Transaction mediation system, transaction mediation method, and program

Abstract

To provide a transaction mediation system for mediating barter transactions of articles that are highly convenient for a user.SOLUTION: A transaction mediation server 10 comprises: an exchange information registration section 300 for acquiring exchange information containing transfer request articles and purchasable articles from a recruiting user 2, and for storing the exchange information in a storage section 100 as exchange information 130; an exchange information selection section 400 for selecting the exchange information 130 by an applying user 3; and a mediation section 500 for mediating barter transactions between the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3. The exchange information selection section 400 comprises a narrowing section 410 for narrowing down the exchange information 130 by selecting an article category or identification information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a transaction intermediation system that mediates barter transactions of goods between users. [Background technology]

[0002] A system that mediates barter transactions of goods between users is known, as described in Patent Document 1. In the system described in Patent Document 1, first, each user pre-registers in the system a list of goods, such as the name, category, and detailed information of the goods they wish to transfer. Then, the user references the list of goods registered in the system for each user, and when they find an item they want, they register an exchange order with the system. In this exchange order, the user selects an item they own as the exchange target. Once the exchange order is registered, the system performs processing to mediate the exchange transaction between users. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2001-325470 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] For such a transaction intermediation system to function effectively, it is important that many users participate and many items are registered. However, because the above-mentioned system simply presents a list of registered items, when many items are registered, it becomes difficult for users to find the item they want. Furthermore, users often have a set of items and categories they wish to receive in exchange for the item they wish to transfer. However, in the above-mentioned system, when registering an item in the item list, users cannot register items they wish to exchange for items they own. As a result, other users may place exchange requests for items they do not wish to receive. This creates a nuisance for users who have registered their item lists. Although the above-mentioned system has been proposed as a patent application, the reality is that the system is not actually in operation.

[0005] For this reason, currently, people who wish to barter goods use SNS (Social Networking Service), which has many users, to conduct barter transactions. Specifically, a user who wishes to trade posts on the SNS the goods they wish to give away and the goods they wish to receive. Other users who view this post contact the poster using the post reply function or direct message function, and the two parties then discuss the details of the transaction using the direct message function, etc.

[0006] However, because SNSs are not dedicated services for bartering goods, they present a significant problem of inconvenient use for bartering goods. In particular, depending on the category of goods being traded, the search function may not function effectively, making it difficult or time-consuming for users to find posts related to the exchange of desired goods. Specifically, depending on the category of goods being traded, goods are subdivided into categories, and category names are not generally defined or prone to spelling variations. One example of this is trading cards of foreign entertainment groups. These trading cards are issued in large numbers and in a wide variety of formats for various reasons, and because they are foreign entertainment groups, spelling variations are likely to occur in the names of members, etc. Therefore, identifying a single trading item requires a large amount of accurate information, making it difficult and time-consuming for users to find the desired results using SNS search functions.

[0007] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a transaction intermediation server, method, and program that mediates barter transactions of goods that are highly convenient for users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a transaction intermediary server that mediates barter transactions of goods between users, comprising: a first storage unit that stores product information of goods to be traded, the product information including at least product identification information and classification; a second storage unit that stores exchange information including goods desired to be transferred by a first user and goods that can be transferred; an exchange information registration unit that receives exchange information from the first user and stores it in the second storage unit; an exchange information selection unit that presents the exchange information stored in the second storage unit to a second user and allows the second user to select exchange information with which the second user wishes to trade; and a communication interface between the second user who has selected exchange information in the exchange information selection unit and the second user. and an intermediary unit that mediates barter transactions between the second user and the first user related to the exchange information selected by the second user, wherein the exchange information selection unit includes a first narrowing-down unit that presents the classification and / or identification information contained in the item information stored in the first memory unit to the second user and allows the second user to select the classification and / or identification information of items that the second user can transfer and / or wishes to receive, extracts exchange information in which items belonging to the classification selected by the second user and / or items having the identification information selected by the second user are included among the items that the second user wishes to receive or can transfer, and presents the extracted exchange information to the second user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, when a second user selects exchange information, the second user can narrow down the exchange information using the classification and / or identification information of the item desired to be transferred and / or the transferable item. In other words, the second user can efficiently search for the exchange information he or she desires. This makes the system highly convenient for the second user. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] Transaction intermediation system configuration diagram [Figure 2] A diagram explaining the flow of barter transactions using a trading intermediary system [Figure 3] A diagram explaining the flow of barter transactions using a trading intermediary system [Figure 4]Functional block diagram of transaction intermediary server [Figure 5] An example of the data structure of product information [Figure 6] An example of the data structure of the exchange information [Figure 7] An example of the data structure of transaction information [Figure 8] An example of the display screen when selecting exchange information [Figure 9] An example of the display screen when selecting exchange information [Figure 10] An example of the display screen when selecting exchange information [Figure 11] An example of the display screen when selecting exchange information [Figure 12] An example of the display screen when selecting exchange information DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] [Definition] In this application, "goods" refers to items that are the subject of exchange transactions. Goods can be real. Real goods are movable property. Goods can also be virtual. Examples of virtual goods include items and characters in the metaverse. Another example of a virtual good is an NFT (Non-Fungible Token). Note that goods do not include real currency or virtual currency.

[0012] Item information is a group of information for classifying and identifying items. Item information includes at least identification information for identifying an item. Note that the identification information is not information for uniquely identifying the actual item. In other words, when multiple identical items are in circulation, each item has the same identification information. Item information also includes at least one or more classifications of items. When item information includes multiple classifications, the multiple classifications can be organized hierarchically. An example of a hierarchy is a tree structure.

[0013] In this application, a "user" refers to a person who uses the transaction intermediation system. Furthermore, among the users, a user who registers exchange information indicating a desire for an exchange transaction with the transaction intermediation system of the present invention and seeks a trading partner is referred to as a "recruiting user." The "recruiting user" corresponds to the first user in the claims. Furthermore, among the users, a user who wishes to trade with the "recruiting user" in accordance with the exchange information registered in the transaction intermediation system of the present invention is referred to as a "applying user." The "applying user" corresponds to the second user in the claims. Furthermore, in this application, an "administrator" refers to the administrator of the transaction intermediation system.

[0014] In this application, a desired item is one or more items that a user wishes to receive. A transferable item is one or more items that a user can transfer in exchange for the desired item. Once an exchange transaction is established, the desired item for one user is a transferable item for the other user, and the transferable item for one user is a desired item for the other user.

[0015] [Embodiment Mode] A transaction intermediation system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, an example will be described in which the intermediation target item of the transaction intermediation system is an item related to an entertainment group.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 1, transaction intermediation system 1 according to this embodiment includes transaction intermediation server 10 and client 20 used by a user. Transaction intermediation server 10 and client 20 can communicate with each other via a network. Transaction intermediation server 10 may be deployed in any location. Transaction intermediation system 1 may also have any network topology. Typically, transaction intermediation server 10 is implemented on a cloud server deployed on the Internet. Client 20 is a computer that can connect to the Internet.

[0017] [Barter transaction flow] The flow of a barter transaction using transaction intermediation system 1 will be described with reference to Figures 2 and 3. In the following description, it is assumed that each user 2, 3 uses their own client 20 to access transaction intermediation server 10 and receive transaction intermediation services.

[0018] First, each user 2, 3 registers in advance with the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S1). Next, the recruiting user 2 registers exchange information including one or more items desired to be transferred and one or more transferable items with the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S2).

[0019] Meanwhile, the applying user 3 accesses the transaction intermediary server 10 and searches for exchange information for the exchange he or she desires from the list of registered exchange information (step S3). Then, when the applying user 3 finds the exchange he or she desires, he or she selects the exchange information (step S4). Thereafter, the transaction intermediary server 10 mediates the barter transaction between the applying user 3 and the soliciting user 2 who has registered the exchange information selected by the applying user 3.

[0020] First, the applying user 3 selects any of the items he or she wishes to receive and the items he or she wishes to transfer from among one or more items he or she wishes to receive and one or more transferable items included in the selected exchange information, and then submits an application for an exchange transaction with the recruiting user 2 to the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S5).

[0021] The soliciting user 2 receives a notification from the transaction intermediary server 10 that an application has been made by the applying user 3 (step S6). The soliciting user 2 notifies the transaction intermediary server 10 that the application is accepted (step S7). The transaction intermediary server 10 notifies the applying user 3 of the notification (step S8).

[0022] The soliciting user 2 takes an image of the appearance of the actual item to be transferred to the applying user 3 (step S11) and registers the captured image in the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S12). The transaction intermediary server 10 presents the image to the applying user 3 (step S13). The applying user 3 checks the image and notifies the transaction intermediary server 10 of his / her acceptance (step S14). The same process is performed for the item to be transferred by the applying user 3 to the applying user 2 (steps S15 to S18). The transaction intermediary server 10 proceeds to the next step when it receives acceptance notifications from both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3. Note that steps S11 to S14, which start with the soliciting user 2, and steps S15 to S18, which start with the applying user 3, are asynchronous, and the timing of each step is arbitrary.

[0023] Furthermore, steps S11 to S14 and / or steps S15 to S18 may include a step for giving predetermined instructions to the soliciting user 2 and / or the applying user 3 regarding capturing an exterior image (such as instructions on how to capture an image, or instructions to include a piece of paper with a predetermined date or symbol on the screen in the image), so as to more reliably confirm that the actual item is actually present. Such instructions may be given via the transaction intermediary server 10, or may be exchanged directly between the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3. The image may be a still image or a video.

[0024] The soliciting user 2 registers the shipping method for the item to be transferred to the applying user 3 with the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S21). The transaction intermediary server 10 presents the shipping method to the applying user 3 (step S22). The applying user 3 confirms the shipping method and notifies the transaction intermediary server 10 of his / her acceptance (step S23). The same process is performed for the item to be transferred by the applying user 3 to the applying user 2 (steps S24 to S26). The transaction intermediary server 10 proceeds to the next step when it receives acceptance notifications from both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3. Note that steps S21 to S23, which start with the soliciting user 2, and steps S24 to S26, which start with the applying user 3, are asynchronous, and the timing of each step is arbitrary.

[0025] Furthermore, steps S22 and S25 may be performed by automatically transmitting a desired shipping method to the user that the user has registered in advance. That is, the processes corresponding to steps S21 and S24 may be performed before the barter transaction between users 2 and 3 begins.

[0026] Recruiting user 2 registers the shipping date of the item to be transferred to applying user 3 in transaction intermediary server 10 (step S31). Transaction intermediary server 10 presents the shipping date to applying user 3 (step S32). Applying user 3 confirms the shipping date and notifies transaction intermediary server 10 of his / her acceptance (step S33). Similar processing is performed for the item to be transferred by applying user 3 to recruiting user 2 (steps S34 to S36). When transaction intermediary server 10 receives acceptance notifications from both recruiting user 2 and applying user 3, it proceeds to the next step. Note that steps S31 to S33, which start with recruiting user 2, and steps S34 to S36, which start with applying user 3, are asynchronous, and the timing of each step is arbitrary.

[0027] The soliciting user 2 registers, in the transaction intermediary server 10, delivery address information for the item to be acquired from the applying user 3 (step S41). The transaction intermediary server 10 presents the delivery address information to the applying user 3 (step S42). The applying user 3 confirms the delivery address information and notifies the transaction intermediary server 10 of their acceptance (step S43). The same process is performed for the item to be acquired by the applying user 3 from the soliciting user 2 (steps S44 to S46). The transaction intermediary server 10 proceeds to the next step when it receives acceptance notifications from both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3. Note that steps S41 to S43, which start with the soliciting user 2, and steps S44 to S46, which start with the applying user 3, are asynchronous, and the timing of each step is arbitrary.

[0028] In addition, steps S42 and S45 may be performed using pre-registered delivery address information for the user himself / herself. That is, the processes corresponding to steps S41 and S44 may be performed before the barter transaction between users 2 and 3 begins.

[0029] Steps S33 and S43, and steps S36 and S46 may be performed together in a single procedure rather than individually.

[0030] With the above process, preparations for shipping between users are complete, so the recruiting user 2 ships the item to the applying user 3 (step S51). The recruiting user 2 then acquires an image that can confirm that the item has been shipped (step S52). The same process is performed for the item that the applying user 3 will ship (steps S53 to S54).

[0031] Next, the soliciting user 2 registers an image that can confirm the fact of shipment to the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S61). The transaction intermediary server 10 presents the image to the applying user 3 (step S62). The applying user 3 checks the image and notifies the transaction intermediary server 10 of their acceptance (step S63). The same process is performed for the item that the applying user 3 acquires from the soliciting user 2 (steps S64 to S66). The transaction intermediary server 10 proceeds to the next step when it receives acceptance notifications from both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3. Note that steps S61 to S63, which start with the soliciting user 2, and steps S64 to S66, which start with the applying user 3, are asynchronous, and the timing of each step is arbitrary.

[0032] When the soliciting user 2 receives the item sent by the applying user 3, the soliciting user 2 registers evaluation information with the transaction intermediary server 10 (step S71). The transaction intermediary server 10 presents the evaluation information to the applying user 3 (step S72). The applying user 3 confirms the evaluation information and notifies the transaction intermediary server 10 of his / her acceptance (step S73). The same process is performed for the item that the applying user 3 acquires from the soliciting user 2 (steps S74 to S76). Note that steps S71 to S73, which are initiated by the soliciting user 2, and steps S74 to S76, which are initiated by the applying user 3, are asynchronous, and the timing of each step is arbitrary. The intermediation of the barter transaction ends when acceptance notifications are received from both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3.

[0033] [Configuration of transaction intermediation system] Next, transaction intermediary server 10 will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[0034] Transaction intermediary server 10 provides clients 20 with intermediation services for bartering goods between users using a client-server system. As shown in FIG. 4, transaction intermediary server 10 includes a memory unit 100, a product information registration unit 200, an exchange information registration unit 300, an exchange information selection unit 400, an intermediary unit 500, and a user interface unit 600. Transaction intermediary server 10 is comprised of a conventional computer including a calculation unit, a main memory unit, an auxiliary memory unit, a control unit, a communication function unit, and an input / output unit. Each unit 100-600 of transaction intermediary server 10 can be configured by installing a program on a computer. Transaction intermediary server 10 can also be configured as dedicated hardware. Transaction intermediary server 10 can also be distributed and implemented across multiple devices.

[0035] The storage unit 100 stores at least user information 110, product information 120, exchange information 130, and transaction information 140.

[0036] User information 110 includes a user identifier, authentication information, contact information, and shipping destination information. The user identifier and authentication information uniquely identify the user in transaction intermediary server 10 and are used to authenticate the use of transaction intermediary server 10. When transaction intermediary server 10 performs user authentication processing, the authentication information is, for example, a password or the user's biometric information. When user authentication processing is outsourced to another authentication server, the authentication information is information that identifies the authentication server. Contact information is information used by other users and administrators to contact the user. Contact information includes a means of communication and information that identifies the user through the means of communication. Examples of contact information include "email address: exmaple.com" and "SNS account: example." Shipping destination information is information regarding the destination when sending the transaction item to the user. Examples of shipping destination information include the user's address.

[0037] The product information 120 is information relating to products related to entertainment groups, which are the intermediation target products in this embodiment. First, the characteristics of products related to entertainment groups will be described.

[0038] An entertainment group is identified by a group name. An entertainment group is composed of multiple members. Examples of items related to an entertainment group include trading cards, badges, and posters. A number of different items are distributed on various occasions, such as when an album is released or when a concert or event is held. The items are printed with photos and names of the entire entertainment group, individual members, or some of the members, and can be identified from their appearance. By supplementing the items with other information such as the group name, the items can be identified from the control number or description attached to the items.

[0039] In consideration of such product characteristics, product information 120 includes a data identifier 121, multiple hierarchical classification information 122, and product identification information 123, as shown in Fig. 5. Data identifier 121 is identification information for uniquely identifying each data item in product information 120, and is automatically assigned by the system.

[0040] The classification information 122 includes one or more sets of a classification name, its value, and a parent classification name. In this embodiment, at least the following classification names are reserved by the system: group name, member name, album name, and event name. Here, the group name is the highest-level classification, and the member name, album name, and event name belong to a lower level than the group name. The member name, album name, and event name may be at the same level or at a different level. The item identification information 123 is information that allows a user to identify an item from the identification information alone, or information that allows a user to identify an item from the identification information by complementing the classification information 122. An example of the item identification information 123 is appearance image data of an item. An example of the item identification information 123 is the item's management number or information describing the item.

[0041] In addition, classifications based on the company the group belongs to or other attributes (such as a country classification for Korean groups) may be set above the group name. Conversely, for individuals who do not belong to a group and work independently, the individual's name itself may be the highest classification.

[0042] Exchange information 130 is registered by soliciting user 2 and is information regarding the exchange transaction desired by soliciting user 2. As shown in FIG. 6, exchange information 130 includes a data identifier 131 that identifies each data item in exchange information 130, a user identifier 132 of soliciting user 2, a data identifier 133 of an item desired to be transferred by soliciting user 2, and a data identifier 134 of an item transferable by soliciting user 2. Exchange information 130 may further include additional information such as a message from soliciting user 2.

[0043] The transaction information 140 comprises various pieces of information relating to the mediation of the exchange transaction between the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3. As shown in FIG. 7, the transaction information 140 includes a data identifier 141 that identifies each piece of data in the transaction information 140, a user identifier 142 for the soliciting user 2, a data identifier 143 for the item to be transferred by the soliciting user 2, a user identifier 144 for the applying user 3, and a data identifier 145 for the item to be transferred by the applying user 3. As will be described later, the mediation process for the exchange transaction has many stages. Each stage requires various pieces of information appropriate to that stage, and it is also necessary to manage the progress of each stage. Therefore, the transaction information 140 includes necessary information and progress information 146 for each stage.

[0044] The product information registration unit 200 accepts input of product information 120 from a user or an administrator and stores it in the storage unit 100. Here, the product information registration unit 200 generates a list of categories included in already registered product information 120, presents this category list to the user or administrator, and allows the user or administrator to select a category. The product information registration unit 200 uses the category selected by the user or administrator as the classification information 122 of the product information 120 to be newly registered. Furthermore, if the category of the product to be newly registered is not registered in the product information 120, the product information registration unit 200 can prompt the user or administrator to input new classification information and register the input classification information as the classification information 122 of the new product. Furthermore, the product information registration unit 200 is equipped with an approval unit that, when a user inputs product information 120, presents the product information 120 to the administrator and stores the product information 120 in the storage unit 100 only after obtaining approval from the administrator.

[0045] The exchange information registration unit 300 accepts input of the goods to be received and the transferable goods from the soliciting user 2 and stores them in the storage unit 100 as exchange information 130. Here, the exchange information registration unit 300 generates a list of goods included in the already registered goods information 120, presents this list to the soliciting user, and allows the soliciting user to select and input the goods to be received and the transferable goods. In other words, when soliciting user 2 inputs the goods to be received and the transferable goods, there is no need to input character strings such as the goods names, and input can be performed simply by selecting.

[0046] The exchange information registration unit 300 includes a narrowing-down unit 310 that narrows down the list of items to be presented to the soliciting user 2. The narrowing-down unit 310 generates a list of categories included in the already registered item information 120, and presents this category list to the soliciting user 2, allowing the soliciting user to select one or more categories. The narrowing-down unit 310 extracts items that belong to the categories selected by the soliciting user 2 from the item information 120, and presents the extracted items to the soliciting user.

[0047] As described above, the categories included in the product information 120 are hierarchical. Therefore, the narrowing-down unit 310 first presents the top-level category to the solicited user 2, then presents the solicited user 2 with categories below the category selected by the solicited user 2, and then allows the solicited user 2 to select from the lower-level categories. This allows for efficient narrowing-down.

[0048] The exchange information selection unit 400 presents the applying user 3 with a list of exchange information 130 stored in the storage unit 100, allowing the applying user 3 to select exchange information with which they wish to trade. The exchange information selection unit 400 includes a narrowing unit 410 that narrows down the list of exchange information 130 presented to the applying user 3. The narrowing unit 410 can individually generate queries for items desired to be transferred and / or queries for transferable items based on a selection operation from the applying user 3. The narrowing unit 410 uses the generated query for items desired to be transferred to narrow down the search targets to items desired to be transferred included in the exchange information 130, and also uses the generated query for transferable items to narrow down the search targets to transferable items included in the exchange information 130, and presents the narrowed down exchange information 130 to the applying user 3. Only the narrowed down exchange information 130 may be presented here, or other exchange-related information may be presented additionally. For example, if, as a result of narrowing down the search, there is no matching exchange information 130 or there is very little, the system may also present information on recruited users 2 whose only desired item or transferable item matches the conditions.In addition, the system may also present exchange conditions that may interest the applying user 3 based on the content of the selection made by the applying user 3 (such as the category to which the item the applying user 3 wishes to acquire belongs), the types or trends of items owned by the applying user 3, which can be separately registered in the transaction intermediary server 10, the applying user 3's exchange history, etc.

[0049] Each query is generated as follows. The narrowing-down unit 410 presents the applying user 3 with categories included in the already registered item information 120, allowing the applying user 3 to make a selection. Furthermore, when the applying user 3 selects a category, the narrowing-down unit 410 can present the applying user 3 with categories below that category, allowing the applying user 3 to make a selection. Furthermore, the narrowing-down unit 410 can present the item identification information 123 of the item information 120 belonging to the category selected by the applying user 3, allowing the applying user 3 to make a selection. Through this processing, one or more categories and / or item identification information are presented to the applying user 3, and a query required for narrowing down the search is generated based on the selection by the applying user 3. If the selection by the applying user 3 includes item identification information, the generated query is "items having the identification information included in the items desired to be transferred or transferable items." If the selection by the applying user 3 includes only one or more categories, the generated query is "items having the items in the category included in the items desired to be transferred or transferable items."

[0050] The intermediary unit 500 mediates the barter transaction between the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3 based on the exchange information 130 selected by the applying user 3. The intermediary processing by the intermediary unit 500 is roughly divided into an application and acceptance stage in which the intermediary unit 500 mediates an application for an exchange transaction from the applying user 3 to the soliciting user 2 and an acceptance by the soliciting user 2, and an exchange stage in which the intermediary unit 500 mediates negotiations and confirmation regarding the exchange of goods between the applying user 3 and the soliciting user 2. Therefore, the intermediary unit 500 includes an application and approval processing unit 510 that processes the application and acceptance stage, and an exchange processing unit 520 that processes the exchange stage.

[0051] The application and acceptance processing unit 510 first presents the exchange information 130 selected by the applying user 3 to the applying user 3, and if the exchange information 130 contains multiple items desired to be received and transferable items, allows the applying user 3 to select any desired items desired to be received and transferable items from the multiple items desired to be received and transferable items. If the exchange information 130 contains only one desired item and one transferable item, no selection is required by the applying user 3. The application and acceptance processing unit 510 allows the applying user 3 to input their intention to apply, and upon input of the intention to apply, stores the application details in the transaction information 140.

[0052] The application and approval processing unit 510 notifies the soliciting user 2, who is the requestee, that an application has been made and presents the transaction information 140. The application and approval processing unit 510 prompts the soliciting user 2 to input an intention to accept, and upon receiving the input of the intention to accept, updates the progress status of the transaction information 140. This completes the application and approval stage, and the process moves to the exchange stage.

[0053] The exchange stage further includes six stages in chronological order: an actual item confirmation stage, a shipping method confirmation stage, a shipping date confirmation stage, a delivery destination confirmation stage, a delivery fact confirmation stage, and a transaction evaluation stage. Therefore, the exchange processing unit 520 includes an actual item confirmation processing unit 521, a shipping method confirmation processing unit 522, a shipping date confirmation processing unit 523, a delivery destination confirmation processing unit 524, a delivery fact confirmation processing unit 525, and a transaction evaluation processing unit 526. Note that the order of the stages from the actual item confirmation stage to the delivery destination confirmation stage can be arbitrarily changed.

[0054] The processing by the exchange processing unit 520 is performed so that the processing of all stages included in the exchange stage is displayed on one screen in the client 20. Furthermore, each of the processing units 521-526 included in the exchange processing unit 520 performs processing only after the processing of the stage preceding that processing unit is completed. Furthermore, each of the processing units 521-526 included in the exchange processing unit 520 stores the progress status of each stage and various information acquired at that stage as transaction information 140 in the storage unit 100.

[0055] The actual item confirmation processing unit 521 prompts both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3 to input an image of the actual appearance of the transferable item to the other party. The image may be a still image or a video. When the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3 input an image of the actual appearance of the transferable item, the actual item confirmation processing unit 521 presents the image of the appearance to the user with whom the transaction is made and prompts the user to input that they have confirmed the image of the other party's appearance. The actual item confirmation processing unit 521 stores the progress of this processing and the image of the appearance of each user as transaction information 140 in the memory unit 100.

[0056] The shipping method confirmation processing unit 522 presents multiple candidate shipping methods to both the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3, and allows the users to select the shipping method they wish to use to ship the transferable item. Once the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3 have selected a shipping method, the shipping method confirmation processing unit 522 presents the shipping method to the user with whom the transaction is being made and prompts the user to input that they have confirmed the other party's shipping method. The shipping method confirmation processing unit 522 stores the progress of this processing and each user's shipping method as transaction information 140 in the storage unit 100.

[0057] The shipping date confirmation processing unit 523 presents a calendar to both the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3, and allows the users to select the shipping date they wish to ship the transferable item. Once the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3 select a shipping date, the shipping date confirmation processing unit 523 presents the shipping date to the user who is the other party to the transaction, and allows the other party to input that they have confirmed the other party's shipping date. The shipping date confirmation processing unit 523 stores the progress of this processing and the shipping date of each user as transaction information 140 in the storage unit 100.

[0058] The destination confirmation processing unit 524 prompts both the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3 to input destination information for receiving the item. At this time, the intermediary unit 500 can present the destination information included in the user information 110 as the default destination information. Once the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3 have selected destination information, the destination confirmation processing unit 524 presents the destination information to the user who is the other party to the transaction and prompts the other party to input that they have confirmed the other party's destination information. The destination confirmation processing unit 524 stores the progress of this processing and the destination information of each user as transaction information 140 in the storage unit 100.

[0059] The shipping fact confirmation processing unit 525 has both the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3 input evidence images that can confirm the fact that the transferable item has been shipped. The evidence images may be still images or videos. For example, the evidence images may be videos of an envelope containing the transferable item being posted into a mailbox. When the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3 input the evidence images, the shipping fact confirmation processing unit 525 presents the evidence images to the user with whom the transaction is being made and has the user input a statement that they have confirmed the other party's evidence image. The shipping fact confirmation processing unit 525 stores the progress of this processing and each user's evidence image as transaction information 140 in the memory unit 100.

[0060] The transaction evaluation processing unit 526 prompts both the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3 to input evaluation information about the trading partner. The evaluation information may include a predetermined evaluation rank and evaluation comments. The transaction evaluation processing unit 526 may present a template as a default evaluation comment. When the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3 input the evaluation information, the transaction evaluation processing unit 526 presents the evaluation information to the trading partner user and prompts them to input that they have confirmed the other party's delivery address information. The intermediary unit 500 stores the progress of this processing and each user's evaluation and delivery address information as transaction information 140 in the memory unit 100.

[0061] The user interface unit 600 is an interface function unit between the product information registration unit 200, exchange information registration unit 300, exchange information selection unit 400, and intermediation unit 500 and the client 20. The user interface unit 600 includes a Web interface function and / or an API (Application Programming Interface) function.

[0062] The client 20 is a conventionally known computer including a calculation unit, a main memory unit, an auxiliary memory unit, a control unit, a communication function unit, a display unit, and an input unit. For example, the client 20 is a highly functional mobile communication terminal called a smartphone. Alternatively, the client 20 is a personal computer.

[0063] If the user interface unit 600 of the transaction intermediary server 10 has a web interface function, the client 20 can function as a client by accessing the transaction intermediary server 10 using a browser installed on the client 20. If the user interface unit 600 of the transaction intermediary server 10 has an API function, the client 20 can be configured by installing a dedicated program on the computer that accesses the API function and functions as a client of the transaction intermediary server 10. The dedicated program can be installed on the computer via a network or a specified storage medium.

[0064] According to the transaction intermediation system 1 of this embodiment, when the applying user 3 selects exchange information 130, the applying user 3 can narrow down the exchange information 130 by selecting the item classification and / or item identification information presented by the system. In other words, the applying user 3 does not need to input a character string such as a classification name, and can narrow down the exchange information 130 simply by performing a selection operation. Therefore, the applying user 3 can efficiently search for the exchange information 130 that he or she desires. This makes the system highly convenient for the applying user 3.

[0065] Furthermore, when the applying user 3 narrows down the exchange information 130, the applicant user 3 can distinguish between desired transfer items and transferable items and narrow down the search using classification and / or item identification information. This allows for an efficient search with less search noise.

[0066] Furthermore, when the applying user 3 narrows down the exchange information 130, the applying user 3 can narrow down the exchange information 130 by sequentially selecting from the hierarchical classifications from the highest level to the lowest level. Therefore, the applying user 3 can efficiently search for the exchange information 130 that he or she desires.

[0067] Furthermore, according to the transaction intermediation system 1 of this embodiment, when the soliciting user 2 registers the exchange information 130, the soliciting user 2 can register the exchange information 130 by selecting an item presented by the system. In other words, the soliciting user 2 does not need to input a string of characters such as the item's classification name, and can register the exchange information 130 simply by performing a selection operation. This provides high convenience for the soliciting user 2. Furthermore, because the exchange information 130 registered in the system is normalized, it is possible to prevent search omissions and search noise when the applying user 3 narrows down the exchange information 130.

[0068] Furthermore, when the soliciting user 2 selects an item, the system allows the user 2 to narrow down the items available for selection by selecting an item category presented by the system. In other words, the soliciting user 2 does not need to input a character string such as a category name, and can narrow down the items simply by selecting. Therefore, the soliciting user 2 can efficiently search for the item he or she desires. This makes the system highly convenient for the soliciting user 2.

[0069] It should be noted that when the soliciting user 2 or the applying user 3 narrows down the exchange information 130, it is not precluded from using or combining a method such as entering a character string in a search box or the like to search by character string. The transaction intermediary server 10 may present one or more items or categories as options as search results to the soliciting user 2 or the applying user 3 who has performed the search, and allow the soliciting user 2 or the applying user 3 to select from the presented items or categories. It should be noted that when the soliciting user 2 or the applying user 3 selects a specific category, it is also possible to proceed with sequential selection from the selected category towards lower levels.

[0070] Furthermore, when a specific category is selected and a keyword search or the like is performed, items or categories that belong to the category below the selected category may be presented to the recruiting user 2 or applying user 3 as options.

[0071] In order to make it more efficient to input items desired to be transferred and items available for transfer, the soliciting user 2 or applying user 3 may be presented with a group of items belonging to a specific category or items belonging to a subcategory of a specific category, and the soliciting user 2 or applying user 3 may be able to simultaneously select multiple items from the group of items presented in a group.

[0072] Furthermore, according to the transaction intermediation system 1 of this embodiment, at the stage of exchanging goods between the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3, each user can input the shipping method and shipping date only by selecting the desired option without having to input a string of characters. Also, at the stage of exchanging goods between the soliciting user 2 and the applying user 3, when each user inputs shipping address information and evaluation comments, the shipping address information and default evaluation comments registered as user information are presented, thereby reducing the input work. This results in a system that is highly convenient for each user.

[0073] If desired (for example, from the viewpoint of ensuring a trusting relationship between the parties in the exchange), input of a character string may be required for some transactions. Furthermore, it may be possible to input a character string in case of a request or problem that is difficult to handle by a selection operation alone. It may also be possible to exchange direct messages between the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3.

[0074] Furthermore, according to the transaction intermediation system 1 of this embodiment, at the stage of exchanging goods between the recruiting user 2 and the applying user 3, the users can mutually confirm the image of the actual appearance of the goods and the proof image confirming the fact of shipment, making it a system that allows each user to carry out barter transactions with peace of mind. [Example]

[0075] An example of transaction intermediation system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described below. Here, the operation of transaction intermediation device 1 will be described using a screen displayed on client 20 when applying user 3 selects exchange information.

[0076] Fig. 8 shows a screen for selecting and narrowing down exchange information 130 using identification information. As shown in Fig. 8, a group name display area 910 is set at the top of a selection screen 900 using identification information. Group names, which are the highest level classification, are presented in this group name display area 910 and can be selected by the applying user 3.

[0077] Below the group name display area 910, there is formed an area 920 that displays the item identification information of the item desired to be transferred selected by the applying user 3, and an area 930 that displays the item identification information of the transferable item selected by the applying user 3. Each of the areas 920, 930 has an identification information addition button 921, 931 set for adding item identification information.

[0078] The narrowing down section 410 of the exchange information selection unit 400 generates a query using the group name selected in the group name display area 910, the item identification information of the item desired to be transferred displayed in area 920, and the identification information of the transferable item displayed in area 930, and narrows down the exchange information 130 using this generated query. A list of the narrowed down exchange information 130 is displayed in an exchange information display area 940 formed below the areas 920 and 930. The exchange information 130 displayed in the exchange information display area 940 can be selected by the applying user 3. When the applying user 3 selects the exchange information 130, the process transitions to intermediation processing by the intermediation unit 500.

[0079] When the above-mentioned identification information addition buttons 921, 931 are pressed, an identification information selection screen 1000 for selecting identification information is superimposed and displayed, as shown in Fig. 9. A group name display area 1010 is set at the top of the identification information selection screen 1000. Group names, which are the highest level of classification, are presented in this group name display area 1010 and can be selected by the applying user 3. The selection of group names is linked between the selection screen 900 using identification information and the identification information selection screen 1000.

[0080] Below the group name display area 1010, a sub-category area 1020 is formed for displaying and selecting categories at a level lower than the group name. The sub-category area 1020 displays categories narrowed down by the group name selected in the group name display area 1010 and selected by the applying user 3. A sub-category display button 1021 is also set in the sub-category area 1020. When this sub-category display button 1021 is pressed, all categories narrowed down by the group name selected in the group name display area 1010 are displayed, as shown in FIG. 10. The displayed categories can be selected by the applying user 3. When the applying user 3 selects a category, the screen returns to the identification information selection screen 1000 of FIG. 9 with the category selected.

[0081] Below the sub-category area 1020, an item display area 1030 is formed, which displays a list of items narrowed down by the group name selected in the group name display area 1010 and the classification displayed in the sub-category area 1020. This item display area 1030 displays item identification information 123 from the item information 120 of each item. Furthermore, if each item has classifications lower than the classification displayed in the sub-category area 1020, the items are displayed for each of those classifications. The item identification information 123 displayed in the sub-category area 1020 can be selected by the applying user 3. When the applying user 3 selects item identification information 123, the screen returns to the selection screen 900 of FIG. 8 with the item identification information 123 added to the items desired to be transferred or the items available for transfer.

[0082] Fig. 11 shows a screen for selecting and narrowing down exchange information 130 by member name. As shown in Fig. 11, a group name display area 1110 is set at the top of a selection screen 1100 using member names. Group names, which are the highest level of classification, are presented in this group name display area 1110, and can be selected by the applying user 3.

[0083] Below the group name display area 1110 are an area 1120 that displays the names of members associated with the item that the applying user 3 wishes to receive, an area 1130 that displays the names of members associated with the item that the applying user 3 is transferring, and an area 1140 that displays the names of members narrowed down by the group name selected in the group name display area 1110. Each member name displayed in area 1140 can be selected by the applying user 3. When the applying user 3 selects a member name, the member name is added to area 1120 or area 1130.

[0084] The narrowing down section 410 of the exchange information selection unit 400 generates a query using the group name selected in the group name display area 1110 and the group names displayed in areas 1120 and 1130, and narrows down the exchange information 130 using this generated query. A list of the narrowed down exchange information 130 is displayed in an exchange information display area 1150 formed below the area 1140. The exchange information 130 displayed in the exchange information display area 1150 can be selected by the applying user 3. When the applying user 3 selects the exchange information 130, the process transitions to intermediation processing by the intermediation unit 500.

[0085] Fig. 12 shows a screen for selecting and narrowing down exchange information 130 based on album names. As shown in Fig. 12, a group name display area 1210 is set at the top of a selection screen 1200 using member names. Group names, which are the highest level of classification, are presented in this group name display area 1210 and can be selected by the applying user 3.

[0086] Below the group name display area 1210, an area 1220 is formed that displays album names narrowed down by the group name selected in the group name display area 1210. The album names displayed in area 1220 are listed by publication year, which is a lower level classification than the album name. The album names displayed in area 1220 can be selected by the applying user 3.

[0087] The narrowing down section 410 of the exchangeable information selection section 400 generates a query using the group name selected in the group name display area 1210 and the album name selected in the area 1220, and narrows down the exchangeable information 130 using this generated query. A list of the narrowed down exchangeable information 130 is displayed in an exchangeable information display area 1230 formed below the area 1220. The exchangeable information 130 displayed in the exchangeable information display area 1230 can be selected by the applying user 3. When the applying user 3 selects the exchangeable information 130, the process transitions to intermediation processing by the intermediation section 500.

[0088] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and various improvements and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

[0089] For example, in the above embodiment, the narrowing down section 410 of the exchangeable information selection section 400 generates a query using only the classification and / or identification information selected by the applying user 3 as a key, and uses this query to narrow down the exchangeable information 130. However, the query may also be generated using other parameters. For example, other parameters may include the priority order and priority ranking of the applying user 3 for multiple classifications and / or identification information. By taking other parameters into account in this way, the narrowing down range can be broadened or narrowed compared to the exchangeable information 130 narrowed down by the query in the above embodiment. This makes it possible to prevent missed searches and search noise, thereby providing greater convenience for the applying user 3.

[0090] In the above embodiment, an external image of the item, or a control number or information describing the item is used as the identification information 123 included in the item information 120. This allows the system to be operated using the control number or information describing the item even in situations where an external image of the item cannot be obtained. On the other hand, from the user's perspective, it is difficult to intuitively recognize an item using the control number or information describing the item, so it is preferable that the identification information be an external image of the item. Therefore, in situations where an external image of the item cannot be obtained, an image may be generated from the classification information 122 included in the item information 120, and this generated image may be registered as identification information. A generative AI using deep learning can be used as an image generation technology. Furthermore, it is preferable that the generated image is always generated to have the same image (pattern or color) for a specific classification combination.

[0091] Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the shipment of goods is carried out directly between users, but a third party may also be involved. For example, in recent years, delivery companies have begun to offer anonymous delivery services, and the system may link with these anonymous delivery services. In this case, the transaction intermediary server 10 and the server of the anonymous delivery service are linked, and various information required for the anonymous delivery service is shared between the servers. Furthermore, the shipping method confirmation process in the intermediary unit 500 allows the anonymous delivery service to be selected. Furthermore, the destination confirmation processing unit of the intermediary unit 500 confirms information identifying anonymous delivery between each user in the anonymous delivery service.

[0092] Furthermore, for example, while the above embodiment illustrates the case where the traded item is an item related to an entertainment group, the present invention can also be applied to other items. For example, real or virtual items related to a virtual entertainment group such as a VTuber group can be traded. Furthermore, for example, real or virtual items related to works such as movies or manga can be traded. Furthermore, for example, real or virtual items related to any organization such as a sports team or a group that is a collection of such organizations can be traded. In the above embodiment, the classification information and identification information included in the item information are set according to the characteristics of the items related to the entertainment group, but the classification information and identification information may be set appropriately depending on the characteristics of the traded items. [Explanation of symbols]

[0093] 1. Transaction intermediation system 10...Transaction intermediary server 20...Client 100...Storage section 110...User information 120…Goods information 130...Exchange information 140...Transaction information 200...Item Information Registration Department 300...Exchange Information Registration Department 310...Narrowing section 400...Exchange information selection section 410...Narrowing section 500…Intermediary department 510...Application and Approval Processing Unit 520...Exchange processing unit 521... Physical inspection processing section 522...Shipping method confirmation processing section 523...Shipping date confirmation processing section 524...Delivery destination confirmation processing unit 525...Shipping fact confirmation processing section 526...Transaction evaluation processing unit

Claims

1. A transaction intermediary server that mediates barter transactions of goods between users, a first storage unit that stores product information of a product to be traded, the product information including at least product identification information and product classification; a second storage unit that stores exchange information including the first user's desired item and transferable item; an exchange information registration unit that receives exchange information from the first user and stores it in a second storage unit; an exchange information selection unit that presents the exchange information stored in the second storage unit to the second user and allows the second user to select exchange information with which the second user wishes to trade; an intermediation unit that mediates a barter transaction between a second user who has selected exchange information using the exchange information selection unit and a first user related to the exchange information selected by the second user; The exchange information selection unit includes a first narrowing-down unit that presents to the second user classifications and / or identification information included in the item information stored in the first storage unit, allows the second user to select classifications and / or identification information of items that the second user can transfer and / or wishes to receive, extracts exchange information in which items belonging to the classification selected by the second user and / or items having the identification information selected by the second user are included in the items desired to be transferred or transferable items, and presents the extracted exchange information to the second user. A transaction intermediary server characterized by:

2. The exchange information selection unit extracts exchange information in which the transferable items include items belonging to a category selected by the second user for the transferable items and / or items having identification information selected by the second user, and / or extracts exchange information in which the transferable items include items belonging to a category selected by the second user for the transferable items and / or items having identification information selected by the second user.

2. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1.

3. the product information is stored in a first storage unit with a plurality of hierarchical classifications, The first narrowing-down unit allows the second user to sequentially select categories belonging to an arbitrary number of layers in a descending direction from the category belonging to the highest layer.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The exchange information registration unit presents the items related to the item information stored in the first storage unit to the first user and allows the first user to select an item to be transferred and an item that can be transferred from the presented items.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

5. the exchange information registration unit presents the items stored in the first storage unit to the first user and allows the first user to select an item to be transferred and / or an item that can be transferred from the presented items; The exchange information registration unit further includes a second narrowing-down unit that presents the classifications included in the item information stored in the first storage unit to the first user, allows the first user to select a classification of items that the first user can transfer and / or wishes to receive, extracts items that belong to the classification selected by the first user, and presents the extracted items to the first user.

5. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 4.

6. The intermediary unit includes a product selection unit that allows the second user to select one or more transferable products and / or one or more transferable products that the second user wishes to trade from among the plurality of transferable products and / or transferable products included in the exchange information selected by the second user.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The intermediary unit includes an actual item confirmation unit that acquires image data of the actual item to be transferred to the transaction partner from the first user and / or the second user and presents the acquired image data to the transaction partner.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The intermediary unit includes a shipping confirmation unit that acquires image data from the first user and / or the second user that proves that the item has been shipped to the trading partner, and presents the acquired image data to the trading partner.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

9. an item information registration unit that receives input of item information of a new item from a third user or an administrator and registers the received item information in the first storage unit; The product information registration unit presents the classification included in the product information stored in the first storage unit to the third user or the administrator, and allows the third user or the administrator to select a new product classification, and registers the classification selected by the third user or the administrator in the first storage unit as a classification included in the new product information.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The items to be traded include items related to a group to which multiple people and / or characters belong, The item information includes at least a group name and a person name and / or a character name as an item classification.

3. The transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

11. A transaction intermediation method for intermediating barter transactions of goods between users on a server, comprising: a step in which the server acquires product information of the product to be traded, the product information including at least product identification information and classification, and stores the product information in a first storage unit; The server acquires exchange information including the item desired to be transferred and the transferable item from the first user and stores the information in a second storage unit; a step in which the server presents the exchange information stored in the second storage unit to the second user and allows the second user to select exchange information with which the second user wishes to trade; a step in which the server mediates a barter transaction between a second user who has selected exchange information and a first user related to the exchange information selected by the second user; The step of selecting exchange information includes a step of presenting the classification and / or identification information included in the item information stored in the first storage unit to the second user, and having the second user select the classification and / or identification information of items that the second user can transfer and / or wishes to receive, extracting exchange information in which items belonging to the classification selected by the second user and / or items having the identification information selected by the second user are included in the items that the second user wishes to receive or the transferable items, and presenting the extracted exchange information to the second user. A transaction intermediation method characterized by:

12. A program for causing a computer to function as each unit in the transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

13. A program for causing a computer to function as a client that accesses the transaction intermediary server according to claim 1 or 2.

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