, it does not necessarily mean that the actions must be executed in that order.

[0321] (Explanation of Reference Numerals)

[0322] 1Dynamic Points System

[0323] 2 terminal devices

[0324] 3. Store Installation

[0325] 4Information processing device

[0326] 45 grant rate information

[0327] 50 Ministry of Communications

[0328] 51 Control Department

[0329] 52 Storage Department

[0330] 60 user information database

[0331] 61 store information database

[0332] 62 Settlement Information Database

[0333] 70 Receiving Department

[0334] 71 Sending Department

[0335] 72 Setting Department

[0336] 73 Endowment Department.

Claims

1. An information processing device comprising: a setting unit that sets a point awarding rate based on inventory information of the product; and The awarding unit awards the points according to the awarding rate when the user purchases the product.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The inventory information includes the expiration date of the product. The setting unit sets the payout rate to a larger value as the time until the expiration date of the product is shorter.

3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein The inventory information includes the inventory quantity information of the product. The setting unit sets the bonus rate to be larger as the inventory number of products increases.

4. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein: The setting unit sets the payout rate for each product.

5. An information processing method, comprising: The process of setting the point award rate based on the inventory information of the product; as well as A step of awarding the points to a user according to the award rate when the user purchases the product.

6. An information processing device comprising: a receiving unit that receives award rate information related to the award rate of points from a store terminal device; a setting unit that sets the awarding rate of the points based on the awarding rate information accepted by the accepting unit; and The awarding unit awards the points according to the awarding rate set by the setting unit to the user.

7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: The award rate of the award rate information is changed based on sales date information indicating a date on which the product to be awarded the points is sold at a store.

8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: The payout rate of the payout rate information is changed based on event information related to an event held around a store.

9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: When an event is held near the store on a day when the store sells the product to be awarded points, the award rate in the award rate information is changed to be lower than the award rate when the event is not held.

10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: The award rate of the award rate information is changed according to expiration date information related to the expiration date of the product to which the points are awarded.

11. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: The award rate of the award rate information is set for each commodity to be awarded the points.

12. An information processing method, comprising: An acceptance step of accepting information on the award rate of points from a store terminal device; a setting step of setting the award rate of the points based on the award rate information received in the receiving step; as well as The granting step grants the points according to the granting rate set in the setting step to the user.

13. An information processing device comprising: a setting unit that sets a point awarding rate based on product disposal cost information; and The awarding unit awards the points according to the set awarding rate to the user. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13 , wherein: The discard cost information includes the volume information of the commodity. The setting unit sets the bonus rate to be larger as the volume of the product increases.

15. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein: The discard cost information includes the weight information of the commodity. The setting unit sets the payout rate to be larger as the weight of the product increases.

16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein: The disposal cost information includes information on the amount of carbon dioxide generated by incinerating the product. The setting unit sets the grant rate to be larger as the amount of carbon dioxide generated by incinerating the product increases.

17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 13, wherein: The setting unit sets the payout rate for each product.

18. An information processing method, comprising: A process for setting the point award rate based on product discard cost information; as well as A step of giving the points according to the set giving rate to the user.

19. An information processing device comprising: a setting unit that sets the amount of points awarded to the user by purchasing the product based on inventory information of the product for which the user has completed a procedure for purchasing the product; and A notification unit notifies the user of the amount of points set by the setting unit.

20. The information processing apparatus according to claim 19, wherein: The notification unit further notifies the user of an amount of points set for a second product that meets the conditions, the second product being a product different from the first product for which the user has completed a procedure for purchase.

21. The information processing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The notification unit further notifies the amount of points set for the second product as follows: The second product is of the same category as the first product, and the user is awarded more points by purchasing the second product than by purchasing the first product.

22. The information processing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The notification unit further notifies the amount of points set for the second product as follows: The category of the second product is the same as that of the first product, and the time until the deadline set in advance for each of the second products is shorter than that for the first products.

23. The information processing apparatus according to claim 20, wherein: The notification unit further notifies the amount of points set for the second product as follows: The category of the second product is the same as that of the first product, and the inventory quantity of the second product is less than the inventory quantity of the first product.

24. An information processing method, executed by a computer, comprising: a setting step of setting an amount of points to be awarded to the user for purchasing the product based on inventory information of the product for which the user has completed a procedure for purchasing; as well as A notification step of notifying the user of the amount of points set in the setting step.

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