Information processing apparatus, information processing method and information processing program

Abstract

To manage a purpose restriction balance as a balance that can be used in electronic settlement.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus comprises: a setting unit that sets a purpose restriction balance, in which a purpose is restricted, being different from a normal balance, in which a purpose is not restricted, as a balance being usable in settlement using a terminal device; and a management unit that individually manages the normal balance and the purpose restriction balance. In another point of view, the information processing apparatus comprises: an issuing unit that issues a prepaid card which is applicable for settlement using the terminal device; and a management unit that individually manages a balance of settlement using the terminal device and a balance of the prepaid card.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and an information processing program.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, technologies related to digital prepaid cards have been disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, the above conventional technology is merely a mechanism for performing reception processing including fee settlement at a car wash by outputting a QR code (registered trademark) or the like in which not only settlement settings but also car wash settings are coded together to a user's application. In order to realize a prepaid card that can be used for settlement (electronic settlement) using a terminal device, a mechanism for handling a balance dedicated to the prepaid card is required.

[0005] The present application has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to manage a balance with a limited use as a balance that can be used for electronic settlement.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The information processing apparatus according to the present application includes: a setting unit that sets a usage-limited balance with a limited use separately from a normal balance without limiting the usage, as a balance that can be used for settlement using a terminal device; and a management unit that manages the normal balance and the usage-limited balance separately.

Effects of the Invention

[0007] According to one aspect of the embodiment, as a balance that can be used for electronic payment, a balance with usage restrictions can be managed.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008]

Figure 1

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Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0009] Hereinafter, embodiments for implementing the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application (hereinafter referred to as "embodiments") will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the information processing apparatus, information processing method, and information processing program according to the present application are not limited by this embodiment. Also, in the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and duplicate explanations are omitted.

[0010] 〔1. Outline of Information Processing Method〕 First, with reference to FIG. 1, the outline of the information processing method performed by the information processing apparatus according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the outline of the information processing method according to the embodiment. In FIG. 1, the case of managing the balance with usage restrictions as the balance that can be used for electronic payment will be described as an example.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes a terminal device 10 and a settlement server 100. The terminal device 10 and the settlement server 100 are connected to each other so as to be communicable with each other by wire or wirelessly via a network N (see FIG. 4). In the present embodiment, the terminal device 10 cooperates with the settlement server 100. Note that, in the following description, an example in which the terminal device 10 is used by a user U (user) is shown. Also, in the following description, the terminal device 10 may be regarded as the same as the user U. That is, hereinafter, the user U can also be read as the terminal device 10.

[0012] The terminal device 10 is a smart device such as a smartphone or a tablet used by the user U, and is a portable terminal device capable of communicating with any server device via a wireless communication network such as 4G (Generation) or LTE (Long Term Evolution). Further, the terminal device 10 has a screen such as a liquid crystal display, which has the function of a touch panel, and receives various operations on display data such as content, such as tap operations, slide operations, and scroll operations, from the user using a finger or a stylus. Note that, among the operations performed on the screen, an operation performed on the area where the content is displayed may be regarded as an operation on the content. Further, the terminal device 10 may be not only a smart device but also an information processing device such as a desktop PC (Personal Computer) or a notebook PC.

[0013] The settlement server 100 is an information processing device that manages a balance with limited use as a balance that can be used for electronic settlement, and is realized by a server device, a cloud system, or the like. For example, the settlement server 100 provides an electronic settlement service related to settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10. Further, the settlement server 100 manages the accounts of the business operators that provide the transaction targets such as goods and services, and the accounts of the users to whom the transaction targets are provided, and realizes various settlements by performing transfer of electronic money or the like between the accounts in accordance with the settlement request from the user. Note that the electronic money may be, for example, points or currency used independently by various companies, or may be a currency provided by a country such as the Japanese yen or the US dollar that enables electronic transactions. In the present embodiment, the settlement server 100 separately manages the balance for normal electronic settlement and the balance for payment of each prepaid card in the user's account. That is, the settlement server 100 manages the balance separately for each prepaid card. Actually, the account for each prepaid card may be managed as a purpose-specific account associated with the user's account.

[0014] In this embodiment, the settlement server 100 provides a service for issuing, managing, and operating prepaid cards. For example, when the user U purchases a prepaid card available at a franchise in the prepaid card sales corner within an application for settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10 of the user U (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as the "settlement app"), the settlement server 100 provides a prepaid card available within the settlement app. For example, the settlement server 100 provides a prepaid card app as an application (mini app) launched within the settlement app.

[0015] Then, when the user U purchases and uses a desired transaction target (goods, services) at a franchise where the prepaid card can be used, the user U performs settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10 through the settlement app. At the time of electronic settlement, the settlement server 100 automatically uses the remaining recharge amount of the prepaid card to pay the settlement amount of the target goods and services. That is, the remaining recharge amount of the prepaid card is deducted by the amount of the settlement amount of the target goods and services. When the remaining recharge amount of the prepaid card is insufficient, all of the remaining recharge amount of the prepaid card is used, and the amount of the remaining recharge amount is deducted from the settlement amount of the target goods and services.

[0016] This prepaid card is a prepaid card that can be used at affiliated stores of an electronic payment service. In this embodiment, the prepaid card is issued for each affiliated store. For example, the prepaid card is issued for each brand of the affiliated store (corporate brand, product brand, etc.). In the case where an affiliated store has a plurality of brands (for example, a main brand and a sub - brand), prepaid cards may be issued for each individual brand, or a common prepaid card may be issued among the brands of the same affiliated store. The prepaid card can be designed independently by each affiliated store. The terminal device 10 of the user U displays the UI (User Interface) of the prepaid card according to the design for each affiliated store. Also, a premium (bonus amount) can be added to the prepaid card with the funds of the affiliated store. For example, the user U can purchase a prepaid card charged with 5,500 yen by paying 5,000 yen.

[0017] Also, the user U can charge the prepaid card by pressing (tapping or clicking, etc.) the "Charge" button displayed for each prepaid card on the screen that displays the list of prepaid cards held by the user U.

[0018] In addition, this prepaid card can be presented as a gift for person-to-person money transfer. That is, the user U can use the terminal device 10 to give the prepaid card as a gift to others. For example, when the user U operates the terminal device 10 and presses the "Gift" button displayed for each prepaid card on the screen that displays the list of prepaid cards the user U owns, the user can use the person-to-person money transfer function of the payment application to present the prepaid card as a gift to other users. When a prepaid card is presented, if the user already holds the prepaid card, the amount corresponding to the charge of the presented prepaid card will be charged to the prepaid card that the user already holds. At this time, on the terminal device 10 of the recipient of the prepaid card, a message indicating that the prepaid card has been presented and information about the giver will be displayed. For example, the terminal device 10 of the recipient will display a message such as "Mr. XX has presented a prepaid card worth XX yen."

[0019] Also, when the user U holds a prepaid card that can be used at the target franchise store, the user can use it in conjunction with the payment when making a payment at that franchise store. When the payment amount exceeds the remaining charge amount in the case of payment, the payment server 100 will prompt the user to select whether to recharge again.

[0020] In addition, the payment server 100 may acquire various information about the user U. For example, the payment server 100 acquires information about the attributes of the user U, such as the gender, age, and residential area of the user U. Then, the payment server 100 stores and manages the information about the attributes of the user U together with the identification information (such as the user ID) indicating the user U.

[0021] In addition, the payment server 100 may obtain various types of history information (log data) indicating the actions of the user U from the terminal device 10 of the user U or from various servers based on the user ID, etc. For example, the payment server 100 obtains a location history, which is a history of the location and time of the user U, from the terminal device 10. Also, the payment server 100 obtains a search history, which is a history of search queries input by the user U, from a search server (search engine). Further, the payment server 100 obtains a browsing history, which is a history of the content browsed by the user U, from a content server. Moreover, the payment server 100 obtains a purchase history, which is a history of product purchases by the user U, from an e-commerce server or a payment server. Additionally, the payment server 100 may obtain a listing history or a sales history, which is a history of the user U's listings on the marketplace, from an e-commerce server or a payment server. Also, the payment server 100 obtains a posting history, which is a history of the user U's posts, from a posting server or an SNS server that provides a word-of-mouth posting service.

[0022] Note that the payment server 100 may recommend the purchase of a prepaid card suitable for the user U based on the attribute information of the user U and the above various types of history information. For example, the payment server 100 analyzes the preferences and purchasing tendencies of the user U from the above various types of history information, estimates a prepaid card suitable for the user U, and may push a link to the purchase screen of the prepaid card to the terminal device 10 of the user U. Also, the payment server 100 may, by collaborative filtering, obtain information regarding prepaid cards held by other users who are similar to the user U in terms of attribute information, history information, or preferences, and push a link to the purchase screen of the prepaid card to the terminal device 10 of the user U.

[0023] Alternatively, the payment server 100 may create a prepaid card estimation model (trained model) that outputs an estimation result of a prepaid card suitable for the user U when the attribute information of the user U is input by machine learning. That is, the payment server 100 generates an estimation model using the attribute information of the user U and the prepaid card used by the user U as correct data. Then, the payment server 100 may input the attribute information of the user U into the prepaid card estimation model and push-notify the terminal device 10 of the user U with a link to the purchase screen of the prepaid card or the like based on the output estimation result of the prepaid card. In practice, the history information may be input together with the attribute information of the user U. That is, the payment server 100 may generate an estimation model using the attribute information and history information of the user U and the prepaid card used by the user U as correct data.

[0024] Regarding the creation of the trained model, for example, the payment server 100 creates a trained model that estimates a prepaid card suitable for the user U by machine learning using RNN (Recurrent Neural Network), LSTM (Long short-term memory), or the like. Note that any type and any format of model can be adopted. For example, the payment server 100 may adopt SVM (Support Vector Machine) or DNN (Deep Neural Network) as the model. Here, the DNN may be CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) or RNN. Also, the model may be a model realized by combining a plurality of models, such as a model combining CNN and RNN. Note that RNN and LSTM may be neural networks based on the attention mechanism. Also, the payment server 100 may use a similar natural language processing model. Also, data mining or other machine learning algorithms may be used. The payment server 100 can perform model learning by the various learning methods described above.

[0025] [Regarding payment using the terminal device 10] Here, prior to the information processing according to the embodiment, an example of payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10 will be described. In the following description, an example of a payment made by the user U using the terminal device 10 using a two-dimensional code (QR code (registered trademark)) arranged in the store and indicating store identification information for identifying the store will be described. However, the embodiment is not limited to this. An example of the payment described below is applicable even when an arbitrary user makes a payment at an arbitrary store using an arbitrary terminal device 10. Further, the store identification information may be not only a QR code (registered trademark) but also a barcode, a predetermined mark, a number, or the like.

[0026] For example, when the user U makes a payment associated with the use or purchase of a payment target (transaction target) such as various goods and services at a store, the user U activates a payment application (payment app) installed in the terminal device 10. Then, the user U captures the store identification information installed in the store via the payment app. In such a case, the terminal device 10 displays a screen for inputting the price of the payment target and accepts the input of the payment amount from the user U or a store clerk. Then, the terminal device 10 transmits payment information indicating the user identification information for identifying the user U, the store identification information (or the information indicated by the store identification information, that is, the information indicating the store (for example, franchise store ID)), and the payment amount to the payment server 100.

[0027] In such a case, the payment server 100 transfers the electronic money in the amount indicated by the payment amount from the account of the user U indicated by the user identification information to the account of the store indicated by the store identification information. Then, the payment server 100 transmits a notification indicating that the payment has been completed to the terminal device 10. In such a case, the terminal device 10 notifies that the payment by electronic money has been made by outputting a screen or a predetermined sound indicating that the payment has been completed.

[0028] Note that the settlement using the terminal device 10 is not limited to the above-described processing. For example, the settlement using the terminal device 10 may be performed using a store terminal installed in a store. For example, the terminal device 10 displays user identification information for identifying the user U on the screen. In such a case, the store terminal installed in the store reads the user identification information displayed on the terminal device 10, and transmits settlement information indicating the user identification information (or information indicated by the user identification information, that is, information indicating the user U (for example, user ID)), the settlement amount, and information for identifying the store to the settlement server 100. In such a case, the settlement server 100 transfers electronic money in the amount indicated by the settlement amount from the account of the user U indicated by the user identification information to the account of the store, and notifies the store terminal or the terminal device 10 of the store that the settlement has been completed by outputting a screen or a predetermined voice indicating that the settlement has been completed.

[0029] In addition, the settlement using the terminal device 10 is not limited to the process of transferring electronic money from the account where the user U has pre-charged electronic money to the account of the store. For example, it may be a settlement using a credit card pre-registered by the user U. In such a case, for example, the terminal device 10 may transfer electronic money in the settlement amount to the account of the store and bill the operation company of the credit card of the user U for the settlement amount.

[0030] [Regarding the information processing according to the first embodiment] As shown in FIG. 1, when the user U purchases a prepaid card available at a franchise store at the prepaid card sales corner in the settlement application for performing settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10 of the user U, the settlement server 100 issues a prepaid card available in the settlement application (step S1).

[0031] Next, when user U wants to present a prepaid card to another user F, the user uses the terminal device 10 to provide the prepaid card as a gift through person-to-person money transfer (step S2). Conversely, user U can also receive a prepaid card as a gift from another user F through person-to-person money transfer. That is, the prepaid card can be presented as a gift between users. Also, after purchasing the prepaid card, user U can select the prepaid card held by himself / herself in the payment app and press the "Gift" button to provide the prepaid card as a gift to another user F. Further, when purchasing the prepaid card, user U may purchase the prepaid card with another user F as the recipient.

[0032] Next, the terminal device 10 cooperates with the payment server 100 and notifies user U of information regarding the prepaid cards held by the user in order to prevent forgetting to use the prepaid cards (step S3). For example, based on the location information of user U, the terminal device 10 pushes or displays prepaid cards that can be used at stores in the vicinity of the location of user U or within the movement range of the user. At this time, when user U is within a predetermined range (e.g., within a radius of 500 m or less) from a store where the prepaid card can be used, the terminal device 10 may push or display the prepaid cards that can be used at the store. Also, when user U enters a store where the prepaid card can be used, the terminal device 10 pushes or displays the prepaid cards that can be used at the store. Further, when user U starts the payment app to make a payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10, the terminal device 10 may push or display the prepaid cards that can be used at the store. For example, when starting the payment app in the store or when pressing the "Pay" button in the payment app, the terminal device 10 may push or display the prepaid cards that can be used at the store.

[0033] Subsequently, the terminal device 10 notifies the settlement server 100 of information regarding the usage status of the prepaid card held by the user U (step S4). For example, when the terminal device 10 purchases / uses a desired transaction target (goods, services) at a franchise store where the prepaid card held by the user U can be used and performs a settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10 via the settlement application, the settlement information is notified to the settlement server 100 via the network N (see FIG. 4) or the store terminal of the franchise store. Further, when the user U presents the prepaid card held by the user U as a gift to another user F, the terminal device 10 notifies the settlement server 100 that the prepaid card has been transferred from the user U to another user F.

[0034] Subsequently, the settlement server 100 manages the prepaid card information for each user (step S5). Specifically, the settlement server 100 manages the remaining balance of the prepaid card for each user. The management of the remaining balance of the prepaid card will be described in detail below.

[0035] [1-3. Management of the remaining balance of the prepaid card] Hereinafter, the management of the remaining balance of the prepaid card will be described with reference to FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the management of the remaining balance of the prepaid card according to the embodiment.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 2, when the terminal device 10 and the settlement server 100 purchase (or receive as a gift from others) a prepaid card created for each franchise store by the user U, they set an account or data area for managing the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card (usage-limited remaining balance) separately from the remaining balance for normal electronic settlement. That is, the remaining balance for normal electronic settlement and the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card are independent. It is possible to charge the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card in the same way as the remaining balance for normal electronic settlement, and it is also possible to charge from the remaining balance for normal electronic settlement. Note that it is assumed that charging from the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card to the remaining balance for normal electronic settlement is not possible.

[0037] In addition, the balance dedicated to the prepaid card is set for each prepaid card. That is, the balance dedicated to the prepaid card is independent for each prepaid card. It is assumed that the transfer or recharge of the balance between the prepaid cards held by the same user is not possible. That is, it is assumed that the balance cannot be lent between prepaid cards.

[0038] Also, the balance dedicated to the prepaid card can be transferred to other users through person-to-person transfer in the same way as the balance for ordinary electronic payment. For example, when prepaid card A held by user U is presented to another user F as a gift, it is considered that the entire balance dedicated to prepaid card A of user U has been transferred to another user F, and the entire amount is credited to the balance dedicated to prepaid card A of another user F. Also, when a predetermined amount is transferred from the balance dedicated to prepaid card A of user U, the predetermined amount is credited to the balance dedicated to prepaid card A of another user F.

[0039] In addition, since the prepaid card is created for each affiliated store, the balance dedicated to the prepaid card can also be regarded as the balance dedicated to the affiliated store that is the source of creation. When the prepaid card of the affiliated store is applied to the payment at the time of purchasing goods at the affiliated store that is the source of creation, the payment is made from the balance dedicated to the prepaid card. For example, when prepaid card A of affiliated store A is applied, the payment is made from the balance dedicated to prepaid card A.

[0040] In addition, the prepaid card can be used not only for payments at the business stores of affiliated stores (such as flagship stores, directly managed stores, tenant stores, etc.), but also for the products of affiliated stores sold at other retail stores (such as discount stores). For example, when user U purchases products of affiliated store A, products of affiliated store B, and other products at a certain retail store and makes a payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10 of user U, if user U holds the prepaid card A of affiliated store A, the payment for the products of affiliated store A will be made from the balance of prepaid card A, and if user U holds the prepaid card B of affiliated store B, the payment for the products of affiliated store B will be made from the balance of prepaid card B. For other products, the payment will be made from the balance for normal electronic payments. That is, for the payment of products of a specific brand, the payment is made from the balance of the prepaid card corresponding to that brand.

[0041] Note that the affiliated stores are not limited to brand stores such as apparel, shoes, cosmetics, and toys, but may also be retail stores or food and beverage stores, etc. For example, the affiliated stores may be retail stores such as convenience stores, supermarkets, drugstores, discount stores, home centers, discount stores, specialty stores, etc., or food and beverage stores such as restaurants, fast food restaurants, coffee chains, cafes, izakayas, etc. The affiliated stores may also be bookstores, gas stations, etc.

[0042] In addition, the affiliated stores are not limited to stores that handle transaction targets where electronic multi - use tickets can be used, but may also be facilities where electronic multi - use tickets can be used. In fact, they may be large commercial facilities (department stores / shopping centers / outlet malls / underground shopping areas), large leisure facilities (theme parks / amusement parks / gaming arcades / zoos / aquariums / swimming pools / bath facilities / parks / gardens / famous places), cultural facilities (halls / theaters / cinemas / art museums / museums), sports facilities (sports fields (grounds) / baseball fields / tennis courts / gymnasiums / stadiums / indoor swimming pools), accommodation facilities (hotels / inns), public transportation (railways / buses / taxis / ships / air routes), railway stations, airports, ports (boarding areas), parking lots, etc. They may also be educational institutions such as schools or medical institutions such as hospitals.

[0043] In addition, the affiliated store may be a manufacturer (producer) that manufactures products. For example, when the purchased products of the user include products manufactured by the affiliated store, the prepaid card may be applied to the settlement of the products manufactured by the affiliated store by the settlement server 100. Further, the affiliated store may be an operator that holds a specific product brand. For example, when the purchased products of the user include products of a specific product brand, the prepaid card may be applied to the settlement of the products of the said product brand by the settlement server 100.

[0044] That is, the business type of the affiliated store may be any business type that can use the prepaid card, covering a wide range.

[0045] 〔1-4. Regarding the Application of the Prepaid Card〕 Hereinafter, with reference to FIG. 3, the application process of the prepaid card executed by the settlement server 100 will be described. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an overview of the application of the prepaid card according to the embodiment. However, this overview is merely an example.

[0046] First, in response to an operation from the user U, the terminal device 10 activates a settlement application pre-installed in the device itself and displays a screen for the user U to purchase a prepaid card in the electronic payment service (step S11). Subsequently, the terminal device 10 receives a purchase operation of the prepaid card from the user U (step S12). For example, the terminal device 10 receives a purchase operation of the prepaid card for the screen displayed in step S11 and transmits information indicating the purchased prepaid card to the settlement server 100.

[0047] In addition, when the user U receives a prepaid card as a gift from another user F, the terminal device 10 transmits information indicating the prepaid card received from the other user F to the settlement server 100.

[0048] Subsequently, the payment server 100 receives information (prepaid card ID) indicating the prepaid card for which the purchase operation was performed (or a prepaid card received from another user) from the terminal device 10 (step S13). Subsequently, the payment server 100 associates and manages the user U with the prepaid card (step S14). For example, the payment server 100 associates and manages the user ID of the user U with the prepaid card ID received from the terminal device 10.

[0049] Here, in the example of FIG. 3, it is assumed that the user U wishes to perform the above-described payment, which is performed by the merchant terminal 200 reading the user identification information (user ID), for store A. In this case, the merchant terminal 200 reads the product ID of each product purchased by the user U and the user ID of the user U displayed on the terminal device 10 (step S15). For example, at the time of settlement, the merchant terminal 200 reads the barcode (product ID) attached to the product by a barcode reader or the like and the user ID displayed on the terminal device 10.

[0050] Subsequently, the payment server 100 receives payment information regarding the payment of the user U to store A from the merchant terminal 200 (step S16). For example, the payment server 100 receives payment information including the store ID of store A, the product ID read by the merchant terminal 200 in step S15, the total amount of the prices of each product associated with the product ID (payment amount), the user ID of the user U, etc. from the merchant terminal 200.

[0051] Subsequently, the payment server 100 identifies a prepaid card applicable to the user U based on the payment information (step S17). For example, the payment server 100 collates the prepaid card information corresponding to the prepaid card that the user U has obtained (purchased or received from others) with the payment information, and thereby identifies, among the prepaid cards that the user U has obtained, the prepaid card associated with the store ID indicated by the payment information.

[0052] Subsequently, the payment server 100 executes payment processing based on the payment information and makes a payment by applying the identified prepaid card (step S18). For example, the payment server 100 executes a process of transferring electronic money in the amount indicated by the payment amount from the account of the user U to the account of the store A. Then, the payment server 100 makes a payment by applying the identified prepaid card.

[0053] Subsequently, the payment server 100 notifies the user U that a prepaid card has been applied (step S18). For example, the payment server 100 causes the terminal device 10 to display a payment completion screen C1 indicating that the payment to the store A has been completed, and notifies information such as the information indicating the prepaid card applied in the payment completion screen C1, the amount used of the prepaid card (payment amount), and the remaining balance of the prepaid card.

[0054] As described above, the payment server 100 according to the embodiment identifies a prepaid card applicable to the affiliated store and makes a payment by applying the identified prepaid card. Thereby, the payment server 100 according to the embodiment can automatically apply an applicable prepaid card without performing an operation of selecting a prepaid card used by the user. That is, the payment server 100 according to the embodiment can improve the convenience of the user in payment.

[0055] (Payment-linked prepaid card) At this time, in steps S17 and S18, the payment server 100 may acquire affiliated store information together with the payment information and automatically apply a prepaid card that can be used for payment at the affiliated store among the prepaid cards held by the user U. That is, the prepaid card is automatically applied in association with the payment for each store (for each affiliated store).

[0056] (Payment linkage by product) Also, in steps S17 and S18, the settlement server 100 may utilize product data in cooperation with the POS (Point of Sale system) of the affiliated store and automatically apply a prepaid card corresponding to the product data. In this case, in step S17, the settlement server 100 collates prepaid card information corresponding to the prepaid card that the user U has obtained (purchased or received from others) with the settlement information, and among the prepaid cards that the user U has obtained, identifies the prepaid card linked to the product ID indicated by the settlement information. In practice, it may identify the prepaid card linked to the store ID of the affiliated store that is the manufacturer (provider) of the product corresponding to the product ID indicated by the settlement information. Also, not limited to the corporate brand such as the product manufacturer, it may identify the prepaid card linked to the product brand. When the user U purchases a plurality of products, at least one of the purchased plurality of products may be a product targeted by the prepaid card. That is, the prepaid card is automatically applied in conjunction with the settlement for each product.

[0057] (Reading of the installed dedicated prepaid card code) Alternatively, in step S15, when the user U uses the terminal device 10 to read a two-dimensional code (prepaid card dedicated code) for prepaid card settlement installed in the store (such as at the cash register), which is separate from the two-dimensional code (QR code (registered trademark)) for normal electronic settlement, by using the scanning function attached to the prepaid card application, the prepaid card may be used.

[0058] (Presentation of the prepaid card dedicated code by the user) Also, in step S15, when the user U displays a prepaid card dedicated code such as a barcode or two-dimensional code for prepaid card settlement on the terminal device 10 and presents it to the store clerk, and the store clerk reads it with the store terminal, the prepaid card may be used.

[0059] That is, the prepaid card may be used only when the user U actively indicates the intention to use the prepaid card.

[0060] In addition, the automatic application of the prepaid card and the reading of the two-dimensional code (prepaid card dedicated code) for prepaid card settlement may be used in combination (compatible). For example, when the reading of the two-dimensional code for prepaid card settlement is not performed, the prepaid card may be automatically applied in conjunction with the settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10.

[0061] (Recharge confirmation) In addition, when the settlement server 100 performs the settlement process for the goods purchased by the user U, if the balance of the prepaid card held by the user U is insufficient, the settlement server 100 may confirm whether to recharge the prepaid card. For example, the settlement server 100 asks the user U whether to recharge the prepaid card or pay by normal electronic settlement for the insufficient amount of the balance of the prepaid card. In addition, the recharge of the prepaid card may be performed by settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10. Further, when the recharge is not performed when the balance of the prepaid card is insufficient, the settlement server 100 may pay the insufficient amount of the balance of the prepaid card using the balance for normal electronic settlement.

[0062] In addition, the confirmation of the recharge of the prepaid card may be performed when entering the store. At this time, the terminal device 10 may cooperate with the settlement server 100 to identify the store based on the location information and identify the prepaid card available at the store. For example, when the user U enters a store where the prepaid card can be used, if the balance of the prepaid card available at the store is less than or equal to a predetermined amount, the terminal device 10 asks whether to recharge. Alternatively, when the user U activates the settlement application to perform settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10, if the balance of the prepaid card available at the store is less than or equal to a predetermined amount, the terminal device 10 asks whether to recharge.

[0063] According to this embodiment, since the balance of the prepaid card is managed individually for each card and is managed independently separately from the balance for normal electronic payment, it is possible to secure an electronic money balance limited for payment at a franchise store corresponding to the prepaid card. Also, since the prepaid card is managed within the payment application and is automatically applied when making a payment using the payment application at a franchise store corresponding to the prepaid card, no operation for using the prepaid card is required, and there is no omission in the use of the prepaid card, thus improving the convenience for the user.

[0064] [2. Configuration Example of Information Processing System] Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the configuration of the information processing system 1 including the payment server 100 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 4, the information processing system 1 according to the embodiment includes a terminal device 10 and a payment server 100. These various devices are communicably connected by wire or wirelessly via a network N. The network N is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network) such as the Internet.

[0065] Also, the number of each device included in the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 4 is not limited to that shown. For example, in FIG. 4, for the sake of simplicity of illustration, only one terminal device 10 is shown, but this is merely an example and not limiting, and two or more may be used.

[0066] The terminal device 10 is an information processing device used by the user U. For example, the terminal device 10 is a smart device such as a smartphone or a tablet terminal, a feature phone, a PC (Personal Computer), a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant), a game machine equipped with a communication function, a car navigation system, a wearable device (such as a smartwatch or a head-mounted display), a smart glass, etc.

[0067] Also, such a terminal device 10 can be connected to the network N via a wireless communication network such as LTE (Long Term Evolution), 4G (4th Generation), 5G (5th Generation: the 5th generation mobile communication system), or short-range wireless communication such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or wireless LAN (Local Area Network), and communicate with the settlement server 100.

[0068] Also, the terminal device 10 may be a store terminal of a franchise store or a terminal device used by an employee (store clerk) of a franchise store. That is, the store terminal of a franchise store or the terminal device used by an employee of a franchise store may also be the same device as the above terminal device 10.

[0069] The settlement server 100 is, for example, a PC, a server device, or a mainframe or a workstation, etc. Note that the settlement server 100 may be realized by cloud computing.

[0070] [3. Configuration example of the terminal device] Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the configuration of the terminal device 10 will be described. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the terminal device 10. As shown in FIG. 5, the terminal device 10 includes a communication unit 11, a display unit 12, an input unit 13, a positioning unit 14, a sensor unit 20, a control unit 30 (controller), and a storage unit 40.

[0071] (Communication unit 11) The communication unit 11 is connected to the network N (see FIG. 4) either wired or wirelessly, and transmits and receives information to and from the settlement server 100 via the network N. For example, the communication unit 11 is realized by a NIC (Network Interface Card), an antenna, or the like.

[0072] (Display unit 12) The display unit 12 is a display device that displays various types of information such as position information. For example, the display unit 12 is a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic electro-luminescent display (Organic Electro-Luminescent Display). Further, the display unit 12 is a touch panel type display, but is not limited thereto.

[0073] (Input unit 13) The input unit 13 is an input device that receives various operations from the user U. Further, the input unit 13 has, for example, buttons for inputting characters, numbers, and the like. When the display unit 12 is a touch panel type display, a part of the display unit 12 functions as the input unit 13. Note that the input unit 13 may be a microphone or the like that receives voice input from the user U. The microphone may be wireless.

[0074] (Positioning unit 14) The positioning unit 14 receives a signal (radio wave) transmitted from a GPS (Global Positioning System) satellite, and based on the received signal, acquires position information (for example, latitude and longitude) indicating the current position of the terminal device 10, which is the own device. That is, the positioning unit 14 measures the position of the terminal device 10. Note that GPS is only an example of GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System).

[0075] In addition to GPS, the positioning unit 14 can measure the position by various methods. For example, the positioning unit 14 may use various communication functions of the terminal device 10 as follows to measure the position as auxiliary positioning means for position correction and the like.

[0076] (Wi-Fi positioning) For example, the positioning unit 14 measures the position of the terminal device 10 by using the Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication function of the terminal device 10 and the communication network provided by each communication company. Specifically, the positioning unit 14 performs Wi-Fi communication or the like, and measures the distance from nearby base stations or access points, thereby measuring the position of the terminal device 10.

[0077] (Beacon positioning) In addition, the positioning unit 14 may measure the position by using the Bluetooth (registered trademark) function of the terminal device 10. For example, the positioning unit 14 measures the position of the terminal device 10 by connecting to a beacon transmitter connected by the Bluetooth (registered trademark) function.

[0078] (Geomagnetic positioning) In addition, the positioning unit 14 measures the position of the terminal device 10 based on the geomagnetic pattern of the structure measured in advance and the geomagnetic sensor provided in the terminal device 10.

[0079] (RFID positioning) Also, for example, when the terminal device 10 has a function equivalent to a non-contact IC card used at a station ticket gate or a store, or has a function of reading an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tag, the position where it is used is recorded together with the information on which settlement or the like is performed by the terminal device 10. The positioning unit 14 may measure the position of the terminal device 10 by acquiring such information. Also, the position may be measured by an optical sensor, an infrared sensor, or the like provided in the terminal device 10.

[0080] The positioning unit 14 may measure the position of the terminal device 10 by using one or a combination of the above-described positioning means as necessary.

[0081] (Sensor unit 20) The sensor unit 20 includes various sensors mounted on or connected to the terminal device 10. The connection may be either wired or wireless. For example, the sensors may be detection devices other than the terminal device 10, such as wearable devices or wireless devices. In the example shown in FIG. 5, the sensor unit 20 includes an acceleration sensor 21, a gyro sensor 22, a barometric pressure sensor 23, an air temperature sensor 24, a sound sensor 25, a light sensor 26, a magnetic sensor 27, and an image sensor (camera) 28.

[0082] Note that the above sensors 21 to 28 are merely examples and are not limiting. That is, the sensor unit 20 may be configured to include some of the sensors 21 to 28, or may include other sensors such as a humidity sensor in addition to or instead of the sensors 21 to 28.

[0083] The acceleration sensor 21 is, for example, a three-axis acceleration sensor, and detects physical movements of the terminal device 10 such as the moving direction, speed, and acceleration of the terminal device 10. The gyro sensor 22 detects physical movements of the terminal device 10 such as the inclination in three-axis directions based on the angular velocity of the terminal device 10. The barometric pressure sensor 23 detects, for example, the barometric pressure around the terminal device 10.

[0084] Since the terminal device 10 includes the above acceleration sensor 21, gyro sensor 22, barometric pressure sensor 23, etc., it becomes possible to measure the position of the terminal device 10 using technologies such as pedestrian dead reckoning (PDR) that utilize these sensors 21 to 23. As a result, it becomes possible to obtain indoor position information that is difficult to obtain with a positioning system such as GPS.

[0085] For example, a pedometer using the acceleration sensor 21 can calculate the number of steps, walking speed, and distance walked. Also, by using the gyro sensor 22, it is possible to know the traveling direction, line-of-sight direction, and body inclination of the user U. Further, from the barometric pressure detected by the barometric pressure sensor 23, it is also possible to know the altitude and floor number where the terminal device 10 of the user U is located.

[0086] The air pressure sensor 23 detects, for example, the air pressure around the terminal device 10. The sound sensor 25 detects, for example, the sound around the terminal device 10. The light sensor 26 detects the illuminance around the terminal device 10. The magnetic sensor 27 detects, for example, the geomagnetism around the terminal device 10. The image sensor 28 captures an image of the surroundings of the terminal device 10.

[0087] The above-described air pressure sensor 23, air temperature sensor 24, sound sensor 25, light sensor 26, and image sensor 28 can detect the environment and situation around the terminal device 10 by detecting air pressure, air temperature, sound, illuminance, or capturing an image of the surroundings, respectively. Further, it becomes possible to improve the accuracy of the position information of the terminal device 10 from the environment and situation around the terminal device 10.

[0088] (Control unit 30) The control unit 30 includes, for example, a microcomputer having a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM, input / output ports, etc., and various circuits. Further, the control unit 30 may be configured by hardware such as an integrated circuit such as an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The control unit 30 includes a transmission unit 31, a reception unit 32, and a processing unit 33.

[0089] (Transmission unit 31) The transmission unit 31 can transmit, via the communication unit 11, various information input by the user U using the input unit 13, various information detected by the sensors 21 to 28 mounted on or connected to the terminal device 10, the position information of the terminal device 10 measured by the positioning unit 14, and the like to the settlement server 100.

[0090] (Reception unit 32) The reception unit 32 can receive, via the communication unit 11, various information provided by the settlement server 100 and requests for various information from the settlement server 100.

[0091] (Processing unit 33) The processing unit 33 controls the entire terminal device 10 including the display unit 12 and the like. For example, the processing unit 33 can output various information transmitted by the transmission unit 31 and various information from the settlement server 100 received by the reception unit 32 to the display unit 12 for display.

[0092] (Storage unit 40) The storage unit 40 is realized by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or storage devices such as HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), and optical disks. Various programs, various data, and the like are stored in such a storage unit 40.

[0093] [4. Configuration example of the information processing device] Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the configuration of the settlement server 100 according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the settlement server 100 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the settlement server 100 includes a communication unit 110, a storage unit 120, and a control unit 130.

[0094] (Communication unit 110) The communication unit 110 is realized by, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) or the like. Also, the communication unit 110 is connected to the network N (see FIG. 4) by wire or wirelessly.

[0095] (Storage unit 120) The storage unit 120 is realized by, for example, semiconductor memory elements such as RAM (Random Access Memory) and flash memory, or storage devices such as hard disks and optical disks. As shown in FIG. 6, the storage unit 120 includes a user information database 121, a history information database 122, a card information database 123, and a settlement information database 124.

[0096] (User Information Database 121) The user information database 121 stores various information about the user U. For example, the user information database 121 stores various information such as the attributes of the user U. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the user information database 121. In the example shown in FIG. 7, the user information database 121 has items such as "User ID (Identifier)", "Age", "Gender", "Home", "Workplace", and "Interests".

[0097] "User ID" indicates identification information for identifying the user U. Also, "Age" indicates the age of the user U identified by the user ID. Note that "Age" may be the specific age of the user U identified by the user ID, such as 35 years old. Also, "Gender" indicates the gender of the user U identified by the user ID.

[0098] Also, "Home" indicates the location information of the home of the user U identified by the user ID. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 7, "Home" is illustrated by an abstract code such as "LC11", but it may be latitude and longitude information, etc. Also, for example, "Home" may be a region name or an address.

[0099] Also, "Workplace" indicates the location information of the workplace (school in the case of a student) of the user U identified by the user ID. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 7, "Workplace" is illustrated by an abstract code such as "LC12", but it may be latitude and longitude information, etc. Also, for example, "Workplace" may be a region name or an address.

[0100] Also, "Interests" indicates the interests of the user U identified by the user ID. That is, "Interests" indicates the objects that the user U identified by the user ID is highly interested in. For example, "Interests" may be search queries (keywords) input by the user U into a search engine and searched. Note that in the example shown in FIG. 7, "Interests" is illustrated one by one for each user U, but there may be multiple.

[0101] For example, in the example shown in FIG. 7, the age of user U identified by user ID "U1" is "in their 20s", and the gender is "male". Also, for example, user U identified by user ID "U1" indicates that their home is "LC11". Also, for example, user U identified by user ID "U1" indicates that their place of work is "LC12". Also, for example, user U identified by user ID "U1" shows an interest in "sports".

[0102] Here, in the example shown in FIG. 7, abstract values such as "U1", "LC11", and "LC12" are used for illustration, but it is assumed that information such as specific character strings and numerical values is stored in "U1", "LC11", and "LC12". Hereinafter, in other figures regarding other information, abstract values may be illustrated.

[0103] Note that the user information database 121 is not limited to the above, and may store various information according to the purpose. For example, the user information database 121 may store various information regarding the terminal device 10 of user U. Also, the user information database 121 may store information regarding attributes such as the demographics (demographic attributes), psychographics (psychological attributes), geographics (geographical attributes), and behavioral (behavioral attributes) of user U. For example, the user information database 121 may store information such as name, family composition, place of origin (local area), occupation, position, income, qualifications, housing form (detached house, condominium, etc.), presence or absence of a car, commuting / going-to-school time, commuting / going-to-school route, commuter pass section (stations, lines, etc.), frequently used stations (other than the nearest stations to home / work), hobbies (places, time zones, etc.), hobbies, interests, lifestyle, etc.

[0104] (History Information Database 122) The history information database 122 stores various information regarding history information (log data) indicating the actions of the user U. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of the history information database 122. In the example shown in FIG. 8, the history information database 122 has items such as "user ID", "location history", "search history", "browsing history", "purchase history", and "posting history".

[0105] The "user ID" indicates identification information for identifying the user U. Also, the "location history" indicates a location history of the location and movement of the user U. Also, the "search history" indicates a search history of the search queries input by the user U. Also, the "browsing history" indicates a browsing history of the content browsed by the user U. Also, the "purchase history" indicates a purchase history of purchases made by the user U. Also, the "posting history" indicates a posting history of posts made by the user U. Note that the "posting history" may include questions regarding the possessions of the user U.

[0106] For example, in the example shown in FIG. 8, the user U identified by the user ID "U1" moved as per "location history #1", searched as per "search history #1", browsed content as per "browsing history #1", purchased a predetermined product or the like at a predetermined store or the like as per "purchase history #1", and posted as per the "posting history".

[0107] Here, in the example shown in FIG. 8, it is illustrated using abstract values such as "U1", "location history #1", "search history #1", "browsing history #1", "purchase history #1", and "posting history #1", but it is assumed that specific information such as character strings and numerical values is stored in "U1", "location history #1", "search history #1", "browsing history #1", "purchase history #1", and "posting history #1".

[0108] Note that the history information database 122 is not limited to the above, and may store various information according to the purpose. For example, the history information database 122 may store the usage history of a predetermined service of the user U or the like. Further, the history information database 122 may store the store visit history of the physical store of the user U or the visit history of the facility or the like. Further, the history information database 122 may store the settlement history of the user U in electronic settlement or the like.

[0109] (Card information database 123) The card information database 123 stores various information related to the prepaid card. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the card information database 123. In the example shown in FIG. 9, the card information database 123 has items such as "user ID", "franchise store ID", "card ID", "account ID", "balance", "upper limit amount", and "expiration date".

[0110] The "user ID" indicates identification information for identifying the user U who purchased the prepaid card. The "franchise store ID" indicates identification information for identifying the franchise stores where the prepaid card can be used. Note that the franchise store ID may be identification information for identifying a chain store. The "card ID" indicates identification information (prepaid card ID) for identifying the prepaid card held by the user U. In the present embodiment, the prepaid card is issued for each franchise store. The "account ID" indicates identification information for identifying the account linked to the prepaid card. Note that the account ID may be identification information for identifying an account common to a plurality of prepaid cards. The "balance" indicates the balance of the account linked to the prepaid card. This balance can be used only for purchasing goods (or using services) at franchise stores where the prepaid card can be used. The "upper limit amount" indicates the upper limit amount of recharge to the account linked to the prepaid card. Note that the upper limit amount may be an upper limit amount set by the user U himself / herself as the usage limit amount per day or per month. The "expiration date" indicates the expiration date of the prepaid card held by the user U. For example, the expiration date is indicated by year, month, and day.

[0111] For example, in the example shown in FIG. 9, it shows that the user U identified by the user ID "U1" holds a card identified by the card ID "Card #A" that can be used with the brand identified by the franchise store ID "Store #A". Also, this card is linked to the account ID "Account #A", has a balance of "2,000" yen, a limit of "200,000" yen, and is valid until the expiration date "2021 / 1 / 21".

[0112] Here, in the example shown in FIG. 9, although illustrated using abstract values such as "U1", "Store #A", "Card #A", and "Account #A", it is assumed that specific information such as character strings and numerical values is stored in "U1", "Store #A", "Card #A", and "Account #A".

[0113] Note that the card information database 123 is not limited to the above, and may store various information according to the purpose. For example, the card information database 123 may store the usage history of the prepaid card of the user U. Also, the card information database 123 may store information regarding the prepaid cards that the user U has purchased so far (in the past) (for example, the purchase history of the prepaid cards). Further, the card information database 123 may store information regarding privileges (bonuses, premiums, etc.) according to the usage frequency and the number of purchases of the prepaid card of the user U.

[0114] (Settlement Information Database 124) The settlement information database 124 stores various information regarding settlements (electronic settlements) using the terminal device 10. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the settlement information database 124. In the example shown in FIG. 10, the settlement information database 124 has items such as "user ID", "store ID", "transaction target ID", "unit price", "quantity", "card ID", "usage amount", and "settlement amount".

[0115] "User ID" indicates identification information for identifying user U who uses a prepaid card in the payment (electronic payment) using terminal device 10. Also, "Store ID" indicates identification information for identifying the affiliated store (store) where the prepaid card was used in the payment (electronic payment) using terminal device 10. Note that the Store ID may be identification information for identifying a chain store. Also, "Transaction Target ID" indicates identification information for identifying the transaction target such as goods or services that are the target of the prepaid card in the payment (electronic payment) using terminal device 10. Also, "Unit Price" indicates the unit price of the transaction target such as goods or services that are the target of the prepaid card. Also, "Quantity" indicates the quantity of the transaction target such as goods or services that are the target of the prepaid card. That is, the quantity indicates the number of items (purchase quantity) of the goods that are the target of the prepaid card or the number of times of using the service, etc.

[0116] Also, "Card ID" indicates identification information for identifying the prepaid card used by user U. Also, "Amount Used" indicates the amount used of the prepaid card in the payment (electronic payment) using terminal device 10. For example, when the remaining balance of the prepaid card is more than the total amount of the transaction target to be paid, the amount used is the same as the total amount of the transaction target. Also, when the remaining balance of the prepaid card is less than the total amount of the transaction target to be paid, the amount used is the entire remaining balance of the prepaid card. Also, for the shortage, it may be possible to select either recharging the prepaid card or paying by normal electronic payment. Also, "Payment Amount" indicates the payment amount after using the prepaid card. For the price of the transaction target for which the prepaid card can be used, it becomes free (0 yen) by using the prepaid card.

[0117] For example, in the example shown in FIG. 10, user U identified by user ID "U1" purchased only 1 unit of the transaction target identified by transaction target ID "Transaction Target #A1" at a unit price of "1,200" yen at the store identified by store ID "Store #A". Also, the above user U used the prepaid card identified by card ID "Card #A" for an amount of "1,200" yen for the above transaction target, indicating that the settlement amount became "0" yen.

[0118] Here, in the example shown in FIG. 10, abstract values such as "U1", "Store #A", "Transaction Target #A1", and "Card #A" are used for illustration, but it is assumed that specific information such as character strings and numerical values is stored in "U1", "Store #A", "Transaction Target #A1", and "Card #A".

[0119] Note that the settlement information database 124 is not limited to the above, and may store various information according to the purpose. For example, the settlement information database 124 may store identification information for identifying settlement means such as settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10 and settlement operators.

[0120] Furthermore, the history information database 122, the card information database 123, and the settlement information database 124 may be linked with the user information database 121 or integrated. For example, the user information database 121, the history information database 122, the card information database 123, and the settlement information database 124 may be a relational database (RDB: Relational Database).

[0121] (Control Unit 130) Returning to FIG. 6 and continuing the description. The control unit 130 is a controller, which is realized, for example, by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), etc., when various programs (corresponding to an example of an information processing program) stored in the internal storage device of the settlement server 100 are executed with a storage area such as a RAM as a work area. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the control unit 130 includes an acquisition unit 131, an issuance unit 132, a setting unit 133, a management unit 134, a settlement processing unit 135, an estimation unit 136, and a provision unit 137.

[0122] (Acquisition Unit 131) The acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of information regarding the user U via the communication unit 110. For example, based on information (such as a user ID) indicating the user U who uses the settlement application, the acquisition unit 131 acquires the location information of the user U, the attribute information of the user U, etc. Then, the acquisition unit 131 registers them in the user information database 121 of the storage unit 120.

[0123] Also, the acquisition unit 131 acquires various types of history information (log data) indicating the actions of the user U via the communication unit 110. Then, the acquisition unit 131 registers them in the history information database 122 of the storage unit 120.

[0124] In addition, the acquisition unit 131 receives, via the communication unit 110, a prepaid card purchase request (issuance request), a recharge request, and a provision request (gift request) from the user U. For example, when the user U performs an operation to purchase a prepaid card for a desired transaction target (product, service) of a desired store at the prepaid card sales corner in the payment application, the acquisition unit 131 receives it as a prepaid card purchase request. Also, when the user U performs an operation to recharge the balance of the prepaid card by specifying an amount in the payment application, the acquisition unit 131 recharges the amount specified by the user U to the balance of the prepaid card. Further, when the user U designates someone other than themselves as the recipient when purchasing a prepaid card or performs an operation to transfer it to another person after purchasing the prepaid card in the payment application, the acquisition unit 131 receives it as a prepaid card provision request (gift request). That is, the acquisition unit 131 also functions as a reception unit that receives a prepaid card purchase request (issuance request), a recharge request, and a provision request (gift request).

[0125] (Issuance unit 132) The issuance unit 132 issues a prepaid card in response to a prepaid card purchase request (issuance request) from the user U. For example, the issuance unit 132 issues a prepaid card to the user U at the prepaid card sales corner in the payment application. At this time, the issuance unit 132 issues a prepaid card that is linked to the payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10. From another perspective, the issuance unit 132 issues a prepaid card that can be used in the payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10. Also, the issuance unit 132 issues prepaid cards for each franchise. For example, the issuance unit 132 issues prepaid cards for each corporate brand. Further, the issuance unit 132 may issue prepaid cards for each product brand.

[0126] (Setting unit 133) The setting unit 133 sets a usage-limited remaining balance, which is different from the normal remaining balance with no usage limitation, as the remaining balance available for settlement using the terminal device. At this time, the setting unit 133 sets the usage-limited remaining balance for each usage. Also, the setting unit 133 sets the usage-limited remaining balance for each affiliated store of the settlement service. Further, the setting unit 133 sets the usage-limited remaining balance for each user U.

[0127] Also, when the prepaid card is issued, the setting unit 133 sets the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card. Since the prepaid card is issued for each affiliated store, it can be said that the setting unit 133 sets the remaining balance limited to the affiliated store. For example, when the prepaid card is issued for each corporate brand, the setting unit 133 sets the remaining balance limited to the corporate brand. Also, when the prepaid card is issued for each product brand, the setting unit 133 may set the remaining balance limited to the product brand.

[0128] Note that the setting unit 133 may cooperate with the issuing unit 132 or the management unit 134, or may be integrated with the issuing unit 132 or the management unit 134. That is, the setting unit 133 may be a part of the functions of the issuing unit 132 or the management unit 134. For example, when issuing the prepaid card, the issuing unit 132 may set the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card when the prepaid card is issued. Also, when starting the management of the prepaid card, the management unit 134 may set the remaining balance dedicated to the prepaid card.

[0129] (Management unit 134) The management unit 134 separately manages the normal balance that is not limited in use and the balance with limited use as the balance available for payment using the terminal device. At this time, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance with limited use set for each use purpose. Also, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance with limited use set for each affiliated store. For example, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance limited to the corporate brand set for each corporate brand. Also, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance limited to the product brand set for each product brand. Also, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance with limited use set for each user U.

[0130] Also, when the user U uses the person-to-person money transfer function to transfer a predetermined amount from the balance with limited use of the user U to another user F, the management unit 134 transfers the transferred amount to the balance with limited use of the other user F corresponding to the balance with limited use of the user U.

[0131] Also, the management unit 134 manages the balance with limited use in association with the prepaid card. When the user U transfers the prepaid card to another user F, the management unit 134 transfers the entire amount of the balance with limited use associated with the prepaid card from the balance with limited use of the user U to the balance with limited use of the other user F.

[0132] Also, the management unit 134 manages the prepaid card held by the user U. For example, the management unit 134 manages the prepaid card issued by the issuing unit 132 to the user U. Further, the management unit 134 manages the balance (balance with limited use) of the prepaid card. At this time, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance for payment in the electronic payment (using the terminal device 10) and the balance of the prepaid card. That is, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance for payment in the normal electronic payment and the balance for payment with the prepaid card. Also, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance of the prepaid card for each affiliated store. That is, the management unit 134 separately manages the balance for each prepaid card.

[0133] Also, when the settlement processing unit 135 performs settlement processing, the management unit 134 determines whether a prepaid card is applicable to the transaction target to be settled. That is, the management unit 134, in conjunction and cooperation with the settlement processing unit 135, applies a prepaid card to the transaction target to be settled. In practice, the settlement processing unit 135 may apply a prepaid card to the transaction target to be settled in conjunction and cooperation with the management unit 134. Further, when a prepaid card is applied to the transaction target to be settled, the management unit 134 manages the remaining balance of the prepaid card. Also, the management unit 134 manages the expiration date of the prepaid card.

[0134] In addition, when the user U of the terminal device 10 transfers the prepaid card held by the user U to another user using the person-to-person money transfer function of the settlement application, the management unit 134 changes the owner of the prepaid card from the user U to another user and transfers the remaining balance of the prepaid card from the user U to another user. That is, when a prepaid card is presented from the user U to another user, the management unit 134 transfers the remaining balance of the prepaid card from the account of the user U to the account of another user. In practice, the management unit 134 may transfer the account itself linked to the prepaid card from the user U to another user. In the above description, the user U and another user may be interchanged. When the user U is transferred a prepaid card from another user and already holds the same prepaid card, the management unit 134 may add the remaining balance of the transferred prepaid card to the remaining balance of the said prepaid card. Alternatively, the remaining balance of the already held prepaid card and the remaining balance of the transferred prepaid card may be managed separately.

[0135] (Settlement Processing Unit 135) When the user U uses the terminal device 10 to perform a settlement (electronic settlement) through the settlement application, the settlement processing unit 135 performs settlement processing. For example, the settlement processing unit 135 performs settlement processing by transferring electronic money from the account of the user U to the account of the franchise according to the settlement request from the user U.

[0136] In this embodiment, when the user U purchases and uses a transaction target (product, service) at a store where a prepaid card can be used and makes a payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10 through the payment application, the payment processing unit 135 performs payment processing by applying the prepaid card. That is, when making a payment at a franchise store, the payment processing unit 135 performs payment processing using the remaining balance of the prepaid card corresponding to the franchise store.

[0137] At this time, the payment processing unit 135 acquires store information indicating the store at the time of payment using the terminal device 10, and automatically applies the prepaid card that can be used at the store among the prepaid cards held by the user U.

[0138] Alternatively, when the payment processing unit 135 and the payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10 are performed, and the prepaid card is used by the user U, the prepaid card is applied to perform payment processing. For example, when a prepaid card dedicated code for using the prepaid card installed in the store is read by the terminal device 10 at the time of payment using the terminal device 10, the payment processing unit 135 applies the prepaid card to perform payment processing. Alternatively, when a prepaid card dedicated code for using the prepaid card displayed on the terminal device 10 is read by the store terminal at the time of payment using the terminal device 10, the payment processing unit 135 applies the prepaid card to perform payment processing.

[0139] In addition, when the balance of the prepaid card corresponding to the affiliated store is insufficient during the settlement process at the affiliated store, the settlement processing unit 135 charges the balance of the prepaid card from the balance for settlement using the terminal device 10 and performs the settlement process. Alternatively, when the balance of the prepaid card corresponding to the affiliated store is insufficient during the settlement process at the affiliated store, the settlement processing unit 135 performs the settlement process using the balance for settlement using the terminal device 10. Note that when the balance of the prepaid card is insufficient, the settlement processing unit 135 may recharge the shortage or pay it using normal electronic payment and then execute the recharge or normal electronic payment when permission is obtained after inquiring the user U, or may automatically execute the recharge or normal electronic payment.

[0140] That is, when the balance of the usage-limited balance is insufficient during the settlement for a usage, the settlement processing unit 135 charges the usage-limited balance from the normal balance and performs the settlement process. Alternatively, when the balance of the usage-limited balance is insufficient during the settlement for a usage, the settlement processing unit 135 performs the settlement process using the normal balance.

[0141] (Estimation unit 136) The estimation unit 136 estimates a prepaid card suitable for the user U based on the attribute information of the user U and various history information. For example, when the attribute information and history information of the user U are input, the estimation unit 136 creates a prepaid card estimation model (trained model) that outputs information indicating a prepaid card suitable for the user U. Then, the estimation unit 136 inputs the attribute information and various history information of the user U into the prepaid card estimation model and estimates a prepaid card suitable for the user U based on the output information.

[0142] For example, the estimation unit 136 creates a trained model that estimates a prepaid card suitable for the user U through machine learning using an RNN (Recurrent Neural Network), an LSTM (Long Short-Term Memory), or the like. Note that any type and any format of model can be adopted. For example, the estimation unit 136 may adopt an SVM (Support Vector Machine) or a DNN (Deep Neural Network) as the model. Here, the DNN may be a CNN (Convolutional Neural Network) or an RNN. Further, the model may be a model realized by combining a plurality of models, such as a model combining a CNN and an RNN.

[0143] Note that the RNN and the LSTM may be neural networks based on the mechanism of attention. Further, the estimation unit 136 may use a similar natural language processing model. Further, data mining or other machine learning algorithms may be used. The estimation unit 136 can perform model learning by using the various learning methods described above.

[0144] (Provision unit 137) The provision unit 137 provides information regarding a prepaid card suitable for the user U to the terminal device 10 of the user U via the communication unit 110. For example, the prepaid card suitable for the user U estimated by the estimation unit 136 is preferentially listed in the prepaid card sales corner in the payment application used by the user U. Alternatively, the provision unit 137 provides a link to the purchase screen of the prepaid card suitable for the user U estimated by the estimation unit 136 to the terminal device 10 of the user U by push notification.

[0145] Note that the timing for the providing unit 137 to provide information on the prepaid card suitable for the user U may be the timing when the user U enters a store where the prepaid card can be used, or may be the timing when the user U purchases and uses a desired transaction target (goods, services) a predetermined number of times at a franchise where the prepaid card can be used. The predetermined number of times may be once or multiple times.

[0146] In addition, when the prepaid card is presented (transferred) as a gift from the user U to another user, the providing unit 137 notifies the other user that the prepaid card has been transferred from the user U. For example, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of the other user of information on the user U who transferred the prepaid card and information on the transferred prepaid card.

[0147] In addition, for the purpose of preventing the user U from forgetting to use the prepaid card, the providing unit 137 notifies the user U of information on the prepaid card held by the user U at a predetermined timing. That is, the providing unit 137 also functions as a notification unit that notifies the existence of the prepaid card in order to recommend the use of the prepaid card.

[0148] For example, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of prepaid cards that can be used at stores in the vicinity of the location of the user U or stores within the moving range based on the location information of the user U. In addition, when the user U enters a store where the prepaid card can be used, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of the prepaid cards that can be used at that store.

[0149] In addition, when the expiration date of the prepaid card is approaching, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of the prepaid card and the expiration date at a predetermined timing such as two weeks before the expiration date. That is, the providing unit 137 also functions as a deadline notification unit that notifies the expiration date of the prepaid card.

[0150] In practice, the providing unit 137 may notify information regarding the prepaid card held by the user U in response to a request from the terminal device 10. For example, when the terminal device 10 detects the approach, entry, or payment of the user U to / at a franchise store, it notifies the location information to the payment server 100. Then, the providing unit 137 of the payment server 100 identifies the franchise store according to the location information from the terminal device 10 and notifies the terminal device 10 of information regarding the prepaid card that can be used at the franchise store.

[0151] [5. Processing Procedure] Next, the processing procedure by the terminal device 10 and the payment server 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 11 and 12. [5-1. Processing Procedure for Prepaid Card Management] First, the processing procedure for prepaid card management according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for prepaid card management according to the embodiment. Note that the following processing procedure is repeatedly executed by the control unit 30 of the terminal device 10 and the control unit 130 of the payment server 100.

[0152] As shown in FIG. 11, the acquisition unit 131 of the payment server 100 acquires a purchase request (issuance request) for a prepaid card from the user U via the communication unit 110 (step S101).

[0153] Subsequently, the issuing unit 132 of the payment server 100 issues a prepaid card in response to the purchase request for the prepaid card from the user U (step S102). For example, when the user purchases a prepaid card from the prepaid card sales corner in the payment application by payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10, the issuing unit 132 issues a prepaid card to the user U. At this time, the issuing unit 132 issues a prepaid card linked to the payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10. From another perspective, the issuing unit 132 issues a prepaid card that can be used in the payment (electronic payment) using the terminal device 10.

[0154] Subsequently, the management unit 134 of the payment server 100 secures an area for the prepaid card dedicated balance (step S103). Here, the management unit 134 sets up an account or data area for managing the prepaid card dedicated balance (usage-limited balance) separately from the balance for normal electronic payments. That is, the balance for normal electronic payments and the prepaid card dedicated balance are independent. Also, the prepaid card dedicated balance is set for each prepaid card. That is, the prepaid card dedicated balance is independent for each prepaid card.

[0155] Subsequently, the management unit 134 of the payment server 100 manages the prepaid card held by the user U (step S104). Here, the management unit 134 manages by associating the user U with the prepaid card.

[0156] Subsequently, the management unit 134 of the payment server 100 determines whether the user U has received a transfer of a prepaid card from another person (step S105). That is, the management unit 134 determines whether the user U has received a prepaid card as a gift from another person.

[0157] If the management unit 134 of the payment server 100 determines that the user U has received a transfer of a prepaid card from another person (step S105; Yes), it secures the area for the dedicated balance of the prepaid card (returns to step S103) and also manages the prepaid card transferred to the user U from another person (step S104). Note that if the management unit 134 already holds the same prepaid card as the prepaid card transferred to the user U, the balance of the transferred prepaid card may be added to the balance of the said prepaid card. On the contrary, if the management unit 134 of the payment server 100 determines that the user U has not received a transfer of a prepaid card from another person (step S105; No), it proceeds to the next process (proceeds to step S106).

[0158] Subsequently, the management unit 134 of the settlement server 100 determines whether the user U of the terminal device 10 has transferred the prepaid card held by the user U to another user by using the person-to-person money transfer function of the settlement application (step S106). For example, the management unit 134 determines whether the user U has pressed the "Gift" button displayed for each prepaid card on the screen where the user U operates the terminal device 10 to display the list of prepaid cards held by the user U. If the management unit 134 of the settlement server 100 has not transferred the prepaid card held by the user U to another user (step S106; No), the management of the prepaid card held by the user U is continued, and a series of processes are terminated.

[0159] If the management unit 134 of the settlement server 100 determines that the user U of the terminal device 10 has transferred the prepaid card held by the user U to another user by using the person-to-person money transfer function of the settlement application (step S106; Yes), the management unit 134 changes the owner of the prepaid card from the user U to another user and transfers the balance of the prepaid card from the user U to another user (step S107).

[0160] Subsequently, the management unit 134 of the settlement server 100 releases the area for the dedicated balance of the prepaid card transferred to another user (step S108). Then, a series of processes are terminated.

[0161] [5-2. Processing Procedure for Using Prepaid Card] Next, with reference to FIG. 12, the processing procedure for using the prepaid card according to the embodiment will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure for using the prepaid card according to the embodiment. The processing procedures shown below are repeatedly executed by the control unit 30 of the terminal device 10 and the control unit 130 of the settlement server 100.

[0162] As shown in FIG. 12, the providing unit 137 of the settlement server 100 notifies the user U of information regarding the prepaid card in order to prevent forgetting to use the prepaid card (step S111). For example, based on the location information of the user U, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of prepaid cards that can be used at stores in the vicinity of the location of the user U or stores within the moving range. In addition, when the user U enters a store where a prepaid card can be used, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of the prepaid cards that can be used at that store. Further, when the user U starts a settlement application to perform settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10, the terminal device 10 notifies the terminal device 10 of the prepaid cards that can be used at that store. Also, when the expiration date of the prepaid card is approaching, the providing unit 137 notifies the terminal device 10 of the prepaid card and the expiration date at a predetermined timing such as two weeks before the expiration date.

[0163] Subsequently, the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 determines whether the user U will perform settlement regarding the affiliated store (step S112). For example, the settlement processing unit 135 determines whether the user U visits a store of an affiliated store where a prepaid card can be used and performs settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10 at the store. The settlement processing unit 135 or the settlement processing unit 135 determines whether the product purchased by the user U is a product of the affiliated store when the user performs settlement (electronic settlement) using the terminal device 10. In practice, it may not be limited to the purchase of products, but may also be the use of services at the store. Here, when the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 determines that the user U does not perform settlement regarding the affiliated store (step S112; No), it does not apply the prepaid card and performs normal settlement processing using the balance for normal electronic settlement (step S113).

[0164] Subsequently, when the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 performs a settlement for the user U with respect to the affiliated store (step S112; Yes), it determines whether the balance of the prepaid card of the affiliated store is insufficient (step S114). Here, when the balance of the prepaid card of the affiliated store is not insufficient (step S114; No), the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 applies the prepaid card of the affiliated store to the settlement for the affiliated store, and performs settlement processing using the balance of the prepaid card of the affiliated store (step S115).

[0165] On the contrary, when the balance of the prepaid card of the affiliated store is insufficient (step S114; Yes), the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 inquires the user U to confirm whether to recharge the prepaid card of the affiliated store (step S116).

[0166] When the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 does not recharge the prepaid card of the affiliated store (step S116; No), it does not apply the prepaid card to the settlement for the affiliated store, and performs normal settlement processing using the balance for normal electronic settlement (step S113).

[0167] On the contrary, when the settlement processing unit 135 of the settlement server 100 recharges the prepaid card of the affiliated store (step S116; Yes), it applies the prepaid card of the affiliated store to the settlement for the affiliated store, and performs settlement processing using the balance of the prepaid card of the affiliated store (step S115).

[0168] 〔6. Modification Example〕 The above-described terminal device 10 and settlement server 100 may be implemented in various different forms other than the above-described embodiment. Therefore, below, a modification example of the embodiment will be described.

[0169] In the above-described embodiment, part or all of the processing executed by the settlement server 100 may actually be executed by the terminal device 10. For example, the processing may be completed in a stand-alone manner (by the terminal device 10 alone). In this case, it is assumed that the terminal device 10 has the functions of the settlement server 100 in the above-described embodiment. Further, in the above-described embodiment, since the terminal device 10 is in cooperation with the settlement server 100, from the perspective of the user U, the processing of the settlement server 100 also appears to be executed by the terminal device 10. That is, from another perspective, it can be said that the terminal device 10 includes the settlement server 100.

[0170] Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the terminal device 10 displays a list of prepaid cards held by the user U, the prepaid cards held by the user U may be sorted (rearranged) in descending order of usage frequency or in ascending order of expiration date at any time automatically. Alternatively, the terminal device 10 may sort (rearrange) the prepaid cards held by the user U according to the operation of the user U.

[0171] Further, in the above-described embodiment, when the terminal device 10 displays a list of prepaid cards held by the user U, only the prepaid cards that meet a predetermined condition selected and specified by the user U among the prepaid cards held by the user U may be displayed.

[0172] Further, in the above-described embodiment, the user U may further present a prepaid card presented by another user as a gift to another user. That is, once a prepaid card presented by another person becomes a prepaid card held by the user U, the user U can then freely present it as a gift to another user as a prepaid card held by the user U.

[0173] Further, in the above-described embodiment, the prepaid card limited to franchise stores is only an example. Actually, the prepaid card may be managed in association with a specific use instead of a franchise store.

[0174] 〔7. Effects〕 As described above, the information processing apparatus (terminal device 10 or settlement server 100) according to the present application includes a setting unit 133 that sets a usage-limited balance with a limited usage, separately from a normal balance that does not limit the usage, as a balance available for settlement using the terminal device 10, and a management unit 134 that manages the normal balance and the usage-limited balance separately.

[0175] Further, the setting unit 133 sets the usage-limited balance for each usage. Then, the management unit 134 manages the usage-limited balances set for each usage separately.

[0176] Further, the setting unit 133 sets the usage-limited balance for each franchise of the settlement service. Then, the management unit 134 manages the usage-limited balances set for each franchise separately.

[0177] Further, the setting unit 133 sets the usage-limited balance for each user U. Then, the management unit 134 manages the usage-limited balances set for each user U separately.

[0178] Further, when the user U uses the person-to-person money transfer function to transfer a predetermined amount from the usage-limited balance of the user U to another user F, the management unit 134 transfers the transferred amount to the usage-limited balance of the other user F corresponding to the usage-limited balance of the user U.

[0179] Further, the management unit 134 manages the usage-limited balance in association with the prepaid card, and when the user U transfers the prepaid card to another user F, transfers the entire amount of the usage-limited balance associated with the prepaid card from the usage-limited balance of the user U to the usage-limited balance of the other user F.

[0180] Further, the information processing apparatus according to the present application further includes a settlement processing unit that, when the balance of the usage-limited balance is insufficient at the time of settlement for a usage, charges the usage-limited balance from the normal balance and performs a settlement process.

[0181] Alternatively, when making a payment for a use, if the balance of the use-limited balance is insufficient, the information processing apparatus according to the present application further includes a payment processing unit that performs payment processing using the normal balance.

[0182] From another perspective, the information processing apparatus (terminal device 10 or payment server 100) according to the present application includes a setting unit 133 that sets a store-limited balance with limited available stores, separate from the normal balance that does not limit available stores, as the balance available for payment using the terminal device 10, and a management unit 134 that manages the normal balance and the store-limited balance separately.

[0183] From another perspective, the information processing apparatus (terminal device 10 or payment server 100) according to the present application includes a setting unit 133 that sets a corporate brand-limited balance with limited available corporate brands, separate from the normal balance that does not limit available corporate brands, as the balance available for payment using the terminal device 10, and a management unit 134 that manages the normal balance and the corporate brand-limited balance separately.

[0184] From another perspective, the information processing apparatus (terminal device 10 or payment server 100) according to the present application includes a setting unit 133 that sets a product brand-limited balance with limited available product brands, separate from the normal balance that does not limit available product brands, as the balance available for payment using the terminal device 10, and a management unit 134 that manages the normal balance and the product brand-limited balance separately.

[0185] Furthermore, from another perspective, the information processing apparatus (terminal device 10 or payment server 100) according to the present application includes an issuing unit 132 that issues a prepaid card linked to the payment using the terminal device 10, and a management unit 134 that manages the balance of the payment using the terminal device 10 and the balance of the prepaid card separately.

[0186] Also, the issuing unit 132 issues a prepaid card for each store. And the management unit 134 manages the balance of the prepaid card separately for each store.

[0187] In addition, the information processing apparatus according to the present application further includes a settlement processing unit 135 that performs settlement processing using the balance of the prepaid card corresponding to the affiliated store at the time of settlement at the affiliated store.

[0188] Further, when the balance of the prepaid card corresponding to the affiliated store is insufficient at the time of settlement at the affiliated store, the settlement processing unit 135 charges the balance of the prepaid card from the balance for settlement using the terminal device 10 and performs settlement processing.

[0189] Alternatively, when the balance of the prepaid card corresponding to the affiliated store is insufficient at the time of settlement at the affiliated store, the settlement processing unit 135 performs settlement processing using the balance for settlement using the terminal device 10.

[0190] In addition, when the user U of the terminal device 10 transfers the prepaid card held by the user U to another user using the person-to-person money transfer function, the management unit changes the owner of the prepaid card from the user U to another user and transfers the balance of the prepaid card from the user U to another user.

[0191] In addition, the information processing apparatus according to the present application further includes a notification unit that notifies the terminal device 10 of the prepaid cards available in the store when the user U enters a store where the prepaid card can be used.

[0192] By any one or combination of the above-described processes, the information processing apparatus according to the present application can manage a balance with limited use as the balance that can be used for electronic payment. As a result, a prepaid card that can be used only at affiliated stores of an electronic payment service can be provided. Also, it becomes available in conjunction with settlement when settling at an affiliated store that holds a prepaid card. Also, the user can be allowed to select whether to recharge again in the case of a settlement exceeding the recharge balance. Also, a UI of a my prepaid card with a design unique to the affiliated store can be provided. Also, a premium can be added with the capital of the affiliated store. Furthermore, the prepaid card can be presented as a gift by person-to-person money transfer.

[0193] 〔8. Hardware Configuration〕 Also, the terminal device 10 and the payment server 100 according to the above-described embodiment are realized by a computer 1000 having a configuration as shown in FIG. 13, for example. Hereinafter, the payment server 100 will be described as an example. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration. The computer 1000 has a form in which an output device 1010, an input device 1020 are connected, and an arithmetic unit 1030, a primary storage device 1040, a secondary storage device 1050, an output I / F (Interface) 1060, an input I / F 1070, and a network I / F 1080 are connected by a bus 1090.

[0194] The arithmetic unit 1030 operates based on programs stored in the primary storage device 1040 and the secondary storage device 1050, programs read from the input device 1020, etc., and executes various processes. The arithmetic unit 1030 is realized by, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or the like.

[0195] The primary storage device 1040 is a memory device that primarily stores data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations, such as a RAM (Random Access Memory). Also, the secondary storage device 1050 is a storage device in which data used by the arithmetic unit 1030 for various calculations and various databases are registered, and is realized by a ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), flash memory, etc. The secondary storage device 1050 may be an internal storage or an external storage. Also, the secondary storage device 1050 may be a removable storage medium such as a USB memory or an SD (Secure Digital) memory card. Also, the secondary storage device 1050 may be a cloud storage (online storage), NAS (Network Attached Storage), file server, etc.

[0196] The output I / F 1060 is an interface for transmitting information to be output to an output device 1010 that outputs various types of information, such as a display, a projector, and a printer. For example, it is realized by a connector of a standard such as USB (Universal Serial Bus), DVI (Digital Visual Interface), or HDMI (registered trademark) (High Definition Multimedia Interface). Also, the input I / F 1070 is an interface for receiving information from various input devices 1020, such as a mouse, a keyboard, a keypad, a button, and a scanner. For example, it is realized by USB or the like.

[0197] Also, the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070 may be wirelessly connected to the output device 1010 and the input device 1020, respectively. That is, the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 may be wireless devices.

[0198] Further, the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 may be integrated like a touch panel. In this case, the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070 may also be integrated as an input / output I / F.

[0199] Note that the input device 1020 may be a device that reads information from an optical recording medium such as a CD (Compact Disc), a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), a PD (Phase change rewritable Disk), a magneto-optical recording medium such as an MO (Magneto-Optical disk), a tape medium, a magnetic recording medium, or a semiconductor memory.

[0200] The network I / F 1080 receives data from other devices via the network N and sends it to the arithmetic unit 1030, and also sends the data generated by the arithmetic unit 1030 via the network N to other devices.

[0201] The arithmetic unit 1030 controls the output device 1010 and the input device 1020 via the output I / F 1060 and the input I / F 1070. For example, the arithmetic unit 1030 loads a program from the input device 1020 or the secondary storage device 1050 onto the primary storage device 1040 and executes the loaded program.

[0202] For example, when the computer 1000 functions as the settlement server 100, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 realizes the functions of the control unit 130 by executing the program loaded onto the primary storage device 1040. Further, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 may load a program acquired from other devices via the network I / F 1080 onto the primary storage device 1040 and execute the loaded program. Further, the arithmetic unit 1030 of the computer 1000 may cooperate with other devices via the network I / F 1080 and call and use the functions, data, etc. of the program from other programs of other devices.

[0203] 〔9. Others〕 The embodiments of the present application have been described above, but the present invention is not limited by the content of these embodiments. Further, the components described above include those that can be easily assumed by those skilled in the art, those that are substantially the same, and those within the so-called equivalent range. Furthermore, the above-described components can be combined as appropriate. Moreover, various omissions, substitutions, or changes of the components can be made without departing from the gist of the above-described embodiments.

[0204] Also, among the respective processes described in the above embodiments, all or part of the processes described as being automatically performed can be manually performed, or all or part of the processes described as being manually performed can be automatically performed by a known method. In addition, regarding the processing procedures, specific names, and information including various data and parameters shown in the above documents and drawings, they can be arbitrarily changed unless otherwise specified. For example, the various information shown in each figure is not limited to the illustrated information.

[0205] Also, each component of each illustrated device is a functional concept, and it is not necessarily physically configured as shown in the figure. That is, the specific form of the distribution and integration of each device is not limited to that shown in the figure, and all or part of it can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit according to various loads, usage situations, etc.

[0206] For example, the above-described settlement server 100 may be realized by a plurality of server computers, and depending on the function, the configuration can be flexibly changed, such as by calling an external platform or the like using an API (Application Programming Interface) or network computing.

[0207] Also, the above-described embodiments and modified examples can be appropriately combined as long as the processing contents do not conflict.

[0208] In addition, the "section (section, module, unit)" described above can be read as "means", "circuit", etc. For example, the acquisition section can be read as an acquisition means or an acquisition circuit.

Explanation of symbols

[0209] 1 Information processing system 10 Terminal device 100 Settlement server 110 Communication section 120 Storage section 121 User information database 122 History information database 123 Card information database 124 Settlement information database 130 Control section 131 Acquisition section 132 Issuance section 133 Setting section 134 Management section 135 Settlement processing section 136 Estimation section 137 Provision section

Claims

1. a setting unit that sets a limited-use balance, which is a balance available for payment via a payment application of a terminal device, in addition to a normal balance, which is not limited to a specific use; a management unit that manages the normal balance and the limited use balance separately within the payment application; a payment processing unit that, when the purpose indicated by the payment information at the time of payment via the payment application of the terminal device matches the purpose of the limited use balance, prioritizes payment with the limited use balance over payment with the normal balance and automatically applies the limited use balance to perform payment processing; An information processing device comprising:

2. The payment processing unit performs payment processing by automatically applying payment by ordinary electronic payment when the balance of the limited-use balance is insufficient at the time of payment for the use to which payment is to be made using the limited-use balance.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

3. When the limited use balance is insufficient at the time of payment for the use to which payment is to be made using the limited use balance, the payment processing unit performs a payment process to cover the shortfall by paying using the normal electronic payment.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

4. When the limited-use balance is insufficient at the time of payment for the use to which the limited-use balance is to be paid, the payment processing unit charges the shortfall from the normal balance to the limited-use balance and performs the payment processing.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

5. When the limited-use balance is insufficient at the time of settlement for the use to which payment is made using the limited-use balance, the settlement processing unit performs the settlement process using the regular balance to make up the shortfall.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:

6. An information processing method executed by an information processing device, a setting step of setting a limited-use balance, which is set as a balance available for payment via a payment application of the terminal device, in addition to a normal balance, which is not limited to a specific use; a management step of managing the normal balance and the limited use balance separately within the payment application; a payment processing step of, when the purpose indicated by the payment information at the time of payment via the payment application of the terminal device matches the purpose of the limited use balance, prioritizing payment with the limited use balance over payment with the normal balance and automatically applying the limited use balance to perform payment processing; An information processing method comprising:

7. a setting step of setting a limited-use balance, which is separate from a normal balance, which has no use restrictions, in the payment application of the terminal device as a balance available for payment via the payment application; a management procedure for separately managing the normal balance and the restricted use balance within the payment application; a payment processing procedure for, when the purpose indicated by the payment information at the time of payment via the payment application of the terminal device matches the purpose of the limited use balance, prioritizing payment with the limited use balance over payment with the normal balance and automatically applying the limited use balance to perform payment processing; An information processing program that causes a computer to execute the above.

Images