Car washing management method

Abstract

To provide a car washing management method capable of realizing good usability when selecting operation of car washing.SOLUTION: A car washing management method includes the steps of: generating first image data that is displayed on a screen of a display panel 35 incorporated in a reception apparatus 22 of a car washer and identifies a first guidance image 37 that displays options for operation of the car washer; generating second image data that is displayed on a screen of a display panel 61 incorporated in a portable terminal 18 of a user and identifies a second guidance image 64 that displays the options for the operation of the car washer according to a composition of the first guidance image 37; and issuing a QR code that identifies the operation selected in the second guidance image 64 and transmitting the QR code to the portable terminal 18 of the user.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a method for managing a car wash, which generates image data specifying a guide image that is displayed on the screen of a display panel incorporated in a user's mobile terminal and that displays options for the operation of a car wash machine. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a car wash reception system that accepts reservations for car washes from a mobile device. The user selects car wash options such as the type of car, car wash course, and accessories on the mobile device. An image specifying the option is displayed on the screen of a display panel built into the mobile device. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 5130124 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The car wash machine is equipped with a reception device used for cash payment. The reception device is equipped with a car wash setting section that allows the user to select car wash options such as the type of car, car wash course, and equipment. The operation of the mobile device to select the option is completely separate from the operation of the reception device. Since the operations are completely different, the user is confused about which operation to select for the car wash machine.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide a method for managing a car wash that allows for easy selection of car wash operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for managing a car wash, comprising the steps of: generating first image data that identifies a first guide image to be displayed on a screen of a display panel incorporated in a reception device of the car wash machine and that displays options for operation of the car wash machine; generating second image data that identifies a second guide image to be displayed on a screen of a display panel incorporated in a user's mobile terminal and that displays options for operation of the car wash machine in accordance with the composition of the first guide image; and issuing a QR code that identifies the operation selected in the second guide image and transmitting image data of the QR code to the user's mobile terminal.

[0007] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for managing a car wash, comprising the steps of: generating first image data identifying a first guide image to be displayed on the screen of a display panel incorporated in a reception device of the car wash machine and displaying options for operation of the car wash machine; generating second image data identifying a second guide image to be displayed on the screen of a display panel incorporated in a user's mobile terminal and displaying options for operation of the car wash machine in accordance with the composition of the first guide image; and generating data identifying the operation selected in the second guide image and transmitting the data to the user's mobile terminal. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the first aspect, when washing a car, a user operates, for example, a reception device of a car wash machine. An operation of the car wash machine can be selected in response to the operation of the reception device. The car wash machine can wash the car based on the selected operation. Prior to washing the car, a user can reserve the car wash from a mobile terminal. An operation of the car wash machine can be selected in response to the operation of the mobile terminal. A QR code can be issued based on the selected operation. The issued QR code can be displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal. By reading the QR code, the car wash machine can wash the car based on the selected operation.

[0009] In this case, the image displayed on the screen when operating the reception device and the image displayed on the screen when operating the mobile device are displayed in the same composition, so the user can select the operation of the car wash machine by performing the same operation whether using the reception device or the mobile device.

[0010] According to the second aspect, when washing a car, a user operates, for example, a reception device of a car wash machine. An operation of the car wash machine can be selected in response to the operation of the reception device. The car wash machine can wash the car based on the selected operation. Prior to washing the car, a user can reserve a car wash from a mobile terminal. An operation of the car wash machine can be selected in response to the operation of the mobile terminal. Data can be generated based on the selected operation. The generated data can be stored in the mobile terminal. By reading the data, the car wash machine can wash the car based on the selected operation.

[0011] In this case, the image displayed on the screen when operating the reception device and the image displayed on the screen when operating the mobile device are displayed in the same composition, so the user can select the operation of the car wash machine by performing the same operation whether using the reception device or the mobile device. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a car wash system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a first guide image displayed on the screen of a display panel based on the second configuration data in a reception device of a car wash machine. FIG. [Diagram 3] 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a first guide image displayed on the screen of a display panel based on the third configuration data in a reception device of a car wash machine. FIG. [Figure 4] 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a first guide image displayed on the screen of a display panel based on the fourth configuration data in a reception device of a car wash machine. FIG. [Diagram 5]13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a second guide image displayed on the screen of a display panel of a smartphone terminal based on the fifth configuration data. FIG. [Figure 6] 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a second guide image displayed on the screen of a display panel of a smartphone terminal based on sixth configuration data. FIG. [Figure 7] 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a second guide image displayed on the screen of a display panel of a smartphone terminal based on the seventh configuration data. FIG. [Figure 8] 13 is an image showing a specific example of a QR code displayed on a display panel of a smartphone terminal. [Figure 9] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a “content confirmation” image displayed based on event data decoded from a QR code. [Figure 10] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a car wash system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a specific example of a “content confirmation” image displayed based on event data decoded from a QR code. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0013] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0014] FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a car wash system 11 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The car wash system 11 includes car washes 13Aa, 13Ab, 13Ac, 13Ba, 13Bb, and 13Ca that are installed at car wash sites (including gas stations) 12A, 12B, and 12C and perform car washes according to designated operations, an ASP server 15 connected to the Internet 14 and operated by an ASP (Application Service Provider), an Internet terminal (user terminal) 16 connected to the Internet 14 and owned by a customer of the car wash, and a smartphone terminal (user terminal) 18 connected to a mobile phone communication network 17 and owned by a customer of the car wash. The Internet terminal 16 is connected to the ASP server 15 via the Internet 14 in response to, for example, the execution of an application program. The mobile phone communication network 17 is connected to the Internet 14 through, for example, a gateway. The smartphone terminal 18 is connected to the ASP server 15 via the mobile phone communication network 17 and the Internet 14 in response to, for example, the execution of a mobile application program. The ASP server 15 can issue QR codes (registered trademark) that specify the car wash operation for each of the car washes 13Aa, 13Ab, 13Ac, 13Ba, 13Bb, and 13Ca in response to a request provided by the Internet terminal 16 or the smartphone terminal 18. The three car washes 13Aa, 13Ab, and 13Ac are installed, for example, in the AA car wash 12A. The two car washes 13Ba and 13Bb are installed, for example, in the BB car wash 12B. The one car wash 13Ca is installed, for example, in the CC car wash 12C.

[0015] Each of the car washes 13Aa, 13Ab, 13Ac, 13Ba, 13Bb, and 13Ca includes a washing device 21 that washes a vehicle with water, and a reception device 22 that is connected to the washing device 21 and specifies the operation of the washing device 21 according to input instructions. In the washing device 21, for example, a top brush that washes the front and top of the vehicle, left and right side brushes that wash the left and right side surfaces of the vehicle, a top nozzle that blows air onto the front and top surfaces of the vehicle, and a side nozzle that blows air onto the left and right side surfaces of the vehicle are supported on a gate-shaped frame that straddles the vehicle and moves in the front-rear direction relative to the vehicle. Here, the structure of the washing device 21 is similar to that of a general car wash, and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0016] The car wash machines 13Aa, 13Ab, 13Ac, 13Ba, 13Bb, and 13Ca can be classified by model. A model number is assigned to the car wash machines 13Aa, 13Ab, 13Ac, 13Ba, 13Bb, and 13Ca for each individual model. A "car wash course" can be set for each model. The car wash machine's operations for achieving a complete car wash are specified for each "car wash course." "Car wash courses" include, for example, a "wash (water wash)" course, a "shampoo" course, a "water-repellent car wash" course, and a "water-repellent glass coating" course. In addition, "options" that specify additional operations for each model can be set. "Options" include, for example, "side lower part washing" and "careful car wash."

[0017] Furthermore, changes in operation corresponding to equipment may be permitted for each vehicle model. Equipment may include "non-foldable door mirrors," "fender poles," "roof protrusions" such as carriers, "front protrusions" such as large fog lights, "rear protrusions" such as rear mirrors, and "number plates offset to the left or right."

[0018] The reception device 22 includes a processor (MPU) 27 that functions as the car wash setting means 23, the reading means 24, the comparison means 25, and the determination means 26, an imaging device (camera) 28 that is connected to the processor 27 and outputs an imaging signal based on an image formed on an imaging element, a storage means 34 that is connected to the processor 27 and stores first image data 29, a car wash reception program 31, a car wash reception database 32, and a car wash history database 33, a display panel 35 that is connected to the processor 27 and displays images on a horizontally long screen, and a user interface 36 that is connected to the processor 27 and inputs instructions from the user to the processor 27. The operation of the washing device 21 is specified by operation data generated by the car wash setting means 23 or event data acquired by the reading means 24. Details of the operation data and the event data will be described later. Here, the user interface 36 has a touch screen panel that specifies the coordinate value of the contact detected on the screen for each image. The touch screen panel inputs instructions and data from the user to the processor 27 based on the image displayed on the screen and the coordinate value of the contact detected on the screen.

[0019] The first image data 29 specifies a first guide image that displays options for the operation of the car wash machine. The first image data 29 includes first configuration data that generates a standby image, second configuration data that specifies a car wash course of the option and visually represents the option according to a first composition, third configuration data that specifies an option of the option and visually represents the option according to a second composition, and fourth configuration data that specifies an accessory and visually represents the accessory according to a third composition. Here, the image data also includes text data that is fitted into a predetermined composition.

[0020] 2, when the first guide image 37 is generated based on the second configuration data, options of "car wash course" are displayed on the screen of the display panel 35. The first guide image 37 includes, as options, an image 38a of "wash", an image 38b of "shampoo", an image 38c of "water-repellent car wash", an image 38d of "water-repellent glass coating", an image 38e of "shampoo set", an image 38f of "water-repellent car wash set", and an image 38g of "water-repellent glass coating set". An image of a radio button 39 is incorporated into each option.

[0021] 3, when the first guide image 37 is generated based on the third configured data, the options of "Options" are displayed on the screen of the display panel 35. The first guide image 37 includes, as options, an image 41a of "Washing lower side surfaces," an image 41b of "Removing tarnish and dirt," and an image 41c of "Careful car wash." For example, an image of a check box 42 is incorporated into each option.

[0022] 4, when first guide image 37 is generated based on the fourth configuration data, options of "equipment" are displayed on the screen of display panel 35. First guide image 37 includes, as options, image 43a of "non-foldable door mirror," image 43b of "fender pole," image 43c of "roof protrusion," image 43d of "front protrusion," image 43e of "rear protrusion," and image 43f of "license plate shifted to the left or right."

[0023] In the car wash reception database 32, an identifier that identifies each car wash is registered when a car wash is performed based on the event data acquired by the reading means 24. In the car wash history database 33, car wash history data that specifies the operation of the car wash machine for each car wash is registered. The car wash history data can be created based on control signals for the top brush, side brush, top nozzle, and side nozzle, for example. The car wash history data is linked to the corresponding identifier in the car wash reception database 32.

[0024] When the car wash reception program 31 is executed in the reception device 22, a car wash reception application runs in the reception device 22. The car wash reception application establishes the car wash setting means 23, reading means 24, comparison means 25 and determination means 26 in the processor 27. The car wash setting means 23 generates operation data that specifies the operation of the car wash machine specified by the user. In generating the operation data, the car wash setting means 23 displays a first guide image 37 on the screen of the display panel 35 based on the first image data 29. When the user interface 36 is operated in accordance with the display of the first guide image 37, the operation of the car wash machine (i.e. "car wash course", "options", "equipment") is specified in accordance with the operation of the user interface 36. The operation data is transmitted to the washing device 21. The washing device 21 operates based on the operation data.

[0025] The reading means 24 decodes the QR code based on the image signal output from the imaging device 28. The event data is restored in response to the decoding of the QR code. The event data identifies one car wash event (one car wash) carried out at the car washes 13Aa, 13Ab, 13Ac, 13Ba, 13Bb, and 13Ca. As described below, one event data includes "operator ID" data, "store ID" data, "model ID" data, "car wash machine ID" data, "car wash course ID" data, "option ID" data, "equipment ID" data, "payment amount" data, "issue date and time" data, "issued serial ID" data, "member ID" data, and "member type" data.

[0026] The "operator ID" data identifies the operator (e.g., a corporation) that operates each individual car wash. The "operator ID" can be composed of, for example, alphanumeric characters. The "operator ID" can be assigned by the ASP to each operator. Each individual operator can be identified based on the "operator ID."

[0027] The "Store ID" data identifies each car wash (including gas stations). The "Store ID" can be composed of alphanumeric characters, for example. The "Store ID" can be assigned by the ASP to each store. Each car wash can be identified based on the "Store ID".

[0028] The "Model ID" data identifies the model of the car wash machine. The "Model ID" can be composed of, for example, alphanumeric characters. The "Model ID" can be assigned by the ASP for each model of car wash machine. Individual models can be identified based on the "Model ID".

[0029] The "Car Wash Machine ID" data specifies the machine number for each individual car wash machine. The "Car Wash Machine ID" can be composed of alphanumeric characters, for example. The "Car Wash Machine ID" can be assigned by the manufacturer of the car wash machine. A consecutive number may be assigned for each model identified by the "Model ID". In this case, the car wash identifier is formed by the combination of the "Model ID" and the "Car Wash Machine ID". Individual car washes can be identified based on the "Car Wash Machine ID".

[0030] The "Car Wash Course ID" data identifies the car wash courses that can be performed for each individual car wash machine. The "Car Wash Course ID" can be composed of a hexadecimal number, for example. Car wash courses are set uniquely for each individual car wash machine (or each model). Car wash operations are specified for each car wash course. Individual car wash courses can be identified based on the "Car Wash Course ID".

[0031] "Option ID" data is added to a car wash program for each individual car wash to identify the options that can be implemented. The "Option ID" can be configured, for example, as a hexadecimal number. Options are set, for example, uniquely for each individual car wash (or for each model). Additional actions are specified for each option. Individual options can be identified based on the "Option ID".

[0032] The "Equipment ID" data specifies whether or not each specified piece of equipment is equipped. The "Equipment ID" can be composed of, for example, a hexadecimal number. Based on the "Equipment ID", it is possible to specify whether or not there is a "non-foldable door mirror", whether or not there is a "fender pole", whether or not there is a "roof protrusion" such as a carrier, whether or not there is a "front protrusion" such as a large fog lamp, whether or not there is a "rear protrusion" such as a rear mirror, and whether or not there is a "number plate that is offset to the left or right". Since the operation of the car wash changes depending on the equipment, the "Equipment ID" data specifies the operation of the car wash.

[0033] The "payment amount" data specifies the amount charged to the customer for the car wash. The "payment amount" may be composed of numbers, for example.

[0034] The "issue date and time" data specifies the issue date and time of the QR code. The "issue date and time" can be composed of half-width numbers that represent, for example, the four-digit year "YYYY", the four-digit month and day "MMDD", and the six-digit time "hhmmss".

[0035] The "issued serial ID" data identifies one car wash. The "issued serial ID" can be composed of a consecutive number of a set number of digits. Individual car washes (car wash events) can be identified based on the "issued serial ID." Here, the "issued serial ID" is registered in the car wash reception database 32 as an identifier.

[0036] The "member ID" data identifies a user registered in the car wash system. The "member ID" can be composed of, for example, alphanumeric characters. The "member ID" can be assigned to each user by the ASP. Individual users can be identified based on the "member ID."

[0037] The "membership type" data specifies the type of user. The type of user can be classified, for example, into "spot member," "prepaid member," and "monthly member." Spot members pay for each car wash. Prepaid members deposit a specific amount of monetary value with the operator in advance. The cost of the car wash is deducted from the deposited monetary value each time the car is washed. Here, a prepaid member can purchase points worth 1,000 yen by paying, for example, 950 yen, points worth 2,000 yen by paying 1,800 yen, and points worth 5,000 yen by paying 4,250 yen. Monthly members can wash their cars an unlimited number of times by paying a set amount each month.

[0038] The collation means 25 compares the "model ID" and "car wash machine ID" acquired by decrypting the QR code with the "model ID" and "car wash machine ID" stored in the machine. If the decrypted "model ID" and "car wash machine ID" match the "model ID" and "car wash machine ID" that identify the machine, the determination means 26 allows the car to be washed. If they do not match, the determination means 26 avoids the car wash. The determination means 26 displays a string of characters such as "This car wash machine cannot be used" on the screen of the display panel 35.

[0039] The ASP server 15 includes a processor (CPU) 47 that functions as a reception means 45 and a QR code issuing means 46, and a storage means 54 that is connected to the processor 47 and stores second image data 48, a server application program 49, a car wash reservation database 51, a car wash machine database 52, and a member database 53. The storage means 54 can be formed of a large-capacity storage device such as a disk array device.

[0040] The second image data 48 specifies a second guide image that displays options for the operation of the car wash machine. The second image data 48 includes fifth configured data that specifies the car wash course of the option and visually represents the option according to the same first composition as the second configured data, sixth configured data that specifies an option of the option and visually represents the option according to the same second composition as the third configured data, and seventh configured data that specifies an accessory and visually represents the accessory according to the same third composition as the fourth configured data. Here, the image data also includes text data to be fitted into the predetermined composition.

[0041] Event data is registered in car wash reservation database 51. "Store ID" data, "model ID" data, "car wash ID" data, "car wash course ID" data, "option ID" data, and "equipment ID" data are registered in car wash database 52 for each individual car wash. "Member ID" data and "membership type" data are registered in membership database 53 for each individual user. To manage car wash database 52 and membership database 53, the ASP administrator can access storage means 54 of ASP server 15 from an Internet terminal (not shown) connected to Internet 14.

[0042] When server application program 49 is executed on ASP server 15, a car wash management application runs on ASP server 15. The car wash management application causes reception means 45 and QR code issuing means 46 to be established in processor 47. Reception means 45 is connected to Internet terminal 16 and smartphone terminal 18 via Internet 14, and transmits and receives text data and image data between Internet terminal 16 and smartphone terminal 18. QR code issuing means 46 generates event data based on the text data received by reception means 45 and car wash machine database 52 and member database 53 stored in storage means 54.

[0043] The QR code issuing means 46 issues one QR code for one piece of event data. Here, the following strings are encrypted into the QR code in the order of the number of characters determined for each: "operator ID", "store ID", "model ID", "car wash machine ID", "car wash course ID", "option ID", "accessory ID", "payment amount", "issue date and time", "issue serial ID", "member ID", and "member type". Thus, the QR code includes an identifier that identifies one car wash and specifies the car wash operation.

[0044] The smartphone terminal 18 includes a processor (arithmetic processing unit) 56 connected to the processor 47 of the ASP server 15 for transmitting and receiving data to and from the processor 47, a memory 59 connected to the processor 56 for storing a car wash reservation application program (mobile app program) 57, image data 58 of a QR code, and other programs and data, a display panel 61 connected to the processor 56 for displaying an image on a vertically long screen, and a user interface 62 connected to the processor 56 for inputting a user's instructions and data to the processor 56. Here, the user interface 62 has a touch screen panel that specifies the coordinate value of a contact detected on the screen for each image. The touch screen panel inputs a user's instructions and data to the processor 56 based on the image displayed on the screen and the coordinate value of a contact detected on the screen. The processor 56 can be wirelessly connected to the mobile phone communication network 17 via a communication circuit 63. In addition, the processor 56 can be wirelessly connected to a WiFi router via a WiFi (registered trademark) circuit (not shown). The WiFi router connects the WiFi circuit to the Internet 14.

[0045] The second image data 48 is supplied to the smartphone terminal 18 from the ASP server 15. The second image data 48 may be downloaded together with the mobile application program 57 and stored in the memory 59, or may be temporarily held in the memory 59 when the mobile application program 57 is executed.

[0046] As shown in FIG. 5, the fifth configuration data of the second image data 48 generates a second guide image 64 in the smartphone terminal 18. Options for "car wash course" are displayed on the screen of the display panel 61. The second guide image 64 includes, as options, an image 65a for "wash", an image 65b for "shampoo", an image 65c for "water-repellent car wash", an image 65d for "water-repellent glass coating", an image 65e for "shampoo set", an image 65f for "water-repellent car wash set", and an image 65g for "water-repellent glass coating set". An image of a radio button 66 is incorporated into each option.

[0047] The first composition of the fifth constituted data matches the first composition of the second constituted data. Here, the match of the composition includes a match or similarity in the arrangement (layout) of the options, a match or similarity in the color scheme, a match or similarity in the aspect ratio, and a match or similarity in other components. The first guide image 37 based on the second constituted data is fitted into a landscape screen, whereas the second guide image 64 based on the fifth constituted data is fitted into a portrait screen, but the first guide image 37 and the second guide image 64 match (or are similar) in appearance. Alternatively, the display panel 35 of the reception device 22 may have a portrait screen.

[0048] 6, the sixth configuration data of the second image data 48 generates a second guide image 64 on the smartphone terminal 18. The options "Options" are displayed on the screen of the display panel 61. The second guide image 64 includes an image 67a for "Washing lower side surfaces," an image 67b for "Removing tarnish and dirt," and an image 67c for "Careful car wash." For example, an image of a check box 68 is incorporated into each option.

[0049] The second composition of the sixth constituted data matches the second composition of the third constituted data. Here, matching of compositions includes matching or similarity of the arrangement (layout) of options, matching or similarity of color schemes, matching or similarity of aspect ratios, and matching or similarity of other components. Although the first guide image 37 based on the third constituted data is fitted into a landscape screen, while the second guide image 64 based on the sixth constituted data is fitted into a portrait screen, the first guide image 37 and the second guide image 64 match (or are similar) in appearance.

[0050] 7, the seventh configuration data of the second image data 48 generates a second guide image 64 in the smartphone terminal 18. An option for "equipment" is displayed on the screen of the display panel 61. The second guide image 64 includes an image 69a of an "unfoldable door mirror," an image 69b of a "fender pole," an image 69c of a "roof protrusion," an image 69d of a "front protrusion," an image 69e of a "rear protrusion," and an image 69f of a "number plate shifted to the left or right."

[0051] The third composition of the seventh constituted data matches the third composition of the fourth constituted data. Here, matching of compositions includes matching or similarity of the arrangement (layout) of options, matching or similarity of color schemes, matching or similarity of aspect ratios, and matching or similarity of other components. Although the first guide image 37 based on the fourth constituted data is fitted into a landscape screen, while the second guide image 64 based on the seventh constituted data is fitted into a portrait screen, the first guide image 37 and the second guide image 64 match (or are similar) in appearance.

[0052] Similarly, the Internet terminal 16 may include a CPU (Central Processing Unit) connected to the processor 47 of the ASP server 15 for transmitting and receiving data to and from the processor 47, a storage means connected to the CPU for storing the car wash reservation application program, image data of the QR code, and other programs and data, a display panel connected to the CPU for displaying images on a screen, and a user interface connected to the CPU for inputting user instructions and data to the CPU. Here, the user interface includes a keyboard and a mouse. The CPU can be connected to the Internet 14 via a LAN board.

[0053] A printer 71 can be connected to the internet terminal 16. The printer 71 can print character strings and images on the surface of printing paper based on text data and image data. The text data and image data can be supplied to the printer 71 from the CPU, for example.

[0054] Next, the operation of the car wash system 11 will be described. For example, when a user pays for a car wash with cash, the user drives up to the car wash (e.g., AA car wash 12A) to have the car washed. In the reception device 22, a first guide image 37 is displayed on the screen of the display panel 35 based on the first image data 29. As the user approaches, for example, the standby image is switched to a selection of "car wash courses." On the screen of the display panel 35, as shown in FIG. 2, options for "car wash courses" are displayed according to the first composition. The user selects one "car wash course" by operating the user interface 36. To make a selection, a corresponding radio button 39 is designated in the user interface 36.

[0055] When the "Proceed to option selection screen" button 72 is tapped, a selection of "options" is displayed on the screen of the display panel 35 according to the second composition, as shown in FIG. 3. The user can select one or more "options" by operating the user interface 36. When making a selection, the corresponding check box 42 is specified in the user interface 36. If no "options" are required, the user unchecks all of the check boxes 42.

[0056] When the "Proceed to equipment selection screen" button 73 is tapped, an image that prompts the user to select "equipment" according to the third composition, as shown in FIG. 4, is displayed on the screen of the display panel 35. The user selects the appropriate "equipment" by operating the user interface 36. Here, when a corresponding image is tapped on the user interface 36 to make a selection, the color (or brightness or saturation) of the image changes. The selection of the "equipment" can be visually confirmed according to the change in color.

[0057] When the "OK" button 74 is tapped, an image of "Confirm details" is displayed on the screen of the display panel 35. When the car wash set based on the operation of the user interface 36 is approved, the car wash setting means 23 executes the payment procedure. The customer is prompted on the screen of the display panel 35 to insert cash. When cash is inserted into the reception device 22, the payment is completed. When the payment is completed, the car wash setting means 23 supplies operation data to the washing device 21. The car wash begins. The operation of the car wash machine 17Aa is registered in the car wash history database 33 as car wash history data. Data identifying the cash payment is linked to the car wash history data.

[0058] When a user launches a car wash reservation application (hereinafter referred to as the "mobile app") in response to execution of mobile application program 57 on smartphone terminal 18, the user is prompted to enter a login ID and password. The mobile app is installed on smartphone terminal 18 in advance. Once the login ID and password are approved, the mobile app on smartphone terminal 18 is connected to the car wash management application on ASP server 15. In this way, encrypted communication is realized between processor 56 of smartphone terminal 18 and processor 47 of ASP server 15.

[0059] Depending on the member authentication, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 can recognize the "member ID" and "member type" based on the member database 53. Here, a mobile app is provided for each car wash 12A, 12B, 12C. The mobile app displays an image unique to each car wash 12A, 12B, 12C on the screen of the display panel 35. The mobile app transmits "store ID" data from the smartphone terminal 18 to the ASP server 15. Therefore, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 can identify the "operator ID" and "store ID" based on the car wash database 52. The target car washes can be narrowed down based on the "store ID".

[0060] The user is prompted to select a car wash machine. The reception means 45 transmits image data (and text data) that identifies the car washes 13Aa, 13Ab, and 13Ac of the options to the processor 56. Images of the options are displayed on the screen of the display panel 61.

[0061] Based on the image, the user selects one car wash machine 13Aa. The selection is input based on the operation of the user interface 62. The selection of the car wash machine 13Aa is transmitted to the reception means 45 of the ASP server 15. Based on the selection, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 can identify the "model ID" and the "car wash machine ID."

[0062] When the car wash machine 13Aa is determined, the reception means 45 identifies the "car wash course ID," "option ID," and "accessory ID" assigned to the car wash machine 13Aa based on the car wash machine database 52. The reception means 45 transmits the second image data 48 to the processor 56. The second guide image 64 is displayed on the screen of the display panel 61 based on the second image data 48. As shown in FIG. 5, the screen of the display panel 61 displays options for the "car wash course" according to the first composition, similar to the first guide image 37. The user selects one "car wash course" by operating the user interface 62. To make the selection, the corresponding radio button 66 is specified in the user interface 62. In response to a tap of the "Proceed to option selection screen" button 76, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 can identify the "car wash course ID."

[0063] When the "Proceed to option selection screen" button 76 is tapped, as shown in FIG. 6, a selection of "options" is displayed on the screen of the display panel 61 according to the second composition, similar to the first guide image 37. The user selects one or more "options" by operating the user interface 62. When making a selection, the corresponding check box 68 is specified in the user interface 62. In response to the tapping of the "Proceed to equipment selection screen" button 77, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 can identify the "option ID." When all of the "option" check boxes 68 are unchecked, the "option ID" is specified as not selected.

[0064] When the "Proceed to equipment selection screen" button 77 is tapped, as shown in FIG. 7, the screen of the display panel 61 prompts the user to select "Equipment" according to the third composition, similar to the first guide image 37. The user selects the appropriate "Equipment" by operating the user interface 62. Here, when a corresponding image is tapped on the user interface 62 to make a selection, the color (or brightness or saturation) of the image changes. The selection of "Equipment" can be visually confirmed according to the change in color. In response to the tapping of the "Confirm" button 78, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 can identify the "Equipment ID".

[0065] When the "OK" button 78 is tapped, the reception means 45 transmits image data specifying a confirmation screen for the car wash event to the processor 56. An image of "Content confirmation" is displayed on the screen of the display panel 61. When the car wash event is approved based on the operation of the user interface 62, the reception means 45 executes the payment procedure. When the payment is completed, the QR code issuing means 46 registers the event data in the car wash reservation database 51. In response to the establishment of the event data, the QR code issuing means 46 issues a QR code. The image data of the issued QR code is transmitted to the processor 56. The image data 58 of the QR code is stored in the memory 59 of the smartphone terminal 18. Here, the image data 58 of the QR code is overwritten. When a new QR code is issued on one smartphone terminal 18, the old QR code is erased. As shown in FIG. 8, the QR code 79 can be displayed on the screen of the display panel 61.

[0066] To have the car washed, the user drives up to the intended car wash 12A. At this time, the user brings along the smartphone terminal 18. If a reservation for a car wash has been made via the internet terminal 16, the user simply brings along a QR code printed out by the printer 71. The QR code 79 displayed on the screen is held up to the imaging device 28 of the reception device 22. The reading means 24 decodes the QR code 79 from the image signal from the imaging device 28. The event data is restored. The event data is temporarily stored in memory.

[0067] The matching means 25 compares the "model ID" and "car wash ID" (car wash identifier) ​​acquired by decryption with the machine's own "model ID" and "car wash ID" (car wash identifier that identifies the machine). If the car wash identifier acquired by decryption matches the car wash identifier that identifies the machine, the determination means 26 allows the car to be washed. If they do not match, the reception device 22 notifies the user that the car cannot be washed. The display panel 35 of the reception device 22 displays the text "This car wash cannot be used" on the screen.

[0068] When the car wash is permitted, the reception device 22 displays a "content confirmation" image on the screen of the display panel 35. When the contents of the car wash event are approved in response to the operation of the user interface 36, the car wash begins. The reception device 22 extracts the "issued serial ID" from the event data. The "issued serial ID" is registered in the car wash reception database 32. The operation of the car wash machine 13Aa is registered in the car wash history database 33 as car wash history data. Here, the car wash history data is linked to the registered "issued serial ID". In this way, the event data can be verified based on the actual car wash history. If the car wash is stopped midway, the corresponding "issued serial ID" is deleted from the car wash reception database 32. In this way, the same QR code 79 can be used again if the car wash is incomplete.

[0069] In this embodiment, when washing the car, a user operates reception device 22 of car wash machine 17Aa. An operation of car wash machine 17Aa can be selected in response to the operation of reception device 22. Car wash machine 17Aa can wash the car based on the selected operation. Meanwhile, prior to the car wash, a user can reserve a car wash from smartphone terminal 18. An operation of car wash machine 17Aa can be selected in response to the operation of smartphone terminal 18. A QR code 79 can be issued based on the selected operation. The issued QR code 79 can be displayed on the screen of smartphone terminal 18. By reading QR code 79, car wash machine 17Aa can wash the car based on the selected operation.

[0070] At this time, the image displayed on the screen of the display panel 35 when operating the reception device 22 and the image displayed on the screen of the display panel 61 when operating the smartphone terminal 18 are displayed in the same composition, so the user can select the operation of the car wash machine 17Aa by performing the same operation whether using the reception device 22 or the smartphone terminal 18. Good usability can be provided.

[0071] In this embodiment, when the "Contents Confirmation" image is displayed based on the event data decoded from the QR code, the operation of the car wash machine can be changed. As shown in FIG. 9, for example, when the "Change Equipment" button 82 is tapped on the "Contents Confirmation" screen 81, the screen of the display panel 35 displays the "Equipment" options as shown in FIG. 4. Here, the selection restored by the event data is reproduced on the first screen. Therefore, even if the user accidentally taps the "Change Equipment" button 82, the "Contents Confirmation" screen 81 can be restored while maintaining the selection specified by the event data. The trouble of reselecting after an erroneous operation can be avoided. Good operability can be realized in the reception device 22. On the other hand, the user can reselect the "Equipment" based on the selection specified by the event data.

[0072] When displaying the "Equipment" options, a "Clear Equipment" button 83 may be provided on the screen of the display panel 35. When the "Clear Equipment" button 83 is tapped, all selections on the screen of the display panel 35 are cleared. The user can select "Equipment" from scratch. This can improve operability when correcting the selection.

[0073] The event data may further include "unsettled flag" data. The "unsettled flag" data specifies whether or not the payment has been completed. For example, if the payment has been completed, a "0 (zero)" value is written to the "unsettled flag" data. If the payment has not been completed, a "1" value is written to the "unsettled flag" data. When issuing a QR code, the QR code issuing means 46 of the ASP server 15 determines whether or not the payment procedure has been completed. When the "unsettled flag" is established, an image for selecting "paid" or "unsettled" may be displayed on the screen of the display panel 61 of the smartphone terminal 18 of the spot member in response to the operation of the mobile app. Payment or unsettled can be selected in response to the operation of the user interface 62. When "paid" is confirmed in the event data in response to the decoding of the QR code 79 by the reception device 22 of the car wash machine, the car wash starts as is. When "unsettled" is confirmed in the event data, the reception device 22 displays an image on the screen of the display panel 35 that prompts the user to make a cash payment. The user can make the payment by inserting cash into the reception device 22. When the cash payment is confirmed by the reception device 22, the car wash begins.

[0074] FIG. 10 shows a schematic configuration of a car wash system 11a according to the second embodiment of the present invention. Here, each reception device 22 is connected to the ASP server 15 via the Internet 14. The reception device 22 is supplied with event data registered in the car wash reservation database 51 from the ASP server 15. In response to the supply of the event data, at least the "issued serial ID" data is stored in the storage means 34. The reception device 22 only needs to be supplied with event data corresponding to the "model ID" and the "car wash machine ID". The reception device 22 checks the "issued serial ID" data supplied from the ASP server 15 against the "issued serial ID" data obtained by decoding the QR code. If any one of the "issued serial ID" data supplied from the ASP server 15 matches the "issued serial ID" data obtained by decoding the QR code, the determination means 26 permits the car wash. At this time, the reception device 22 can erase the "issued serial ID" data supplied from the ASP server 15. When the car wash is completed, the reception device 22 can notify the ASP server 15 of the completion of the car wash. In this way, the ASP server 15 can carry out the payment process after the car wash is completed.

[0075] If the "issued serial ID" data obtained by decoding the QR code does not match any one of the "issued serial ID" data supplied from the ASP server 15, the determination means 26 will avoid washing the car. The determination means 26 will display a character string such as "This car wash machine cannot handle this product" on the screen of the display panel 35.

[0076] In this embodiment, when the "content confirmation" image is displayed based on the event data decoded from the QR code, the "car wash course" and "option" can be changed. As shown in FIG. 11, for example, when the "course change" button 84 is tapped on the "content confirmation" screen 81, the first guide image 37 is presented on the screen of the display panel 35 according to the second composition and the third composition, as shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 3. Here, the selection restored by the event data is reproduced on the first screen. Therefore, even if the user accidentally taps the "course change" button 84, the "content confirmation" screen 81 can be restored while maintaining the selection specified by the event data. The trouble of reselecting after an erroneous operation can be avoided. Good operability can be realized in the reception device 22. On the other hand, the user can reselect the "car wash course" and "option" based on the selection specified by the event data.

[0077] In addition, when displaying the "option" choices, a "clear option" button may be provided on the screen of the display panel 35. When the "clear option" button is tapped, all selections on the screen of the display panel 35 are cleared. The user can select "options" from scratch. This improves operability when correcting a selection. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 13Aa...car wash machine, 13Ab...car wash machine, 13Ac...car wash machine, 13Ba...car wash machine, 13Bb...car wash machine, 13Ca...car wash machine, 18...mobile terminal (smartphone terminal), 22...reception device, 29...first image data, 35...display panel (integrated into the reception device), 37...first information image, 48...second image data, 61...display panel (integrated into the mobile terminal), 64...second information image, 79...QR code.

Claims

[Claim 1] A step of generating first image data specifying a first guide image that is displayed on a screen of a display panel incorporated in a reception device of the car wash machine and displays options for operations of the car wash machine; generating second image data for specifying a second guide image that is displayed on a screen of a display panel incorporated in the user's mobile terminal and displays options for the operation of the car wash machine according to the composition of the first guide image; issuing a QR code that identifies the action selected in the second guide image, and transmitting image data of the QR code to the user's portable terminal; A method for managing a car wash, comprising:

Images