Program, terminal, and management device

Abstract

To provide a technology for supplying goods that can increase a user's willingness to purchase.SOLUTION: A program enables the supply of articles from an article supplying device. The program causes a computer to function as acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on an article supply device, presenting means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information is acquired; and game execution means for executing a game in which further supply of articles is made possible on the condition that at least an electronic settlement of payment for the articles has been completed. The game execution means simultaneously presents, on condition of completion of the electronic settlement of payment for the articles, text information encouraging operation of an operation unit of the article supplying device and text information indicating that the game can be played, and if the result of the game play is a win or a victory, executes a process for further supply of articles.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an article supplying device in which a capsule toy article stored in the device body can be obtained by operating a handle or the like, on condition that a price is paid (for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Utility Model Application Publication No. 62-078998 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In such an article supplying device, there is a demand for an article supplying form that enhances the user's desire to purchase.

[0005] Therefore, the present invention provides a program, a terminal, and a management device that can increase a user's desire to purchase. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] One aspect of the present invention is a program that enables the supply of goods from a goods supply device, which causes a computer to function as an acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the goods supply device, a presentation means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information has been acquired, and a game execution means for executing a game that enables further supply of goods on the condition that at least either payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed.

[0007] One aspect of the present invention is a terminal that includes an acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on an item supply device, a presentation means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information has been acquired, and a game execution means for executing a game that allows further supply of items on the condition that at least either the payment for the item or the supply of the item has been completed.

[0008] One aspect of the present invention is a program that enables the supply of goods from a goods supply device, which causes a computer to function as: an acquisition means that acquires identification information displayed on the goods supply device from a user terminal; a presentation means that presents a payment method to the user terminal; a goods supply control means that controls the supply of goods from a goods supply device identified by the identification information, on the condition that at least either the payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed; and a game execution control means that controls the execution of a game on the user terminal that allows further supply of goods, on the condition that at least either the payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed.

[0009] One aspect of the present invention is a management device that includes an acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on an item supply device from a user terminal, a presentation means for presenting a payment method to the user terminal, an item supply control means for controlling the supply of items from an item supply device identified by the identification information, on the condition that at least either the payment for the items or the supply of the items has been completed, and a game execution control means for controlling the execution of a game on the user terminal that allows for further supply of items, on the condition that at least either the payment for the items or the supply of the items has been completed. Effect of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a program, a terminal, and a management device that can increase a user's desire to purchase. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an item supply system according to the present embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of an item supply system according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of a smartphone, which is an example of the terminal 3. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a front view of an example of the article supplying device 1. As shown in FIG. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an example of the article supply device 1. As shown in FIG. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of the article supply device 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the terminal 3. As shown in FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the management server 4. As shown in FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the item supply device database D1. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the user information database D2. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram of the item supply system according to the present embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a series of screens displayed on the user's terminal 3. In FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the first supply determination control process. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart of the supply process of the item supply device 1. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the second supply control process. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of supply by the item supply device 1 that supplies items as rewards. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] <Outline of the embodiment of the present invention> An outline of an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0013] This embodiment is an item supply system that allows a customer to potentially acquire two or more items with a single purchase of an item.

[0014] Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram of an article supply system according to the present embodiment, in which 1 is an article supply device, 2 is an article supplied by the article supply device 1, 3 is a user terminal, and 4 is a management server.

[0015] The item supplying device 1 is a device that supplies items 2 to a user. The item supplying device 1 is installed indoors or outdoors, and typically multiple item supplying devices 1 that supply different items are installed. The item supplying device 1 that supplies the items 2 displays item supplying device identification information 11 that identifies the item supplying device. This item supplying device identification information 11 includes unique identification information that can identify each item supplying device 1. For example, the item supplying device identification information 11 is the serial number of the item supplying device 1, etc. For the convenience of the user, it is desirable for the item supplying device identification information 11 to be an information display that can be read by the terminal 3. For example, the information display is a one-dimensional or two-dimensional barcode (QR code: registered trademark), etc.

[0016] The terminal 3 has a function of reading the information display and a function of communicating with other devices. The terminal 3 is, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, or the like.

[0017] The management server 4 is a server that manages the item supply device 1 and the purchase of items by users.

[0018] A user goes to a location where an item supplying device 1 is installed. In order for the user to obtain an item 2, it is necessary to identify an item supplying device 1 capable of supplying the item 2 in a location where multiple item supplying devices 1 are installed.

[0019] Therefore, this embodiment has the following features.

[0020] (1) The product supply device 1 displays product supply device identification information 11 for identifying the product supply device 1 capable of supplying the product that the user wishes to purchase.

[0021] (2) At the location where the article supplying device 1 is installed, the article supplying device identification information 11 of the article supplying device 1 is obtained by the user's terminal 3.

[0022] (3) The management server 4 acquires the item supply device identification information 11 from the user's terminal 3, and identifies the item 2 that can be supplied from the item supply device 1 identified from the item supply device identification information 11. The management server 4 presents to the terminal 3 the details of the item 2 that can be supplied and the payment method for the item 2.

[0023] (4) The user checks the available items 2 displayed on the terminal 3, selects a payment method, and makes payment for the purchase of the items 2.

[0024] (5) When the payment for the item 2 is completed, the management server 4 unlocks the item supply device 1, enabling the item supply device 1 to supply the item 2. To unlock the item supply device 1 from supplying the item, an unlock signal for unlocking the supply unit is sent to the item supply device 1 identified by the item supply device identification information 11. Then, the supply unit of the item supply device 1 that receives the unlock signal unlocks the unit, enabling the item supply device 1 to supply the item 2 to the user. The management device may be on a network capable of communicating with the item supply device 1, or may be provided in the item supply device 1 itself. In addition, when the item supply device 1 and the terminal 3 are capable of communicating with each other via Wifi or Bluetooth (registered trademark), the terminal 3 may receive information on the completion of the determination and authentication from the management device, and the terminal 3 may transmit an unlock signal to the item supply device 1.

[0025] In this manner, the user can obtain the item 2 from the item supply device 1.

[0026] Furthermore, this embodiment provides the user with an opportunity to acquire additional goods. The opportunity is to play a game. The management server 4 enables the user's terminal 3 to play a game that allows for the supply of additional goods 2, on the condition that at least one of the payment for the goods 2 or the supply of the goods 2 has been completed.

[0027] (6) The management server 4 causes the terminal 3 to execute a game that allows for the supply of further goods. This game is a game related to the character artwork of the goods that the user has acquired from the goods supply device 1.

[0028] (7) The user plays the game using the terminal 3. The terminal 3 transmits the results of the game to the management server 4.

[0029] (8) The management server 4 receives the result of the game, and if the conditions are met, such as winning the game lottery or winning the game, the management server 4 unlocks the item supply device 1, allowing the item supply device 1 to supply the item 2. The item supply device 1 that is unlocked may be the item supply device 1 identified by the item supply device identification information 11 (the item supply device 1 that supplied the item 2 before the game was played), or it may be another item supply device 1 adjacent to that item supply device 1. In this way, the user can obtain more items 2 from the item supply device 1.

[0030] Specific embodiments will be described below.

[0031] <Embodiments of the present invention> Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram of an article supply system according to the present embodiment. In Fig. 2, the same components as those in Fig. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0032] 2, the item supply device 1, the user terminal 2, and the management server 4 are connected to a communication network 5 and can communicate with each other. The communication network 5 refers to a communication path that allows data communication. In other words, the communication network N includes a LAN such as a dedicated line (dedicated cable) for connection or Ethernet (registered trademark) and other communication networks such as a telephone communication network, a cable network, and the Internet, and the communication method can be either wired or wireless.

[0033] The item supply device 1 is a device that supplies an item 2 to a user.

[0034] The terminal 3 is, for example, a personal computer, a tablet computer, a smartphone, a mobile phone, etc. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the device configuration of a smartphone, which is an example of the terminal 3. As shown in FIG. 3, the terminal 3 includes a display 31, a touch operation panel 32 integrally configured with the display 31, and a built-in speaker 33 and a camera 34. The terminal 3 is also provided with a control board, a built-in battery, a power button, a volume control button, etc., which are not shown. The control board is equipped with various microprocessors such as a CPU, a GPU, and a DSP, various IC memories such as an ASIC, a VRAM, a RAM, and a ROM, and a wireless communication module for wireless communication with a mobile phone base station. The control board is also equipped with a so-called I / F circuit (interface circuit), such as a driver circuit for the touch operation panel 32. Each element mounted on these control boards is electrically connected to each other via a bus circuit or the like, and is connected so as to be able to read and write data and transmit and receive signals.

[0035] The management server 4 is a server system configured to include one or more server devices, storage devices, etc. The management server 4 performs processes such as selling the goods purchasing right, settlement using the goods purchasing right, identifying the goods supply device 1 that supplies goods, and unlocking the goods supply device 1.

[0036] Next, the configuration of each device will be described.

[0037] FIG. 4 is a front view of an example of the article supplying device 1, FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the example of the article supplying device 1, and FIG.

[0038] The item supply device 1 is a device that supplies an item 2.

[0039] The article 2 includes, for example, a toy or the like contained in a divisible spherical capsule, or a toy and a capsule integrated together. The article 2 is not limited to one type of article, and there may be multiple types of articles. In this case, the multiple types of articles are stored mixed together in the article storage section 20 of the article supply device 1, which will be described later, as articles belonging to one series (type).

[0040] On the front surface of the article supplying device 1, there are provided a display 13 showing the contents of the article 2, an insertion slot 14 for coins paid in exchange for the article 2, a handle 15 as an operating section, an outlet 16 through which the article 2 is supplied, and a coin return slot 17. By visually checking the display 13, the user can know the articles that the article supplying device 1 can supply.

[0041] The article supply device 1 displays article supply device identification information 11 (information display: QR code) for identifying the article supply device 1. The article supply device identification information 11 includes at least unique article supply device identification information (device ID) for identifying the article supply device 1, and a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) which is link information to the management server 4 for identifying the article that the article supply device 1 can supply. The article supply device identification information 11 may include other information in addition to the above, such as location information for identifying the place where the article supply device 1 is installed, store name, information such as the price of the article, and management information required for managing the article supply device 1. In addition, as for the method of displaying the article supply device identification information 11, in this example, a method of attaching a QR code as an information display to the article supply device 1 and displaying it is adopted, but this is not limited to this. For example, if the article supply device 1 has a display unit such as a liquid crystal, the information display unit of the article supply device identification information 11 may be displayed on the display unit. Furthermore, the position at which the item supplying device identification information 11 is displayed may be, for example, as shown in Fig. 5, displayed in a position near the return slot 17 where the bottom surface of the return slot 17 can be clearly seen. In this embodiment, the user has acquired the right to purchase items, and can therefore acquire items 2 without paying money such as coins. By displaying the item supplying device identification information 11 in such a position, when a coin inserted by the user by mistake is returned to the return slot 17, the user can easily notice the returned coin.

[0042] The article supply device 1 includes an article storage unit 20, an article supply section 21, a lock section 22, an operation section 23, a control section 24, and a communication section 25.

[0043] The article storage section 20 stores a large number of articles 2. The article storage section 20 is configured to easily store articles by pulling the article storage section 20 towards you and inserting the article 2 from in front of the article supply device 1. An article supply section 21 is provided at the bottom inside the article storage section 20 and includes an article supply unit 21 having a turntable with a hole large enough for one article 2 to pass through.

[0044] The operation unit 23 transmits the operation of the handle 15 to the turntable of the article supply unit 21. The operation unit 23 is locked by the lock unit 22, and when the lock is released, the handle 15 becomes rotatable by the user's operation. For example, an unlocking mechanism using a solenoid lock is used as a mechanism for unlocking the lock. In this case, the solenoid lock is used to make the handle 15 unrotatable (locked), and the lock is released by passing electricity through the solenoid to make the handle 15 rotatable. Note that the unlocking mechanism is not limited to the solenoid lock, and other unlocking mechanisms may be used. Then, when the lock unit 22 is in the unlocked state, the turntable rotates in conjunction with the handle 15 by rotating it by a predetermined angle, and when the hole in the turntable faces the drop port provided at the bottom of the article storage unit 20, one article 2 is supplied from the drop port to the take-out port 16 through a passage communicating with the take-out port 16.

[0045] The control unit 24 controls the locking and unlocking of the locking unit 22. The control unit 24 unlocks the locking unit 22 by payment using cash inserted into the insertion slot 14 or by an unlocking signal controlled from outside. The control unit 24 also locks the locking unit 22 after detecting the discharge of the item 2 into the removal slot 16, or after a predetermined time has elapsed after the locking was released. Furthermore, the control unit 24 may lock the locking unit 22 by a locking signal controlled from outside.

[0046] The communication unit 25 is capable of communicating with the management device 5 via the communication network 6 .

[0047] Next, the configuration of the terminal 3 will be described.

[0048] Fig. 7 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the terminal 3. As shown in Fig. 7, the terminal 3 includes an operation input unit 301, an image capturing unit 302, a processing unit 303, an image display unit 304, a sound output unit 305, a communication unit 306, and a storage unit 307.

[0049] The operation input unit 301 is for inputting various operations by the user, and outputs an operation input signal corresponding to the operation input to the processing unit 303. The function of the operation input unit 301 can be realized by, for example, an element that is directly operated by the user's finger, such as a touch operation pad, a home button, a button switch, a joystick, or a trackball, as well as an element that detects motion or posture, such as an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, an inclination sensor, or a geomagnetic sensor. In FIG. 3, this corresponds to the touch operation panel 32.

[0050] The photographing unit 302 photographs the information display (QR code) of the article supply device identification information 11, and outputs the photographed image to the processing unit 303. The photographing unit 302 includes a lens, an image sensor, and a controller for controlling these. In FIG. 3, this corresponds to the camera 34.

[0051] The processing unit 303 comprehensively controls the operation of the terminal 3 based on programs and data stored in the memory unit 307, operation input signals from the operation input unit 301, etc. The functions of the processing unit 303 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or GPU, an ASIC, an IC memory, etc. This processing unit 303 includes a calculation unit 51, an image generation unit 52, a sound generation unit 53, and a communication control unit 54 as main functional units.

[0052] The calculation unit 51 outputs to the image generation unit 52, the sound generation unit 53, and the communication control unit 54. The calculation unit 51 includes an identification information acquisition unit 510, a payment method presentation unit 511, and a game execution unit 512.

[0053] The identification information acquisition unit 510 reads the information display of the goods supply device 1 photographed by the photographing unit 302, and acquires the goods supply device identification information 11 and link destination information (e.g., URL) to a goods purchase screen. The identification information acquisition unit 510 transmits a request for a goods purchase screen including the acquired goods supply device identification information 11 and a user ID for identifying the user to the management server 4.

[0054] The payment method presentation unit 511 presents a payment method for purchasing the item 2. The payment method presentation unit 511 receives information on items that can be supplied from the item supply device identified by the item supply device identification information 11 and a payment method from the management server 4, and displays them on the image display unit 304 via the image generation unit 52. The payment method presentation unit 511 transmits payment information according to the payment method selected by the user to the management server 4.

[0055] The game execution unit 512 receives a game execution instruction from the management server 4 and executes the game. The type of game is not important, but may be, for example, a lottery-like drawing game or a game operated by the player. Furthermore, it is preferable that the characters appearing in the game are characters from a character work of an item supplied from an item supply device identified by the item supply device identification information 11. This is because the worldview of the item and the game match. The game execution unit 512 transmits the results of the game to the management server 4.

[0056] Furthermore, the functions of the identification information acquisition unit 510, the payment method presentation unit 511, and the game execution unit 512 can be realized by a Web browser installed in the terminal 3, or can also be realized by a dedicated application.

[0057] The image generation unit 52 generates one image per one frame time (for example, 1 / 60 seconds) based on the processing result of the calculation unit 51, and outputs the generated image signal to the image display unit 304. The function of the image generation unit 52 can be realized by, for example, a processor such as a GPU or a digital signal processor (DSP), a video signal IC, a program such as a video codec, an IC memory for drawing frames such as a frame buffer, an IC memory used for expanding texture data, and the like.

[0058] The sound generation unit 53 generates sound signals such as sound effects and various operation sounds based on the processing results of the calculation unit 51, and outputs them to the sound output unit 305. The function of the sound generation unit 53 can be realized by, for example, a processor such as a digital signal processor (DSP) or a voice synthesis IC, an audio codec capable of reproducing audio files, or the like.

[0059] The communication control unit 54 performs communication connection and data processing for data communication with the management device 5 and the like.

[0060] The image display unit 304 displays a screen based on the image signal input from the image generation unit 52. The function of the image display unit 304 can be realized by a display device such as a flat panel display, a cathode ray tube (CRT), a projector, or a head-mounted display. In FIG. 2, the image display unit 304 corresponds to the display 31.

[0061] The sound output unit 305 is for outputting sound effects and the like based on the sound signal input from the sound generation unit 53. In FIG.

[0062] The communication unit 306 realizes communication by connecting to a communication line N. The function of the communication unit 306 can be realized by, for example, a wireless communication device, a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), a jack for a wired communication cable, a control circuit, and the like.

[0063] The storage unit 307 stores in advance or temporarily stores each time processing is performed programs for operating the terminal 3 and implementing various functions of the terminal 3, and data used during execution of the programs. The storage unit 307 can be implemented, for example, by RAM, ROM, IC memory such as flash memory, magnetic disk such as hard disk, optical disk such as CD-ROM or DVD, etc. Specifically, the storage unit 307 stores a system program and a control program. The system program is a program for implementing the basic functions of the terminal 3 as a computer. The control program is a program for causing the calculation unit 51 of the processing unit 31 to function as an identification information acquisition unit 510, a payment method presentation unit 511, and a game execution unit 512.

[0064] Next, the management server 4 will be described.

[0065] 8 is a block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the management server 4. The management server 4 includes a storage unit 61, a processing unit 62, and a communication unit 63.

[0066] The storage unit 61 is realized by, for example, a RAM, a ROM, an IC memory such as a flash memory, a magnetic disk such as a hard disk, an optical disk such as a CD-ROM or a DVD, and stores a system program and a function program. The system program is a program for realizing the basic functions of a computer. The function program is a program for causing the processing unit 62 to function as an item supply device determination unit 621, a settlement unit 622, a game execution control unit 623, and an item supply control unit 624, which will be described later. In addition, each database, which will be described later, is stored. Each stored database will be described below.

[0067] In the article supply device database D1, the article supply device identification information (ID) of the article supply device 1 capable of supplying the article 2, the type (product name) of the article 2 provided by the article supply device 1, and the number of items in stock are stored in association with each other. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the article supply device database D1. As shown in FIG. 9, in the article supply device database D1, the article supply device ID of the article supply device 1 capable of supplying the article 2, the type (product name) of the article 2, the number of items in stock, and the paired article supply device 1 are stored in association with each other. Even if the type (product name) of the article 2 is different, there are products that belong to the same character work. For example, there are products X and Y in the article supply device database D1 of FIG. 9. The products X and Y are different products, but are related to the same character work "XXX series", and the product X is an item imitating the character A appearing in the "XXX series", and the product Y is an item imitating the character B appearing in the "XXX series". Furthermore, the item supplying devices 1 that supply merchandise belonging to the same character work are in a paired relationship, and as will be described later, become item supplying devices 1 that supply items as rewards for games.

[0068] In the user information database D2, user identification information (user ID) and a name are stored in association with each other. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the user information database D2. As shown in Fig. 10, user identification information (user ID) and a name are stored in association with each other.

[0069] The processing unit 62 performs overall control of the operation of the management device 5 based on the programs and data stored in the memory unit 61. The functions of the processing unit 62 can be realized by electronic components such as a microprocessor such as a CPU or a GPU, an ASIC, an IC memory, etc. The processing unit 62 includes, as main functional units, an item supply device determination unit 621, a settlement unit 622, a game execution control unit 623, and an item supply control unit 624.

[0070] The goods supply device determination unit 621 receives a request for supply of goods from the terminal 3, acquires the goods supply device ID included in the request, and judges whether the acquired goods supply device ID is included in the goods supply device database D1. If the goods supply device determination unit 621 is included in the goods supply device database D1, it checks the goods supplied by the goods supply device 1 of that goods supply device ID and the number of goods in stock, and if there is a number in stock, it notifies the payment unit 622 of that goods supply device ID and the user ID. On the other hand, if the goods supply device is not included in the goods supply device database D1, or if it is included in the goods supply device database D1 but is out of stock, the goods supply device determination unit 621 sends to the terminal 3 an error screen informing the terminal 3 that supply of the goods 2 is not possible.

[0071] The settlement unit 622 receives the goods supply device ID and the user ID from the goods supply device determination unit 621, and transmits a goods purchase screen to the user's terminal 3. The settlement unit 622 reads out the product name and price of the goods supplied by the goods supply device 1 of the goods supply device ID from the goods supply device database D1, generates a goods purchase screen including the product name, price, and payment method of the goods, and transmits the generated goods purchase screen to the user's terminal 3. The settlement unit 622 also receives payment information from the user's terminal 3, and notifies the game execution control unit 623 and the goods supply control unit 624 that payment for the purchase of the goods has been completed.

[0072] When the game execution control unit 623 receives a notification of completion of the payment from the payment unit 622, it instructs the user terminal 3 to execute the game. In addition, the game execution control unit 623 receives a game result from the user terminal 3, and if the game result is a win or a victory, it notifies the goods supply control unit 624 of an instruction to supply goods.

[0073] The goods supply control unit 624 transmits an unlock signal to the goods supply device 1, enabling the goods supply device 1 to supply goods. There are two destinations for the unlock signal to the goods supply device 1. One is the goods supply device 1 identified by the goods supply device ID included in the goods supply request from the terminal 3. The unlock signal is transmitted to the goods supply device 1 identified by the goods supply device ID after the completion of the payment is received from the payment unit 622. The other is a predetermined goods supply device 1. This goods supply device 1 is, for example, a goods supply device 1 adjacent to the goods supply device 1 identified by the goods supply device ID. For example, it is a goods supply device 1 installed above or below the goods supply device 1 identified by the goods supply device ID. In this embodiment, the paired goods supply device 1 described in the goods supply device database D1 is the predetermined goods supply device. For example, when the goods supply device 1 specified by the goods supply device ID is a goods supply device with a goods supply device ID of "EQ1001", the predetermined goods supply device 1 is a goods supply device with a goods supply device ID of "EQ1002". The transmission of the unlock signal to this goods supply device 1 is performed after receiving a goods supply instruction from the game execution control unit 623.

[0074] The operation of the system according to this embodiment will now be described.

[0075] Fig. 11 is a sequence diagram of the article supply system of this embodiment, and Fig. 12 is a diagram for explaining a series of screens displayed on the user's terminal 3. Note that the operation will be explained using the contents of each database in Figs. 9 to 10.

[0076] The user goes to a location where an item supply device 1 capable of supplying items 2 is installed, and acquires an information display of item supply device identification information 11 displayed on the item supply device 1-1. The information display is acquired using the photographing function of the photographing unit 302 of the terminal 3 in response to the user's operation (Step 1). FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing an example of photographing the information display of the item supply device identification information 11 of the item supply device 1-1 by the photographing unit 302 of the terminal 3. The user stands in front of the item supply device 1, operates the terminal 3 so that the information display of the item supply device identification information 11 is displayed on the display 31 of the terminal 3, and acquires an image of the information display.

[0077] The identification information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 acquires the article supply device identification information 11 from the photographed information display of the article supply device identification information 11. In this example, the acquired article supply device identification information 11 includes the article supply device ID of the article supply device 1, and is link destination information (e.g., URL) to an article purchase screen (Step 2). In this example, it is assumed that the acquired article supply device ID is "EQ1001", and the link destination is set to the management server 4. It is also assumed that the request includes the user ID "10001".

[0078] The identification information acquisition unit 510 of the terminal 3 transmits a request for an item purchase screen (including the user ID) to the management server 4 based on the acquired item supply device ID of the item supply device 1-1 and the link destination (Step 3).

[0079] The management server 4 receives the request from the terminal 3 and performs a first supply size control process (Step 3). Fig. 13 is a flowchart of the first supply size control process.

[0080] When the item supply device determination unit 621 receives a request from the terminal 3 (Step 100), it acquires the device ID included in the request (Step 101). In this example, the acquired item supply device ID is "EQ1001".

[0081] The goods supply device determination unit 621 uses the goods supply device database D1 to determine the goods supply device ID (Step 102). The goods supply device ID is determined by determining whether the acquired goods supply device ID is included in the goods supply device database D1. If the acquired goods supply device ID is included in the goods supply device database D1 (Step 103), it is determined that the goods supply device 1 with the goods supply device ID acquired by the user is a goods supply device 1 capable of supplying goods 2. On the other hand, if the acquired device ID is not included in the goods supply device database D1 (Step 103), it is determined that the goods supply device 1 is not capable of supplying goods 2, and error notification information is sent to the terminal 3 (Step 110). In this example, the acquired goods supply device ID is "EQ1001" and is included in the goods supply device database D1, so it is determined that the goods supply device 1 from which the user is about to receive goods is the goods supply device 1 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1001".

[0082] The goods supply device determination unit 621 checks the stock of the goods supply device 1 of the acquired goods supply device ID (Step 104). If the stock quantity of the acquired goods supply device ID in the goods supply device database D1 is not "0", the goods supply device determination unit 621 determines that the goods supply device 1 of the acquired goods supply device ID can supply the goods 2, identifies the goods supply device 1 to which the unlock signal is to be sent, and notifies the payment unit 622 of the goods supply device ID and the user ID. On the other hand, if the stock quantity of the acquired goods supply device ID in the goods supply device database D1 is "0", the goods supply device determination unit 621 sends error notification information to the terminal 3 (Step 110).

[0083] The settlement unit 622 receives the goods supply device ID and the user ID from the goods supply device determination unit 621, and generates a goods purchase screen (Step 105). The settlement unit 622 reads out the type and price supplied by the acquired goods supply device ID, and generates a goods purchase screen including the goods name, price, and payment method for purchasing the goods. The settlement unit 622 then transmits the goods purchase screen to the terminal 3 (Step 106). In this example, the goods that can be supplied by the goods supply device 1 with goods supply device ID "EQ1001" is "Product X", and the price is "500 yen".

[0084] The payment method presenter 511 of the terminal 3 displays an item purchase screen (Step 4). Fig. 12(b) shows an example of the item purchase screen displayed on the terminal 3. In the example of Fig. 12(b), item X, its price, and three payment methods are displayed.

[0085] When the user selects the presented payment method and presses the payment button, the payment method presentation unit 511 transmits payment information. The payment information includes the user ID, the price, and the payment method.

[0086] When the settlement unit 622 receives the settlement information (Step 107), it performs settlement processing (Step 108). The settlement processing can utilize conventional electronic settlement such as credit card settlement. When the settlement is completed, the settlement unit 622 notifies the game execution control unit 623 of the completion of the settlement. The settlement unit 622 also notifies the item supply control unit 624 of the completion of the settlement and the item supply device ID.

[0087] The game execution control unit 623 transmits an item supply guide screen including an instruction to start execution of the game to the terminal 3 (Step 109).

[0088] The item supply control unit 624 transmits an unlock signal to the item supply device 1-1 identified by the item supply device ID (Step 111). In this example, the item supply control unit 624 transmits an unlock signal to the item supply device 1 with the item supply device ID "EQ1001".

[0089] The game execution unit 512 that has received the guidance screen displays the guidance screen for the supply of goods. An example of the guidance screen for the supply of goods displayed on the terminal 3 is shown in Fig. 12(c). In the example of Fig. 12(c), the user is informed that the payment has been completed, that the user should operate the handle 15 of the goods supply device 1 to receive the goods, and that the handle 15 will be locked in one minute. A button for selecting the start of the game is also displayed.

[0090] The user operates the article supply device 1-1 according to the guidance information.

[0091] The article supply device 1-1 receives the unlock signal and performs a supply process (Step 5). Then, the article supply device 1-1 transmits a supply report to the management server 4. The management server 4 receives the supply report and updates the stock quantity.

[0092] Here, the supply process (Step 15) of the article supply device 1 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG.

[0093] When the control unit 24 of the article supply device 1 receives an unlock signal (Step 200), it unlocks the lock unit 22 (Step 201).

[0094] The control unit 24 of the item supply device 1 determines whether an item 2 is being supplied (Step 202). First, the control unit 24 determines whether the handle 15 of the operation unit 23 has been operated (e.g., one rotation) (Step 203). When the handle 15 has been operated (e.g., one rotation), one item 2 is supplied from the item supply unit 21 to the outlet 16 (Step 204). Then, the control unit 24 locks the lock unit 22 (Step 205).

[0095] On the other hand, if the handle 15 is not operated (Step 203), the control unit 24 determines whether a predetermined time (e.g., one minute) has passed since the lock was released (Step 207). If the handle 15 is not operated (Step 203) and a predetermined time (e.g., one minute) has passed since the lock was released (Step 207), the control unit 24 locks the lock unit 22 (Step 205).

[0096] Finally, if item 2 is supplied normally, the control unit 24 issues a supply report to the effect that item 2 has been supplied normally, and if item 2 is not supplied, the control unit 24 issues a supply report to the effect that item 2 has not been supplied (Step 206).

[0097] Regarding the control from unlocking to locking the lock unit 22, in the above example, the control unit 24 determines whether a predetermined time has passed since unlocking, and when the predetermined time has passed, sets the lock unit 22 to a locked state. This is just one example, and it is also possible to configure the goods supply control unit 624 of the management server 4 to measure the time from sending the unlock signal, and if it does not receive a supply report indicating that the goods 2 have been normally supplied before the predetermined time has passed, the control unit 24 sends a lock signal to the control unit 24 of the goods supply device 1. In this case, when the control unit 24 receives the lock signal, it sets the lock unit 22 to a locked state.

[0098] This completes the explanation of the supply process (Step 5) of the article supply device 1.

[0099] When the user operates the item supply device 1 to obtain an item and selects the game start button displayed on the terminal 3, the game execution unit 512 starts the game (Step 6). FIG. 12(d) shows an example of a game screen displayed on the terminal 3. The example of FIG. 12(d) shows an example of a game screen in which a character of the product X appears. When the user ends the game, the game execution unit 512 reports the result of the game to the management server 4. The result of the game is success (win) or failure (lose).

[0100] The management server 4 starts a second supply control process (Step 7) upon receiving the game result report from the terminal 3. Figure 15 is a flowchart of the second supply control process.

[0101] In the second supply control process, when the game execution control unit 623 receives the game result (Step 300), it determines the game result (Step 301).

[0102] If the game result is a success (win) (Step 302), the game execution control unit 623 sends a reward information screen to the terminal 3 to inform the terminal 3 of the supply of an item (Step 303). On the other hand, if the game result is a failure (loss) (Step 302), the game execution control unit 623 sends an unsuccessful information screen to the terminal 3 to inform the terminal 3 that an item will not be supplied (Step 305). Furthermore, if the game result is a success (win), the game execution control unit 623 instructs the item supply control unit 624 to send an unlock signal for the item supply device 1.

[0103] The goods supply control unit 624 that has received the instruction transmits an unlock signal to the predetermined goods supply device 1-2 (Step 304). In this example, the predetermined goods supply device 1 is the paired goods supply device 1 described in the goods supply device database D1. Since the goods supply device 1 identified by the goods supply device ID is the goods supply device 1-1 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1001", the predetermined goods supply device 1 is the goods supply device 1-2 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1002". The goods supply control unit 624 transmits an unlock signal to the goods supply device 1-2 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1002". The transmission of the unlock signal to the goods supply device 1-2 is performed after receiving the goods supply instruction from the game execution control unit 623.

[0104] The game execution unit 512 of the terminal 3 displays a guide screen (Step 8). An example of the guide screen displayed on the terminal 3 is shown in Fig. 12(e). The example in Fig. 12(e) notifies the player that the game has been successful, that the player will receive product Y as a reward, and that the item supply device 1-2 that will supply product Y is located below the item supply device 1-1 that previously supplied the item.

[0105] The goods supply device 1-2 that receives the unlock signal from the goods supply control unit 624 performs a supply process (Step 9). FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of supply by the goods supply device 1-2 that supplies goods as rewards. In the example of FIG. 16, the goods supply device 1-1 on the upper level is the goods supply device 1 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1001", and the goods supply device 1-2 on the lower level is the goods supply device 1 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1002". The goods supply device 1-2 with the goods supply device ID "EQ1002" receives the unlock signal and blinks the LED around the handle 15, thereby indicating that it is in a state where it can supply goods. With this configuration, the user can easily identify the goods supply device 1 that can supply goods.

[0106] The user operates the item supplying device 1 according to the guidance information and obtains an item as a reward.

[0107] This concludes the explanation of the operation of this embodiment.

[0108] In this embodiment, the user can acquire an item to play a game, and can obtain further items as a reward depending on the outcome of the game, thereby increasing the user's motivation to purchase items.

[0109] Furthermore, if an item from the same character work as the purchased item is provided as a reward, it will be of great benefit to users who are fans of that character work.

[0110] <Modifications of the embodiment of the present invention> In the above embodiment, the game execution control unit 623 issues a game execution instruction after the settlement is completed. However, the game execution control unit 623 may issue a game execution instruction after the first item supply device reports the supply of items and the supply of items is completed.

[0111] In this way, the user can concentrate on the game since he or she has already acquired the item.

[0112] A part or all of the above-described embodiments may be described as, but is not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0113] [Appendix 1] A program that enables an article supply device to supply an article, Computer, An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the item supply device; a presentation means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information is acquired; a game execution means for executing a game that allows a further supply of the goods on the condition that at least one of the payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed; A program that functions as a

[0114] [Appendix 2] The payment method is electronic payment. 2. The program described in Appendix 1.

[0115] [Appendix 3] the game execution means determines whether or not to allow the supply of a further item depending on a result of playing the game; 2. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

[0116] [Appendix 4] the game execution means executes a process for supplying a further item when the result of playing the game is a win or a victory. 4. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

[0117] [Appendix 5] the game execution means, on condition that payment for the goods is completed, simultaneously presents text information prompting the user to operate an operation unit of the goods supply device and text information indicating that the game can be played. 5. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

[0118] [Appendix 6] the game execution means controls to select whether or not to execute the game; 6. The program according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

[0119] [Appendix 7] The goods that can be supplied from the goods supply device are associated with predetermined character works; The game is a game related to the specified character work. 7. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

[0120] [Appendix 8] An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the item supply device; a presentation means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information is acquired; a game execution means for executing a game that allows a further supply of the goods on the condition that at least one of the payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed; A terminal comprising:

[0121] [Appendix 9] A program that enables an article supply device to supply an article, Computer, An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the item supply device from a user terminal; A presentation means for presenting a payment method to the user terminal; an item supply control means for controlling the item supply device identified by the identification information to enable the supply of the item, on condition that at least one of the payment for the item or the supply of the item has been completed; a game execution control means for controlling execution of a game that allows for further supply of goods on the user terminal, on condition that at least one of the payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed; A program that functions as a

[0122] [Appendix 10] The payment method is electronic payment. 9. The program described in Appendix 9.

[0123] [Appendix 11] the item supply control means determines whether or not to allow further supply of items depending on the result of playing the game; 11. The program according to claim 9 or 10.

[0124] [Appendix 12] the item supply control means executes a process for supplying further items when the result of playing the game is a win or a victory. 12. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

[0125] [Appendix 13] the item supply control means controls the supply of items such that an item that can be supplied from the item supply device identified by the identification information is different from an item to be supplied after playing the game. 13. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

[0126] [Appendix 14] the item supply control means controls to enable supply of items from an item supply device other than the item supply device identified by the identification information; 14. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 13.

[0127] [Appendix 15] the item supply control means controls to release a lock unit that locks an operation unit of the item supply device identified by the identification information, on condition that payment for the item has been completed; 15. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

[0128] [Appendix 16] the item supply control means controls to notify an operation of an operation unit of an item supply device that supplies an item, on condition that a result of playing the game is a win or a victory. 16. A program according to any one of claims 1 to 15.

[0129] [Appendix 17] An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the item supply device from a user terminal; A presentation means for presenting a payment method to the user terminal; an item supply control means for controlling the item supply device identified by the identification information to enable the supply of the item on condition that at least one of the payment for the item or the supply of the item has been completed; a game execution control means for controlling execution of a game that allows for further supply of goods on the user terminal, on condition that at least one of the payment for the goods or the supply of the goods has been completed; A management device comprising:

[0130] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to preferred embodiments, the present invention is not necessarily limited to the above-described embodiments, and can be modified and embodied in various ways within the scope of the technical concept thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 1 Goods supply device 2 Goods 3. Terminal 4 Management Server 5. Communication Network

Claims

1. A program that enables an article supply device to supply an article, Computer, An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the item supply device; a presentation means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information is acquired; a game execution means for executing a game that allows for the supply of further goods on condition that at least the electronic payment for the goods has been completed; Function as a the game execution means, on condition that payment for the goods by electronic payment is completed, simultaneously presents text information prompting the user to operate an operation unit of the goods supply device and text information indicating that the game can be played, and, if the result of playing the game is a win or a victory, executes a process for supplying further goods. program.

2. the game execution means controls to select whether or not to execute the game; The program according to claim 1.

3. The goods that can be supplied from the goods supply device are associated with predetermined character works; The game is a game related to the specified character work. The program according to claim 1.

4. An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on an item supply device capable of supplying an item; a presentation means for presenting a payment method on condition that the identification information is acquired; a game execution means for executing a game that allows for the supply of further goods on condition that at least the electronic payment for the goods has been completed; Equipped with the game execution means, on condition that payment for the goods by electronic payment is completed, simultaneously presents text information prompting the user to operate an operation unit of the goods supply device and text information indicating that the game can be played, and, if the result of playing the game is a win or a victory, executes a process for supplying further goods. Terminal.

5. A program that enables an article supply device to supply an article, Computer, An acquisition means for acquiring identification information displayed on the item supply device from a user terminal; A presentation means for presenting a payment method to the user terminal; an item supply control means for controlling the supply of an item from an item supply device identified by the identification information, on condition that at least the electronic payment for the item has been completed; a game execution control means for controlling execution of a game in the user terminal that allows for the supply of further goods, on condition that at least the electronic payment for the goods has been completed; Function as a the game execution control means causes a user terminal to simultaneously present, on a condition that payment for the goods by electronic payment is completed, text information prompting the user to operate an operation unit of the goods supply device and text information indicating that the game can be played; the item supply control means executes a process for supplying further items when the result of playing the game is a win or a victory. program.

6. the item supply control means controls the supply of items such that an item that can be supplied from the item supply device identified by the identification information is different from an item to be supplied after playing the game. The program according to claim 5.

7. the item supply control means controls to enable supply of items from an item supply device other than the item supply device identified by the identification information; The program according to claim 6.

8. the item supply control means controls to release a lock unit that locks an operation unit of the item supply device identified by the identification information, on condition that payment for the item has been completed; The program according to claim 6.

9. the item supply control means controls the item supply device so as to notify an operation on an operation unit of the item supply device that supplies an item, on condition that the result of playing the game is a win or a victory. The program according to claim 6.

10. An acquisition means for acquiring, from a user terminal, identification information displayed on an item supply device capable of providing an item; A presentation means for presenting a payment method to the user terminal; an item supply control means for controlling an item supply device identified by the identification information to supply an item on condition that at least the electronic payment for the item has been completed; a game execution control means for controlling execution of a game that allows for the supply of further goods on the user terminal, on condition that at least the electronic payment for the goods has been completed; Equipped with the game execution control means causes a user terminal to simultaneously present, on a condition that payment for the goods by electronic payment is completed, text information prompting the user to operate an operation unit of the goods supply device and text information indicating that the game can be played; the item supply control means executes a process for supplying further items when the result of playing the game is a win or a victory. Management device.

Images