Registration system, registration device, and registration method

Abstract

To improve security when visitors re-enter restricted areas while reducing the burden on the visitors.SOLUTION: A registration system includes: an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating first authority to enter a restricted area; a reader that reads the code issued by the issuing unit; and a registration unit that registers biometric information of an entrant who has entered the restricted area for re-entry into the restricted area on the condition that the code is read by the reader.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a registration system, a registration device, and a registration method.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an entry / exit management system that, by means of a finger information collection and registration device, collects finger information at the time of temporary departure, stores and manages the finger information in a database for a certain period, and differentiates between temporary exiters and new entrants by performing fingerprint authentication collation with a fingerprint information collection and collation device at the time of re-entry. Patent Document 2 describes an entry authentication system in which a ticket issuing device acquires fingerprint data by means of a fingerprint input device, converts this fingerprint data into barcode data by means of a computer, prints it on an entry ticket or a re-entry ticket by means of a printer, and an authentication device acquires fingerprint data by means of a fingerprint input device, reads barcode data by means of a barcode reader, converts the read barcode data into fingerprint data by means of a computer, and then authenticates by comparing the acquired fingerprint data.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is a configuration in which biometric information for a visitor to re-enter a restricted area can be unconditionally registered as long as the visitor is in the restricted area. However, with this configuration, a visitor who has once successfully entered the restricted area illegally can re-enter the restricted area multiple times, and it is not possible to improve the security when the visitor re-enters the restricted area. There is also a configuration in which the biometric information for the visitor to re-enter the restricted area is printed on the ticket at the time of ticket issuance. However, in this configuration, in order to improve the security when the visitor re-enters the restricted area, the visitor needs to bring the ticket every time they re-enter the restricted area, which increases the burden on the visitor.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to improve the security when a visitor re-enters a restricted area while suppressing the burden on the visitor.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0006] For this purpose, the present invention provides a registration system including an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority to enter a restricted area, a reading unit that reads the code issued by the issuing unit, and a registration unit that registers the biometric information of the visitor for the visitor to re-enter the restricted area on the condition that the code is read by the reading unit. The registration unit may register the biometric information of a number of visitors not exceeding a preset number for the code. The registration unit may register the biometric information of the visitor when the code is read by the reading unit within a first time. In that case, the registration system may further include a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the visitor re-enters the restricted area within a second time. Also, in that case, the second time may be different from the first time. The registration system may further include a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the visitor re-enters the restricted area within a range not exceeding a preset number of times. The registration system may further include a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the visitor re-enters the restricted area within a preset time after leaving the restricted area. The registration system may further include a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the biometric information of the visitor is registered when the visitor re-enters the restricted area. The code may further indicate a second authority in the restricted area, and the registration unit may register the biometric information of the entrant in association with the second authority. In that case, the registration system may further include an output unit that outputs the second authority associated with the biometric information of the entrant when the entrant re-enters the restricted area. Also, in that case, the output unit may output, as the second authority, information indicating a seat or a room in the restricted area. The output unit may output, as the second authority, information indicating the time when entry into the restricted area is possible or the time when the entrant should leave the restricted area. In that case, the registration system may further include a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the biometric information of the entrant is registered in association with the second authority when the entrant re-enters the restricted area. Also, in that case, the processing unit may perform a process of permitting re-entry even if the biometric information of the entrant is not registered in association with the second authority if the biometric information of the entrant is registered as the biometric information of a special entrant. The registration system may further include a deletion unit that deletes the biometric information of the entrant registered by the registration unit at a predetermined time. In that case, the deletion unit may not delete the biometric information of the special entrant among the biometric information of the entrant registered by the registration unit at a predetermined time.

[0007] Furthermore, the present invention also provides a registration device including a reading unit that reads a code issued by an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority to enter a restricted area, and a registration unit that registers the biometric information of the entrant for re-entry into the restricted area on the condition that the code is read by the reading unit.

[0008] Furthermore, the present invention also provides a registration method including a step of reading a code issued by an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority to enter a restricted area, and a step of registering the biometric information of the entrant for re-entry into the restricted area on the condition that the code is read in the reading step.

[0009] Furthermore, the present invention also provides a registration system including an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority, a reading unit that reads the code issued by the issuing unit, and a registration unit that registers the biometric information of a predetermined person in association with the code read by the reading unit. The first authority may be the authority to enter a restricted area, the issuing unit may be installed outside the restricted area, and the reading unit may be installed inside the restricted area. The first authority may be the authority to enter a restricted area, and the issuing unit and the reading unit may be installed outside the restricted area.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the security when an entrant re-enters the restricted area while suppressing the burden on the entrant.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

Figure 1

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0013] [Overall Configuration of Admission Management System] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of the admission management system 1 in this embodiment. The admission management system 1 is a system that manages the admission of admission persons to a restricted area where admission is restricted.

[0014] In the figure, the restricted area R is shown as such a restricted area. The restricted area R can be any area where admission is restricted. The restricted area R may be the building itself, an area inside the building, or an area outside the building. In addition, an entrant may have the right to enter the restricted area R and the right to act within the restricted area R. The right to act within the restricted area R is, for example, the right to use the facilities within the restricted area R. In the present embodiment, as an example of the first right, the right to enter the restricted area R is used, and as an example of the second right, the right to act within the restricted area R is used. And the restricted area R may be an area that can be entered without securing such facilities in advance, or an area that cannot be entered without securing such facilities in advance. Hereinafter, taking the reserved seat as an example of the facility, the restricted area R will be described as an area that cannot be entered without securing the reserved seat in advance. Therefore, hereinafter, the ticket for entering the restricted area R will be referred to as a "reserved seat ticket" instead of an "admission ticket".

[0015] As shown in the figure, the entrance management system 1 includes a ticket vending device 10, a registration device 20, an authentication device 30, a server 40, and an automatic door 50. The ticket vending device 10, the registration device 20, and the authentication device 30 are connected to the server 40 via a communication line 81, and the automatic door 50 is connected to the authentication device 30 via a communication line 82.

[0016] The ticket vending device 10 is installed near the entrance of the restricted area R, and issues a reserved seat ticket by the selection of a reserved seat and payment of a fee by an entrant entering the restricted area R. Here, a code for entering the restricted area R is printed on the reserved seat ticket. The code may be a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code. Alternatively, the code may be regarded as a graphic code. A representative example of the code is a QR code (registered trademark). Note that although only one ticket vending device 10 is shown in the figure, a plurality of ticket vending devices 10 may be installed. In the present embodiment, the ticket vending device 10 is provided as an example of an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating the first right to enter the restricted area.

[0017] The registration device 20 is installed near the entrance of the restricted area R and is a device for registering the biometric information of the entrants for entering the restricted area R. In particular, the registration device 20 registers the biometric information on the condition that it has read the code printed on the designated seat ticket issued by the ticket vending device 10. Here, the biometric information may be information such as face, fingerprint, iris, voiceprint, vein, etc. In the following, the face image will be taken as an example of the biometric information for explanation. Note that only one registration device 20 is shown in the figure, but a plurality of registration devices 20 may be installed.

[0018] The authentication device 30 is installed near the entrance of the restricted area R and is a device for authenticating the entrants who attempt to enter the restricted area R. In particular, the authentication device 30 determines whether to permit the entrants to enter the restricted area R by comparing the face image of the entrants with the pre-registered face image. Note that only one authentication device 30 is shown in the figure, but a plurality of authentication devices 30 may be installed.

[0019] Note that in the above, the ticket vending device 10, the registration device 20, and the authentication device 30 are all installed near the entrance of the restricted area R. However, the installation locations of these devices may be determined in consideration of the operation procedures of the entrants. For example, if the entrants purchase the designated seat tickets at the ticket vending device 10, register their face images at the registration device 20, and receive authentication at the authentication device 30, the ticket vending device 10, the registration device 20, and the authentication device 30 may be installed in this order from the farthest to the nearest to the entrance of the restricted area R.

[0020] Also, in the figure, the registration device 20 and the authentication device 30 are installed outside the restricted area R. In this case, at the first entry, the registration device 20 may authenticate the entrant by code and register the face image, or the registration device 20 may register the face image and the authentication device 30 may authenticate the entrant by the face image. In either case, at the time of entry (re-entry) after the second time, the authentication device 30 authenticates the entrant. When the registration device 20 is installed outside the restricted area R, it is difficult to prevent malicious operations. On the other hand, at the time of ticket purchase, it is highly likely that the "person holding the ticket" and the "person registering the biometric information (companion)" are together. Therefore, the need to go to the registration device 20 together for subsequent biometric information registration can be eliminated.

[0021] On the other hand, the registration device 20 may be installed inside the restricted area R. In this case, at the first entry, the authentication device 30 authenticates the entrant by code, and after the entrant enters, the registration device 20 may register the face image. Also, at the time of entry (re-entry) after the second time, the authentication device 30 authenticates the entrant. By installing the registration device 20 inside the restricted area R, the operation of the registration device 20 can be restricted to only the entrant, so malicious operations can be prevented. However, when the "person holding the ticket" and the "person registering the biometric information (companion)" are different, they need to go to the registration device 20 together.

[0022] Server 40 is a server computer that manages information regarding assigned seats (hereinafter referred to as "assigned seat information") and information regarding the face images of visitors (hereinafter referred to as "face image information"). The assigned seat information is information that associates an assigned seat with the price of that assigned seat, its reservation status, etc. The face image information is information that associates an assigned seat with the face image of a visitor who has the right to use that assigned seat. Here, among the visitors, there are ordinary visitors who cannot enter the restricted area R unless they purchase an assigned seat ticket at the ticket vending device 10, and VIPs who are special visitors who can enter the restricted area R even without purchasing an assigned seat ticket at the ticket vending device 10. For example, the face images of ordinary visitors and the face images of VIPs are stored in different storage areas. Also, for example, the face images of ordinary visitors are managed by the face image information, but the face images of VIPs are not managed by the face image information, except when they purchase an assigned seat ticket deliberately.

[0023] The automatic door 50 is a door provided at the entrance of the restricted area R and is automatically opened when a visitor enters the restricted area R. The automatic door 50 is automatically opened by receiving an automatic door opening signal from the authentication device 30 when the authentication device 30 permits the visitor to enter the restricted area R. Alternatively, although not shown, the automatic door 50 may also be connected to the registration device 20 via a communication line, and may be automatically opened by receiving an automatic door opening signal from the registration device 20 when the registration device 20 permits the visitor to enter the restricted area R. Here, although the automatic door 50 is used as a mechanism for permitting a visitor to enter the restricted area R, other mechanisms such as a gate may also be used.

[0024] The communication line 81 is a communication means used for information communication between the ticket vending device 10, the registration device 20, the authentication device 30, and the server 40, and is, for example, the Internet, a public line, a LAN (Local Area Network), etc. The communication line 82 is a communication means used for communication between the authentication device 30 and the automatic door 50, and is, for example, a LAN, etc.

[0025] Although not shown in the figure, the admission management system 1 may include an online ticket issuing system instead of the ticket vending device 10. Then, this online ticket issuing system may transmit a code for entering the restricted area R to the mobile terminal of the person entering the area, and the person entering the area may register their face image by having this code read by the registration device 20. In this case, this online ticket issuing system is an example of an issuing unit. Also, the main function of the admission management system 1 can be regarded as registering the face image. In that sense, the admission management system 1 is an example of a registration system.

[0026] [Appearance configuration of the ticket vending device] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance configuration of the ticket vending device 10 in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the ticket vending device 10 includes an operation display unit 12, a banknote insertion / return port 13, a coin insertion port 141, a coin return port 142, and a ticket outlet 15.

[0027] The operation display unit 12 is provided at the upper part of the front surface of the ticket vending device 10 and is operated by the person entering the area to display information or input information. The operation display unit 12 is, for example, a liquid crystal display with a touch panel. For example, the type, price, availability status, etc. of the designated seats in the restricted area R are displayed on the operation display unit 12.

[0028] The banknote insertion / return port 13, the coin insertion port 141, the coin return port 142, and the ticket outlet 15 are provided below the operation display unit 12 on the front surface of the ticket vending device 10. The banknote insertion / return port 13 is used for the person entering the area to insert banknotes and receive the returned banknotes. The coin insertion port 141 is used for the person entering the area to insert coins, and the coin return port 142 is used for the person entering the area to receive the returned coins. The ticket outlet 15 is used for the person entering the area to take out the issued designated seat ticket.

[0029] [Appearance configuration of the registration device] FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing an example of the appearance configuration of the registration device 20 in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the registration device 20 includes an operation display unit 22, a reading unit 23, a camera 24, and a light emitting unit 25.

[0030] The operation display unit 22 is provided at the upper front part of the registration device 20 and displays the face of the entrant captured by the camera 24. A guide frame for the entrant to adjust the position of the face may be displayed on the operation display unit 22.

[0031] The reading unit 23 is provided below the operation display unit 22 at the upper front part of the registration device 20 and reads a code from various media. For example, the reading unit 23 may be a QR code reader that reads a QR code (registered trademark) from a designated seat ticket printed with a QR code (registered trademark) or a screen of a mobile terminal on which a QR code (registered trademark) is displayed. In the present embodiment, the reading unit 23 is provided as an example of a reading unit that reads a code issued by the issuing unit.

[0032] The camera 24 is provided above the operation display unit 22 at the upper front part of the registration device 20 and captures the face of the entrant standing in front of the registration device 20. In particular, the camera 24 captures the face of the entrant on the condition that the reading unit 23 has read a code, and outputs the captured face to the operation display unit 22. Then, when the face of the entrant is displayed within the guide frame of the operation display unit 22 and is in focus, the camera 24 automatically captures the face of the entrant.

[0033] The light emitting unit 25 is provided at the uppermost part of the registration device 20 and notifies the state of the registration device 20 by light emission. The light emitting unit 25 may be, for example, a stacked rotating lamp in which a plurality of colored rotating lamps are stacked.

[0034] [External Configuration of Authentication Device] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an example of the external configuration of the authentication device 30 in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the authentication device 30 includes an operation display unit 32, a reading unit 33, a camera 34, and a light emitting unit 35.

[0035] The operation display unit 32 is provided at the upper front part of the authentication device 30 and displays the face of the entrant captured by the camera 34. A guide frame for the entrant to adjust the position of the face may be displayed on the operation display unit 32.

[0036] The reading unit 33 is provided below the operation display unit 32 at the upper front part of the authentication device 30, and reads a code from various media. For example, the reading unit 33 may be a code reader that reads a code from a designated seat ticket on which the code is printed or a screen of a mobile terminal on which the code is displayed. Note that the reading unit 33 is unnecessary when the entrant wishes to perform face authentication, but is necessary when the entrant wishes to perform code authentication, so it is provided. However, if the authentication device 30 is a dedicated device for face authentication and code authentication is performed by another device, the reading unit 33 may not be provided.

[0037] The camera 34 is provided above the operation display unit 32 at the upper front part of the authentication device 30, and captures the face of the entrant standing in front of the authentication device 30. In particular, the camera 34 captures the face of the entrant and outputs the captured face to the operation display unit 32. Then, when the face of the entrant is displayed within the guide frame of the operation display unit 32 and is in focus, the camera 34 automatically captures the face of the entrant.

[0038] The light emitting unit 35 is provided at the uppermost part of the authentication device 30, and notifies the state of the authentication device 30 by light emission. For example, the light emitting unit 35 may notify by light emission that the authentication device 30 has determined to permit or not permit the entrant to enter the restricted area R. The light emitting unit 35 may be, for example, a stacked rotating lamp in which a plurality of colored rotating lamps are stacked.

[0039] [Functional Configuration of Ticket Selling Device] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the ticket selling device 10 in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the ticket selling device 10 includes a control unit 11, an operation display unit 12, a bill processing unit 135, a coin processing unit 145, a printing unit 155, a communication unit 16, and a storage unit 17.

[0040] The control unit 11 includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), and controls each part of the ticket selling device 10 (operation display unit 12, bill processing unit 135, coin processing unit 145, printing unit 155, communication unit 16, etc.) according to the operation program stored in the storage unit 17.

[0041] The operation display unit 12 has already been described with reference to FIG. 2, and thus the description thereof will be omitted here.

[0042] The bill processing unit 135 performs a process of transporting the bills inserted through the bill insertion / return port 13 and storing them in the bill storage. Further, the bill processing unit 135 performs a process of returning unacceptable bills to the bill insertion / return port 13 after determining the authenticity of the bills, and a process of paying out change bills to the bill insertion / return port 13.

[0043] The coin processing unit 145 performs a process of transporting the coins inserted through the coin insertion port 141 and storing them in the coin storage. Further, the coin processing unit 145 performs a process of returning unacceptable coins to the coin return port 142 after determining the authenticity of the coins, and a process of paying out change coins to the coin return port 142.

[0044] The printing unit 155 prints the reserved seat tickets purchased with the bills inserted through the bill insertion / return port 13 or the coins inserted through the coin insertion port 141. For example, the printing unit 155 may print reserved seat tickets including the reserved seat numbers and codes. Then, the printing unit 155 transports the printed reserved seat tickets to the ticket pickup port 15.

[0045] The communication unit 16 communicates information with other devices via the communication line 81. Here, the other device is, for example, the server 40.

[0046] The storage unit 17 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., stores the operation program of the control unit 11, and is used as a work area during the control process of the control unit 11. The operation program includes a program for the control unit 11 to execute the processes described later.

[0047] Next, the configuration of the control unit 11 will be specifically described. The control unit 11 includes an operation reception unit 111, a display control unit 112, a deposited amount acquisition unit 113, a determination unit 114, a code generation unit 115, a printing control unit 116, a transmission unit 118, and a reception unit 119.

[0048] The operation reception unit 111 receives the operations of the attendees on the operation display unit 12. For example, the operation reception unit 111 receives the operation of the attendee who selects a designated seat from the list of designated seats displayed on the operation display unit 12. Then, the operation reception unit 111 acquires the designated seat number of this selected designated seat.

[0049] The display control unit 112 controls the display of information on the operation display unit 12. For example, the display control unit 112 controls to display a list of designated seats on the operation display unit 12. Here, the list of designated seats may be, for example, an image in which the designated seats are arranged on the map of the restricted area R.

[0050] The payment amount acquisition unit 113 acquires, as the paper currency count amount, the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of the change paper currency paid out to the paper currency insertion / return port 13 from the amount of the genuine paper currency among the paper currency inserted from the paper currency insertion / return port 13. Also, the payment amount acquisition unit 113 acquires, as the coin count amount, the amount obtained by subtracting the amount of the change coins paid out to the coin return port 142 from the amount of the genuine coins among the coins inserted from the coin insertion port 141. Then, the payment amount acquisition unit 113 acquires the sum of the paper currency count amount and the coin count amount as the payment amount.

[0051] The determination unit 114 determines whether or not the fare amount of the designated seat associated with the designated seat number received by the operation reception unit 111 matches the payment amount acquired by the payment amount acquisition unit 113.

[0052] The code generation unit 115 generates a code when it is determined by the determination unit 114 that the fare amount and the payment amount match. The code includes, for example, the issue date, the designated seat number, and the maximum registration number. Here, the maximum registration number is the number of face images that can be registered for the designated seat number.

[0053] The print control unit 116 controls the printing unit 155 to print a reserved seat ticket that includes the reserved seat number received by the operation reception unit 111 and the code generated by the code generation unit 115. Details of the reserved seat ticket will be described later.

[0054] The transmission unit 118 transmits information to other devices via the communication unit 16. Specifically, the transmission unit 118 transmits a request for acquiring reserved seat information to the server 40. Also, the transmission unit 118 transmits a request for securing a reserved seat to the server 40. The request for securing a reserved seat includes the reserved seat number received by the operation reception unit 111.

[0055] The reception unit 119 receives information from other devices via the communication unit 16. Specifically, when the server 40 transmits the reserved seat information in response to the transmission unit 118 transmitting a request for acquiring reserved seat information to the server 40, the reception unit 119 receives this reserved seat information from the server 40. This reserved seat information is used when the display control unit 112 displays the reserved seat list on the operation display unit 12. Also, when the server 40 secures a reserved seat in response to the transmission unit 118 transmitting a request for securing a reserved seat to the server 40, the reception unit 119 receives the completion of securing the reserved seat from the server 40.

[0056] [Reserved Seat Ticket] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a reserved seat ticket 100 issued by the ticket vending apparatus 10 in the present embodiment. As shown in the drawing, the reserved seat ticket 100 includes an issue serial number 101, a purchase date 102, a purchase time 103, a purchase price 104, a purchase content 105, and a QR code (registered trademark) 106.

[0057] The issue serial number 101 is a consecutive number assigned each time a reserved seat ticket is issued. The purchase date 102 is the date on which the reserved seat ticket was purchased, and the purchase time 103 is the time at which the reserved seat ticket was purchased. The purchase price 104 is the price at which the entrant purchased the reserved seat ticket.

[0058] The purchase content 105 is the content purchased by the entrant. Here, as the purchase content 105, "Block A" indicating the block where the reserved seat exists and "Seat No. A-1" indicating the reserved seat number are printed.

[0059] The QR code (registered trademark) 106 is a code that encodes and visualizes information such as the ticket issuance date, designated seat number, security code, etc. The ticket issuance date is the date when the designated seat ticket is issued. The ticket issuance date may be encoded by adding the issuance time. The ticket issuance date is used to determine the expiration date of the designated seat ticket, but instead of the ticket issuance date, the expiration date may be encoded. The designated seat number is the number of the designated seat, which corresponds to "Seat A-1" here. The security code is a code for preventing forgery of the QR code (registered trademark) 106.

[0060] [Functional Configuration of Registration Device] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the registration device 20 in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the registration device 20 includes a control unit 21, an operation display unit 22, a reading unit 23, a camera 24, a light emitting unit 25, a communication unit 26, and a storage unit 27.

[0061] The control unit 21 includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU, and controls each part of the registration device 20 (operation display unit 22, reading unit 23, camera 24, light emitting unit 25, communication unit 26, etc.) according to the operation program stored in the storage unit 27.

[0062] Since the operation display unit 22, the reading unit 23, the camera 24, and the light emitting unit 25 have already been described with reference to FIG. 3, the description here is omitted.

[0063] The communication unit 26 communicates information with other devices via the communication line 81. Here, the other device is, for example, the server 40.

[0064] The storage unit 27 includes a ROM, a RAM, etc., stores the operation program of the control unit 21, and is used as a work area during the control process of the control unit 21. The operation program includes a program for the control unit 21 to execute the processes described later.

[0065] Next, the configuration of the control unit 21 will be specifically described. The control unit 21 includes an operation reception unit 211, a display control unit 212, a reading control unit 213, a photographing control unit 214, a light emission control unit 215, a code processing unit 216, a determination unit 217, a transmission unit 218, and a reception unit 219.

[0066] The operation reception unit 211 receives the operations of the visitors on the operation display unit 22. For example, the operation reception unit 211 receives the operations of the visitors indicating whether to continue or end the registration of the face image.

[0067] The display control unit 212 controls the display of information on the operation display unit 22. For example, the display control unit 212 controls to display on the operation display unit 22 that the completion of the registration of the face image has been received from the server 40.

[0068] When a visitor shields the screen of the designated seat ticket on which the code is printed or the mobile terminal on which the code is displayed with the reading unit 23, the reading control unit 213 controls the reading unit 23 to read the code from the designated seat ticket or the screen of the mobile terminal. Then, the reading control unit 213 acquires the code read by the reading unit 23.

[0069] When the face of the visitor is displayed within the guide frame of the operation display unit 22 and the photographing control unit 214 receives a signal indicating that the focus is adjusted, the photographing control unit 214 controls the camera 24 to photograph the face of the visitor. Then, the photographing control unit 214 acquires the face image of the visitor photographed by the camera 24.

[0070] When a predetermined state occurs in the registration device 20, the light emission control unit 215 controls the light emission unit 25 to light up. For example, when the face image cannot be registered, the light emission control unit 215 controls the light emission unit 25 to light up and notify that fact.

[0071] The code processing unit 216 extracts information from the code acquired by the reading control unit 213. Specifically, the code processing unit 216 extracts, for example, the ticket issuance date, the designated seat number, and the maximum number of registrations from the code. Then, the code processing unit 216 determines whether the ticket issuance date is today.

[0072] The determination unit 217 determines whether the time when the reading unit 23 reads the code is within the registrable time during which a preset face image can be registered. Further, the determination unit 217 determines whether the number of face images registered in the face image information for the designated seat number received by the reception unit 219 has reached the maximum number of registrations extracted by the code processing unit 216 from the code.

[0073] The transmission unit 218 transmits information to other devices via the communication unit 26. Specifically, the transmission unit 218 transmits a request for acquiring face image information for the designated seat number extracted by the code processing unit 216 from the code to the server 40.

[0074] Also, the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for a face image to the server 40. Here, the registration request for a face image includes the face image of the visitor photographed by the camera 24 on the condition that the reading unit 23 has read the code. Therefore, it can be said that the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for a face image to the server 40 on the condition that the reading unit 23 has read the code. Further, the registration request for a face image also includes the designated seat number extracted by the code processing unit 216 from the code. Therefore, it can also be said that the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for registering a face image in association with the designated seat number to the server 40. In the present embodiment, the transmission unit 218 is provided as an example of a registration unit that registers the biometric information of a visitor who has entered the restricted area for re - entering the restricted area on the condition that the code is read by the reading unit. Also, in the present embodiment, the transmission unit 218 is provided as an example of a registration unit that registers the biometric information of a visitor in association with the second authority.

[0075] In this case, if the determination unit 217 determines that the number of face images registered in the face image information for the designated seat number has not reached the maximum number of registrations, the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for a face image to the server 40. On the other hand, if the determination unit 217 determines that the number of face images registered in the face image information for the designated seat number has reached the maximum number of registrations, the transmission unit 218 does not transmit a registration request for a face image to the server 40. In this embodiment, as an example of a registration unit that registers biometric information of no more than a preset number of visitors for a code, a transmission unit 218 is provided.

[0076] Also, if the reading unit 23 reads the code within a preset registration time, the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for a face image to the server 40. On the other hand, if the reading unit 23 reads the code outside the preset registration time, the transmission unit 218 does not transmit a registration request for a face image to the server 40. In this embodiment, as an example of the first time, the registration time is used. When the code is read by the reading unit within the first time, as an example of a registration unit that registers biometric information of a visitor, a transmission unit 218 is provided.

[0077] The receiving unit 219 receives information from other devices via the communication unit 26. Specifically, when the server 40 transmits face image information in response to the transmission unit 218 transmitting a request for acquiring face image information for the designated seat number extracted from the code by the code processing unit 216 to the server 40, the receiving unit 219 receives this face image information from the server 40. Also, when the server 40 registers a face image after the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for the face image to the server 40, the receiving unit 219 receives the completion of face image registration from the server 40.

[0078] [Functional Configuration of Authentication Device] FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the authentication device 30 in this embodiment. As shown in the figure, the authentication device 30 includes a control unit 31, an operation display unit 32, a reading unit 33, a camera 34, a light emitting unit 35, a communication unit 36, and a storage unit 37.

[0079] The control unit 31 includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU, and controls each part of the authentication device 30 (operation display unit 32, reading unit 33, camera 34, light emitting unit 35, communication unit 36, etc.) according to an operation program stored in the storage unit 37.

[0080] The operation display unit 32, the reading unit 33, the camera 34, and the light emitting unit 35 have already been described with reference to FIG. 4, and thus the description here is omitted.

[0081] The communication unit 36 communicates information with other devices via the communication line 81. Here, the other device is, for example, the server 40. Also, the communication unit 36 communicates with the automatic door 50 via the communication line 82.

[0082] The storage unit 37 includes a ROM, a RAM, etc., stores the operation program of the control unit 31, and is used as a work area during the control process of the control unit 31. The operation program includes a program for the control unit 31 to execute the processes described later.

[0083] Next, the configuration of the control unit 31 will be specifically described. The control unit 31 includes an operation reception unit 311, a display control unit 312, a reading control unit 313, a photographing control unit 314, a light emission control unit 315, a code processing unit 316, a determination unit 317, a transmission unit 318, and a reception unit 319.

[0084] The operation reception unit 311 receives the operations of the entrants on the operation display unit 32.

[0085] The display control unit 312 controls the display of information on the operation display unit 32. For example, the display control unit 312 controls to display the designated seat number stored in association with the face image in the server 40 on the operation display unit 32. Or, if the room number within the restricted area R is stored in association with the face image in the server 40, the display control unit 312 may control to display this room number on the operation display unit 32. Also, if the time that the entrant can stay within the restricted area R or the time when the entrant should exit the restricted area R is stored in association with the face image in the server 40, the display control unit 312 may control to display such time or times on the operation display unit 32. In this embodiment, when an entrant re-enters the restricted area, a display control unit 312 is provided as an example of an output unit that outputs a second authority associated with the biometric information of the entrant. Also, in this embodiment, a display control unit 312 is provided as an example of an output unit that outputs information indicating a seat or room in the restricted area as the second authority. Further, in this embodiment, a display control unit 312 is provided as an example of an output unit that outputs information indicating the time when entry into the restricted area is possible or the time when the entrant should leave the restricted area as the second authority.

[0086] When the entrant holds the designated seat ticket with the code printed thereon or the screen of the mobile terminal on which the code is displayed in front of the reading unit 33, the reading control unit 313 controls the reading unit 33 to read the code from the designated seat ticket or the screen of the mobile terminal. Then, the reading control unit 313 acquires the code read by the reading unit 33.

[0087] When the face of the entrant is displayed within the guide frame of the operation display unit 32 and the shooting control unit 314 receives a signal indicating that the focus is adjusted, the shooting control unit 314 controls the camera 34 to capture the face of the entrant. Then, the shooting control unit 314 acquires the face image of the entrant captured by the camera 34.

[0088] When a predetermined state occurs in the authentication device 30, the light emission control unit 315 controls the light emission unit 35 to light up. For example, when the reception unit 319 receives from the server 40 a message indicating that the authentication of the entrant has failed, the light emission control unit 315 controls the light emission unit 35 to light up and notify that fact.

[0089] The code processing unit 316 extracts information from the code acquired by the reading control unit 313. Specifically, the code processing unit 316 extracts, for example, the ticket issuance date from the code. Then, the code processing unit 316 authenticates whether to permit the entrant to enter the restricted area R by determining whether the ticket issuance date is today.

[0090] The determination unit 317 determines whether the entry conditions for the entrant to enter the restricted area R are satisfied. For example, the entry condition may be that the time when the reading unit 33 reads the code or the time when the camera 34 captures the face image is within the allowable entry time when the preset entrant can enter the restricted area R. Note that this allowable entry time may be different from the registrable time used when the registration device 20 registers the face image. For example, when the restricted area R is a designated seat area such as a speedway, it is desired that the face image be registered by 30 minutes before the final race, but there are cases where re-entry of the entrant into the restricted area R is allowed even after the final race. Also, the entry condition may be that the number of times the reading unit 33 has read the code so far or the number of times the camera 34 has captured the face image so far does not exceed a predetermined number of times. Alternatively, considering the case where an entrant who has registered a face image also undergoes authentication by code, the entry condition may be that the sum of the number of times the reading unit 33 has read the code so far and the number of times the camera 34 has captured the face image so far does not exceed a predetermined number of times. Furthermore, the entry condition may be that the time when the reading unit 33 reads the code or the time when the camera 34 captures the face image is within a predetermined time from the most recent exit time of the entrant from the restricted area R.

[0091] Also, the determination unit 317 determines whether the authentication result of the entrant received by the reception unit 319 from the server 40 is a successful authentication. Specifically, the determination unit 317 determines whether the fact that the entrant is a VIP and the designated seat number of the designated seat available to the entrant are included in the authentication result.

[0092] The transmission unit 318 transmits information to other devices via the communication unit 36. Specifically, the transmission unit 318 transmits an authentication request for the entrant to the server 40. The authentication request for the entrant includes the face image of the entrant captured by the camera 34 and acquired by the shooting control unit 314. In this case, if the determination unit 317 determines that the time when the camera 34 captures the face image is within the preset allowable entry time, the transmission unit 318 transmits a certification request for the person entering the venue to the server 40. On the other hand, if the determination unit 317 determines that the time when the camera 34 captures the face image is outside the preset allowable entry time, the transmission unit 318 does not transmit a certification request for the person entering the venue to the server 40.

[0093] Also, when the authentication result of the person entering the venue received by the reception unit 319 from the server 40 is a successful authentication, the transmission unit 318 transmits an automatic door opening signal for opening the automatic door 50 to the automatic door 50. For example, when the determination unit 317 determines that the authentication result includes that the person entering the venue is a VIP, the transmission unit 318 may transmit an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50. Also, when the determination unit 317 determines that the seat number of the designated seat available for the person entering the venue is included in the authentication result, the transmission unit 318 may also transmit an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50. That is, if the determination unit 317 determines that the authentication result includes that the person entering the venue is a VIP, the transmission unit 318 may transmit an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50 even if the determination unit 317 determines that the seat number of the designated seat available for the person entering the venue is not included in the authentication result. In the present embodiment, when a person entering the venue re-enters the restricted area, if the biometric information of the person entering the venue is registered, as an example of a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry, the transmission unit 318 is provided. Also, in the present embodiment, when a person entering the venue re-enters the restricted area, if the biometric information of the person entering the venue is registered in association with the second authority, as an example of a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry, the transmission unit 318 is provided. Further, in the present embodiment, if the biometric information of the person entering the venue is registered as the biometric information of a special person entering the venue, as an example of a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry, the transmission unit 318 is provided even if the biometric information of the person entering the venue is not registered in association with the second authority.

[0094] Alternatively, when the authentication result of the visitor by the code processing unit 316 is a successful authentication, the transmission unit 318 may transmit an automatic door opening signal for opening the automatic door 50 to the automatic door 50. For example, when the ticket issuance date retrieved by the code processing unit 316 from the code is today, the transmission unit 318 may transmit an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50.

[0095] In this case, when it is determined by the determination unit 317 that the entry conditions are satisfied, the transmission unit 318 transmits an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50. For example, when it is determined by the determination unit 317 that the time when the imaging control unit 314 acquires the face image or the time when the reading control unit 313 acquires the code is within the entry available time, the transmission unit 318 transmits an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50. In this case, as an example of the second time, the entry available time is used, and when a visitor re-enters the restricted area within the second time, as an example of the processing unit that performs the process of permitting re-entry, the transmission unit 318 is provided. Further, when it is determined by the determination unit 317 that the number of times the imaging control unit 314 has acquired the face image so far or the number of times the reading control unit 313 has acquired the code so far does not exceed a predetermined number of times, the transmission unit 318 may transmit an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50. In this case, as an example of the processing unit that performs the process of permitting re-entry when a visitor re-enters the restricted area within a range not exceeding a predetermined number of times, the transmission unit 318 is provided. Furthermore, when it is determined by the determination unit 317 that the time when the imaging control unit 314 acquires the face image or the time when the reading control unit 313 acquires the code is within a predetermined time from the most recent departure time of the visitor from the restricted area R, the transmission unit 318 may transmit an automatic door opening signal to the automatic door 50. In this case, as an example of the processing unit that performs the process of permitting re-entry when a visitor re-enters the restricted area within a predetermined time after leaving the restricted area, the transmission unit 318 is provided.

[0096] The receiving unit 319 receives information from other devices via the communication unit 36. Specifically, when the server 40 authenticates the entrant after the transmitting unit 318 transmits the authentication request of the entrant to the server 40, the receiving unit 319 receives the authentication result of the entrant from the server 40.

[0097] [Functional Configuration of Server] FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration example of the server 40 in the present embodiment. As shown in the figure, the server 40 includes a control unit 41, an operation unit 42, a display unit 43, a communication unit 44, and a storage unit 45.

[0098] The control unit 41 includes an arithmetic circuit such as a CPU, and controls each part (operation unit 42, display unit 43, communication unit 44, etc.) of the server 40 according to the operation program stored in the storage unit 45.

[0099] The operation unit 42 is, for example, a keyboard or a mouse, and is used for a user to input operation information. The display unit 43 is, for example, a display, and displays various information. The communication unit 44 communicates information with other devices via the communication line 81. Here, other devices are, for example, the ticket vending device 10, the registration device 20, and the authentication device 30. The storage unit 45 includes a ROM, a RAM, etc., stores the operation program of the control unit 41, and is used as a work area during the control process of the control unit 41. The operation program includes a program for the control unit 41 to execute the processes described later.

[0100] Here, the configuration of the control unit 41 will be specifically described. The control unit 41 includes a receiving unit 411, a storage control unit 412, and a transmitting unit 413.

[0101] The receiving unit 411 receives information from other devices via the communication unit 44. Specifically, the receiving unit 411 receives a request for obtaining designated seat information from the ticket vending device 10. And the receiving unit 411 receives a request for securing a designated seat from the ticket vending device 10. In addition, the receiving unit 411 receives a request for acquiring face image information for a designated seat number from the registration device 20. Then, the receiving unit 411 receives a request for registering a face image from the registration device 20. Furthermore, the receiving unit 411 receives an authentication request for an attendee from the authentication device 30.

[0102] The memory control unit 412 controls the writing of data to the memory unit 45 and the reading of data from the memory unit 45. Specifically, when the receiving unit 411 receives a request for acquiring designated seat information from the ticket vending device 10, the memory control unit 412 reads out the designated seat information from the memory unit 45. Then, when the receiving unit 411 receives a request for securing a designated seat from the ticket vending device 10, the memory control unit 412 secures the designated seat with the designated seat information stored in the memory unit 45. Specifically, the memory control unit 412 writes to the designated seat information stored in the memory unit 45 that the designated seat has been secured.

[0103] Also, when the receiving unit 411 receives a request for acquiring face image information from the registration device 20, the memory control unit 412 reads out the face image information from the memory unit 45. Then, when the receiving unit 411 receives a request for registering a face image from the registration device 20, the memory control unit 412 registers the face image in the face image information stored in the memory unit 45. Specifically, the memory control unit 412 writes the face image to the face image information stored in the memory unit 45.

[0104] Furthermore, when the receiving unit 411 receives an authentication request for an attendee from the authentication device 30, the memory control unit 412 authenticates the attendee. Specifically, the memory control unit 412 determines whether the face image of the attendee received by the receiving unit 411 is stored in the memory area of the VIP's face image. If it is stored in the memory area of the VIP's face image, it includes that fact in the authentication result of the attendee and sets the authentication result as successful authentication. Also, the memory control unit 412 determines whether the face image of the attendee received by the receiving unit 411 is registered for the designated seat number in the face image information. If it is registered for the designated seat number, it includes that fact in the authentication result of the attendee and sets the authentication result as successful authentication.

[0105] Furthermore, the memory control unit 412 deletes the face images stored in the memory unit 45 at a predetermined time. However, the memory control unit 412 may be configured not to delete the face images of VIPs at the predetermined time. Here, examples of the predetermined time include the end of business for the day, but are not limited thereto. The predetermined time may be, for example, the end of business for a week or the lunch break at the end of morning business. In the present embodiment, the memory control unit 412 is provided as an example of a deletion unit that deletes the biometric information of the admitted persons registered by the registration unit at a predetermined time. Also, in the present embodiment, the memory control unit 412 is provided as an example of a deletion unit that does not delete the biometric information of special admitted persons among the biometric information of the admitted persons registered by the registration unit at a predetermined time.

[0106] The transmission unit 413 transmits information to other devices via the communication unit 44. Specifically, when the memory control unit 412 reads the designated seat information from the memory unit 45, the transmission unit 413 transmits this designated seat information to the ticket vending device 10. Then, when the memory control unit 412 secures the designated seat with the designated seat information stored in the memory unit 45, the transmission unit 413 transmits the completion of securing the designated seat to the ticket vending device 10. Also, when the memory control unit 412 reads the face image information for the designated seat number from the memory unit 45, the transmission unit 413 transmits this face image information to the registration device 20. Then, when the memory control unit 412 registers the face image with the face image information stored in the memory unit 45, the transmission unit 413 transmits the completion of face image registration to the registration device 20. Furthermore, when the memory control unit 412 authenticates the admitted person, the transmission unit 413 transmits the authentication result of the admitted person to the authentication device 30.

[0107] [Contents of the memory unit] Figs. 10(a) and (b) are diagrams showing examples of information stored in the memory unit 45 of the server 40 in the present embodiment.

[0108] Fig. 10(a) shows an example of the designated seat information stored in the memory unit 45. As shown in the figure, the designated seat information associates the designated seat number, block number, type, price, location information, maximum registration number, and reserved flag.

[0109] The designated seat number is the number of the designated seat, and the block number is the number of the block where the corresponding designated seat exists. The type is the type of the corresponding designated seat. Here, as the types of the designated seats, single-person, couple, and group are shown, but other types may be set. The price is the price required to use the corresponding designated seat. Note that the group designated seat may be a room, but here it is regarded as a "designated seat" for convenience. The location information is information indicating the location of the corresponding designated seat and is used when drawing the designated seat list. Here, as the location information, information expressed in coordinate format is shown, but information expressed in other formats may also be used. The maximum registration number is the number indicating how many face images can be registered at most for the corresponding designated seat. That is, the maximum registration number corresponds to the number indicating how many visitors can use the corresponding designated seat at most. The reserved flag is a flag indicating whether the corresponding designated seat is reserved. If the corresponding designated seat is reserved, the reserved flag is "ON", and if the corresponding designated seat is not reserved, the reserved flag is "OFF". The reserved flag "ON" also indicates that the designated seat ticket for the corresponding designated seat has been sold.

[0110] Fig. 10(b) shows an example of the face image information stored in the memory unit 45. As shown in the figure, the face image information associates the designated seat number with face images 1 to 5.

[0111] The designated seat number is the number of the designated seat. Face images 1 to 5 are the identification information of the face images registered for the corresponding designated seat. Here, as the identification information of the face image, the name of the face image is shown, but the identification information of the face image may be the address of the memory area where the face image is stored.

[0112] Also, since the maximum number of registrations for the assigned seat numbers "A-1" and "A-2" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "1", in the face image information of Fig. 10(b), only one face image can be registered for the assigned seat numbers "A-1" and "A-2" respectively. This is indicated by marking the columns for face images 2 to 5 for the assigned seat numbers "A-1" and "A-2" with "×". And since the reserved flag for the assigned seat number "A-1" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "ON", in the face image information of Fig. 10(b), the column for face image 1 for the assigned seat number "A-1" is set as "IMG1". On the other hand, since the reserved flag for the assigned seat number "A-2" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "OFF", the column for face image 1 for the assigned seat number "A-2" is left blank.

[0113] Since the maximum number of registrations for the assigned seat numbers "B-1" and "B-2" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "2", in the face image information of Fig. 10(b), two face images can be registered for the assigned seat numbers "B-1" and "B-2" respectively. This is indicated by marking the columns for face images 3 to 5 for the assigned seat numbers "B-1" and "B-2" with "×". And since the reserved flag for the assigned seat number "B-1" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "ON", in the face image information of Fig. 10(b), the columns for face images 1 and 2 for the assigned seat number "B-1" are set as "IMG1" and "IMG2". On the other hand, since the reserved flag for the assigned seat number "B-2" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "OFF", the columns for face images 1 and 2 for the assigned seat number "B-2" are left blank.

[0114] Since the maximum number of registrations for the assigned seat numbers "C-1" and "C-2" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "5", in the face image information of Fig. 10(b), five face images can be registered for the assigned seat numbers "C-1" and "C-2" respectively. This is indicated by not marking the columns for face images 1 to 5 for the assigned seat numbers "C-1" and "C-2" as "×". And although the secured flag for the assigned seat number "C-1" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "ON", in the face image information of Fig. 10(b), only face images 1 to 3 are registered, and it is assumed that face images 4 and 5 are not registered. That is, the columns for face images 1 to 3 for the assigned seat number "B-1" are set as "IMG1" to "IMG3", and the columns for face images 4 and 5 for the assigned seat number "B-1" are left blank. On the other hand, since the secured flag for the assigned seat number "C-2" in the assigned seat information of Fig. 10(a) is "OFF", the columns for face images 1 to 5 for the assigned seat number "B-2" are left blank.

[0115] [Operation at the time of selling assigned seat tickets] Fig. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation at the time of selling assigned seat tickets of the admission management system 1 in the present embodiment.

[0116] When the person entering the venue performs an operation to request the purchase of an assigned seat ticket, in the ticket selling device 10, the transmission unit 118 transmits a request for obtaining assigned seat information to the server 40 via the communication unit 16 (step 121).

[0117] As a result, in the server 40, the reception unit 411 receives the request for obtaining assigned seat information transmitted in step 121 from the ticket selling device 10 via the communication unit 44 (step 421). Then, the storage control unit 412 reads out the assigned seat information from the storage unit 45 (step 422). And the transmission unit 413 transmits the assigned seat information read out in step 422 to the ticket selling device 10 via the communication unit 44 (step 423).

[0118] As a result, in the ticket vending device 10, the receiving unit 119 receives the reserved seat information transmitted in step 423 from the server 40 via the communication unit 16 (step 122). Then, the display control unit 112 generates a reserved seat list based on the reserved seat information received in step 122, and displays this reserved seat list on the operation display unit 12 (step 123). On the other hand, when the attendee performs an operation to select a reserved seat on the operation display unit 12, the operation reception unit 111 acquires the reserved seat number of the selected reserved seat (step 124). Also, the payment amount acquisition unit 113 acquires the payment amount from the attendee based on the processing results of the bill processing unit 135 and the coin processing unit 145 (step 125).

[0119] After that, in the ticket vending device 10, the determination unit 114 determines whether the fare amount of the reserved seat corresponding to the reserved seat number acquired in step 124 matches the payment amount acquired in step 125 (step 126). If it is determined in step 126 that the fare amount and the payment amount do not match, the determination unit 114 returns the process to step 125. Then, the payment amount acquisition unit 113 continues the process of acquiring the payment amount from the attendee until it is determined in step 126 that the fare amount and the payment amount match. If it is determined in step 126 that the fare amount and the payment amount match, the transmission unit 118 transmits a reservation request for the reserved seat corresponding to the reserved seat number acquired in step 124 to the server 40 via the communication unit 16 (step 127).

[0120] As a result, in the server 40, the receiving unit 411 receives the reservation request for the reserved seat transmitted in step 127 from the ticket vending device 10 via the communication unit 44 (step 424). Then, the storage control unit 412 reserves that reserved seat in the reserved seat information stored in the storage unit 45 (step 425). Specifically, the storage control unit 412 sets the reserved flag for that reserved seat included in the reserved seat information to "ON". Then, the transmission unit 413 transmits the completion of the reservation of the reserved seat to the ticket vending device 10 via the communication unit 44 (step 426).

[0121] As a result, in the ticket vending device 10, the receiving unit 119 receives, via the communication unit 16, the completion of securing the specified seat transmitted from the server 40 in step 426 (step 128). Then, the code generation unit 115 generates a code (step 129). At this time, the code generation unit 115 includes the current date as the ticket issuance date in the code and includes the specified seat number acquired in step 124 in the code. Thereafter, the print control unit 116 prints, at the printing unit 155, a specified seat ticket including the code generated in step 129 (step 130)

[0122] [Operation at the time of registering the face image] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation at the time of registering the face image of the entrance management system 1 in the present embodiment.

[0123] When the entrant holds the code printed on the specified seat ticket in front of the reading unit 23, in the registration device 20, the reading control unit 213 reads the code at the reading unit 23 (step 221). Then, the determination unit 217 determines whether or not the current time is within a preset registrable time (step 222). If it is determined in step 222 that the current time is outside the registrable time, the determination unit 217 ends the process. Incidentally, although not shown, the light emission control unit 215 may cause the light emission unit 25 to light up. If it is determined in step 222 that the current time is within the registrable time, the code processing unit 216 extracts information from the code read in step 221 (step 223). The information extracted here includes the ticket issuance date, the specified seat number, the maximum number of registrations, the security code, and the like.

[0124] Next, the code processing unit 216 determines whether or not the code extracted in step 223 is a normal code (step 224). Specifically, the code processing unit 216 determines whether or not the code is a non-forged code based on the security code extracted in step 223. In addition, the code processing unit 216 determines whether or not the code is the code printed on the specified seat ticket on that day based on the ticket issuance date extracted from the code in step 223. When it is determined in step 224 that the code is not a normal code, the determination unit 217 ends the process. Incidentally, although not shown, the light emission control unit 215 may cause the light emitting unit 25 to light up at this time. When it is determined in step 224 that the code is a normal code, the transmission unit 218 transmits a request for acquiring face image information corresponding to the designated seat number retrieved in step 223 to the server 40 via the communication unit 26 (step 225).

[0125] As a result, in the server 40, the reception unit 411 receives, via the communication unit 44, a request for acquiring face image information corresponding to the designated seat number transmitted in step 225 from the registration device 20 (step 441). Then, the storage control unit 412 reads out the face image information corresponding to the designated seat information from the storage unit 45 (step 442). And the transmission unit 413 transmits the face image information corresponding to the designated seat number read out in step 442 to the registration device 20 via the communication unit 44 (step 443).

[0126] As a result, in the registration device 20, the reception unit 219 receives, via the communication unit 26, the face image information corresponding to the designated seat number transmitted in step 443 from the server 40 (step 226). Then, the photographing control unit 214 photographs the face image of the entrant with the camera 24 (step 227). And the determination unit 217 determines whether or not the number of face images of the entrant photographed in step 227 so far has reached the maximum registration number retrieved from the code in step 223 (step 228). When it is determined in step 228 that the number of face images of the entrant has not reached the maximum registration number, the determination unit 217 advances the process to step 229. When it is determined in step 228 that the number of face images of the entrant has reached the maximum registration number, the determination unit 217 advances the process to step 230. Incidentally, before taking the face image of the entrant in step 227, face images of several entrants may already have been registered, and it may also be considered to register additional face images of entrants. In this case, although not shown, when attempting to take the face of the entrant in step 227, if the number of registered face images in the face image information has reached the maximum number of registrations retrieved from the code in step 223, the determination unit 217 may end the process. Incidentally, at that time, although not shown, the light emission control unit 215 may cause the light emission unit 25 to light up.

[0127] Thereafter, the operation reception unit 211 determines whether there is an operation to continue taking the face image of the entrant (step 229). If it is determined in step 229 that there is an operation by the entrant to continue taking the face image of the entrant, the operation reception unit 211 returns the process to step 227. Assume that it is determined in step 229 that there is no operation by the entrant to continue taking the face image of the entrant. That is, assume that it is determined in step 229 that there is an operation by the entrant to end taking the face image of the entrant. In this case, the transmission unit 218 transmits a registration request for the face image taken in step 228 for the designated seat number retrieved from the code in step 223 to the server 40 via the communication unit 26 (step 230).

[0128] As a result, in the server 40, the reception unit 411 receives a registration request for the face image for the designated seat number transmitted in step 230 from the registration device 20 via the communication unit 44 (step 444). Then, the storage control unit 412 registers the face image in the face image information stored in the storage unit 45 (step 445). Specifically, the storage control unit 412 stores the face image in association with the designated seat number in the face image information. Then, the transmission unit 413 transmits the completion of the registration of the face image to the registration device 20 via the communication unit 44 (step 446).

[0129] As a result, in the registration device 20, the receiving unit 219 receives, via the communication unit 26, from the server 40 the completion of the registration of the face image transmitted in step 446 (step 231). Then, the display control unit 212 displays on the operation display unit 22 the completion of the registration of the face image (step 232).

[0130] [Operation at the time of authenticating the entrant] FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation at the time of authenticating an entrant in the admission management system 1 according to the present embodiment. Note that the admission management system 1 can also authenticate an entrant by a code, but this sequence diagram shows an example of the operation when authenticating an entrant by a face image. Further, the admission management system 1 can also open the automatic door 50 only when a predetermined condition is satisfied, but such condition determination is omitted in this sequence diagram.

[0131] When the entrant stands in front of the authentication device 30, in the authentication device 30, the photographing control unit 314 photographs the face of the entrant with the camera 34 (step 321). Then, the determination unit 317 determines whether the current time is within the preset admissible entry time (step 322). If it is determined in step 322 that the current time is outside the admissible entry time, the determination unit 317 ends the process. Note that, although not shown, the light emission control unit 315 may light the light emission unit 35 at this time. If it is determined in step 322 that the current time is within the admissible entry time, the transmission unit 318 transmits, via the communication unit 36, to the server 40 the authentication request of the entrant whose face was photographed in step 321 (step 323).

[0132] As a result, in server 40, the receiving unit 411 receives the authentication request of the entrant transmitted in step 323 from the authentication device 30 via the communication unit 44 (step 461). Then, the storage control unit 412 performs the authentication of the entrant (step 462). Specifically, if the face image of the entrant is stored in the storage area of the VIP face images, the storage control unit 412 includes information indicating that the entrant is a VIP in the authentication result. Further, the storage control unit 412 includes the designated seat number associated with the face image of the entrant in the face image information stored in the storage unit 45 in the authentication result. Then, the transmitting unit 413 transmits this authentication result to the authentication device 30 via the communication unit 44 (step 463).

[0133] As a result, in the authentication device 30, the receiving unit 319 receives the authentication result transmitted in step 463 from the server 40 via the communication unit 36 (step 324). Then, the determination unit 317 determines whether or not the authentication result received in step 324 includes information indicating that the entrant is a VIP (step 325).

[0134] Assume that in step 325, the determination unit 317 determines that the authentication result does not include information indicating that the entrant is a VIP. In this case, the determination unit 317 determines whether or not the authentication result includes a designated seat number (step 326). If it is determined in step 326 that the authentication result does not include a designated seat number, the determination unit 317 ends the process. Incidentally, although not shown, the light emission control unit 315 may cause the light emission unit 35 to light up at that time. If it is determined in step 326 that the authentication result includes a designated seat number, the display control unit 312 displays the designated seat number on the operation display unit 32 (step 328). Then, the transmitting unit 318 transmits an automatic door opening signal for opening the automatic door 50 to the automatic door 50 (step 329).

[0135] Assume that in step 325, the determination unit 317 determines that the authentication result includes information indicating that the entrant is a VIP. In this case, the determination unit 317 determines whether or not the authentication result includes a designated seat number (step 327). When it is determined in step 327 that the authentication result includes the designated seat number, the display control unit 312 displays the designated seat number on the operation display unit 32 (step 328). Then, the transmission unit 318 transmits an automatic door opening signal for opening the automatic door 50 to the automatic door 50 (step 329). When it is determined in step 327 that the authentication result does not include the designated seat number, the display control unit 312 does not display the designated seat number on the operation display unit 12, and the transmission unit 318 transmits an automatic door opening signal for opening the automatic door 50 to the automatic door 50 (step 329).

[0136] [Operation at the time of deleting the face image] Although not shown, in the server 40, the storage control unit 412 determines whether it is a predetermined time, and when it is the predetermined time, deletes the face images registered in the server 40. For example, assume that face images of general visitors are stored in a general storage area and face images of VIPs are stored in a VIP storage area. Then, when it is the predetermined time, the storage control unit 412 may delete the face images stored in the general storage area and not delete the face images stored in the VIP storage area.

[0137] [Modification example] In the above, the ticket vending device 10, the registration device 20, and the authentication device 30 are connected to the server 40, the ticket vending device 10 acquires the designated seat information from the server 40, the registration device 20 registers the face image in the server 40, and the authentication device 30 authenticates the visitor in the server 40. However, it is not limited to this. For example, when one ticket vending device 10, registration device 20, and authentication device 30 are installed for one restricted area R, these devices may not be connected to the server 40. In this case, the ticket vending device 10 may acquire the designated seat information stored in itself. Also, the registration device 20 may register the face image in itself, and the authentication device 30 may authenticate the visitor by referring to the face image registered in the registration device 20. Alternatively, the registration device 20 may register the face image in the authentication device 30, and the authentication device 30 may authenticate the visitor by referring to the face image registered in itself.

[0138] Further, in the above description, the registration device 20 has only the function of registering a face image, and the authentication device 30 has only the function of authenticating an entrant, but this is not restrictive. An apparatus having both the function of registering a face image and the function of authenticating an entrant may be prepared, and this apparatus may be operated as the registration device 20 or the authentication device 30 by mode switching.

[0139] [Effect] In the present embodiment, on the condition that the ticket issued by the ticket vending device 10 is presented, biometric information used when re-entering can be registered. As a result, only legitimate entrants can register biometric information.

Explanation of Signs

[0140] 1... Entrance management system, 10... Ticket vending device, 11, 21, 31, 41... Control unit, 12, 22, 32... Operation display unit, 135... Bill processing unit, 145... Coin processing unit, 155... Printing unit, 16, 26, 36, 44... Communication unit, 17, 27, 37, 45... Storage unit, 20... Registration device, 23, 33... Reading unit, 24, 34... Camera, 25, 35... Light emitting unit, 30... Authentication device, 40... Server, 42... Operation unit, 43... Display unit, 50... Automatic door

Claims

1. An issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority to enter a restricted area; A reading unit that reads the code issued by the issuing unit; A registration unit that registers biometric information of the entrant for re-entry into the restricted area on the condition that the code is read by the reading unit. A registration system comprising the above components.

2. The registration system according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers biometric information of the number of entrants not exceeding a preset number with respect to the code.

3. The registration system according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers biometric information of the entrant when the code is read by the reading unit within a first time period.

4. The registration system according to claim 3, further comprising a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the entrant re-enters the restricted area within a second time period.

5. The registration system according to claim 4, wherein the second time period is different from the first time period.

6. The registration system according to claim 1, further comprising a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the entrant re-enters the restricted area within a range not exceeding a predetermined number of times.

7. The registration system according to claim 1, further comprising a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry when the entrant re-enters the restricted area within a predetermined time period after leaving the restricted area.

8. The registration system according to claim 1, further comprising a processing unit that performs a process of permitting re-entry if the biometric information of the entrant is registered when the entrant re-enters the restricted area.

9. The code further indicates a second authority in the restricted area. The registration system according to claim 1, wherein the registration unit registers the biometric information of the entrant in association with the second authority.

10. The registration system according to claim 9, further comprising an output unit that outputs the second authority associated with the biometric information of the entrant when the entrant re-enters the restricted area.

11. The registration system according to claim 10, wherein the output unit outputs information indicating a seat or a room in the restricted area as the second authority.

12. The registration system according to claim 10, wherein the output unit outputs, as the second authority, information indicating a time when entry into the restricted area is possible or a time when the person should leave the restricted area.

13. The registration system according to claim 9, further comprising a processing unit that, when the entrant re-enters the restricted area, performs a process of permitting the re-entry if the biometric information of the entrant is registered in association with the second authority.

14. The registration system according to claim 13, wherein the processing unit performs a process of permitting the re-entry even if the biometric information of the entrant is not registered in association with the second authority, provided that the biometric information of the entrant is registered as biometric information of a special entrant.

15. The registration system according to claim 1, further comprising a deletion unit that deletes the biometric information of the entrant registered by the registration unit at a predetermined time.

16. The registration system according to claim 15, wherein the deletion unit does not delete the biometric information of a special entrant among the biometric information of the entrant registered by the registration unit at the predetermined time.

17. A reading unit that reads the code issued by an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority to enter a restricted area; A registration unit that registers the biometric information of an entrant who has entered the restricted area for re-entry into the restricted area on the condition that the code has been read by the reading unit. A registration device comprising:

18. A step of reading the code issued by an issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority to enter a restricted area; A step of registering the biometric information of an entrant who has entered the restricted area for re-entry into the restricted area on the condition that the code has been read in the reading step. A registration method comprising:

19. An issuing unit that issues a one-dimensional or two-dimensional code indicating a first authority; A reading unit that reads the code issued by the issuing unit; A registration unit that registers the biometric information of a predetermined person in association with the code read by the reading unit. A registration system comprising:

20. The first authority is the authority to enter a restricted area. The issuing unit is installed outside the restricted area. The registration system according to claim 19, wherein the reading unit is installed inside the restricted area.

21. The first authority is the authority to enter the restricted area, The issuing unit and the reading unit are installed outside the restricted area, and the registration system according to claim 19.

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