Electronic-settling application, service providing method, electronic-settling server device and program

Abstract

To improve the convenience of a user.SOLUTION: An electronic-settling application, for providing electronic-settling service cooperatively with an electronic-settling server, is to allow a computer to execute settlement processing for executing electronic settlement cooperatively with the electronic-settling server by utilization by a user of an electronic voucher set with a validated date and utilizable at a store previously set out of stores where the electronic-settling service can be utilized, the voucher being allowed for the user to utilize at the set store, and processing for informing the user of a notification prompting a utilization or purchase of the voucher when there exists a voucher utilizable at the set store, based on identification information of the set store obtained by a fact that the electronic-settling application reads a code image of the set store and the information of the voucher utilizable at the set store.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic payment application, a service providing method, an electronic payment server device, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, a management device is known that accepts attribute information indicating the attributes of users who are eligible to acquire a coupon that is automatically applied in conjunction with payment processing using a specified payment method, and provides a coupon that can be acquired only by users with the attributes indicated by the accepted attribute information (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6978569 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the above-mentioned devices may be less convenient for users.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of these circumstances, and one of its objectives is to provide an electronic payment app, a service provision method, an electronic payment server device, and a program that can further improve user convenience. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is an electronic payment app that provides electronic payment services in cooperation with an electronic payment server, which causes a computer to execute a payment process in which a user uses an electronic voucher that has an expiration date and can be used at a pre-set set of stores among stores where the electronic payment service is available, the voucher being usable by the user at the set store in cooperation with the electronic payment server to perform an electronic payment, and a process in which, when a voucher is available at the set store, the electronic payment app notifies the user with a notification encouraging the user to use or purchase the voucher based on identification information of the set store obtained by reading a code image of the set store and information on the voucher usable at the set store. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an electronic payment application, a service providing method, an electronic payment server device, and a program that can improve user convenience. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration for realizing an electronic payment service. [Diagram 2] This is a sequence diagram (part 1) illustrating the general flow of electronic payment. [Diagram 3] This is a sequence diagram (part 2) illustrating the general flow of electronic payment. [Figure 4] 1 is a configuration diagram of a payment server 100 according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of user information 172. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of affiliated store / store information 176. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining an overview of a service that uses a voucher. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a process flow for granting a voucher. [Figure 9]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing another example of the process flow for granting a voucher. [Figure 10] 1 is a diagram showing an example of an interface screen IF1 that payment application 20 displays on the display unit of user terminal device 10. FIG. [Figure 11] 13 is a diagram showing another example of an interface screen IF2 that the payment application 20 displays on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. FIG. [Figure 12] 13 is a diagram showing another example of an interface screen IF3 that the payment application 20 displays on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a transition of an interface screen when a store scan is performed. [Figure 14] 11A to 11C are diagrams illustrating an example of a transition of an interface screen when a user scans. [Figure 15] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a general flow of electronic payment when using a voucher. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an interface screen IF31 in which only vouchers that can be used at the store are displayed. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining processing related to a regional promotion coupon. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining processing related to meal tickets. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining processing relating to gift vouchers. [Figure 20] 13 is a diagram showing an example of an interface screen IF32 that payment application 20 displays on the display unit of user terminal device 10. FIG. [Figure 21] 1A and 1B are diagrams showing interface screens IF41 and IF42 displayed on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an interface IF43 through which a user inputs search conditions. [Figure 23] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an interface IF44 through which a user inputs search conditions. [Figure 24]FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a notification interface screen IF45. [Diagram 25] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF46 including recommendation information. [Figure 26] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a process flow executed by the payment system. [Figure 27] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF47 in which the electronic payment method is automatically set for the voucher. [Figure 28] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF48 for recommending the purchase of a voucher to the user. [Figure 29] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing interface screens IF51-53. [Diagram 30] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF60 displayed on the display unit. [Diagram 31] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a process flow executed by the payment system. [Diagram 32] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF61 displayed on the display unit. [Diagram 33] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a process flow executed by the payment system. [Diagram 34] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining notifications or settings regarding vouchers at the time of user scanning and store scanning. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] First Embodiment Hereinafter, with reference to the drawings, an embodiment of an electronic payment application, a service providing method, an electronic payment server device, and a program of the present invention will be described. An application program and a payment server cooperate to provide an electronic payment service. In the following description, the application program is referred to as a payment application. An electronic payment service is a service that supports payments related to the purchase of goods and services at a store. A store is, for example, a physical store (real store) existing in real space, but may also include a virtual store of electronic commerce. A virtual store may include a store provided by an entity other than the operator of the electronic payment service. In that case, when making a payment for shopping at a virtual store, the screen is controlled to transition to an interface screen of the electronic payment service. In an electronic payment service, a store is treated as belonging to, for example, an affiliated store (brand), and processing such as payment when a purchase is made at a store is mainly performed between a user (user) and the affiliated store. Alternatively, processing such as payment may be performed between a user and the store.

[0010] [Electronic payment service] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a configuration for realizing an electronic payment service. The electronic payment service is realized mainly by a payment server 100. The payment server 100 communicates with, for example, one or more user terminal devices 10, one or more first store terminal devices 50, one or more second store terminal devices 70, and a service server 200 via a network NW. The network NW includes, for example, the Internet, a LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless base station, a provider device, and the like. The payment server 100 is an example of a "service providing device."

[0011] The user terminal device 10 is, for example, a portable terminal device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal. The user terminal device 10 is a computer device having at least an optical reading function, a communication function, a display function, an input reception function, and a program execution function. In the following description, components for realizing these functions are referred to as a camera, a communication device, a touch panel, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), etc. In the user terminal device 10, a processor such as a CPU executes a payment application 20, thereby operating to provide an electronic payment service to a user in cooperation with a payment server 100. The payment application 20 is installed in the user terminal device 10 from, for example, an application store, and controls the camera, communication device, touch panel, etc.

[0012] The first store terminal device 50 is installed, for example, in a store. The first store terminal device 50 is a computer device having at least a product price acquisition function, an optical reading function, a program execution function, and a communication function. The first store terminal device 50 includes a so-called POS (Point of Sale) device, and the product price acquisition function and the optical reading function may be realized by the POS device. The store code image 60 is placed in the store, and is a code image (code information) such as a QR code (registered trademark) or a barcode printed on a paper or plastic medium. The store code image 60 may be displayed on a display placed in the store (which may be the display of a terminal device such as a smartphone).

[0013] The second store terminal device 70 is used by the operator of the affiliated store. The second store terminal device 70 is a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like. An interface 72 for affiliated stores runs on the second store terminal device 70. The interface 72 for affiliated stores may be an app for affiliated stores or a browser. The interface 72 for affiliated stores accepts coupon settings and the like made by the operator of the affiliated store and transmits them to the payment server 100. The second store terminal device 70, which is a smartphone, has the function of displaying a code image corresponding to a store code image and reading a code image displayed by the user terminal device 10 by executing the app for affiliated stores.

[0014] The payment server 100 realizes electronic payment based on payment information received from the user terminal device 10 or the first store terminal device 50. The first store terminal device 50 may include a POS device and an affiliated store server, in which case the payment information is sent from the POS device via the affiliated store server to the payment server 100. In the following explanation, no distinction is made between these two and it is assumed that the payment information is sent from the first store terminal device 50.

[0015] 2 and 3 are sequence diagrams illustrating the general flow of electronic payment. There may be two patterns of electronic payment: pattern 1 and pattern 2.

[0016] In the case of pattern 1 (hereinafter referred to as user scan) shown in FIG. 2, the user terminal device 10 with the payment application 20 activated decodes the store code image 60 by the optical reading function (S1). The store code image 60 includes store URL (Uniform Resource Locator) information. This store URL is an electronic payment service domain to which store-identifying information is added, and is associated with an affiliated store ID, a store ID, etc. in the payment server 100 (described later). The payment application 20 transmits the first payment information including the store URL and the account ID to the payment server 100 (S2). The payment server 100 searches for store information (described later) from the affiliated store ID and the store ID corresponding to the store URL, acquires the affiliated store name and the store name information (S3), and transmits it to the payment application 20 (S4). The user inputs the payment amount into the user terminal device 10 on the screen on which the affiliated store name and the store name are displayed (S5). Then, the user terminal device 10 generates second payment information including at least the payment amount, and transmits it to the payment server 100 (S6). The payment server 100 performs electronic payment based on the received second payment information (S7). The payment server 100 then transmits a payment completion notice (information for displaying a payment completion screen) to the payment application 20 (S8), and the payment application 20 displays the payment completion screen (S9). Note that when the store code image 60 is displayed on a display installed in the store, the store code image 60 may include not only the store URL but also information on the payment amount. In this case, the procedure in which the user inputs the payment amount is omitted, and the information on the payment amount is included in the first payment information and transmitted to the payment server 100. Information on the affiliated store name and the store name may be included in the payment completion screen and displayed.

[0017] In the case of pattern 2 (hereinafter referred to as store scan) shown in FIG. 3, when the payment application 20 is started, when a payment operation is performed in the payment application 20, when an automatic update timing (e.g., every minute) occurs, and at other timings, the payment application 20 transmits a request for issuing a one-time code (information for identifying or specifying a user) to the payment server 100 (S11). The payment server 100 generates a one-time code (S12) and transmits it to the payment application 20 (S13). The payment application 20 displays a code image such as a QR code or a barcode generated based on the one-time code (S14). The user holds (presents) the display surface of the user terminal device 10 over the first store terminal device 50, and the first store terminal device 50 decodes the code image using an optical reading function and acquires the one-time code, etc. (S15). Then, the first store terminal device 50 generates payment information including the one-time code, payment amount, affiliated store ID, store ID, etc., and transmits it to the payment server 100 (S16). The payment amount information is acquired in advance by reading a barcode or by manual input. The payment server 100 identifies the user corresponding to the one-time code based on the received information, and performs electronic payment (S17). The payment server 100 then transmits a payment completion notice to the payment application 20 (S18), and the payment application 20 displays a payment completion screen (S19).

[0018] Note that electronic payment may be performed using only one of the above patterns. Furthermore, the "account ID" described in FIG. 2 may be other information (e.g., a phone number) that can be used as user identification information. Furthermore, issuing a one-time code may be omitted in the store scan, and the payment application 20 may display a code image generated based on the user's account ID. In this case, the payment server 100 identifies the user corresponding to the account ID instead of identifying the user corresponding to the one-time code.

[0019] [Payment server] FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of the payment server 100 according to the first embodiment. The payment server 100 includes, for example, a communication unit 110, a content providing unit 120, a link processing unit 130, an assignment unit 140, a payment processing unit 150, an information management unit 160, and a storage unit 170. The components other than the communication unit 110 and the storage unit 170 are realized by, for example, a hardware processor such as a CPU executing a program (software). Some or all of these components may be realized by hardware (including circuitry) such as an LSI (Large Scale Integration), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or may be realized by cooperation between software and hardware. The program may be stored in advance in a storage device (a storage device with a non-transient storage medium) such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory, or may be stored in a removable storage medium (non-transient storage medium) such as a DVD or CD-ROM, and installed in the storage device by inserting the storage medium into a drive device. The functional unit consisting of the content providing unit 120, the cooperation processing unit 130, and the information management unit 160, or some of these functional units, is an example of a "control unit." The cooperation processing unit 130 is an example of an "acquisition unit."

[0020] The storage unit 170 is a HDD, a flash memory, a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The storage unit 170 may be a NAS (Network Attached Storage) device that the payment server 100 can access via a network. The storage unit 170 stores information such as user information 172, payment content information 174, and affiliated store / shop information 176.

[0021] The communication unit 110 is a communication interface for connecting to the network NW. The communication unit 110 is, for example, a network interface card.

[0022] The content providing unit 120 has, for example, a function of a Web server, and provides information (content) for displaying various screens of the electronic payment service to the user terminal device 10. The content providing unit 120 appropriately reads out necessary content from the payment content information 174 and provides it to the user terminal device 10. The user terminal device 10 accepts various inputs by the user while the content is being played by the payment application 20, and transmits the above-mentioned payment information and the like to the payment server 100.

[0023] The cooperation processing unit 130 cooperates with the service server 200. Cooperation means that they can transmit and receive information to and from each other, and share information.

[0024] The granting unit 140 grants an electronic voucher to the user's payment application 20. Granting refers to associating a voucher with a user's identification information in an electronic payment service, and allowing the user to use the voucher associated with the user in the payment application 20. The voucher in this case is different in nature from, for example, a coupon provided free of charge, and is granted in exchange for a consideration. The voucher is, for example, an electronic voucher with a set expiration date that can be used at a preset number of stores that can use the electronic payment service.

[0025] The payment processing unit 150 performs payment processing based on the payment information transmitted by the user terminal device 10 or the first store terminal device 50. The payment processing unit 150 performs payment processing while referring to the user information 172.

[0026] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of the user information 172. The user information 172 is an example of the registration information of a user. The user information 172 is, for example, a user URL, an account ID, a telephone number, a password, as well as information associated with an email address, a user ID, a name, an address, a date of birth, a registration date, a charge balance, a post-payment setting, a post-payment limit, a post-payment usage amount, a post-payment available amount, voucher information, a payment method setting, a bank account, a credit card number, a charge history information, and a payment history information. The user URL is used for a remittance process between users. When registering for the electronic payment service, it is necessary to register a telephone number and a password. The account ID is issued to the user by the payment server 100, and the user ID is an ID that can be set by the user at will (does not have to be set). Similarly, the email address, and the name, address, and date of birth are information that can be set by the user at will (does not have to be set). The registration date is the date on which the user registered for the electronic payment service (the date on which the account was created). Hereinafter, a user instance (electronic payment account) to which this information is associated will be referred to as an account.

[0027] The charge balance is information indicating the balance of electronic money that is set by a user by transferring money to an account in advance. Methods of transfer include transfer from an ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) of a designated business (bank) and transfer from a registered bank account. The deferred payment setting is information indicating whether or not the setting for enabling electronic payment by deferred payment has been completed, and is set to either "completed" or "not completed." The deferred payment limit is the monthly available deferred payment limit, the deferred payment usage amount is the amount of deferred payment already used in the current month, and the available deferred payment amount is the amount of deferred payment available in the current month, which is calculated by subtracting the deferred payment usage amount from the deferred payment limit. Although only one deferred payment limit is shown in the figure, in reality, there is also a daily upper limit, and the lower of these may be set as the deferred payment limit.

[0028] The voucher information includes some or all of the following: the voucher's expiration date, the available amount, information about the store where the available amount is available, information about the city / ward / town / village where the voucher can be used, voucher identification information, etc. The available amount (balance) of each voucher is associated with the voucher information, and when a voucher is used, the amount used is deducted from the available amount, and the deducted amount is managed as the available amount.

[0029] The payment method setting is setting information that indicates, for example, whether the user at that time will make an electronic payment using the charge balance, a deferred payment, or a voucher payment. The bank account and credit card number are information on the bank account or credit card number (account number, card number) that can be used to deposit funds into the electronic payment service. The charge history information is a history of the user transferring money to the electronic payment service in advance to increase the charge balance. The payment history information is information that indicates the details of payments made by the user for each payment (date and time, store ID of the store where the purchase was made, payment amount, payment method, etc.).

[0030] 6 is a diagram showing an example of the contents of affiliated store / store information 176. The affiliated store / store information 176 includes, for example, a first table 176A in which an affiliated store ID and a store ID are associated with a store URL, a second table 176B in which an affiliated store name and sales amount (described above) are associated with an affiliated store ID, and a third table 176C in which a store ID is associated with a store ID. For example, the third table 176C associates information on available vouchers (e.g., voucher identification information, etc.) with a store ID. In addition to this information, the affiliated store / store information 176 may also include information on the category (industry type) of the affiliated store or store, the location of the store, and payment patterns.

[0031] The information management unit 160 manages user information 172 and affiliated store / store information 176 based on information acquired from the user terminal device 10 and the second store terminal device 70. The information management unit 160 adds new records to, edits, and deletes the user information 172 and affiliated store / store information 176.

[0032] [Electronic payment] When payment information is acquired from the user terminal device 10 or the first store terminal device 50, the payment processing unit 150 refers to the user information 172 to acquire the "payment method setting" of the user. For a user whose "payment method setting" is set to "charge balance", the payment processing unit 150 performs electronic payment as follows. For example, the payment processing unit 150 performs electronic payment by decreasing the charge balance managed in association with the user ID and increasing the item value of the affiliated store's sales. The item value of the affiliated store's sales is not used as electronic money itself, for example, and an amount corresponding to the item value of the sales is transferred to a bank account in a cycle according to an agreement between the affiliated store and the electronic payment service.

[0033] The payment processing unit 150 performs electronic payment for users whose "setting information" is set to "deferred payment" as follows. Deferred payment is set separately from "credit payment" in cooperation with a credit card company that is a separate entity from the operator of the electronic payment service, and the operator of the electronic payment service acts as a creditor and allows electronic payment that is not dependent on the charge balance within the deferred payment limit. In order to receive the deferred payment service, a credit card provided by the operator of the electronic payment service may be required. The amount used for deferred payment is settled on the payment date of the following month, for example, by debiting from a bank account, for one month. In this case, the payment processing unit 150 performs provisional payment by adding the payment amount to the deferred payment amount and subtracting the same amount from the deferred payment available amount, and when the closing date comes, it performs processing to debit the payment for the current month on the payment date of the following month as described above. In addition, if the payment amount exceeds the deferred payment available amount at the time of provisional payment, an error notification is returned to the payment application 20.

[0034] The payment processor 150 performs electronic payment for users whose "setting information" is set to "voucher" as follows: The payment processor 150 performs electronic payment by decreasing the available amount of the voucher managed in association with the user ID and increasing the item value of the sales amount of the affiliated store.

[0035] Information management unit 160 acquires information on operations performed by a user on payment application 20. For example, information on a payment method (payment method) selected by the user by operating payment application 20, information on a voucher selected by the user, and the like are acquired and managed.

[0036] [Service Server] The service server 200 cooperates with the payment server 100 or the payment application 20 to provide a service to the user. In this embodiment, the service server 200 is described as providing a service related to hometown tax donation to the user, but instead of (in addition to) this, the service server 200 may provide other services. The other services are, for example, services corresponding to mini-apps described later. The service related to hometown tax donation is, for example, a service that provides a user with a hometown tax donation on his / her behalf. For example, it is a service that accepts hometown tax donation payments from the user and provides the user with products (including vouchers) corresponding to the hometown tax donation. The other services are, for example, a food delivery service, a taxi dispatch service, a shopping service, and the like.

[0037] [Services using vouchers] In this embodiment, a service using a voucher is provided to a user. FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining an outline of the service using the voucher. In this embodiment, the voucher is a voucher obtained by making a hometown tax donation. This voucher can be used for stores, products, or services that are eligible for hometown tax donations.

[0038] When a user makes a hometown tax payment using a service provided by the service server 200, the payment server 100 linked to the service server 200 grants a voucher to the user's payment application 20. The user can use the voucher in the payment application at a store where the voucher can be used.

[0039] [Example of a process for granting a voucher (part 1)] 8 is a diagram showing an example of the flow of a process for granting a voucher. In this process, a description will be given assuming that payment is made using payment application 20.

[0040] First, when a user performs an operation to purchase a voucher for a specific local government (operation related to payment of a donation) in a service provided by the service server 200 and then selects to make a payment of the donation amount using the payment application 20, the payment application 20 is started (S10). When the user inputs the donation amount in the started payment application 20 and performs a payment operation, the payment server 100 makes the payment (S12). In the above S10 and S12, the service server 200 and the payment server 100 are linked. The link means that, for example, the service server 200 and the payment server 100 share the identification information of the user who made the payment and the contents of the processing related to the payment with each other. The identification number of the user may be an account ID or a user ID, or may be another identification number by which the service server 200 and the payment server 100 can identify the user.

[0041] Next, the service server 200 transmits a request for issuing a voucher to the payment server 100 (S14). The issuance request includes the user's identification information (user ID), the voucher's identification information (voucher ID), the amount provided, the expiration date, information on the usable store, and a request ID (some information may be omitted). For example, the service server 200 determines the contents of the voucher (stores where the voucher can be used, the amount provided, and the expiration date) according to the donation content selected by the user and the above payment. Note that the information on the usable store may be omitted from the issuance request. In this case, it is sufficient that the memory unit 170 of the payment server 100 stores information in which the information on the usable store is associated with the identification number of the voucher.

[0042] Next, in response to the request of S14, the payment server 100 grants a voucher to the payment application 20 of the user (S16). For example, the payment server 100 identifies the user based on the user identification information included in the request ID, and grants a voucher to the payment application 20 of the identified user (user).

[0043] Next, the payment server 100 returns the result of granting the voucher to the service server 200 using the request ID as a key (S18). As a result, the service server 200 displays, on the display unit of the user terminal device 10, an interface screen showing the donation history for the user, including information showing that a voucher has been granted for the donation (S18).

[0044] In this way, the service server 200 and the payment server 100 cooperate with each other to grant a voucher to a user.

[0045] [Example of a process for granting a voucher (part 2)] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing another example of the flow of a process in which a voucher is provided. In this process, a payment is made without using payment application 20. The following mainly describes the differences from the process in Fig. 8 described above.

[0046] First, when a user selects to make a payment (payment of donations) for purchasing a voucher in a service provided by the service server 200 using a payment method other than that of the payment application 20, the payment is made using the selected payment method (S10A). At this time, the service server 200 displays an interface screen of the donation history on the display unit of the user terminal device 10, including buttons for account linking and voucher acquisition. When the user operates the button (S11A), the service server 200 transmits a linking request to the payment server 100 (S11B). For example, when the button is operated, the payment application 20 transmits the user's identification number to the payment server 100.

[0047] Next, the payment server 100 returns the user's identification information to the service server 200 (S11C). This allows the service server 200 to obtain the identification number of the user who operated the button. Note that the display and operation of the above button may be omitted. In this case, for example, when the target donation content is selected, the service server 200 may automatically transmit a link request to the payment server 100. The processes of S14-S18 are similar to those of S14-S18 in FIG. 9, and therefore will not be described.

[0048] In this way, the service server 200 and the payment server 100 cooperate with each other to grant a voucher to a user.

[0049] In the above example, it has been described that the user purchases a voucher and the voucher is granted to the user, but instead (or in addition), the payment server 100 may acquire a request sent by the service server 200 when a user different from the user performs an operation to purchase a voucher in the service provided by the service server, and execute a process for granting a voucher to a user designated by the different user based on the acquired request (see Figs. 18 and 19). The designation is specified by, for example, the user's telephone number, account ID, or user ID.

[0050] [Interface screen when a voucher is issued (part 1)] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of interface screen IF1 that payment application 20 displays on the display unit of user terminal device 10. Interface screen IF1 is the top screen of payment application 20. Top screen IF1 displays a code image CD. Code image CD includes, for example, a barcode and a QR code. In addition to the code image CD, text is displayed indicating whether electronic payment will be made using the charge balance or by deferred payment (in the figure, "Pay from balance"). This setting can be switched by the user through a specified operation.

[0051] Furthermore, a button (switch) m for starting the mini app is displayed. The "switch" and "button" refer to a GUI (Graphical User Interface) realized in cooperation with a touch panel. The mini app is, for example, an app that uses the payment app 20 as a platform. The mini app is, for example, an application program developed by a service provider that provides the service of the service server 200 to run in the payment app 20. The service provider develops the mini app by referring to an SDK (Software Development Kit), which is a program and technical documentation for app development provided by the administrator of the payment app 20. The mini app is, for example, an app that runs while the payment app 20 is running. For example, a part or all of the mini app may be installed when the payment app 20 is installed, or a part or all of the mini app may be installed from a service server corresponding to the mini app. For example, when the mini app is started, the mini app (payment app 20) accesses the service server 200, and the mini app and the service server 200 work together to provide a service to the user.

[0052] Furthermore, information indicating that a voucher has been granted is displayed in area AR1 of interface screen IF1. For example, when the granting unit 140 grants a voucher, the content providing unit 120 causes the display unit of the user terminal device 10 to display interface screen IF1 including information that the voucher has been granted in area AR1. This allows the user to easily recognize that a voucher has been granted. When area AR1 is operated (e.g., tapped) by the user, interface screen IF1 transitions to, for example, interface screen IF2 of FIG. 11.

[0053] [Interface screen when a voucher is issued (part 2)] 11 is a diagram showing another example of interface screen IF2 that payment application 20 displays on the display unit of user terminal device 10. Interface screen IF2 displays, for example, a list of granted vouchers together with an overview of the vouchers. The overview includes the type of voucher (for example, the area, city, ward, town, or village in which it can be used), the expiration date, the available amount, etc. For example, when the user operates the area displaying "About this voucher", the screen transitions to interface screen IF3 in FIG. 12.

[0054] [Interface screen when a voucher is issued (part 3)] 12 is a diagram showing another example of interface screen IF3 that payment application 20 displays on the display unit of user terminal device 10. Interface screen IF3 includes, for example, detailed information about the granted voucher. The detailed information includes, for example, information about the area where the voucher can be used, information about the store, and notes about use.

[0055] As described above, when a voucher is granted, the user can easily operate payment application 20 to confirm whether the voucher has been granted and information related to the voucher.

[0056] [Use of voucher (store scan)] 13 is a diagram showing an example of the transition of interface screens when a store scan is performed. For example, when a user performs an operation to make a payment on payment application 20, interface screen IF11 is displayed on the display unit of user terminal device 10. Information on the set payment method (payment method) is displayed in area AR11 of interface screen IF11. When the user operates area AR11, interface screen IF12 for selecting a payment method is displayed on the display unit.

[0057] The interface screen IF12 displays, for example, payment methods available to the user. For example, it displays that payment methods using charge balance, voucher, deferred payment, and credit card can be selected. If no voucher has been granted, the display of the voucher is omitted. Also, if the user holds a voucher with an expiration date less than a predetermined period (for example, less than two months), a message encouraging the user to use the voucher may be displayed.

[0058] The interface screen IF11 or IF12 is an example of "an interface screen for inquiring whether to make an electronic payment using the voucher when the user performs an operation on the electronic payment app to make an electronic payment using the electronic payment service after the voucher is granted" or "an interface screen for inquiring whether to make an electronic payment using the voucher or to make a payment using the charge balance charged in the electronic payment service when the user performs an operation on the electronic payment app to make an electronic payment using the electronic payment service after the voucher is granted." The "operation for the user to make an electronic payment using the electronic payment service" is, for example, an arbitrary operation such as an operation for displaying code information (code image) including the user's identification information to be read by the first store terminal device 50 or an operation for reading store code information including the identification information of the first store terminal device 50. The "interface screen for inquiring" is, for example, an interface screen that is displayed when displaying code information including the user's identification information after an operation for starting the camera is performed or after the camera reads store code information.

[0059] When the user selects a voucher as the payment method on interface screen IF12, interface screen IF13 is displayed on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. A list of vouchers granted to the user is displayed on interface screen IF13. When the user specifies a voucher (an example of a "first operation"), interface screen IF14 is displayed on the display unit with the specified voucher set as the payment method. At this time, the payment method setting in user information 172 of payment server 100 is also changed to voucher.

[0060] The interface screen IF14 includes a code image and information about the selected voucher (type, available amount). For example, the first store terminal device 50 reads the code image and transmits payment information including the user's identification information from the read code image to the payment server 100. The payment server 100 performs payment using the voucher specified by the user. That is, the payment server 100 performs electronic payment based on information associated with the voucher selected by the user (e.g., expiration date, available amount, and available store information).

[0061] For example, if (A) the voucher set as the payment method can be used at the store, and (B) the available amount of the voucher is equal to or greater than the payment amount, the payment server 100 completes the electronic payment and sends a payment completion notice to the payment application 20. If the above condition (A) or (B) is not met, the payment server 100 sends information to the payment application 20 indicating that the electronic payment cannot be completed.

[0062] For example, if the condition (A) is not satisfied, the payment server 100 notifies one or both of the payment application 20 and the first store terminal device 50 of information indicating that the voucher cannot be used at the store. The payment server 100 determines whether or not the voucher can be used based on information on the voucher that the user is trying to use and information on available vouchers in the affiliated store / store information 176. For example, if the voucher cannot be used at the store, the payment application 20 causes the display unit of the user terminal device 10 to display information indicating that the voucher cannot be used at the store. For example, the first store terminal device 50 causes the display unit of the first store terminal device 50 to display information indicating that the voucher cannot be used at the store. If the condition (B) is not satisfied, information indicating that the available amount is less than the payment amount is similarly displayed on the display unit of the user terminal device 10 (may be displayed on the display unit of the first store terminal device 50).

[0063] As described above, the user can make an electronic payment using the voucher via payment application 20.

[0064] In the above example, the payment server 100 (or the payment application 20) may determine the arrangement of the vouchers on the interface screen IF13 based on the expiration date of the voucher. For example, the payment server 100 may arrange the vouchers in ascending order of the expiration date. For example, the vouchers that are close to the expiration date are displayed in a position that is easily recognizable by the user, such as the top or center of the screen.

[0065] In the above example, the payment server 100 (or the payment application 20) may acquire location information of the user terminal device 10 from the payment application 20, and may determine the location of the voucher on the interface screen IF13 or determine the voucher to be displayed based on the location information and information indicating the location where the voucher can be used. For example, the storage unit 170 stores information in which the voucher is associated with location information where the voucher can be used. The payment server 100 identifies a voucher that can be used at the user's location based on this information and the user's location information. For example, when the user is in Chiba prefecture, the payment server 100 may preferentially (prominently) display a voucher that can be used in Chiba prefecture on the interface screen IF23 over a voucher that can be used in Saitama prefecture, or may not display a voucher that can be used in Chiba prefecture on the interface screen IF23.

[0066] [Use voucher (user scan)] Fig. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the transition of interface screens when a user scans. For example, when a user operates the payment application 20 to read a code image of a store, an interface screen IF21 is displayed on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. For example, the payment server 100 acquires the reading result of the code image sent by the payment application 20, and identifies the store based on the acquired reading result. Information of the identified store is displayed on the interface screen IF14.

[0067] Area AR21 of interface screen IF21 displays information on the payment method (settlement method) that has been set. When the user operates area AR21, interface screen IF22 for selecting a payment method is displayed on the display unit. Interface screen IF22 displays, for example, payment methods available to the user. For example, it is displayed that payment methods using charge balance, voucher, deferred payment, and credit card can be selected. Note that if a voucher has not been granted, the display of the voucher is omitted.

[0068] The interface screen IF21 or IF22 is another example of "an interface screen for inquiring whether to make an electronic payment using the voucher when the user performs an operation on the electronic payment app to make an electronic payment using the electronic payment service after the voucher is granted" or "an interface screen for inquiring whether to make an electronic payment using the voucher or to make a payment using the charge balance charged in the electronic payment service when the user performs an operation on the electronic payment app to make an electronic payment using the electronic payment service after the voucher is granted." The "operation for the user to make an electronic payment using the electronic payment service" is any operation, such as an operation for displaying code information (code image) including the user's identification information to be read by the first store terminal device 50 or an operation for reading store code information including the identification information of the first store terminal device 50. The "interface screen for inquiring" is an interface screen that is displayed when displaying code information including the user's identification information after an operation for starting the camera is performed or after the camera reads store code information.

[0069] When the user selects a voucher as a payment method on the interface screen IF22, the interface screen IF23 is displayed on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. A list of vouchers granted to the user is displayed on the interface screen IF23. When the user specifies a voucher, the interface screen IF24 is displayed on the display unit with the specified voucher set as the payment method. At this time, the payment method setting in the user information 172 of the payment server 100 is also changed to voucher. Note that in electronic payments using a balance or other electronic payments, when the slide bar for "Use bonus (points)" on the interface screens IF23 and IF24 is in an on state, points are used in the electronic payments. That is, points for electronic payment services can be used in combination with vouchers. Also, vouchers may be used in combination with other payment methods (for example, charge balance, credit card payment, deferred payment, etc.).

[0070] The interface screen IF24 includes an input field for inputting the payment amount, and information on the selected voucher (type, available amount). For example, when the user inputs the amount and operates the next button, a payment request is sent to the payment server 100. The payment server 100 performs the payment based on the transmitted payment request, the payment amount, etc. At this time, the above-mentioned judgments of (A) and (B) and processing according to the judgment results are performed.

[0071] In the above example, the payment server 100 (or the payment application 20) may preferentially display the voucher usable at the store ("information of the voucher usable at the store of the code information photographed by the user") on the interface screen IF23, or may omit displaying the voucher that cannot be used at the store on the interface screen IF23. The payment server 100 refers to the affiliated store / store information 176, compares the voucher usable at the store with the information of the voucher granted to the user, identifies the voucher usable at the store and the voucher that cannot be used at the store, and performs the above process.

[0072] In the above example, the payment server 100 (or the payment application 20) may determine the arrangement of the vouchers on the interface screen IF23 based on the expiration date of the voucher. For example, the payment server 100 may arrange the vouchers in the order of the expiration date closest to the expiration date. For example, when there are multiple vouchers available for use at the store, the payment server 100 may lay out the vouchers on the interface screen based on the expiration dates of the available vouchers. For example, vouchers that are close to their expiration date are displayed in a position that is easy for the user to recognize, such as the top or center of the screen.

[0073] In the above-mentioned interface screen IF12 or IF22, some information may be omitted. For example, an interface screen inquiring whether to perform electronic payment using a voucher may be provided to the user (for example, the interface screen may be omitted from inquiring whether to perform payment using a part or all of the charge amount, post-payment, credit card payment, etc.). In addition, when a payment amount is insufficient in electronic payment using a voucher, the shortfall may be electronically paid by other electronic payment (for example, charge amount, post-payment, credit card). In this case, the payment server 100 may provide the user with an interface screen for inquiring which electronic payment to use to make the shortfall, or the electronic payment may be made using a preset electronic payment. Furthermore, even if the payment amount is not insufficient, electronic payment using a voucher and other electronic payment (such as charge amount) may be combined and made.

[0074] [Processing when using a voucher (user scan)] Fig. 15 is a sequence diagram illustrating the general flow of electronic payment when using a voucher. The following mainly describes the differences from Fig. 2. In the case of user scanning, the user terminal device 10 with the payment application 20 running decodes the store code image 60 using an optical reading function (S1). The payment application 20 transmits first payment information including the store URL and account ID to the payment server 100 (S2).

[0075] Next, the payment server 100 searches for store information from the affiliated store ID and store ID corresponding to the store URL to obtain the affiliated store name and store name information (S3). Next, the payment server 100 identifies vouchers that can be used at the store among the vouchers granted to the user (S3#), and transmits the information obtained in the above S3 and S3# to the payment application 20 (S4).

[0076] The user selects a voucher on a screen that displays the member store name, shop name, and available vouchers, and inputs the payment amount into the user terminal device 10 (S5). The user terminal device 10 then generates second payment information including at least the payment amount, and transmits it to the payment server 100 (S6). The payment server 100 performs electronic payment based on the received second payment information (S7). The payment server 100 performs electronic payment, for example, by subtracting the payment amount from the amount available on the voucher. The payment server 100 then transmits a payment completion notice (information for displaying a payment completion screen) to the payment application 20 (S8), and the payment application 20 displays the payment completion screen (S9).

[0077] [Interface screen showing only available vouchers] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of an interface screen IF31 in which only vouchers that can be used at the store are displayed. In FIG. 16, a user is trying to make a payment at a store in City A. In this case, the payment server 100 identifies vouchers that can be used at the store using the store URL acquired from the payment application 20. Then, the payment server 100 displays on the interface screen IF31 vouchers that can be used at the store identified from the store URL and that have been granted to the user. Furthermore, when multiple usable vouchers are granted, vouchers that are close to their expiration date are preferentially displayed.

[0078] As described above, by preferentially displaying available vouchers that are close to their expiration date, the user can easily select and use a voucher that is available and should be used preferentially.

[0079] [Other examples (1)] In the above example, the voucher has been described as being given for hometown tax donation, but instead of this (in addition to this), a regional promotion voucher may be given. FIG. 17 is a diagram for explaining processing related to the regional promotion voucher. For example, when a user performs processing to purchase a regional promotion voucher in a service provided by a service server managed by or commissioned by a local government, the payment server 100 gives the regional promotion voucher to the user. The user can use the payment application 20 to use the regional promotion voucher at a store where the regional promotion voucher can be used. The payment server 100 gives points to the user for the above use, and the user can use the points at a store where the points can be used.

[0080] As described above, the processing in this embodiment can also be utilized in the management of regional promotion coupons.

[0081] [Other examples (2)] In the above example, the voucher has been described as being given for hometown tax donations, but instead of this (or in addition), it may be a meal ticket used for employee benefits or the like. FIG. 18 is a diagram for explaining the process related to the meal ticket. For example, when a company performs a process to purchase a meal ticket in a meal ticket-related service provided by a service server, the payment server 100 gives the meal ticket to an employee designated by the company. The employee can use the payment application 20 at a store where the meal ticket can be used. The payment server 100 gives points to the employee for the above use, and the employee can use the points at a store where the points can be used.

[0082] As described above, the process in this embodiment can also be used in employee benefits that use meal tickets and the like.

[0083] [Other examples (3)] In the above example, the voucher is described as being given for hometown tax donation, but instead of this (in addition to this), it may be a gift voucher that is a gift for friends, relatives, etc. FIG. 19 is a diagram for explaining the process related to the gift voucher. For example, when a user performs a process to purchase a gift voucher in a gift-related service provided by a service server, the payment server 100 gives the gift voucher to a friend designated by the user. For example, the user can designate a friend based on the friend's phone number or account ID. The friend can use the gift voucher at a store where the gift voucher can be used by using the payment application 20. The payment server 100 gives points to the friend for the above use, and the friend can use the points at a store where the points can be used. The points may be given to the person (user) who purchased the voucher.

[0084] As mentioned above, the process of this embodiment can also be used with gift vouchers.

[0085] Each of the above vouchers may be usable together with other payment methods, or may not be usable together with other payment methods. For example, when a user makes a payment of 12,000 yen, the payment server 100 may use a 10,000 yen voucher and a charge balance of 2,000 yen to make the payment, or may not allow this and may allow a payment of up to 10,000 yen with the voucher.

[0086] [Interface screen containing information encouraging voucher purchase] FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of an interface screen IF32 that the payment application 20 displays on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. The interface screen 31F1 is a top screen of the payment application 20. In addition to the code image CD, the top screen IF31 displays information (advertisement) encouraging the purchase of a voucher. The area AR31 includes, for example, information encouraging the purchase of a voucher by making a hometown tax donation to city A. The area AR32 includes, for example, information encouraging the purchase of a voucher by making a hometown tax donation to city B. The area AR33 includes, for example, information encouraging the purchase of a voucher by making a hometown tax donation to city C.

[0087] For example, when a user taps on the area AR31, a mini app corresponding to the service server 200 is started, and the mini app (payment app 20) accesses the service server 200. The service server 200 cooperates with the mini app to display an interface screen for purchasing a voucher for City A on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. When the user performs an operation to purchase a voucher for City A on the interface screen, the voucher for City A is granted to the user's payment app 20 as described above. When the area AR32 is operated, a process for purchasing a voucher for City B is performed, and when the area AR33 is operated, a process for purchasing a voucher for Mr. C is performed. In the above example, the user accesses the service server 200 and purchases a voucher. However, instead of (or in addition to) this, the payment server 100 may have a functional configuration similar to that of the service server 200 and perform a process for purchasing a voucher.

[0088] The areas such as cities, wards, towns, and villages included in the above-mentioned areas AR31-33 may be determined based on the user's past location information history or payment history. For example, the payment server 100 may include in the areas AR31-33 advertisements for vouchers in cities, wards, towns, and villages or areas that the user visits with a frequency of at least a predetermined degree. For example, an advertisement for a voucher in Chiba Prefecture is provided to a user who visits Chiba Prefecture once or twice a month. For example, the payment server 100 acquires location information from the payment application 20 at predetermined intervals, and determines the city, wards, towns, and villages or areas based on the history of the acquired location information. In addition, the payment server 100 may include in the areas AR31-AR33 advertisements for vouchers in cities, wards, towns, and villages that can be visited within a predetermined time or within a predetermined distance from a location (e.g., home or workplace) where the user is located with a frequency of at least a predetermined degree. For example, an advertisement for a voucher in Chiba Prefecture, Saitama Prefecture, or Kanagawa Prefecture may be provided to a user who lives in Tokyo.

[0089] The payment server 100 may provide an advertisement for a voucher for Chiba Prefecture to a user who has made a payment in a store in Chiba Prefecture, which is a region different from the user's home, in the past or at a predetermined frequency in the past payment history. The payment server 100 may also provide an advertisement for a voucher for Hokkaido to a user who has made a payment in a store in Hokkaido in the past. For example, if a user has traveled to Hokkaido in the past, when an advertisement for a voucher for Hokkaido is displayed, the user can be reminded of the trip and can be motivated to purchase a voucher and travel again. The payment server 100 may also provide an advertisement for a voucher that can be used at a store in a region different from the user's home in the past payment history. In this way, the advertisement for a voucher for a city, ward, town, village, or region familiar to the user is provided, which can encourage the user to purchase a voucher.

[0090] Furthermore, when the payment server 100 cooperates with other services to acquire a user's schedule, the payment server 100 may select an advertisement for a voucher based on the schedule. For example, when information on a trip or business trip schedule is acquired from a service server or app of a schedule management service or a service server or app of a travel reservation service, advertisements for vouchers for a city, ward, town, village, or region corresponding to the destination of the schedule may be provided to the user. This allows the user to easily purchase a voucher that can be used at the destination.

[0091] According to the first embodiment described above, the payment server 100 performs a process for granting an electronic voucher to the electronic payment app of the user, which has a validity period and can be used at a preset store among stores that can use the electronic payment service. After the voucher is granted, when the user performs an operation on the electronic payment app to perform an electronic payment using the electronic payment service, an interface screen inquiring whether to perform an electronic payment using the voucher or to perform a payment using the charge balance charged in the electronic payment service is displayed on the display unit of the terminal device in which the electronic payment app is installed, thereby improving user convenience. In addition, since the affiliated stores and stores can expect sales from the vouchers, it is also suitable for the affiliated stores and stores. Furthermore, since it is expected that users will actually visit areas where the vouchers can be used, it is also suitable for revitalizing the area.

[0092] In the above process, if the user has acquired a coupon that can be used at the store (a coupon or a voucher other than the above-mentioned voucher), the voucher may be preferentially displayed on the display unit. For example, the voucher may be displayed without displaying the coupon, or the voucher may be displayed more prominently (or more easily selected) than the coupon.

[0093] <Second embodiment> The second embodiment will be described below. In the second embodiment, the payment application 20 and the payment server 100 cooperate with each other to execute electronic payment using a voucher that is usable at a preset store among stores that have a set expiration date and can use electronic payment services, and that is usable by the user at the preset store. When there is no distinction between the payment application 20 and the payment server 100, they may be referred to as a payment system.

[0094] The payment system executes a process for allowing the user to use the voucher when the user visits a set store, approaches a set store, or is about to execute an electronic payment at a set store. "Approaching" means that the user is present or is presumed to be present within a predetermined distance. "Process for allowing the user to use the voucher" means a process for allowing the user to actively use the voucher, such as notifying the user that the voucher can be used, notifying the user that the voucher can be purchased, or executing an electronic payment using the voucher with priority. "Preferentially" means giving priority over other payment methods, and means automatically setting the payment method to be used to the voucher or encouraging the user to set the voucher as the payment method. The process for allowing the user to use the voucher may include a process for introducing stores where the voucher can be used.

[0095] The payment application 20 and the payment server 100 cooperate with each other to perform the above processes. For example, the payment application 20 and the payment server 100 transmit and receive information to each other to perform the above processes. Details of these processes are described below. In the following examples, the processes executed by the payment application 20 or the payment server 100 may be executed by the functional configuration of the other.

[0096] [Notification Processing (1)] The payment system notifies the user that the voucher has been granted by sending a push notification. Fig. 21 shows interface screens IF41 and IF42 displayed on the display unit of the user terminal device 10. At a predetermined timing or when the voucher has been granted, the payment system notifies the user of information indicating that the voucher has been granted (is granted) as shown on interface screen IF41, even if the payment application 20 is not running in the foreground.

[0097] [Notification Processing (2)] At a specified time or when a voucher has been granted, the payment system notifies the user, with payment application 20 running in the foreground, of information indicating that a voucher has been granted (is being granted), as shown on interface screen IF42.

[0098] By the payment system notifying the user that a voucher has been issued as described above, the user can easily recognize that a voucher has been issued, thereby improving user convenience.

[0099] [Processing for Referral Support (1)] The payment system introduces to the user stores where the voucher can be used. FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF43 through which the user inputs search conditions. When the user performs a predetermined operation on the payment application 20, the interface screen IF43 is displayed on the display unit. The interface screen IF43 includes a number of buttons for selecting the type of business of the store in which the voucher owned by the user or the voucher designated by the user can be used. The payment system extracts stores in the selected type of business that are within a predetermined distance from the user's current location, and causes the display unit to display an interface screen listing the extracted stores.

[0100] By the payment system providing the user with information about stores where the voucher can be used in response to the user's search operation as described above, the user can easily identify the desired store where the voucher can be used, thereby improving user convenience.

[0101] [Processing for Referral Support (2)] The payment system introduces to the user stores where the voucher can be used. FIG. 23 is a diagram showing interface screen IF44 through which the user inputs search conditions. When the user performs a predetermined operation on payment application 20, interface screen IF44 is displayed on the display unit. Interface screen IF44 includes information that associates map information, stores where electronic payment services can be used, and stores where electronic payment services can be used and where vouchers can be used.

[0102] As shown on interface screen IF44, the payment system displays information associated with map information on the display unit in a manner that distinguishes between set stores that can use the electronic payment service and can use vouchers and stores that can use the electronic payment service and cannot use vouchers. For example, a specific symbol or mark may be given to stores where vouchers can be used, or the color or shape of the symbol or mark indicating a store where vouchers can be used may be differentiated from the color or shape of the symbol or mark indicating a store where vouchers cannot be used.

[0103] The payment system may display on the display unit information on stores associated with map information in a manner that distinguishes between stores that can use the electronic payment service and are set stores where the voucher held by the user can be used, and stores that can use the electronic payment service and are not set stores where the voucher held by the user cannot be used. For example, when the payment system is displaying stores where the electronic payment service is available, the payment system may change the manner in which stores where the voucher can be used and stores where the voucher cannot be used are distinguished from each other in response to a user operation, and display the changed manner on the display unit.

[0104] The interface screen IF44 may be provided with a button (e.g., a check box) for highlighting stores where the voucher can be used or for displaying only stores where the voucher can be used. For example, when this button is operated, stores where the voucher can be used are highlighted (e.g., a pin is associated with the store where the voucher can be used) or only stores where the voucher can be used are displayed. This allows the user to easily recognize stores where the voucher that the user already owns or the voucher that the user is considering purchasing can be used. For example, since the user can easily recognize stores where the voucher can be used in the neighborhood or at the travel destination, the motivation to purchase the voucher is increased.

[0105] By the payment system providing the user with map information of stores where the voucher can be used in response to the user's search operation as described above, the user can easily identify the desired store where the voucher can be used, thereby improving user convenience.

[0106] [Notification Processing (3)] The payment system may notify the user about the voucher using the location information of the user terminal device 10. For example, the payment system may recommend to the user the use or purchase of a voucher that can be used at a store (or area) where the user is located or at a store near the location (or near the area). When the user visits or approaches a set store (or area), the payment system notifies the user of information encouraging the use of a voucher or information encouraging the purchase of a voucher.

[0107] 24 is a diagram showing a notification interface screen IF45. As shown in the figure, the payment system determines whether a voucher that can be used in the area of ​​the user's location information is on sale, and if a voucher is on sale, may recommend information about the voucher (e.g., purchasing a voucher) to the user.

[0108] FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF46 including recommendation information. As shown in the figure, the payment system may determine whether a voucher usable at the store (or area) of the user's location information or at a store near the location information is on sale, and if the voucher is on sale, may recommend information about the voucher (e.g., purchasing a voucher) to the user. For example, if the user has acquired a voucher usable at the store (area) of the user's location information or at a store near the location information, information encouraging use may be notified, and if the user has not acquired a voucher usable at the store (area) of the user's location information or at a store near the location information, information encouraging purchase may be notified. Note that the contents shown in FIG. 24 and FIG. 25 may be included in areas AR31-AR33 of FIG. 29.

[0109] [Sequence diagram] FIG. 26 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the payment system. The payment application 20 transmits the user's location information to the payment server 100 at a predetermined timing (for example, every predetermined time) (S100). Next, the payment server 100 acquires the user's location information, and determines whether or not a recommendation is required for the purchase of a voucher based on the acquired location information (S104). If it is determined that a recommendation is to be made, the payment server 100 transmits the recommendation information to the payment application 20 (S106). For example, the payment server 100 determines whether or not the user has visited or approached the set store based on the location information acquired from the payment application 20 and the location information of the set store, and if the user has visited or approached the set store, it decides to make a recommendation. Next, if the payment application 20 acquires the recommendation information, it causes the display unit to display the recommendation information (S108).

[0110] In the above example, if the user has already acquired a voucher that can be used in the area or at the store, a recommendation may be made indicating that the voucher acquired in the area or at the store can be used.

[0111] The location information may be location information obtained by the user terminal device 10 using a global positioning system (GPS) or may be specified from information on a base station or network (communication equipment such as Wi-Fi) with which the user terminal device 10 is communicating. The location information may also be specified based on location information of a store where the user has made an electronic payment.

[0112] Furthermore, the notification encouraging use or purchase may be performed in response to the following timing or operation. For example, when it is determined that the user has visited or approached the set store based on the location information acquired from the electronic payment application and the location information of the set store, and an operation for reading the code image of the set store is performed on the electronic payment application, the payment server 100 may execute a process of notifying the user of information encouraging use or purchase. The operation for reading the code image of the set store may be, for example, an operation for starting the payment application 20, an operation for starting Gamera to read the code image, an operation for displaying the home screen or a specified screen, etc. Note that this process is performed when the user scans.

[0113] When it is determined that the user has visited or approached the set store based on the location information acquired from the electronic payment app and the location information of the set store, and the payment app 20 displays on the display a code image used in electronic payment and read by the first store terminal device 50 of the set store, the payment system may execute a process of notifying the user of information encouraging use or purchase. The time when the payment app 20 displays on the display a code image used in electronic payment and read by the first store terminal device 50 of the set store may be when an operation is performed to start the payment app 20, when an operation is performed to display the home screen, when an operation is performed to display the payment screen, etc. Note that this process is performed during store scanning.

[0114] The payment system can promote the use of vouchers by providing the user with information about the voucher, such as the use or purchase of the voucher, based on the user's location information as described above. In addition, the user can use or purchase the voucher in response to the notification, improving user convenience.

[0115] [Notification Processing (3) / User Scan] As described above, when making an electronic payment by a user scan, the payment system may provide the user with information on a voucher that can be used at a store identified by the user scan ("when the user is about to make the electronic payment at the set store, information encouraging the user to use or purchase the voucher is notified to the user"). For example, based on the identification information of the set store obtained by the payment application 20 reading a code image of the set store, the identification information of the user transmitted by the payment application 20, and the voucher that can be used by the user, when the user has a voucher that can be used at the set store, the payment system executes a process of notifying the user of a notification encouraging the user to use the voucher when the user makes an electronic payment. Details of these processes have been described above in FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, and therefore will not be described here.

[0116] [Settings processing (1) / User scan] Based on the identification information of the set store obtained by the electronic payment app reading the code image of the set store, the identification information of the user sent by the electronic payment app, and the vouchers available to the user, when the user has a voucher available at the set store, the payment system may execute a process of giving priority to the voucher when the user makes an electronic payment. Priority can mean automatically setting the payment method to the voucher, or recommending the use of the voucher before making a payment by another payment method when another payment method is set.

[0117] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing interface screen IF47 in which the electronic payment method is automatically set to the voucher. In stores where the voucher cannot be used, another payment method is automatically set, but in stores where the voucher can be used, the payment method is automatically set to the voucher. For example, if there are multiple usable vouchers, the one with the larger balance may be set as the priority, and if the balances are the same, the one with the earliest expiration date may be set as the priority. Note that if the balance is insufficient after the amount is entered and payment is executed, an error message is displayed.

[0118] When a user has acquired a voucher that can be used at a set store as described above, the payment system gives priority to allowing the user to use the voucher, thereby improving user convenience.

[0119] [Purchase Support Processing (1) / User Scan] The payment system may execute a process of notifying the user of a notification encouraging the purchase of a voucher when the user makes an electronic payment, when a voucher usable at the set store is available, based on the identification information of the set store obtained by the electronic payment app reading the code image of the set store and the information of a voucher usable at the set store. For example, the payment system may recommend the purchase of a voucher to the user if the user has not acquired a voucher usable at the store identified by the user scan, and may recommend the use of the voucher to the user if the user has acquired a voucher usable at the store identified by the user scan.

[0120] Fig. 28 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF48 for recommending the purchase of a voucher to the user. When the user operates the purchase button B1 on the interface screen IF48, an interface screen IF51 in Fig. 29 is displayed on the display unit.

[0121] FIG. 29 is a diagram showing interface screens IF51-53. In response to the operation of button B1, the payment system displays interface screen IF51 on the display unit. Interface screen IF51 includes information such as purchase conditions of a voucher available at the store, and a purchase button B2. When the purchase button B2 is operated, the payment system displays interface screen IF52 on the display unit in response to the operation of button B2. Interface screen IF52 includes information such as a user (donor) who purchases a voucher, the user's address, and a person to whom the voucher is to be granted, and a button B3 for determining this information. When the purchase button B3 is operated, the payment system cooperates with the service server 200 to grant a voucher to the user. For example, the payment server 100 notifies the service server 200 of information indicating that the user has purchased a voucher, and grants the voucher to the user.

[0122] Furthermore, in response to the operation of button B3, an interface screen IF53 is displayed on the display unit. The interface screen IF53 includes information indicating that the voucher can be used, and a button B4 for instructing use. When button B4 is operated, the payment server 100 sets the payment method to the voucher (see FIG. 27), and performs electronic payment using the voucher. Note that the operation of button B4 may be omitted, and the voucher may be automatically used after the operation of button B3.

[0123] If the user does not have a voucher that can be used at the set store as described above, the payment system can provide the user with useful information by notifying the user of the purchase of a voucher that can be used at the set store. Furthermore, the payment system supports the user to seamlessly purchase the voucher in the above notification, thereby improving user convenience.

[0124] This process is an example of a process of "notifying the user of information encouraging the purchase of the voucher when the electronic payment is to be made at the set store." A part of the process in Fig. 29 described above may be executed by the service server 200, or may be executed by the payment server 100 in cooperation with the service server 200. For example, a part or all of the interface screen in Fig. 29 may be a screen provided by the service server 200.

[0125] In the above example, the description was focused on user scans. In the case of store scans, the following process may be executed.

[0126] [Notification Processing (4) / Store Scan] When a user is about to make an electronic payment at a set store, the payment system notifies the user of information encouraging the use of a voucher. When the user performs a predetermined operation on the payment application 20 (for example, an operation for making a payment or an operation for displaying a code image) and the user has acquired a voucher, the payment system may display a list of selectable payment methods on the display unit, including a payment method using the voucher.

[0127] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF60 displayed on the display unit. The vouchers included in the list may not take into account the store or area of ​​use, and may take into account location information. For example, if a user has acquired a voucher that can be used in a store or area corresponding to the user's location information, or in a store or area near the location information, the payment system may include the voucher in the list of payment methods. In addition, if the user holds a voucher with an expiration date less than a predetermined period (e.g., less than two months), a message encouraging the user to use the voucher may be displayed.

[0128] [Sequence diagram] 31 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the payment system. When the payment application 20 is started up, when a payment operation is performed in the payment application 20, when an automatic update timing (e.g., every minute) occurs, or at other timings, the payment application 20 transmits a one-time code issuance request and location information to the payment server 100 (S200). The location information may be transmitted at any timing.

[0129] The payment server 100 generates a one-time code (S202) and identifies a voucher that can be used by the user (S204). The voucher that can be used by the user may be a voucher that can be used in a store or area corresponding to the user's location information, or a voucher that can be used in a store or area near the user's location information. For example, when the payment server 100 determines that the user's location information is the location of store A, it identifies a voucher that can be used at store A.

[0130] The payment server 100 transmits the one-time code and information on the identified voucher to the payment application 20 (S206). The payment application 20 displays a code image such as a QR code or a barcode generated based on the one-time code and recommendation information indicating that a usable voucher has been acquired (S208). The code image is, for example, a code image for making an electronic payment with a preset payment method. For example, if it is preset to make an electronic payment with the charge balance, the code image is rewritten and displayed as a code image for making an electronic payment with the charge balance.

[0131] When a user makes an electronic payment without changing the preset payment method, the user holds (presents) the display surface of the user terminal device 10 over (S210) the first store terminal device 50, which decodes the code image using an optical reading function and acquires a one-time code, etc. Then, the first store terminal device 50 generates payment information including the one-time code, payment amount, affiliated store ID, store ID, etc., and transmits it to the payment server 100 (S212). Based on the received information, the payment server 100 identifies the user corresponding to the one-time code and performs electronic payment (S214). Then, the payment server 100 transmits a payment completion notice to the payment application 20 (S216), and the payment application 20 displays a payment completion screen (S218).

[0132] When a user uses a voucher, the user performs an operation for using the voucher. In response to this operation, the payment application 20 transmits a request for issuing a one-time code for using the voucher to the payment server. The payment server 100 generates a one-time code in response to the request, and transmits the generated one-time code to the payment application 20. The payment application 20 generates a code image based on the one-time code, and displays the code image on the display unit. Then, the above-mentioned processes from S210 onwards are executed, and electronic payment using the voucher is performed.

[0133] In the above example, the voucher information is recommended when the user has acquired a voucher, but when the user has not acquired a voucher, it may be recommended that a voucher usable in the store or area of ​​the location information or in a store or area near the location information is available for purchase. Note that this process is an example of a process of "notifying the user of information encouraging the purchase of the voucher when the user is about to execute the electronic payment at the set store."

[0134] [Notification Processing (5) / Store Scan] The payment system may recommend the use of the voucher to the user when the payment server 100 determines that a voucher is available for the user to use when making an electronic payment. For example, when the user has a voucher available for use at the set store based on the identification information of the set store transmitted by the terminal device of the store, the identification information of the user transmitted by the terminal device of the set store, and the voucher available to the user, the payment system executes a process of notifying the user of a notification encouraging the use of the voucher when the user makes an electronic payment.

[0135] 32 is a diagram showing an interface screen IF61 displayed on the display unit. The interface screen IF61 includes information indicating that the user has acquired a voucher that can be used at the store where the user is going to make the electronic payment, and information inquiring about the payment method. The information inquiring about the payment method is, for example, an inquiry about whether to make the electronic payment by charging or deferred payment, or to make the electronic payment by using a voucher.

[0136] [Sequence diagram] Fig. 33 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the flow of processing executed by the payment system. After the processing from S11 to S16 in Fig. 3 described above is executed, the payment server 100 identifies a user corresponding to the one-time code based on the received information (one-time code, payment amount, affiliated store ID, store ID) and judges whether the identified user has acquired a voucher that can be used at the store (S17#). If a usable voucher has been acquired, the payment server 100 notifies the payment application 20 that the usable voucher has been acquired (S18#). The payment application 20 displays information on the usable voucher on the display unit to notify the user that the voucher can be used (S19#).

[0137] In response to the above notification, if the user performs an operation to instruct the use of a voucher (for example, by operating a button to instruct the use of a voucher), the payment application 20 transmits information indicating that the operation has been performed to the payment server 100, and the payment server 100 may perform electronic payment using the voucher for the payment information transmitted in S16. In this way, the user can change to electronic payment using a voucher with a simple operation.

[0138] In the above example, if the user does not have the voucher, the payment server 100 executes the electronic payment based on the received information after the processing of S16.

[0139] [Purchase assistance processing (2) / Store scan] In the above example, the voucher information is recommended when the user has acquired a voucher, but when the user has not acquired a voucher, it may be recommended that a voucher usable at the store can be purchased. For example, when a voucher usable at the set store exists based on the identification information of the set store transmitted by the first store terminal device 50 of the store and the information of the voucher usable at the set store, the payment system may notify the user of a notification encouraging the purchase of the voucher when the user makes an electronic payment. In this case, the process for purchase may be performed in cooperation with the service server 200 as shown in FIG. 29 above.

[0140] [Settings process (2) / Store scan] Based on the identification information of the set store transmitted by the first store terminal device 50, the identification information of the user transmitted by the first store terminal device 50, and the vouchers available to the user, when the user has a voucher available at the set store, the payment system may execute a process of prioritizing the voucher for electronic payment when the user makes an electronic payment (for example, when the electronic payment process is executed between the first store terminal device 50 and the payment server 100). Prioritization may include automatically setting the payment method to the voucher, or recommending the use of the voucher before making a payment by another payment method when another payment method has been set.

[0141] For example, when the first store terminal device 50 transmits the identification information of the set store and the identification information of the user to the payment server 100 as described above, if the payment server 100 determines that the user has a voucher that can be used at the set store, the payment server 100 may automatically use the voucher to execute electronic payment instead of other payment methods. For example, if a setting is set in advance to prioritize automatic use of a voucher, the voucher may be used without inquiring of the user, or the user may be inquired of and the voucher may be used depending on the result of the inquiry.

[0142] As described above, the payment system can improve user convenience even in store scanning.

[0143] In the above process of recommending the purchase of a voucher, if a voucher with a preset upper limit for the purchase amount of the voucher is purchased, the recommendation may be stopped thereafter. For example, the user may set the upper limit amount via the payment app 20, or may set the upper limit amount via the service server 200. When the upper limit amount is set via the service server 200, the payment system and the service server 200 cooperate to share the upper limit amount.

[0144] [Summary of notifications regarding vouchers] Fig. 34 is a diagram for explaining notification or setting regarding a voucher at the time of a user scan and a store scan. The pattern in Fig. 34 is an example, and notification or setting of other patterns may be performed.

[0145] Pattern 1 is a pattern in which the user is notified of the use or purchase of a voucher based on location information. For example, when the user is in a store (or area) or near a store (near an area), the user is notified of the voucher information (see Figures 21, 24, 25, 26, etc.).

[0146] Pattern 2 is a pattern in which the user is notified of the use or purchase of a voucher based on location information. For example, when the user performs a predetermined operation (launching the payment application 20 or displaying a code image), the user is notified of the voucher information (see, for example, FIG. 30 and FIG. 31 described above).

[0147] (About user scan) Patterns 3-5 are patterns when a user scans. Pattern 3 is a pattern in which the user is notified of the use of a voucher based on a store ID. For example, this is a pattern in which the user is notified of the use of a voucher when the payment application 20 identifies a store ID by reading a code image of the store (e.g., during electronic payment) (see, for example, FIGS. 15, 16, and 28 described above).

[0148] Pattern 4 is a pattern in which the use of a voucher is automatically set for a user based on a store ID. For example, when the payment application 20 reads a code image of a store and a store ID is specified (for example, during electronic payment), the use of a voucher is automatically set (e.g., FIG. 27 described above).

[0149] Pattern 5 is a pattern in which the purchase of a voucher is recommended to a user based on a store ID. For example, when the payment application 20 identifies a store ID by reading a code image of the store (for example, during electronic payment), the purchase of a voucher is recommended (e.g., FIG. 29 described above).

[0150] (About Store Scan) Pattern 6-8 is a pattern for store scanning. Pattern 6 is a pattern in which the user is notified of the use of the voucher based on the store ID. For example, this is a pattern in which the payment server 100 notifies the user of the use of the voucher when the user performs electronic payment by identifying the store ID based on information transmitted from the first store terminal device 50 (such as FIG. 32 described above).

[0151] Pattern 7 is a pattern in which the use of a voucher acquired by a user is automatically set based on a store ID. For example, the payment server 100 identifies a store ID based on information transmitted from the first store terminal device 50 when the user makes an electronic payment, and if the user has acquired a voucher that can be used at the identified store, the payment server 100 automatically sets the use of the voucher so that the voucher is used preferentially. For example, the process of pattern 7 is performed when the user has set in advance that the voucher is used preferentially.

[0152] Pattern 8 is a pattern in which the purchase of a voucher is recommended to the user based on the store ID. For example, the payment server 100 identifies a store ID based on information transmitted from the first store terminal device 50 when the user makes an electronic payment, and recommends the purchase of the voucher to the user if there is a voucher available at the identified store.

[0153] For example, when a user visits an area different from the area around his / her home for sightseeing or returning home, there is a need to use a voucher such as a hometown tax payment voucher that can be used in that area. For example, even if the user has acquired a voucher that can be used in that area, the user may forget to use the voucher. In this embodiment, a process is executed to prompt the user to use the voucher so that the user can use the voucher effectively. This allows the user to use the voucher proactively, improving user convenience. For example, the user can use the voucher without leaving any unused portion.

[0154] Furthermore, even if a user does not have a voucher, there is a need to purchase and use a voucher for hometown tax donations, etc. In this embodiment, the user is supported so that the user can purchase a voucher. This allows the user to use the voucher.

[0155] In addition, as described above, providing support to users encourages the purchase of vouchers, revitalizes local areas, and encourages the use of electronic payments, which is also beneficial for local governments that implement hometown tax donations and the like, and for administrators that provide electronic payments.

[0156] In the above example, the process when the user makes an electronic payment has been mainly described, but in addition (or instead), the user may read a code image placed in a store or a specific area, and information on a voucher that can be used in that store or area may be displayed on the display unit via the payment application 20. For example, when a user visits an area where vouchers are issued for sightseeing or the like and reads a code image placed in a tourist information center or the like, information on purchasing a voucher that can be used in that area, information on a voucher that the user has acquired that can be used in that area (e.g., available amount), available store information, and the like are displayed on the display unit. For example, the payment server 100 manages information in which the identification information included in the code image is associated with the above voucher information and available information, and provides the voucher information to the payment application 20 using this information.

[0157] According to the embodiment described above, it is possible to improve user convenience by having a computer execute a payment process in which a user utilizes an electronic voucher that has an expiration date and can be used at a pre-set number of stores among stores where the electronic payment service is available, the voucher being usable by the user at the set store in cooperation with the electronic payment server, and a specification process for allowing the user to use the voucher when the user has visited, approached, or is about to perform the electronic payment at the set store.

[0158] The above describes the form for carrying out the present invention using an embodiment, but the present invention is not limited to such an embodiment, and various modifications and substitutions can be made within the scope that does not deviate from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 10 User terminal device 20. Payment App 50 First store terminal device 60 Store Code Image 70 Second store terminal device 100 Payment Server 120 Contents Provider 130 Collaboration Processing Unit 140 Granting Department 150 Payment Processing Unit 160 Information Management Department 170 Storage section 172 User information

Claims

1. An electronic payment application that provides electronic payment services in cooperation with an electronic payment server, On the computer, An electronic voucher with an expiration date set and usable at pre-configured stores among the stores where the electronic payment service can be used, and a payment process in which a user uses the voucher usable by the user at the configured store and performs an electronic payment in cooperation with the electronic payment server, Based on the identification information of the designated store and the information of vouchers available at the designated store, if there is a voucher available at the designated store, The process involves dynamically distinguishing whether the voucher can be used at stores that accept the aforementioned electronic payment service and displaying the information on the map on the display unit. Electronic payment app.

2. On the computer, Depending on the user's operation, the display unit will show either the remaining balance or the expiration date of the voucher, or both. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

3. On the computer, Depending on the user's actions, the system will accept the type of business in which the voucher can be used. The display will show the stores corresponding to the type of business that was accepted. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

4. On the computer, The display unit will show stores within a predetermined distance from the current location where the voucher can be used. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

5. In response to user operation, the system accepts the type of business of the store where the voucher can be used, The display unit will show stores that accept the voucher for the type of business applied for and that are within a predetermined distance from the current location. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

6. On the computer, The electronic payment service recommends the purchase of a voucher that can be used at a store located at or near the location of the user terminal device on which the electronic payment service is installed, and which the user does not currently possess. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

7. On the computer, The display unit displays information that associates store information with map information in a manner that distinguishes between stores where the electronic payment service can be used and where the user can use the voucher held by the user, and stores where the electronic payment service can be used and where the user cannot use the voucher held by the user. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

8. On the computer, Based on user actions, the display unit will show a display highlighting the stores where the voucher can be used. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

9. On the computer, Based on user actions, the display unit will show only the stores where the voucher can be used. The electronic payment application according to claim 1.

10. An electronic payment method that provides electronic payment services in cooperation with an electronic payment server, Computers An electronic voucher with an expiration date set and usable at pre-configured stores among the stores where the electronic payment service can be used, and a payment process in which a user uses the voucher usable by the user at the configured store and performs an electronic payment in cooperation with the electronic payment server, Based on the identification information of the designated store and the information of vouchers available at the designated store, if there is a voucher available at the designated store, The process involves dynamically distinguishing whether the voucher can be used at stores that accept the aforementioned electronic payment service and displaying the information on the map on the display unit. Method of providing services.

11. An electronic payment server device that provides electronic payment services in cooperation with an electronic payment application, An electronic voucher with an expiration date set and usable at pre-configured stores among the stores where the electronic payment service can be used, and a payment process in which a user uses the voucher usable by the user at the configured store and performs an electronic payment in cooperation with the electronic payment application, Based on the identification information of the designated store and the information of vouchers available at the designated store, if there is a voucher available at the designated store, The process involves dynamically distinguishing whether the voucher can be used at stores that accept the aforementioned electronic payment service and displaying the information on the map on the display unit. Electronic payment server device.

12. The computer of the electronic payment server device that provides electronic payment services in cooperation with the electronic payment app, An electronic voucher with an expiration date set and usable at pre-configured stores among the stores where the electronic payment service can be used, and a payment process in which a user uses the voucher usable by the user at the configured store and performs an electronic payment in cooperation with the electronic payment application, Based on the identification information of the designated store and the information of vouchers available at the designated store, if there is a voucher available at the designated store, The process involves dynamically distinguishing whether the voucher can be used at stores that accept the aforementioned electronic payment service and displaying the information on the map on the display unit. Method of providing services.

13. The computer of the electronic payment server device that provides electronic payment services in cooperation with the electronic payment app, An electronic voucher with an expiration date set and usable at pre-configured stores among the stores where the electronic payment service can be used, and a payment process in which a user uses the voucher usable by the user at the configured store and performs an electronic payment in cooperation with the electronic payment application, Based on the identification information of the designated store and the information of vouchers available at the designated store, if there is a voucher available at the designated store, The process involves dynamically distinguishing whether the voucher can be used at stores that accept the aforementioned electronic payment service and displaying the information on the map on the display unit. program.

Images