Voting apparatus, voting program, and voting method

Abstract

To enable payment of a voting amount for publicly-managed competitions to be properly made through electronic settlement.SOLUTION: A voting apparatus 10 according to the present invention accepts input of a first voting content for publicly-managed competition and payment through electronic settlement. The voting apparatus 10 executes voting in response to the first voting content. The voting apparatus 10 requests a server 1 for executing electronic settlement to issue a partial refund of payment in accordance with the result of the voting execution.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a voting device, a voting program, and a voting method. [Background technology]

[0002] Cashless betting using cashless transactions is becoming popular in public races such as horse racing, bicycle racing, boat racing, and auto racing. Cashless transactions include electronic payments such as QR (Quick Response) payments using authentication with QR codes (registered trademark).

[0003] As a technology related to cashless voting, for example, a voting device that accepts bets for public races by electronic payment has been proposed. As a technology related to electronic payment, for example, a vending machine system that can properly settle accounts with vending machine users in the event of an abnormality in the delivery of goods has been proposed. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] JP 2023-69395 A [Patent Document 2] JP 2020-149102 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] When applying electronic payment to betting on publicly managed races, it is possible, for example, to pay the amount of an executed bet by electronic payment. However, because odds and the like fluctuate, if the electronic payment to pay the amount of an executed bet fails, it is difficult to cancel a bet that has already been executed. Furthermore, if an electronic payment is executed in advance and then a bet is executed, the amount of the electronic payment and the amount of the bet may not match.

[0006] In one aspect, this case aims to ensure the proper execution of electronic payment of bets in public lotteries. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one proposal, a voting device is provided that has a processing unit that accepts an input of a first bet for a publicly managed race and a deposit made by electronic payment, executes a bet according to the first bet, and requests a server that executes electronic payment to refund a portion of the deposit according to the result of the execution of the bet. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to one embodiment, the betting amount for publicly managed lotteries can be appropriately paid by electronic payment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a voting device according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a voting system according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a voting device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of a voting device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing one example of a screen displayed when accepting votes. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a second diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when accepting votes. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen notifying a race participant that a race entry has been cancelled. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen notifying a user that a voting deadline has passed. [Figure 9] 13 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. [Figure 10] 13 is a second flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. [Figure 11]13 is a flowchart (part 3) illustrating an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. [Figure 12] 11 is a fourth flowchart showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a block diagram showing another example of the functions of the voting device. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when making an advance payment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. [Figure 16] 13 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. [Figure 17] 13 is a flowchart (part 3) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. [Figure 18] 13 is a flowchart (part 4) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that each embodiment can be implemented in combination with a plurality of other embodiments as long as no contradiction occurs. First Embodiment 1 is a diagram showing an example of a voting device according to the first embodiment. The voting device 10 of the first embodiment sells betting tickets for publicly-run races such as horse racing, bicycle racing, boat racing, and auto racing, by electronic payment.

[0011] The voting device 10 is a device through which a user purchases betting tickets for publicly managed races. The voting device 10 has a processing unit 11. The processing unit 11 controls the voting device 10 and is capable of executing required processing. The processing unit 11 is, for example, a processor or arithmetic circuit that the voting device 10 has. The voting device 10 is connected to a server 1. The server 1 is a server computer that executes electronic payments. The server 1 manages electronic payment accounts used for electronic payments such as QR payments, and makes payments from and refunds to the electronic payment accounts in response to requests from the voting device 10.

[0012] The processing unit 11 accepts the input of the first bet for a publicly managed race and electronic payment. The bet for a publicly managed race may, for example, specify the betting venue name, race, type, group number, betting amount, etc. The processing unit 11, for example, causes the mark card processing unit to read a mark card, and accepts the betting venue name, race, type, group number, betting amount, etc. read from the mark card as the input of the first bet. The processing unit 11 may also cause a plurality of mark cards to be read. The processing unit 11 may also accept the input of the first bet by touch panel input or QR code reading.

[0013] Furthermore, for example, when accepting a deposit, the processing unit 11 has a code reading unit read a QR code displayed on the user's mobile terminal or the like, and acquires authentication information for the user's electronic payment account. Then, the processing unit 11 notifies the server 1 of the acquired authentication information and the deposit amount, and requests electronic payment to pay the deposit amount from the user's electronic payment account. Here, the processing unit 11 accepts a deposit of the voting amount for the first voting content, for example. The processing unit 11 notifies the server 1 of the authentication information acquired from the QR code and the total voting amount for the votes specified in the first voting content, and requests electronic payment.

[0014] Next, the processing unit 11 executes a vote according to the first voting content. For example, the processing unit 11 requests a host server that manages the operation of the public race to execute the vote specified in the first voting content. Here, the host server determines whether or not the votes specified in the first voting content include votes that cannot be executed. Examples of votes that cannot be executed include votes that specify a betting target whose entry has been canceled, and votes that specify a race whose voting deadline has passed. If the votes specified in the first voting content include votes that cannot be executed, the host server notifies the betting device 10 that some votes cannot be executed.

[0015] When the first voting content includes a second voting content that specifies a race in which the participation of some of the betting targets has been cancelled, the processing unit 11 executes the vote with the voting content obtained by excluding the second voting content from the first voting content. For example, the processing unit 11 requests the host server to execute the vote with the voting content specified by the voting content obtained by excluding the second voting content from the first voting content. Also, when the first voting content includes a third voting content that specifies a race in which the voting deadline has passed, the processing unit 11 executes the vote with the voting content obtained by excluding the third voting content from the first voting content. For example, the processing unit 11 requests the host server to execute the vote with the voting content specified by the voting content obtained by excluding the third voting content from the first voting content.

[0016] Then, the processing unit 11 requests the server 1 to refund a portion of the deposit depending on the result of the vote. When a vote is cast with the voting contents excluding the second voting contents from the first voting contents, the processing unit 11 requests the server 1 to refund the voting amount of the second voting contents. Also, when a vote is cast with the voting contents excluding the third voting contents from the first voting contents, the processing unit 11 requests the server 1 to refund the voting amount of the third voting contents. The processing unit 11 notifies the server 1 of the authentication information of the user's electronic payment account and the refund amount, and requests that the refund amount be refunded to the user's electronic payment account.

[0017] According to the first embodiment, the processing unit 11 accepts the input of the first bet content for a publicly managed race and a deposit made by electronic payment, executes a bet according to the first bet content, and requests the server 1 that executes electronic payment to refund a portion of the deposit according to the result of the execution of the bet. In this way, the voting device 10 can ensure that the amount paid by electronic payment matches the bet amount. Therefore, the voting device 10 can properly execute the payment of the bet amount for a publicly managed race by electronic payment.

[0018] Furthermore, the processing unit 11 accepts the deposit of the betting amount for the first betting content, and when the first betting content includes a second betting content that specifies a race in which the entry of some of the betting targets has been cancelled, the processing unit 11 executes the betting with the betting content obtained by excluding the second betting content from the first betting content. Then, the processing unit 11 requests the server 1 to refund the betting amount for the second betting content. In this way, when an electronic payment is executed including the betting amount for a bet that cannot be executed due to the cancellation of the race, the betting device 10 can refund the payment amount so that it matches the actual betting amount.

[0019] Furthermore, the processing unit 11 accepts the deposit of the betting amount for the first voting content, and if the first voting content includes a third voting content that specifies a race for which the voting deadline has passed, the processing unit 11 executes the betting with the voting content obtained by excluding the third voting content from the first voting content. The processing unit 11 then requests the server 1 to refund the betting amount for the third voting content. This allows the betting device 10 to refund the paid amount so that it matches the actual betting amount when an electronic payment is executed including the betting amount for a bet that cannot be executed because the race deadline has passed.

[0020] In addition, when the second voting content includes a fourth voting content that does not specify a betting target whose entry has been canceled, the processing unit 11 may accept a selection of whether or not to bet with the voting content including the fourth voting content. When the processing unit 11 accepts a selection of betting with the voting content including the fourth voting content, the processing unit 11 may execute a vote with the voting content obtained by excluding all of the second voting content except the fourth voting content from the first voting content. Then, the processing unit 11 may request the server 1 to refund the difference between the betting amount of the second voting content and the betting amount of the fourth voting content. In this way, the betting device 10 allows betting that is available among the bets that specify the race whose entry has been canceled, and can refund the appropriate amount.

[0021] Furthermore, the processing unit 11 may accept the input of the first bet details after accepting the deposit, execute the vote, and request the server 1 to refund the difference between the amount of the deposit and the amount of the vote. This allows the voting device 10 to execute betting by electronic payment in the same way as betting in public races, which is done by depositing cash into the voting device, thereby improving convenience.

[0022] Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. The second embodiment provides a service that allows betting on publicly-run races such as horse races, bicycle races, boat races, and auto races by electronic payment using QR codes.

[0023] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a voting system according to the second embodiment. The voting system according to the second embodiment includes voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,..., a payment server 200, a host server 300, and a user terminal 400. The voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,..., the payment server 200, and the user terminal 400 are connected to a network 30. The network 30 is, for example, a wide area network such as the Internet. In addition, the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,... and the host server 300 are connected to a network 40. The network 40 is a dedicated line for communication between the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,... and the host server 300.

[0024] Voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ... are devices that allow users of public races to place bets for public races. Voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ... are installed in public race track 50. Public race track 50 is the venue for public races, such as a horse race track, bicycle race track, boat race track, auto race track, etc.

[0025] The betting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ... obtain the betting details by reading the mark card inserted by the user. The betting details include the betting venue name, race number, type, group number, betting amount, etc.

[0026] In addition, the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,... obtain authentication information for the user's electronic payment account by reading a QR code displayed on a user terminal 400 brought close by the user. The voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,... transmit the read authentication information to the payment server 200 and request the payment server 200 to execute electronic payment to purchase a betting ticket from the balance of the user's electronic payment account. If the electronic payment is successful, the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,... request the host server 300 to vote based on the accepted voting content. Then, the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3,... issue a betting ticket according to the voting content. Here, if the betting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ... include votes for races where entry has been cancelled or for races where the deadline has passed, they request the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount for the relevant votes to the user's electronic settlement account.

[0027] The payment server 200 is a server computer operated by an electronic payment business operator that manages electronic payments. In response to a request from the user terminal 400, the payment server 200 transmits a QR code indicating authentication information of the user's electronic payment account to the user terminal 400. When the payment server 200 receives a request for electronic payment from the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ..., it identifies the electronic payment account corresponding to the authentication information acquired from the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, .... Then, the payment server 200 executes the electronic payment requested by the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ... from the balance of the identified electronic payment account.

[0028] Host server 300 is a server computer that manages the operation of public racing events. Host server 300 manages information about each race held at public racing venue 50. Host server 300 accepts votes for public racing events from users via betting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, ... that are operated by the users. Note that if votes are included for races for which entry has been cancelled or for races for which the deadline has passed, host server 300 accepts votes excluding those votes. Host server 300 then tallies the number of votes and calculates odds and payouts based on the race information and the results of the vote tally.

[0029] The user terminal 400 is a portable electronic device operated by a user. The user terminal 400 is, for example, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, etc. The user terminal 400 executes an application operated by an electronic payment business operator to request a QR code indicating authentication information of the user's electronic payment account from the payment server 200. Then, the user terminal 400 displays the QR code obtained from the payment server 200.

[0030] A management PC that tallies and documents the amounts of electronic payments made by the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, etc. may be connected to the network 40. Also, cashless terminals that do not have a cash handling unit may be used instead of the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, etc. In the following, of the voting devices 100-1, 100-2, 100-3, etc., only the voting device 100-1 will be described.

[0031] 3 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a voting device. The voting device 100-1 is entirely controlled by a processor 101. A memory 102 and a plurality of peripheral devices are connected to the processor 101 via a bus 113. The processor 101 may be a multiprocessor. The processor 101 is, for example, a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP). At least a part of the functions realized by the processor 101 executing a program may be realized by an electronic circuit such as an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or a programmable logic device (PLD).

[0032] The memory 102 is used as a main storage device of the voting device 100-1. The memory 102 temporarily stores at least a part of the OS (Operating System) program and application programs to be executed by the processor 101. The memory 102 also stores various data used in the processing by the processor 101. As the memory 102, for example, a volatile semiconductor storage device such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) is used.

[0033] The peripheral devices connected to the bus 113 include a storage device 103, a display device 104, a touch panel 105, a betting ticket processing unit 106, a mark card processing unit 107, a code reading unit 108, and a cash processing unit 109. The peripheral devices connected to the bus 113 also include a device connection interface 110 and network interfaces 111 and 112.

[0034] The storage device 103 electrically or magnetically writes and reads data to and from a built-in recording medium. The storage device 103 is used as an auxiliary storage device for a computer. The storage device 103 stores an OS program, application programs, and various data. Note that, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD) can be used as the storage device 103.

[0035] The display device 104 displays an image in accordance with an instruction from the processor 101. The display device 104 may be a display device using an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display device, a liquid crystal display device, or the like.

[0036] The touch panel 105 is disposed in front of the screen of the display device 104, detects a pressed position on the screen, and transmits a signal indicating that position to the processor 101. The betting ticket processing unit 106 prints and dispenses betting tickets in accordance with instructions from the processor 101. The betting ticket processing unit 106 also reads the contents of winning betting tickets and outputs them to the processor 101.

[0037] The mark card processing unit 107 reads the information marked on the mark card used for betting on public races, and transmits the read information to the processor 101. The code reading unit 108 reads two-dimensional codes such as QR codes and bar codes, and transmits the read information to the processor 101.

[0038] The cash handling unit 109 controls the deposit and withdrawal of coins and banknotes according to instructions from the processor 101. The cash handling unit 109 reads the type of deposited coins and banknotes and outputs it to the processor 101. In addition, the cash handling unit 109 dispenses coins and banknotes of the type instructed by the processor 101.

[0039] The device connection interface 110 can read data from the portable recording medium 31 or write data to the portable recording medium 31. The portable recording medium 31 is, for example, a recording medium such as a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) or a CD (Compact Disc).

[0040] The network interface 111 is connected to the network 30. The network interface 111 transmits and receives data to and from other computers or communication devices via the network 30. The network interface 112 is connected to the network 40. The network interface 112 transmits and receives data to and from other computers or communication devices via the network 40.

[0041] The voting device 100-1 can realize the processing functions of the second embodiment with the above hardware configuration. The voting device 10 shown in the first embodiment can also be realized with the same hardware as the voting device 100-1 shown in FIG. 3. The voting devices 100-2, 100-3, ... can also be realized with the same hardware as the voting device 100-1. The processor 101 is an example of the processing unit 11 shown in the first embodiment.

[0042] The voting device 100-1 realizes the processing function of the second embodiment by executing a program recorded in, for example, a computer-readable recording medium. The program describing the processing contents to be executed by the voting device 100-1 can be recorded in various recording media. For example, the program to be executed by the voting device 100-1 can be stored in the storage device 103. The processor 101 loads at least a part of the program in the storage device 103 into the memory 102 and executes the program. The program to be executed by the voting device 100-1 can also be recorded in the portable recording medium 31. The program stored in the portable recording medium 31 becomes executable after being installed in the storage device 103, for example, under the control of the processor 101. The processor 101 can also read and execute the program directly from the portable recording medium 31.

[0043] However, in publicly managed races, because odds fluctuate, it is difficult to cancel a bet once it has been placed. Therefore, to avoid a shortage of the betting amount, it is necessary to accept a deposit before placing a bet. Also, there are cases where it becomes impossible to place a bet with the specified bet due to the cancellation of the race for which the bet was placed or the deadline for betting on the race.

[0044] Therefore, in the second embodiment, the betting device 100-1 accepts the insertion of a mark card and the deposit of the betting amount when a bet is made with the betting content indicated on the mark card by electronic payment. The betting device 100-1 then requests the host server 300 to make a bet with the betting content indicated on the mark card, and requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount for the bet that could not be made due to the cancellation of the race to be bet on or the closing date of the betting for the race. Next, the functions of the betting device 100-1 will be described in detail.

[0045] 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of the voting device. The voting device 100-1 has a voting amount settlement unit 120, a voting content acceptance unit 130, and a voting request unit 140. The voting amount settlement unit 120, the voting content acceptance unit 130, and the voting request unit 140 are realized by the processor 101 executing a program stored in the memory 102.

[0046] The betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the payment server 200 to perform electronic payment to pay the betting amount of the vote specified by the mark card and to make a refund according to the betting execution result. The betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the code reading unit 108 to read the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the code reading unit 108 to obtain the ID and authentication information indicated by the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400. The betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the payment server 200 to perform electronic payment to pay the total amount of the betting amount of the betting content read by the betting content receiving unit 130 from the n mark cards. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the payment server 200 of the total amount of the betting amount of the betting content read from the n mark cards, the read ID and authentication information, and requests the payment server 200 to perform electronic payment.

[0047] When the betting details read from the mark card include betting details specifying a race including a betting target whose entry has been cancelled, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the amount of the unexecuted bet. When a bet specifying a betting target other than the betting target whose entry has been cancelled is not executed, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount of the betting details specifying a race including a betting target whose entry has been cancelled. In addition, when a bet specifying a betting target other than the betting target whose entry has been cancelled is executed, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount of the betting details specifying the betting target whose entry has been cancelled. In addition, when the betting details read from the mark card include betting details specifying a race whose deadline has passed, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount of the betting details specifying the race whose deadline has passed.

[0048] At the start of voting by electronic payment, the voting content receiving unit 130 receives the voting content using the mark cards. The voting content receiving unit 130 receives n marked cards. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130 receives the insertion of n marked cards into the mark card processing unit 107. The voting content receiving unit 130 then reads the voting content of each marked card. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130 causes the mark card processing unit 107 to read the voting content marked on each marked card.

[0049] The vote requesting unit 140 requests the host server 300 to vote on the voting contents accepted by the voting contents accepting unit 130, and executes the voting. The vote requesting unit 140 transmits the voting contents accepted by the voting contents accepting unit 130 to the host server 300, and requests that the voting be carried out with the transmitted voting contents. When the vote requesting unit 140 is notified by the host server 300 that the transmitted voting contents include voting contents specifying a race including a betting target whose entry has been cancelled, the vote requesting unit 140 displays the voting contents specifying the race including the betting target whose entry has been cancelled. Then, the vote requesting unit 140 accepts a selection of whether or not to execute a vote specifying a betting target other than the betting target whose entry has been cancelled, among the voting contents specifying a race including a betting target whose entry has been cancelled.

[0050] When vote requesting unit 140 receives a selection not to execute a vote specifying a betting target other than the betting target whose entry has been canceled, it requests host server 300 to cast a vote with the vote contents excluding the vote contents specifying the race including the betting target whose entry has been canceled from the vote contents received. Also, when vote requesting unit 140 receives a selection to execute a vote specifying a betting target other than the betting target whose entry has been canceled, it requests host server 300 to cast a vote with the vote contents excluding the vote contents specifying the betting target whose entry has been canceled from the vote contents received. Also, when vote requesting unit 140 is notified by host server 300 that the transmitted vote contents include vote contents specifying a race whose deadline has passed, it requests host server 300 to cast a vote with the vote contents excluding the vote contents specifying the race whose deadline has passed.

[0051] 4 show only a part of the communication paths, and it is possible to set communication paths other than those shown in the figure. Next, a screen display example of the voting device 100-1 will be described.

[0052] FIG. 5 is a diagram (part 1) showing an example of a screen when accepting votes. The voting content acceptance unit 130 causes the display device 104 to display screen 41 as the initial screen. Screen 41 is a screen for selecting a method of payment for the betting amount. Screen 41 includes a message such as "Insert cash or a winning betting ticket" or "Or press the QR payment button" that prompts the user to select whether to pay the betting amount with cash or by electronic payment. Screen 41 also includes a "QR payment" button. The "QR payment" button is a button for selecting to pay the betting amount by electronic payment.

[0053] When the voting device 100-1 receives insertion of cash while displaying screen 41, it determines that the selection is made to pay the betting amount by cash, and executes the cash betting acceptance process. When the voting content acceptance unit 130 receives the pressing operation of the "QR payment" button, it determines that the selection is made to pay the betting amount by electronic payment, and causes screen 42 to be displayed on the display device 104.

[0054] Screen 42 is a screen displayed when accepting the insertion of a mark card. Screen 42 includes a message such as "Please insert a mark card or press the settlement button" encouraging the insertion of a mark card and the pressing of the "Settlement" button. Screen 42 also includes a "Settlement" button. The "Settlement" button is pressed when the insertion of the mark cards is complete. When the voting content receiving unit 130 accepts the insertion of n mark cards and the pressing of the "Settlement" button, it causes screen 43 to be displayed on the display device 104.

[0055] Screen 43 is a screen for allowing the user to confirm the voting details read from the mark card. Screen 43 includes a message urging the user to confirm the displayed voting details, such as "If the displayed details are correct, please press the confirmation button." Screen 43 also includes a display of the voting details for one mark card.

[0056] The screen 43 includes the race date, venue name, and race number of the race specified on the mark card. The screen 43 also includes the betting type specified on the mark card. The screen 43 also includes the combination of betting numbers specified on the mark card and the betting amount for that combination. The screen 43 also includes the total betting amount for one mark card.

[0057] The screen 43 also includes a column for the planned purchase amount. The total betting amount for n marked cards is set in the column for the planned purchase amount. The screen 43 also includes a "Confirm" button. The "Confirm" button is a button that is pressed when the betting content for one marked card is confirmed. When a pressing operation of the "Confirm" button is received when there are remaining marked cards whose voting content is not displayed, the betting content receiving unit 130 causes the display device 104 to display the screen 43 corresponding to the marked card whose voting content is not displayed. When a pressing operation of the "Confirm" button is received when the voting content of n marked cards has been displayed, the betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the display device 104 to display a screen that prompts an operation for electronic settlement.

[0058] FIG. 6 is a diagram (part 2) showing an example of the screen when accepting votes. Screen 44 is a screen that prompts the user to perform operations for electronic payment. Screen 44 includes a message such as "Please hold up the QR code" that prompts the user to hold up the QR code used for electronic payment. Screen 44 also includes an image of a QR code displayed on a mobile terminal being held up. Screen 44 also includes a field for the planned purchase amount.

[0059] When the QR code is brought close to the betting amount settlement unit 120 while the screen 44 is being displayed, the betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the code reading unit 108 to read the QR code and acquires the authentication information of the user. The betting amount settlement unit 120 transmits the acquired authentication information to the payment server 200 and requests the payment server 200 to execute an electronic payment to purchase the total amount of betting for n marked cards from the balance of the user's electronic payment account. If the electronic payment is successful, the betting request unit 140 requests the host server 300 to vote based on the voting contents read from the n marked cards. If the voting is successful, the betting request unit 140 causes the display device 104 to display the screen 45, and causes the betting ticket processing unit 106 to issue a betting ticket according to the voting contents.

[0060] Screen 45 is a screen for notifying the issuance of a betting ticket. Screen 45 includes a message such as "Please take your betting ticket" that encourages the user to take the issued betting ticket. Screen 45 also includes columns for betting ticket, purchase amount, and cancellation amount. The number of issued betting tickets is set in the betting ticket column. The total betting amount for votes that were successfully executed is set in the purchase amount column. The total betting amount for votes that were not executed due to cancellation of a race or the deadline having passed is set in the cancellation amount column.

[0061] Voting device 100-1 displays screens 41-45 to accept votes and requests host server 300 to vote on the accepted votes. Note that host server 300 may not be able to accept votes that specify a betting target whose entry has been cancelled or a race whose deadline has passed. Next, we will explain the screens that notify that voting cannot be accepted.

[0062] 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen notifying that a race has been cancelled. When notified by host server 300 that there is a bet specifying a race that includes a betting target whose entry has been cancelled (the race in which the cancellation occurred), vote request unit 140 causes display device 104 to display screen 46. Screen 46 is a screen for notifying that there is a bet specifying a race in which the cancellation occurred.

[0063] Screen 46 includes a message such as "There is a cancellation" to notify the user that there is a betting content that specifies a race that has been canceled. Screen 46 also includes a message such as "Do you want to purchase excluding?" to confirm whether to place a bet excluding the part that specified the betting target whose entry was canceled from the betting content that specified the canceled race (i.e., the part that does not specify the betting target whose entry was canceled).

[0064] Screen 46 also includes a display of the betting content that specified the race that was cancelled. Screen 46 includes the date of the race, the name of the venue, and the race number of the race that was cancelled. Screen 46 also includes the specified betting type. Screen 46 also includes the specified group number combinations and the betting amount for each of the combinations. Screen 46 displays the group numbers of betting targets whose entry has been cancelled and the group numbers of betting targets whose entry has not been cancelled so that they can be distinguished (for example, by highlighting the group numbers of betting targets whose entry has been cancelled). Screen 46 also includes the total betting amount when betting on the portion that does not specify a betting target whose entry has been cancelled.

[0065] Screen 46 also includes a "Purchase" button and a "Do Not Purchase" button. The "Purchase" button is a button that requests a bet for the portion that does not specify the betting target whose entry has been cancelled. The "Do Not Purchase" button is a button that requests that a bet not be placed for the bet content that specifies the cancelled race. When vote request unit 140 accepts the operation of pressing the "Purchase" button, it requests host server 300 to place a bet for the portion that does not specify the bet target whose entry has been cancelled. When the "Do Not Purchase" button is pressed, the entire bet for the bet content that specifies the cancelled race is not executed.

[0066] In this way, the vote requesting unit 140 displays the screen 46 to notify the user that there is a betting content that specifies a race that has been canceled. The vote requesting unit 140 then prompts the user to select whether or not to place a vote on the portion that does not specify the betting target whose entry has been canceled. In this way, the vote requesting unit 140 can allow the user to cast a vote for any part that specifies a race that has been canceled and is available for voting.

[0067] 8 is a diagram showing an example of a screen notifying that the voting deadline has passed. When notified by host server 300 that there is voting content that specifies a race whose voting deadline has passed, vote request unit 140 causes display device 104 to display screen 47. Screen 47 is a screen for notifying that there is voting content that specifies a race whose voting deadline has passed.

[0068] Screen 47 includes a message urging the user to press the "Skip Voting" button, such as "This vote cannot be purchased. Please press the skip voting button." Screen 47 also includes a message notifying the user that there is a vote for a race for which the voting deadline has passed, such as "Ticket sales for this race have closed."

[0069] Screen 47 also includes a display of betting details that specify races for which the voting deadline has passed. Screen 47 includes the date, venue name, and race number of the race for which the voting deadline has passed. Screen 47 also includes the specified betting type. Screen 47 also includes the specified combinations of betting numbers and the betting amount for each of those combinations. Screen 47 also includes the total betting amount for betting details that specify races for which the voting deadline has passed.

[0070] Screen 47 also includes a "Skip Voting" button. The "Skip Voting" button is pressed when the user confirms that a vote specifying a race whose voting deadline has passed cannot be executed. In this way, vote request unit 140 displays screen 47 to notify that there is a vote specifying a race whose voting deadline has passed. The steps of the vote acceptance process will be described in detail below.

[0071] 9 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. The process shown in FIG. 9 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S11] The voting content acceptance unit 130 of the voting device 100-1 determines whether or not it has accepted the pressing of the "QR payment" button on the screen 41. If the voting content acceptance unit 130 determines that it has accepted the pressing of the "QR payment" button, it proceeds to step S12. If the voting content acceptance unit 130 determines that it has not accepted the pressing of the "QR payment" button (cash has been inserted), it ends the process, and the voting device 100-1 executes the cash vote acceptance process. Explanation of the cash vote acceptance process will be omitted.

[0072] [Step S12] The voting content acceptance unit 130 transitions to a QR payment voting screen. For example, the voting content acceptance unit 130 causes the display device 104 to display screen 42. [Step S13] The voting content receiving unit 130 receives n marked cards. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130 receives the insertion of n marked cards into the mark card processing unit 107.

[0073] [Step S14] The voting content receiving unit 130 reads the voting content of one marked card. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130 causes the marked card processing unit 107 to read the voting content marked on one unprocessed marked card among the n marked cards received in step S13.

[0074] [Step S15] The voting content receiving unit 130 displays the voting content received in step S14 on a screen. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130 causes the display device 104 to display a screen 43 including an indication of the voting content received in step S14.

[0075] [Step S16] The voting content receiving unit 130 determines whether the voting contents of the n marked cards received in step S13 have been displayed. If the voting content receiving unit 130 determines that the voting contents of the n marked cards have been displayed, it proceeds to step S17. If the voting content receiving unit 130 determines that the voting contents of the n marked cards have not been displayed, it proceeds to step S14.

[0076] 10 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. The process shown in FIG. 10 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S17] The betting amount settlement unit 120 of the betting device 100-1 causes the display device 104 to display a screen (QR code acceptance screen) for prompting the user to hold up the QR code. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the display device 104 to display screen 43.

[0077] [Step S18] The user terminal 400 launches an application (QR payment app) operated by an electronic payment service provider. [Step S19] The user terminal 400 requests the payment server 200 to generate a QR code indicating authentication information for the user's electronic payment account. For example, the user terminal 400 notifies the payment server 200 of the user's ID, and requests the payment server 200 to generate a QR code indicating the notified ID and authentication information for the electronic payment account corresponding to the notified ID.

[0078] [Step S20] The payment server 200 generates a QR code indicating authentication information for the user's electronic payment account. For example, the payment server 200 generates a QR code indicating the ID notified by the user terminal 400 and the authentication information for the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the user terminal 400.

[0079] [Step S21] The payment server 200 transmits the QR code generated in step S20 to the user terminal 400. [Step S22] The user terminal 400 displays the QR code acquired from the payment server 200. The user then holds the user terminal 400, on which the QR code is displayed, over the voting device 100-1.

[0080] [Step S23] The betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the code reading unit 108 to read the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the code reading unit 108 to obtain the ID and authentication information indicated by the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400.

[0081] [Step S24] The betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the payment server 200 to execute electronic payment to pay the total amount of the betting amounts for the betting contents read from the n marked cards. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the payment server 200 of the total amount of the betting amounts for the betting contents read from the n marked cards, the ID and authentication information read in step S23, and requests the payment server 200 to execute electronic payment.

[0082] [Step S25] The payment server 200 collates the request content obtained from the voting device 100-1. For example, the payment server 200 determines whether there is an electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1 and whether the authentication information of the electronic payment account matches the authentication information notified by the voting device 100-1. Also, for example, the payment server 200 determines whether the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1 is equal to or greater than the amount notified by the voting device 100-1.

[0083] [Step S26] The payment server 200 judges whether the matching result is appropriate. For example, the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is appropriate if there is an electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1, the authentication information matches, and the balance of the electronic payment account is equal to or greater than the notified amount. Also, for example, the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is inappropriate if there is no electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1, the authentication information does not match, or the balance of the electronic payment account is less than the notified amount. If the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is appropriate, it proceeds to step S28. If the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is inappropriate, it notifies the voting device 100-1 that the electronic payment has failed, and proceeds to step S27.

[0084] [Step S27] The betting amount settlement unit 120 displays a screen (purchase impossible screen) on the display device 104 to inform the user that the electronic settlement has failed. Then, the process proceeds to step S17.

[0085] 11 is a flowchart (part 3) showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. The process shown in FIG. 11 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S28] The payment server 200 executes the electronic payment process. For example, the payment server 200 subtracts the amount notified by the voting device 100-1 from the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1. Then, the payment server 200 notifies the voting device 100-1 that the electronic payment was successful.

[0086] [Step S29] The betting amount settlement unit 120 causes the display device 104 to display a screen (a settlement completion screen) for notifying the user that the electronic settlement has been completed. [Step S30] The voting request unit 140 of the voting device 100-1 transmits the voting details for one unprocessed marked card to the host server 300, and requests that the host server 300 execute a vote using the transmitted voting details.

[0087] [Step S31] Host server 300 determines whether the voting details obtained from betting device 100-1 in step S30 are voting details that specify a race that has been canceled. For example, host server 300 refers to a database that manages race information, and if there is a betting target whose entry has been canceled in the race specified by the voting details obtained from betting device 100-1, it determines that the voting details specify the race that has been canceled. If host server 300 determines that the voting details specify the race that has been canceled, it proceeds to step S32. If host server 300 determines that the voting details do not specify the race that has been canceled, it proceeds to step S39.

[0088] [Step S32] The host server 300 notifies the betting device 100-1 that the betting details acquired in step S30 are for the race that was cancelled, and the betting items (cancelled bets) whose entries were cancelled in that race.

[0089] [Step S33] The vote request unit 140 displays the betting contents and the cancelled bets transmitted in step S30. For example, the vote request unit 140 displays a screen 46 including the display of the betting contents transmitted in step S30 on the display device 104. Here, the vote request unit 140 displays the combination numbers of the cancelled bets and the combination numbers of the non-cancelled bets in a distinguishable manner.

[0090] [Step S34] The vote request unit 140 judges whether or not to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet. For example, when the vote request unit 140 receives a pressing operation of the "Purchase" button on the screen 46, it judges to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet, and when the vote request unit 140 receives a pressing operation of the "Do not purchase" button on the screen 46, it judges not to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet. When the vote request unit 140 judges to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet, it advances the process to step S35. When the vote request unit 140 judges to not bet on any bet other than the canceled bet, it advances the process to step S37.

[0091] [Step S35] The vote requesting unit 140 requests the host server 300 to vote for bets other than the canceled bets. For example, the vote requesting unit 140 requests the host server 300 to vote for bets other than the part of the betting content transmitted in step S30 that specifies the canceled bets.

[0092] [Step S36] Host server 300 accepts the votes based on the voting details acquired from voting device 100-1 in step S35. Based on the accepted votes, host server 300 tallies the number of votes and calculates odds and payouts.

[0093] 12 is a flowchart (part 4) showing an example of a procedure of a vote reception process. The process shown in FIG. 12 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S37] The betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the amount of the unexecuted bet. For example, if the bet is placed on a bet other than the canceled bet, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the settlement server 200 of the difference between the total amount of the bet content sent in step S30 and the amount of the bet content other than the portion designated as the canceled bet. Then, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the ID and authentication information read in step S23, and requests the settlement server 200 to refund the notified amount. Also, if the bet is not placed on a bet other than the canceled bet, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the total amount of the bet content sent in step S30, the ID and authentication information read in step S23, and requests the settlement server 200 to refund the notified amount.

[0094] [Step S38] The payment server 200 executes a refund process for the amount of the unexecuted vote. For example, the payment server 200 adds the amount notified by the voting device 100-1 in step S37 to the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1 in step S37. Then, the process proceeds to step S45.

[0095] [Step S39] Host server 300 determines whether the voting details acquired from voting device 100-1 in step S30 specify a race that is about to close. For example, host server 300 refers to a database that manages race information, and determines that the voting details acquired from voting device 100-1 specify a race that is about to close if the closing time of the race specified in the voting details acquired from voting device 100-1 is after the current time. If host server 300 determines that the voting details specify a race that is about to close, it proceeds to step S44. If host server 300 determines that the race specified in the voting details has passed the closing time, it proceeds to step S40.

[0096] [Step S40] The host server 300 notifies the voting device 100-1 that the deadline for the race specified by the voting details acquired in step S30 has passed. [Step S41] The vote requesting unit 140 displays the voting details transmitted in step S30. For example, the vote requesting unit 140 causes the display device 104 to display a screen 47 including an indication of the voting details transmitted in step S30.

[0097] [Step S42] The betting amount settlement unit 120 requests a refund of the betting amount to the payment server 200. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the payment server 200 of the total betting amounts for the betting contents transmitted in step S30, and the ID and authentication information read in step S23, and requests the payment server 200 to refund the notified amount.

[0098] [Step S43] The payment server 200 executes a refund process for the bet amount. For example, the payment server 200 adds the amount notified by the voting device 100-1 in step S42 to the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100-1 in step S42. Then, the process proceeds to step S45.

[0099] [Step S44] Host server 300 accepts the votes based on the voting details obtained from voting device 100-1 in step S30. Based on the accepted votes, host server 300 tallies the number of votes and calculates odds and payouts.

[0100] [Step S45] The vote requesting unit 140 determines whether the voting contents for n marked cards have been processed. If the vote requesting unit 140 determines that the voting contents for n marked cards have been processed, it proceeds to step S46. If the vote requesting unit 140 determines that the voting contents for n marked cards have not been processed, it proceeds to step S30.

[0101] [Step S46] The vote requesting unit 140 issues a betting ticket. For example, the vote requesting unit 140 causes the display device 104 to display the screen 45, and causes the betting ticket processing unit 106 to issue a betting ticket on which the voting details of the successfully executed votes are printed.

[0102] In this way, the betting content receiving unit 130 reads n mark cards and receives input of betting content. The betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to make an electronic settlement for the betting amount of the betting content that has been received. The betting request unit 140 requests the host server 300 to make a bet according to the betting content that has been received. Here, if the betting content that has been received includes a bet that specifies a race that includes a canceled bet or a bet that specifies a race that has passed the cut-off time, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the amount of the unexecuted bet. The betting device 100-1 can make the amount paid by electronic settlement match the betting amount. Thus, the betting device 100-1 can properly execute the payment of the betting amount for the public race by electronic settlement.

[0103] If the betting content that has been accepted includes a betting content that specifies a race including a canceled bet, the betting request unit 140 accepts the selection of whether or not to bet on bets other than the canceled bets. If the betting request unit 140 accepts the selection of not betting on bets other than the canceled bets, it requests the host server 300 to bet on the betting content that has been accepted, excluding the betting content that specifies a race including the canceled bet. Then, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount of the betting content that specifies a race including the canceled bet. In this way, when the user stops betting on a race due to the occurrence of a cancellation of the race, the betting device 100-1 can refund the payment amount so that the actual betting amount is the same as the payment amount.

[0104] In addition, when the betting request unit 140 accepts a selection to bet on a bet other than the canceled bet, it requests the host server 300 to bet on the betting contents excluding the betting contents that specified the canceled bet from the betting contents that were accepted. Then, the betting amount settlement unit 120 requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount for the betting contents that specified the canceled bet. In this way, the betting device 100-1 allows betting for bets that are available among those that specified the race that was canceled, and can refund the appropriate amount.

[0105] If the accepted betting details include betting details specifying a race whose deadline has passed, the betting request unit 140 requests the host server 300 to bet on the accepted betting details excluding the betting details specifying a race whose deadline has passed. The betting amount settlement unit 120 then requests the settlement server 200 to refund the betting amount for the betting details specifying a race whose deadline has passed. This allows the betting device 100-1 to refund the paid amount so that it matches the actual betting amount when electronic payment is made including the betting amount for a bet that cannot be made because the race deadline has passed.

[0106] Third embodiment Next, a third embodiment will be described. The third embodiment provides a service that allows betting on publicly managed races to be done by electronic payment using a QR code. The third embodiment is realized with a system configuration similar to that shown in FIG. 2, and the same reference numerals as in the second embodiment may be used for devices other than the betting device.

[0107] In publicly managed races, it is required to accept deposits before placing a bet, so in the second embodiment, the betting device 100-1 accepts deposits of the betting amount for the bets shown on the mark card by electronic payment, and refunds any unplaced bets. Meanwhile, in betting using cash, the betting device accepts deposits in cash in advance, then accepts input of the betting details, and executes the bet if it is within the amount deposited. If there is any money left over from the deposited amount, the betting device returns the remaining amount as change.

[0108] Therefore, in the third embodiment, the voting device accepts a deposit by electronic payment in advance, then accepts votes up to the amount deposited, and requests the payment server to refund the remaining amount. Next, the function of the voting device in the third embodiment will be described.

[0109] 13 is a block diagram showing another example of the function of the voting device. The voting device 100a-1 of the third embodiment has an advance payment acceptance unit 120a, a voting content acceptance unit 130a, and a voting request unit 140a. The advance payment acceptance unit 120a, the voting content acceptance unit 130a, and the voting request unit 140a are realized by a processor of the voting device 100a-1 executing a program stored in a memory of the voting device 100a-1. The voting request unit 140a has the same function as the voting request unit 140.

[0110] The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a accepts a deposit by electronic payment before the voting content acceptance unit 130a accepts the voting content, and requests the payment server 200 to refund the remaining amount of the deposit after voting is executed. The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a accepts input of the deposit amount when voting by electronic payment begins. The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a requests the payment server 200 to make an electronic payment to pay the input deposit amount. For example, the advance deposit acceptance unit 120a causes the code reading unit to obtain the ID and authentication information indicated by the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400. The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a notifies the payment server 200 of the deposit amount, the read ID, and the authentication information, and requests the payment server 200 to execute the electronic payment.

[0111] When the vote request unit 140a executes a vote, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a requests the payment server 200 to refund the remaining amount of the deposit. For example, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a notifies the payment server 200 of the remaining amount of the deposit, the read ID, and the authentication information, and requests the payment server 200 to refund the notified amount.

[0112] The voting content receiving unit 130a receives the voting content so that the voting amount is equal to or less than the amount of the deposit received by the advance deposit receiving unit 120a. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130a receives the insertion of a mark card into the mark card processing unit. The voting content receiving unit 130a then causes the mark card processing unit to read the voting content marked on each mark card, and if the voting amount is equal to or less than the deposit amount, it receives the read voting content.

[0113] 13 show only a part of the communication paths, and it is possible to set communication paths other than those shown in the figure. Next, a screen display example of the voting device 100a-1 will be described.

[0114] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed when making an advance deposit. The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a displays screen 51 on the display device of the voting device 100a-1 when voting by electronic payment begins. Screen 51 is a screen for accepting input of the deposit amount. Screen 51 includes a message such as "Please enter the amount" that prompts input of the deposit amount. Screen 51 also includes a deposit amount field. The entered deposit amount is set in the deposit amount field.

[0115] Screen 51 also includes keys for inputting the amount of deposit. Advance deposit acceptance unit 120a accepts the input of the amount of deposit by pressing the keys on screen 51. Upon accepting the input of the amount of deposit, advance deposit acceptance unit 120a causes screen 52 to be displayed on the display device.

[0116] Screen 52 is a screen that prompts the user to perform operations for electronic payment. Screen 52 includes a message such as "Please hold up the QR code" that prompts the user to hold up the QR code used for electronic payment. Screen 52 also includes an illustration of the user holding up the QR code displayed on the mobile terminal. Screen 52 also includes a column for the amount of deposit.

[0117] When a QR code is brought close to the advance payment acceptance unit 120a while the screen 52 is being displayed, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a causes a code reading unit to read the QR code and acquires authentication information of the user. The advance payment acceptance unit 120a transmits the acquired authentication information to the payment server 200 and requests the payment server 200 to execute electronic payment to pay the deposit amount from the balance of the user's electronic payment account. In this manner, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a displays the screens 51-52 and accepts advance payments by electronic payment. The steps of the vote acceptance process of the third embodiment will be described in detail below.

[0118] 15 is a flowchart (part 1) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. The process shown in FIG. 15 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S51] The voting content acceptance unit 130a of the voting device 100a-1 determines whether or not it has accepted the pressing of the "QR payment" button on the screen 41. If the voting content acceptance unit 130a determines that it has accepted the pressing of the "QR payment" button, it proceeds to step S52. If the voting content acceptance unit 130a determines that it has not accepted the pressing of the "QR payment" button (cash has been inserted), it ends the process, and the voting device 100a-1 executes the cash vote acceptance process. A description of the cash vote acceptance process will be omitted.

[0119] [Step S52] The advance payment acceptance unit 120a of the voting device 100a-1 transitions to a QR payment voting screen. For example, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a causes the display device to display screen 51.

[0120] [Step S53] The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a accepts an input of a deposit amount. For example, the advance deposit acceptance unit 120a accepts a key press operation on the screen 51, and accepts the deposit amount indicated by the pressed key.

[0121] [Step S54] The advance payment acceptance unit 120a displays a screen (QR code acceptance screen) on the display device to prompt the user to hold up the QR code. For example, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a displays screen 52 on the display device.

[0122] [Step S55] The user terminal 400 launches an application (QR payment app) operated by an electronic payment service provider. [Step S56] The user terminal 400 requests the payment server 200 to generate a QR code indicating authentication information for the user's electronic payment account. For example, the user terminal 400 notifies the payment server 200 of the user's ID, and requests the payment server 200 to generate a QR code indicating the notified ID and authentication information for the electronic payment account corresponding to the notified ID.

[0123] [Step S57] The payment server 200 generates a QR code indicating authentication information for the user's electronic payment account. For example, the payment server 200 generates a QR code indicating the ID notified by the user terminal 400 and the authentication information for the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the user terminal 400.

[0124] [Step S58] The payment server 200 transmits the QR code generated in step S57 to the user terminal 400. 16 is a flowchart (part 2) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. The process shown in FIG. 16 will be described below in order of step numbers.

[0125] [Step S59] The user terminal 400 displays the QR code acquired from the payment server 200. The user then holds the user terminal 400, on which the QR code is displayed, over the voting device 100a-1.

[0126] [Step S60] The advance payment acceptance unit 120a causes the code reading unit to read the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400. For example, the advance payment acceptance unit 120a causes the code reading unit to obtain the ID and authentication information indicated by the QR code displayed on the user terminal 400.

[0127] [Step S61] The advance payment acceptance unit 120a requests the execution of electronic payment to pay the deposit amount inputted and accepted in step S53. For example, the betting amount settlement unit 120 notifies the payment server 200 of the deposit amount inputted and accepted in step S53, and the ID and authentication information read in step S60, and requests the execution of electronic payment.

[0128] [Step S62] The payment server 200 collates the request content obtained from the voting device 100a-1. For example, the payment server 200 determines whether there is an electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100a-1 and whether the authentication information of the electronic payment account matches the authentication information notified by the voting device 100a-1. Also, for example, the payment server 200 determines whether the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100a-1 is equal to or greater than the amount notified by the voting device 100a-1.

[0129] [Step S63] The payment server 200 judges whether the matching result is appropriate. For example, the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is appropriate if there is an electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100a-1, the authentication information matches, and the balance of the electronic payment account is equal to or greater than the notified amount. Also, for example, the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is inappropriate if there is no electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100a-1, the authentication information does not match, or the balance of the electronic payment account is less than the notified amount. If the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is appropriate, it proceeds to step S65. If the payment server 200 judges that the matching result is inappropriate, it notifies the voting device 100a-1 that the electronic payment has failed, and proceeds to step S64.

[0130] [Step S64] The advance payment acceptance unit 120a displays a screen (purchase impossible screen) on the display device to inform the user that the electronic payment has failed, and the process then proceeds to step S54.

[0131] [Step S65] The payment server 200 executes the electronic payment process. For example, the payment server 200 subtracts the amount notified by the voting device 100a-1 from the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100a-1. Then, the payment server 200 notifies the voting device 100a-1 that the electronic payment was successful.

[0132] [Step S66] The voting content receiving unit 130a receives N marked cards. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130a receives the insertion of N marked cards into the mark card processing unit.

[0133] [Step S67] The voting content receiving unit 130a reads the voting content of one marked card. For example, the voting content receiving unit 130a causes the marked card processing unit to read the voting content marked on one unprocessed marked card among the N marked cards received in step S66.

[0134] 17 is a flowchart (part 3) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. The process shown in FIG. 17 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S68] The voting content receiving unit 130a determines whether the voting amount of the voting content read in step S67 is equal to or less than the remaining amount of the deposit amount deposited in steps S54 to S65. If the voting content receiving unit 130a determines that the voting amount of the voting content is equal to or less than the remaining amount of the deposit amount, it proceeds to step S70. If the voting content receiving unit 130a determines that the voting amount of the voting content is greater than the remaining amount of the deposit amount, it proceeds to step S69.

[0135] [Step S69] The voting device 100a-1, the payment server 200, and the user terminal 400 execute an additional deposit process. In the additional deposit process, steps S54 to S65 are executed, and the amount of the executed process is added to the current remaining amount of the deposit. Then, the process proceeds to step S68.

[0136] [Step S70] The vote request unit 140a of the voting device 100-1 transmits the voting details read in step S67 to the host server 300, and requests that the host server 300 execute a vote based on the transmitted voting details.

[0137] [Step S71] Host server 300 determines whether the voting details obtained from betting device 100a-1 in step S70 are voting details that specify a race that has been canceled. For example, host server 300 refers to a database that manages race information, and if there is a betting target whose entry has been canceled in the race specified by the voting details obtained from betting device 100a-1, it determines that the voting details specify the race that has been canceled. If host server 300 determines that the voting details specify the race that has been canceled, it proceeds to step S72. If host server 300 determines that the voting details do not specify the race that has been canceled, it proceeds to step S78.

[0138] [Step S72] The host server 300 notifies the betting device 100a-1 that the betting details acquired in step S70 are betting details that specify the race in which a cancellation has occurred, and notifies the canceled bet in that race.

[0139] [Step S73] The vote requesting unit 140a displays the betting details and the canceled bets transmitted in step S70. For example, the vote requesting unit 140a causes the display device to display a screen 46 including the display of the betting details transmitted in step S70.

[0140] [Step S74] The vote request unit 140a judges whether or not to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet. For example, when the vote request unit 140a receives a pressing operation of the "Purchase" button on the screen 46, it judges to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet, and when the vote request unit 140a receives a pressing operation of the "Do not purchase" button on the screen 46, it judges not to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet. When the vote request unit 140a judges to bet on any bet other than the canceled bet, it advances the process to step S75. When the vote request unit 140a judges to not bet on any bet other than the canceled bet, it advances the process to step S83.

[0141] [Step S75] The vote request unit 140a requests the host server 300 to vote for bets other than the canceled bets. For example, the vote request unit 140a requests the host server 300 to vote for bets other than the part of the bet content transmitted in step S70 that specifies the canceled bets.

[0142] [Step S76] The host server 300 accepts the votes based on the voting contents obtained from the voting device 100a-1 in step S75. Based on the accepted votes, the host server 300 tallies the number of votes and calculates the odds and payouts.

[0143] 18 is a flowchart (part 4) showing an example of another procedure of the vote acceptance process. The process shown in FIG. 18 will be described below in order of step numbers. [Step S77] The betting details receiver 130a subtracts the betting amount of the bet requested in step S75 from the remaining amount of the deposited money. Then, the process proceeds to step S83.

[0144] [Step S78] Host server 300 determines whether the voting details acquired from voting device 100a-1 in step S70 specify a race that is about to close. For example, host server 300 refers to a database that manages race information, and determines that the voting details acquired from voting device 100a-1 specify a race that is about to close if the closing time of the race specified in the voting details acquired from voting device 100a-1 is after the current time. If host server 300 determines that the voting details specify a race that is about to close, it proceeds to step S81. If host server 300 determines that the race specified in the voting details is past the closing time, it proceeds to step S79.

[0145] [Step S79] The host server 300 notifies the voting device 100a-1 that the deadline for the race specified by the voting details acquired in step S70 has passed. [Step S80] The vote requesting unit 140a displays the voting details transmitted in step S70. For example, the vote requesting unit 140a causes the display device to display screen 47 including the display of the voting details transmitted in step S70. Then, the process proceeds to step S83.

[0146] [Step S81] The host server 300 accepts the votes based on the voting contents obtained from the voting device 100a-1 in step S70. Based on the accepted votes, the host server 300 tallies the number of votes and calculates the odds and payouts.

[0147] [Step S82] The betting details receiver 130a subtracts the betting amount of the bet requested in step S70 from the remaining amount of the deposited money. [Step S83] The vote requesting unit 140a judges whether the voting contents for N marked cards have been processed. If the vote requesting unit 140a judges that the voting contents for N marked cards have been processed, the process proceeds to step S84. If the vote requesting unit 140a judges that the voting contents for N marked cards have not been processed, the process proceeds to step S67.

[0148] [Step S84] The advance deposit acceptance unit 120a requests the payment server 200 to refund the remaining amount of the deposit. For example, the advance deposit acceptance unit 120a notifies the payment server 200 of the remaining amount of the deposit, the ID and authentication information read in step S60, and requests the payment server 200 to refund the notified amount.

[0149] [Step S85] The payment server 200 executes a process of refunding the remaining amount. For example, the payment server 200 adds the amount notified by the voting device 100a-1 in step S84 to the balance of the electronic payment account corresponding to the ID notified by the voting device 100a-1 in step S84.

[0150] [Step S86] The vote requesting unit 140a issues a betting ticket. For example, the vote requesting unit 140a causes the display device to display the screen 45, and causes the betting ticket processing unit to issue a betting ticket on which the voting details of the successfully executed votes are printed.

[0151] In this way, advance payment acceptance unit 120a accepts advance payment by electronic payment. Betting content acceptance unit 130a accepts betting content with a betting amount equal to or less than the remaining balance of the payment, and betting request unit 140a requests host server 300 to vote with the accepted betting content. Advance payment acceptance unit 120a then requests settlement server 200 to refund the difference between the deposited amount and the betting amount. In this way, voting device 100a-1 allows users to bet by electronic payment in a similar procedure to betting in a public race where cash is inserted into the betting device, improving user convenience.

[0152] Although the embodiments have been described above, the configurations of the parts shown in the embodiments can be replaced with other parts having similar functions. Any other components or steps may be added. Furthermore, any two or more configurations (features) of the above-mentioned embodiments may be combined. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1 Server 10 voting equipment 11 Processing section

Claims

1. a processing unit that accepts an input of a first bet for a publicly managed race and a deposit made by electronic payment, executes a bet in accordance with the first bet, and requests a server that executes the electronic payment to refund a portion of the deposit in accordance with a result of the execution of the bet; A voting device having the following:

2. the processing unit accepts the deposit of the betting amount for the first betting content, and when the first betting content includes a second betting content designating a race in which the entries of some of the betting targets have been cancelled, executes the betting with the betting content obtained by excluding the second betting content from the first betting content, and requests the server to refund the betting amount for the second betting content. The voting device of claim 1.

3. the processing unit accepts the deposit of the betting amount for the first betting content, and when the first betting content includes a third betting content that specifies a race for which a betting deadline has passed, executes the betting with the betting content obtained by excluding the third betting content from the first betting content, and requests the server to refund the betting amount for the third betting content. The voting device of claim 1.

4. When the second voting content includes a fourth voting content that does not specify a betting target whose entry has been cancelled, the processing unit accepts a selection of whether or not to place the vote with the voting content including the fourth voting content, and when the processing unit accepts a selection of placing the vote with the voting content including the fourth voting content, executes the vote with the voting content obtained by excluding from the first voting content all of the second voting content except the fourth voting content, and requests the server to refund the difference between the betting amount for the second voting content and the betting amount for the fourth voting content.

3. The voting device according to claim 2.

5. The processing unit accepts the input of the first voting content after accepting the deposit, executes the vote, and requests the server to refund the difference between the amount of the deposit and the amount of the vote. The voting device of claim 1.

6. The voting equipment, Accepting the entry of the first bet for public lotteries and electronic payment, Executing a vote according to the first vote content; requesting the server that executes the electronic payment to refund a portion of the deposit in accordance with the result of the execution of the vote; A voting program that executes the process.

7. The voting device Accepting the entry of the first bet for public lotteries and electronic payment, Executing a vote according to the first vote content; requesting the server that executes the electronic payment to refund a portion of the deposit in accordance with the result of the execution of the vote; How to vote.

Images