Booking system, key vending machine, booking program product and booking procedure

Abstract

Booking system (2) for automated check-in to guest accommodation with a key dispenser (4) for issuing room keys depending on the correct entry of check-in data and with a booking program product (18) running on a computer unit (16) for generating the check-in data to be entered at the key machine (4) depending on received check-in information (CI) wherein an input interface (32) is provided for customer input of check-in information (CI) into the booking program product (18) and depending on the check-in information (CI) the check-in data is automatically generated as an input code (EC), and a first communication link (14) is provided, via which the input code (EC) from the booking program product (18) can be automatically communicated to the key machine (4), characterized in that a key return device (26) is provided on the key dispenser (4), from which a checkout signal (CS) can be automatically communicated to the booking program product (18) via a second communication link (15), and depending on the checkout signal (CS), order data (AD) for the restoration of the guest accommodation in question can be automatically generated and communicated by means of the booking program product (18).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a booking system for automated check-in at guest accommodations, such as hotel, guesthouse, or private rooms. The invention further relates to a computer program and a booking method for such a booking system. The booking system includes a key dispenser, particularly one located at the guest accommodation, for issuing mechanical or electronic room keys upon correct entry of check-in data. The booking system also comprises a booking program running on a computer unit, which generates the check-in data to be entered at the key dispenser based on received or read check-in information, such as booking information of the respective guest and / or payment information.This system includes an input interface, specifically an online interface, for customers to enter check-in information into the booking software. Based on this information, the check-in data is automatically generated as an input code. Furthermore, an initial communication link is provided, allowing the booking software to automatically transmit the input code to the key dispenser. This enables the entire check-in process, from entering the booking information to issuing the key, to be carried out without staff. Guests can also submit all booking information in advance, so that upon arrival at their accommodation, they only need to enter the input code at the key dispenser to collect their key and complete the check-in process.

[0002] German patent DE4400455A1 discloses a booking system comprising a booking machine, a PC, and a key dispensing unit. The system includes software control which issues a key based on booking data entered via the PC and payment via a connected electronic cash system.

[0003] A disadvantage of the existing booking system is that guests have to enter a relatively large amount of information into the system upon arrival at their accommodation to finalize their booking. Furthermore, the booking system can only be used for the check-in process, leaving a significant amount of staff time and effort for check-out and the associated organization of preparing the accommodation for the next guest.

[0004] US2010 / 0030590A1 describes a booking system for operating multiple hotels with a shared control center. Check-in and check-out are handled via self-service terminals at the information desk (kiosk) of each hotel. To check in, the guest can, for example, enter a previously received PIN, which is then verified against a PIN stored at the terminal. Check-out is also handled via the kiosk.

[0005] US2017 / 0213163A1 discloses a system for conducting anonymous check-in, in which a visitor can select one of several themed rooms in a building online. The visitor can then check in anonymously and also anonymously receive an access mechanism for the themed room. After the visit, they can anonymously return the access mechanism and check out online.

[0006] Other relevant systems for automated check-in and check-out at guest accommodation are described in CN 2 08 848 324 U and CN 1 08 764 507 A.

[0007] The object of the invention is to enable more convenient check-in and check-out in a booking system of the generic type and to reduce overall personnel costs.

[0008] This task is solved by a booking system with the features of claim 1. The key return unit is equipped with a key return device from which a checkout signal can be automatically communicated to the booking software via a second communication link. In this way, key return and the entire checkout process can be carried out without personnel. Furthermore, by arranging the key return device on the key return unit, the guest can be informed of the option of automated checkout at the same time as checking in.Depending on the checkout signal from the key return facility, order data can advantageously be automatically generated and communicated using the booking program product, whereby the order data contains information for accommodation preparation such as room number, time until the next booking, type of cleaning service, items required for minibar refill, and so on.

[0009] Advantageously, a notification connection is provided, allowing the booking software to automatically communicate the required check-in data to the guest. This enables the entry code to be provided to the guest in advance and in a particularly convenient way, for example via email, SMS, or a messaging service.

[0010] Advantageously, the first communication link and the second communication link are established via a bidirectional interface of the key machine, so that data transmission in both directions is possible between the booking program product and the key machine, and at least a large part of the electronic connections required at the key machine can be established via only one interface.

[0011] Depending on the checkout signal from the key return facility, the order data automatically generated by the booking program product can be communicated to a cleaning service, whereby the order data contains information for accommodation preparation, such as room number, time until the next booking, type of cleaning services, items required for minibar refill, and so on.

[0012] Furthermore, it is advantageous if, depending on the checkout signal from the key return system, invoice information can be automatically generated and communicated to the guest via the booking software, with the invoice information including, for example, the final bill. In this way, the invoice can also be created and sent to the customer fully automatically, without requiring any staff.

[0013] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the input interface is connected to a publicly accessible booking portal, through which check-in information can be entered in the form of booking information for the booking program product. In this way, guest accommodation can be advertised as part of the booking portal's offering, and simultaneously, its input forms can be used as an input interface for the booking program product.

[0014] Furthermore, it is advantageous to integrate with a payment system that allows check-in information to be imported into the booking software in the form of payment information. This enables the use of payment information as check-in data alongside booking information, and the corresponding check-in data or the entry code for the key dispenser to be generated and communicated. For example, it can be configured that the entry code for the key dispenser is only communicated once the booked guest accommodation has been paid for.

[0015] It is advantageous if the payment system is an online payment system, allowing guests to conveniently pay for their booking in advance. Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous if the payment system uses a local payment terminal at the accommodation, enabling guests to pay upon arrival.

[0016] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the computer unit on which the booking program product is stored and executed is formed by an internal or external server that is data-connected to the key machine in order to ensure a high level of data security.

[0017] Alternatively or additionally, it is advantageous if the computer unit on which the booking program product is stored and executed is formed by a cloud and is connected to the key machine via the Internet, thus enabling particularly flexible and location-independent access to the booking program product.

[0018] Advantageously, an input computer is provided for the additional manual entry of booking and / or payment information, or check-in and / or check-out data, into the booking software, such as at a reception desk. This allows for easy subsequent changes to an automatically entered booking.

[0019] Furthermore, it is advantageous if a key dispenser for use in a booking system is provided in one of the above-mentioned embodiments and has control electronics connected to a bidirectional interface for data exchange with the booking program product described above or another, such as via an API interface, to enable easy connection of the key dispenser to the respective booking system, which also allows the key dispenser to input and output data to the booking program product.

[0020] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the key return device is attached to or integrated into the key dispenser housing, enabling both check-in and check-out processes to be carried out at the key dispenser. Additionally, it is beneficial if the local payment device is also attached to or integrated into the housing, allowing for payment of the booking directly at the guest accommodation.

[0021] Furthermore, the above-mentioned task is solved by a booking program product for use in a booking system in one of the embodiments described above, wherein a programmed interface with operating software of the key machine is provided in order to ensure a direct and trouble-free data exchange between the key machine and the booking program product.

[0022] Furthermore, it is advantageous to have a programmed interface with a notification service, such as email, SMS, WhatsApp, Facebook, etc., to ensure direct and trouble-free notification of the respective guest.

[0023] Furthermore, it is advantageous if the booking program product is connected to the booking portal via an API interface to ensure seamless data exchange.

[0024] Advantageously, depending on the entered check-in information, a personalized message can be automatically generated and sent to a guest, so that guests can be individually provided with information about their stay without the need for staff.

[0025] Furthermore, it is advantageous to have a programmed interface with the operating software of the local payment device, such as a cash register system or a card reader, so that relevant payment information is available immediately and securely.

[0026] Furthermore, the aforementioned task is solved by a booking process implemented with the booking program product in one of the aforementioned embodiments. In a first step, the customer-entered check-in information, in the form of booking information, is compared with stored data on available accommodation capacities. In a second step, the check-in information is read in the form of payment information if a match is found during the first step. In a third step, the check-in data to be entered at the key machine is generated in the form of an input code if check-in is authorized based on the payment information. This ensures, in particular, that the input code for the key machine is only generated when corresponding available capacity has been booked and payment has already been made.Furthermore, in a subsequent step, when the key is returned to the key return station, the key is detected by a sensor and a checkout signal is sent to the booking program product in order to immediately initiate the automated checkout process and, depending on the checkout signal, to create and send order data for the restoration of the guest accommodation in question.

[0027] It is advantageous if, in a subsequent step following the third step, the input code is stored via the first communication link at the key dispenser, thus ensuring that the key is available to the guest in good time in any case.

[0028] Furthermore, it is advantageous if, in a subsequent step following the third step, the input code is communicated to the guest via the second communication link, in order to grant them access to the key from a certain point in time.

[0029] Advantageously, the input code is transmitted within the personalized message to the guest, which allows further information and instructions to be transmitted to the guest in question along with the input code.

[0030] It is advantageous if, in a subsequent step, the booking program product automatically sends information to a cleaning service for accommodation preparation, depending on the checkout signal, in order to ensure the timely provision of the respective guest accommodation.

[0031] Furthermore, it is advantageous if, in a subsequent step, the booking program product automatically sends invoice information to the guest depending on the checkout signal, in order to be able to provide the final invoice to the guest immediately after their checkout.

[0032] Advantageously, in a subsequent step, the booking program product automatically adjusts the stored data on available accommodation capacities depending on the checkout signal, in order to enable a new booking of the guest accommodation in question as soon as possible.

[0033] It should be noted that all the features of the object according to the invention described above are interchangeable or combinable with each other, provided that such an exchange or combination is not excluded for technical reasons.

[0034] The figures illustrate an exemplary embodiment of the invention. They show: Fig. 1 a schematic representation of a booking system according to the invention, Fig. 2. A diagram illustrating the check-in process using a booking system. Fig. 1 and Fig. 3. A diagram illustrating the checkout process using a booking system. Fig. 1,

[0035] Fig. Figure 1 shows a booking system 2 for automated check-in to guest accommodation, such as a hotel or guesthouse room. The booking system 2 includes a key dispenser 4 for the automatic dispensing of keys, which can be, for example, mechanical keys or electronic keys with a readable chip. For the automatic dispensing of keys, the key dispenser 4 has a holding and ejection mechanism 6 (not described in detail) by means of which the keys can be stored and fed to a key retrieval 8. In addition, an input device 10 is provided through which an input code EC can be entered to eject a key via the operating software of a control electronics unit 12 of the key dispenser 4.The input device 10 can, for example, be a touchscreen or a keyboard and, in addition to entering the input code, can optionally also be used to enter further data.

[0036] The key dispenser 4 is connected via a first communication link 14 to a computer unit 16, on which a booking program product 18 is stored and executed. The computer unit 16 can be an internal or external server, as shown. Alternatively or additionally, the booking program product 18 can also be stored in a cloud and executed via the internet (ITN). The first communication link 14 is established, for example, via a first programmed interface 20 of the key dispenser 4.

[0037] As from Fig. As can also be seen in Figure 1, a local payment device 24 can be attached to or integrated into a housing 22 of the key dispenser 4, which may, for example, be a card reader for debit, credit and / or other payment cards. The card reader can be connected to the control electronics 12 or, as shown, directly to the booking program product 18, for example via a second programmed interface 21.

[0038] Furthermore, a key return device 26 can be attached to or integrated into the housing 14 of the key dispenser 4. This device has a slot 28 and a sensor 30 for detecting a key returned via the slot 28. Using the sensor 30, a checkout signal CS can be generated and sent to the booking program product 18 via a second communication link 15. The first communication link 14 and the second communication link 15 can be configured using a bidirectional interface 31 of the key dispenser 4.

[0039] For the guest-side input of check-in information (CI) to the booking system 2 in the form of booking information (BI), such as arrival and departure dates, number of persons, accommodation category, and so on, an input interface 32 is provided, which can be connected to a guest's terminal device 34 (G) via the internet (ITN). Preferably, the input interface 32 is connected to a booking portal 38 via an API interface 36, through whose input forms the guest (G) can enter the relevant check-in information (CI). Furthermore, the booking system 2 can also be connected to an online payment system (OB) via the booking portal 38 or via the internet (ITN), through which the guest can make the payments due for their booking. In addition to the booking information (BI), check-in information (CI) in the form of payment information (ZI) can thus also be read into the booking program product 18 via the input interface 32.

[0040] Furthermore, the booking program product 18 is connected via a notification connection 40 to a notification service 42, through which messages, for example in the form of emails, SMS, messenger entries, and so on, can be sent via the internet (ITN) to the guest's terminal device 34. Depending on the entered check-in information (CI), the booking program product 18 can, for example, generate and send personalized messages to the guest (G).

[0041] Furthermore, depending on the checkout signal CO, a message can also be sent via notification connection 40 or notification service 42 to an end device 44 of a cleaning service RS. This message contains order data AD for restoring the guest accommodation after checkout, such as room number, details of the cleaning period, minibar restocking instructions, and so on. Additionally, depending on the checkout signal CO, a message containing the final bill for the guest's stay can also be sent via notification connection 40 or notification service 42.

[0042] Furthermore, an additional input computer 46 may be provided, such as a computer workstation at a reception desk, through which additional manual entries or changes to the booking and payment information BI, ZI or the check-in and check-out data CI, CO can be made.

[0043] The booking procedure available using booking system 2 and the booking program product runs according to the diagrams in the Fig. 2 and Fig. 3 as follows: Based on the booking information entered by the guest, booking program product 18 first checks, using the data stored on computer unit 16, whether there are currently available capacities corresponding to the booking request. If not, an individual message IN is generated and sent to the guest's terminal device 34, informing them that the requested booking is not possible.

[0044] If there are available capacities that match the booking requests, in a second step S2 the payment information ZI is checked to see if the payment conditions have been met and if the booking has been paid in full. If not, an individual message IN is generated and sent to the guest's device 34, informing them about the outstanding payments and, if applicable, about the payment options via the online payment system OB or the local payment device 24.

[0045] If the payment conditions are met or the booking is fully paid, the booking program product 18 generates, in a third step S3, the check-in data to be entered at the key dispenser 4 via its input device 10 in the form of the input code EC. This input code EC is then stored in the control electronics 12 of the key dispenser via the first communication connection 14 and additionally sent to the terminal device 34 of the guest G via the notification connection 40.

[0046] Upon arrival, guest G simply needs to enter the input code EC into input device 10. The booking program product 18 can then check all data, particularly the fulfillment of the payment conditions, and, if necessary, inform guest G of any outstanding payment, which can then be settled via the local payment device 24. Once all conditions have been met, the key dispenser 4 will then provide the key at key retrieval point 8.

[0047] To end his stay, guest G inserts his key into slot 28 of the key return device 26. Here, the key is recognized by the sensor 30 and a corresponding checkout signal CS is sent to the booking program product 18 via the second communication link 15. Fig.3. After receiving this checkout signal CS, the order data AD for the restoration of the guest accommodation in question is created and sent to the cleaning service RS via the notification connection 40 or the notification service 42, for example at a specific time.

[0048] In addition, upon receipt of the checkout signal CS, the invoice information RI or the final invoice is created and also sent to it via the notification connection 40 or via the notification service 42.

[0049] Furthermore, after receiving the checkout signal CS, the booking program product 18 adjusts the data on available capacities stored at computer unit 16 so that the guest accommodation in question is available for a new booking.

[0050] It should be noted that all the elements and features described above of the various embodiments of the object according to the invention are interchangeable or combinable with each other, provided that such an exchange or combination is not excluded for technical reasons.

Claims

[1] Booking system (2) for automated check-in to guest accommodation with a key dispenser (4) for issuing room keys depending on the correct entry of check-in data and with a booking program product (18) running on a computer unit (16) for generating the check-in data to be entered at the key machine (4) depending on received check-in information (CI) wherein an input interface (32) is provided for customer input of check-in information (CI) into the booking program product (18) and depending on the check-in information (CI) the check-in data is automatically generated as an input code (EC), and a first communication link (14) is provided, via which the input code (EC) from the booking program product (18) can be automatically communicated to the key machine (4), characterized by, that a key return device (26) is provided at the key dispenser (4), from which a checkout signal (CS) can be automatically communicated to the booking program product (18) via a second communication link (15), and depending on the checkout signal (CS), order data (AD) for the restoration of the guest accommodation in question can be automatically generated and communicated by means of the booking program product (18). [2] Booking system according to claim 1, characterized by , that a notification connection (40) is provided, via which the input code (EC) to be entered can be automatically communicated from the booking program product (18) to a guest (G). [3] Booking system according to claim 1 or 2, characterized by , that the first communication link (14) and the second communication link (15) are established via a bidirectional interface (31) of the key automaton (4). [4] Booking system according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized by that the automatically generated order data (AD) can be communicated to a cleaning service (RS). [5] Booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized by , that depending on the checkout signal (CS) from the key return device (26) the booking program product (18) can automatically generate invoice information (RI) and communicate it to the guest (G). [6] Booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized by , that the input interface (32) is connected to a publicly accessible booking portal (38) through which check-in information (CI) in the form of booking information (BI) can be entered for the booking program product (18). [7] Booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that a connection to a payment system is provided, via which check-in information (CI) in the form of payment information (ZI) can be read for the booking program product (18). [8] Booking system according to claim 7, characterized by that the payment system is formed by an online payment system (OB). [9] Booking system according to claim 7, characterized by , that the payment system is formed by a local payment device (24) of the guest accommodation. [10] Booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized by , that the computer unit (16) on which the booking program product (18) is stored and executed is formed by an internal or external server which is data-connected to the key machine (4). [11] Booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized by, that the computer unit (16) on which the booking program product (18) is stored and executed is formed by a cloud and is connected to the key machine (4) via the Internet (ITN). [12] Booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized by , that an input computer (46) is provided for the additional manual entry of booking and / or payment information (BI, ZI) or of check-in and / or check-out information (CI, CS) into the booking program product (18). [13] Key dispenser for use in a booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by , that a control electronics (12) is provided which can be connected to the bidirectional interface (31) for data exchange with a booking program product (18). [14] Key vending machine according to claim 13, characterized by, that the key return device (26) is held on a housing (22) of the key dispenser (4). [15] Key vending machine according to claim 13 or 14, characterized by , that the payment device (24) is held on the housing (22). [16] Booking program product for use in a booking system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized by , that a programmed interface (20) with operating software of the key machine (4) is provided. [17] Booking program product according to claim 16, characterized by , that furthermore a programmed interface with a notification service is provided. [18] Booking program product according to claim 16 or 17, characterized by , that the booking program product (18) is connected to the booking portal (38) via an API interface (36). [19] Booking program product according to one of claims 16 to 18, characterized by, that depending on the read-in check-in information (CI), a personalized message to a guest (G) can be automatically generated and sent. [20] Booking program product according to one of claims 16 to 19, characterized by , that a programmed interface (21) with operating software of the local payment device (24) is provided. [21] Booking procedure carried out with the booking program product according to one of claims 16 to 20, wherein In a first step (S1), the customer-entered check-in information (CI) in the form of booking information (BI) is compared with stored data on available accommodation capacities. In a second step (S2), the check-in information (CI) in the form of payment information (ZI) is checked if a match is found during the comparison in the first step (S1). In a third step (S3), the input code (EC) to be entered at the key machine (4) is generated when a check-in is released after verification of the payment information (ZI). characterized by , that in a further subsequent step, when the key is returned to the key return device (26), the key is recognized by a sensor (30), a checkout signal (CS) is sent to the booking program product (18), and depending on the checkout signal (CS), order data (AD) for the restoration of the guest accommodation in question is created and sent. [22] Booking procedure according to claim 21, characterized by , that in a subsequent further step the input code (EC) is stored at the key machine (14) via the first communication connection (14). [23] Booking procedure according to claim 21 or 22, characterized by, that in a further subsequent step the input code (EC) is communicated to the guest (G) via the notification connection (40). [24] Booking procedure according to claim 23, characterized by , that the input code (EC) is transmitted within a personalized message to the guest (G). [25] Booking procedure according to claim 24, characterized by , that in a subsequent further step the booking program product (18) automatically sends information to a cleaning service (RS) for accommodation preparation depending on the checkout signal (CS). [26] Booking procedure according to claim 24 or 25, characterized by , that in a subsequent further step the booking program product (18) automatically sends invoice information (RI) to the guest (G) depending on the checkout signal (CS). [27] Booking method according to one of claims 21 to 26, characterized by, that in a subsequent further step the booking program product (18) automatically adjusts the stored data on the available accommodation capacities depending on the checkout signal (CS).

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