Server device, and control method and program for server device

Abstract

To provide a server device that contributes to congestion reduction at the entrance and exit of a movie theater, etc.SOLUTION: A server device comprises registration control means and authentication control means. The registration control means acquires biological information on a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for entering predetermined facilities and ticket information on the ticket, and stores the acquired biological information on the ticket purchaser and the ticket information. The authentication means receives an authentication request including biological information on a person to be authenticated who is to enter the predetermined facilities from an authentication terminal installed in the predetermined facilities. The authentication means authenticates the person to be authenticated based upon the biological information included in the authentication request and the ticket information, and transmits the authentication result to the authentication terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] There are technologies related to biometric authentication and facial recognition.

[0003] For example, the information processing device of Patent Document 1 includes a storage processing means and a matching means. When a ticket is issued, the storage processing means acquires an image of the person who issued the ticket, and stores authentication information based on the image of the person and seat information identifying the seat for the issued ticket in association with each other. The matching means acquires a venue image captured of the venue where the seat for the issued ticket is located, and, based on the venue image, extracts a pair of authentication information for the person in the venue image and seat information for the seat where the person is located. The matching means performs a matching process to determine whether the extracted pair of authentication information for the person and seat information for the seat are stored in association with each other. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-144933 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] As described in paragraph

[0002] of Patent Document 1, at movie theaters, concert venues, etc., staff members check the tickets of audience members at the entrances and exits of the venue. However, when tickets are checked visually by a person, there is a limit to the number of tickets (number of people) that one staff member can check. As a result, congestion often occurs at the entrances and exits of the venue as the screening time of a movie approaches.

[0006] A primary object of the present invention is to provide a server device, a control method for a server device, and a program that contribute to reducing congestion at the entrances and exits of movie theaters and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a server device comprising: a registration control means for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a specified facility and ticket information related to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; and an authentication control means for receiving an authentication request from an authentication terminal installed at the specified facility, the authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting the authentication result to the authentication terminal.

[0008] According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a control method for a server device, comprising: a registration control process for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a specified facility and ticket information related to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; and an authentication control process for receiving an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed at the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting the authentication result to the authentication terminal.

[0009] According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a program for causing a computer mounted on a server device to execute the following steps: a registration control process for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a specified facility and ticket information related to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; and an authentication control process for receiving an authentication request from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, the authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting the authentication result to the authentication terminal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to each aspect of the present invention, a server device, a method for controlling a server device, and a program are provided that contribute to reducing congestion at the entrances and exits of movie theaters, etc. Note that the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above. The present invention may achieve other effects instead of or in addition to the effects described above. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart for explaining an outline of the operation of one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining the operation of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of a server device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of a sales status management database according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a ticket purchaser management database according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the authentication control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of a sales terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the sales control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a sales terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a display of a sales terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of an authentication terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of a movie theater according to a modified example of the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of a server device according to a modified example of the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of the internal configuration of a movie theater according to a modified example of the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration of a server device according to a modified example of the embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a server device according to the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] First, an overview of one embodiment will be described. Note that the reference numerals in the drawings are added to each element for convenience as an example to facilitate understanding, and the description of this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Furthermore, unless otherwise specified, the blocks shown in each drawing represent functional units, not hardware units. Connection lines between blocks in each drawing include both bidirectional and unidirectional lines. Unidirectional arrows are used to schematically indicate the flow of main signals (data) and do not exclude bidirectionality. Note that in this specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be assigned the same reference numerals to avoid redundant explanation.

[0013] A server device 100 according to one embodiment includes a registration control means 101 and an authentication control means 102 (see FIG. 1). The registration control means 101 acquires biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information related to the ticket, and stores the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information (step S1 in FIG. 2). The authentication control means 102 receives an authentication request from an authentication terminal installed in the predetermined facility, the authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the predetermined facility (step S2). The authentication control means 102 authenticates the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmits the authentication result to the authentication terminal (step S3).

[0014] The server device 100 acquires the biometric information and ticket information of the ticket purchaser. The server device 100, for example, stores the acquired biometric information and ticket information in a database. The server device 100 uses the biometric information and ticket information stored in the database to authenticate the ticket purchaser who attempts to enter a predetermined facility such as a movie theater. In other words, the server device 100 authenticates users who attempt to enter a movie theater or the like using biometric authentication. With biometric authentication, there is no need for an attendant or the like to visually confirm the validity of the ticket, and therefore the processing time required for each person wishing to enter is short. As a result, congestion at the entrances and exits of movie theaters and the like is alleviated.

[0015] Specific embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0016] [First embodiment] The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0017] [System Configuration] 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3, the information processing system includes a server device 10, a sales terminal 20, and an authentication terminal 30.

[0018] The information processing system disclosed herein authenticates a user who attempts to enter a predetermined area (predetermined facility, predetermined venue) such as a movie theater, a concert hall, a theater, etc. In a first embodiment, the configuration, operation, etc. of the information processing system will be described using a movie theater as an example.

[0019] The server device 10 is a server that sells tickets for movies shown at movie theaters and authenticates visitors to the movie theaters. The server device 10 may be installed inside the movie theater or on a network (on the cloud).

[0020] The vending terminal 20 is a terminal (ticket vending machine) that sells movie tickets. The vending terminal 20 is equipped with input / output devices such as a camera device and a touch panel. The vending terminal 20 is installed outside the movie theater. In the first embodiment, a case will be described in which the vending terminal 20 sells tickets for unreserved seats.

[0021] The authentication terminal 30 is installed at the entrance and exit of the movie theater. For example, the authentication terminal 30 is a gate device equipped with a gate, a flapper, etc. The authentication terminal 30 controls the gate, etc., and controls the passage of users who wish to enter the movie theater. Users who have purchased tickets can enter the movie theater by passing through the authentication terminal 30.

[0022] 3, a user carries a terminal 40. The user purchases movie tickets and the like using the terminal 40. Examples of the terminal 40 include mobile terminals such as smartphones and tablets.

[0023] The devices shown in Figure 3 are interconnected. Specifically, server device 10, sales terminal 20, and authentication terminal 30 are connected by wired or wireless communication means and configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0024] The configuration of the information processing system shown in Fig. 3 is an example and is not intended to be limiting. For example, the system may include multiple server devices 10. Load balancing and redundancy may be achieved by using multiple server devices 10. Alternatively, multiple sales terminals 20 and authentication terminals 30 may be installed inside and outside the movie theater.

[0025] [General operation] Next, the general operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0026] <Purchase tickets> A user wishing to watch a movie purchases a ticket at the vending terminal 20. The vending terminal 20 acquires the viewing date on which the user wishes to watch the movie using a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like. In other words, the user can purchase not only tickets for the current day but also tickets for future dates at the vending terminal 20.

[0027] When the viewing date is acquired, the sales terminal 20 transmits a "request for showing list" including the acquired viewing date to the server device 10 (see FIG. 4).

[0028] When the server device 10 receives the showtime list request, it generates a showtime list of movies that will be screened on the viewing date included in the showtime list request and for which tickets are available for sale.

[0029] The server device 10 transmits a response (positive response or negative response) to the request for providing a showing list to the vending terminal 20. Specifically, if the server device 10 has successfully generated a showing list, it transmits a positive response including the generated showing list to the vending terminal 20. On the other hand, if the server device 10 has not been able to generate a showing list, it transmits a negative response indicating this to the vending terminal 20.

[0030] Once the screening list is obtained, the vending terminal 20 displays a list of movies (list of movies by screen and time slot) that will be screened on the date (viewing date) specified by the user. The user selects the movie they wish to watch from the displayed list. In this document, the independent space (room) within the movie theater where the movie is screened is referred to as a "screen."

[0031] The vending terminal 20 performs payment processing for the movie ticket selected by the user. Once payment for the ticket has been completed, the vending terminal 20 transmits the ticket purchaser's biometric information and information about the purchased ticket (hereinafter referred to as ticket information) to the server device 10. Specifically, the vending terminal 20 transmits a "purchaser registration request" including the ticket purchaser's biometric information and ticket information to the server device 10 (see FIG. 5).

[0032] Examples of biometric information include data (features) calculated from physical characteristics unique to an individual, such as a face, fingerprint, voiceprint, veins, retina, and iris pattern. Alternatively, the biometric information may be image data such as a face image or fingerprint image. The biometric information may be any information that includes the user's physical characteristics. In this disclosure, a case where biometric information related to a person's "face" (a face image or features generated from a face image) is used will be described.

[0033] The ticket information also includes the validity date of the ticket purchased by the user (the date of viewing the movie), the title of the movie, the screen number where the movie will be screened, the screening time, etc.

[0034] Upon receiving the purchaser registration request, the server device 10 stores the biometric information and ticket information included in the purchaser registration request in the ticket purchaser management database, which will be described in detail later.

[0035] The server device 10 transmits a response (positive response or negative response) to the purchaser registration request to the sales terminal 20. If the biometric information, etc. is successfully registered, the server device 10 transmits a positive response indicating that to the sales terminal 20. If the biometric information, etc. is not successfully registered, the server device 10 transmits a negative response indicating that to the sales terminal 20.

[0036] If a positive response (registration successful) is received, the sales terminal 20 notifies the user that the ticket purchase is complete. At that time, the sales terminal 20 may issue a paper ticket or a digital ticket (a ticket converted into a two-dimensional barcode, etc.).

[0037] If a negative response (registration failed) is received, vending terminal 20 performs error processing such as reacquiring the user's biometric information.

[0038] <Entering the cinema> When the screening time of the movie for which the user has purchased a ticket approaches, the user passes through the authentication terminal 30 and is allowed to enter the movie theater.

[0039] When a person wishing to enter (person to be authenticated) is detected, authentication terminal 30 acquires biometric information of the detected person to be authenticated. Authentication terminal 30 transmits an authentication request including the acquired biometric information to server device 10 (see FIG. 6).

[0040] The server device 10 authenticates the person seeking admission (person to be authenticated) using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the information (biometric information, ticket information) stored in the ticket purchaser management database.

[0041] Specifically, the server device 10 identifies the person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the movie theater from among the ticket purchasers stored in the ticket purchaser management database through a matching process using biometric information.

[0042] Furthermore, the server device 10 determines whether the identified person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the movie theater based on the ticket information of the person to be authenticated. Specifically, the server device 10 determines that the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the movie theater if the authentication date and time of the person to be authenticated is between a predetermined time before the screening date and time of the movie corresponding to the ticket purchased by the person to be authenticated and the closing date and time of the movie.

[0043] If the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the movie theater, the server device 10 determines that the authentication of the person wishing to enter (person to be authenticated) has been successful. If the matching process has failed or the person to be authenticated is not qualified to enter the movie theater, the server device 10 determines that the authentication of the person wishing to enter (person to be authenticated) has failed.

[0044] The server device 10 notifies the authentication terminal 30 of the authentication result (authentication success, authentication failure). If the authentication is successful, the server device 10 transmits a positive response indicating that to the authentication terminal 30. If the authentication is unsuccessful, the server device 10 transmits a negative response indicating that to the authentication terminal 30.

[0045] If an affirmative response (authentication success) is received, the authentication terminal 30 opens the gate and allows the person to be authenticated to enter.

[0046] If a negative response (authentication failure) is received, the authentication terminal 30 closes the gate and denies the person to be authenticated entry.

[0047] Next, details of each device included in the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0048] [Server device] 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration (processing module) of the server device 10 according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 7, the server device 10 includes a communication control unit 201, a sales control unit 202, a registration control unit 203, an authentication control unit 204, and a storage unit 205.

[0049] Communication control unit 201 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from vending terminal 20. Communication control unit 201 also transmits data toward vending terminal 20. Communication control unit 201 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. Communication control unit 201 transmits data acquired from other processing modules toward other devices. In this way, other processing modules transmit and receive data to and from other devices via communication control unit 201. Communication control unit 201 has a function as a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and a function as a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0050] The sales control unit 202 is a means for controlling the sale of movie tickets.

[0051] The sales control unit 202 acquires information about the opening days of the cinema and the schedule for each screen from the cinema manager or person in charge.

[0052] Furthermore, the sales control unit 202 manages the schedule and ticket sales status of each screen using a sales status management database (see FIG. 8). Note that the sales status management database shown in FIG. 8 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored.

[0053] As shown in Figure 8, the sales status management database stores the title of the movie being screened, the capacity, and the number of remaining seats for each screen number and time slot. The sales status management database also stores a schedule for each business day. Figure 8 shows the schedule (sales status of each ticket) for screenings on February 10, 2024.

[0054] The sales control unit 202 receives a request for a showing list from the sales terminal 20. As described above, the request for a showing list includes the date on which the user wishes to watch the movie (viewing date).

[0055] Upon receiving a showtime list request, the sales control unit 202 accesses the sales status management database and generates a showtime list for the viewing date included in the showtime list request. Specifically, the sales control unit 202 generates the showtime list by extracting movies with remaining seats from among the movies being screened on the viewing date. In other words, movies with no remaining seats on the viewing date are excluded from the showtime list.

[0056] For example, if the viewing date included in the screening list request is February 10, 2024, a screening list including movie titles by screen number and time slot (titles of movies with remaining seats) will be generated from the information stored in the sales status management database shown in Figure 8.

[0057] When the sales control unit 202 is requested to provide a showing list for the day, it generates a showing list for movies that are currently showing at the time the request for showing list is received or that will be shown in a time slot after the time the request for showing list is received.

[0058] The sales control unit 202 transmits the generated showing list to the sales terminal 20. Specifically, when the showing list is generated, the sales control unit 202 transmits an affirmative response including the generated showing list to the sales terminal 20 as a response to the ticket list provision request.

[0059] For example, if there are no tickets available for sale on the viewing date (if there are no movies with remaining seats), the sales control unit 202 sends a negative response to the sales terminal 20 indicating this.

[0060] The registration control unit 203 is a means for controlling the registration of ticket purchasers. The registration control unit 203 acquires biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility (for example, a movie theater) and ticket information related to the ticket. The registration control unit 203 stores the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information in a ticket purchaser management database.

[0061] The registration control unit 203 receives a purchaser registration request from the sales terminal 20. The registration control unit 203 processes the received purchaser registration request.

[0062] When receiving a purchaser registration request, the registration control unit 203 generates a feature amount from the biometric information (face image) included in the request.

[0063] Note that existing technology can be used for the feature generation process by the registration control unit 203, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted. For example, the registration control unit 203 extracts the eyes, nose, mouth, etc. from the face image as feature points. Thereafter, the registration control unit 203 calculates the positions of the feature points and the distances between the feature points as feature amounts (generating a feature vector consisting of multiple feature amounts).

[0064] After generating the feature, the registration control unit 203 adds a new entry to the ticket purchaser management database and stores the ticket purchaser's biometric information (feature) and ticket information (see FIG. 9). Note that the ticket purchaser management database shown in FIG. 9 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored. For example, a "facial image" may be registered in the ticket purchaser management database as biometric information.

[0065] The registration control unit 203 transmits a response to the purchaser registration request to the sales terminal 20.

[0066] Once the biometric information and ticket information are stored in the ticket purchaser management database, the registration control unit 203 sends an affirmative response to the sales terminal 20 indicating that the ticket purchaser information has been correctly registered.

[0067] For example, if biometric information, etc. cannot be stored in the ticket purchaser management database because valid features cannot be generated from the facial image, the registration control unit 203 sends a negative response to the sales terminal 20 indicating that registration of the ticket purchaser's information has failed.

[0068] Furthermore, upon receiving a purchaser registration request, the registration control unit 203 reduces the number of available seats for the movie corresponding to the ticket information included in the purchaser registration request. In response to receiving a purchaser registration request, the registration control unit 203 updates the sales status management database.

[0069] The authentication control unit 204 is a means for executing control relating to the authentication of ticket purchasers (entry applicants) who are attempting to enter a movie theater.

[0070] The authentication control unit 204 receives an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter a predetermined facility (for example, a movie theater) from the authentication terminal 30 installed in the predetermined facility. The authentication control unit 204 authenticates the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the biometric information and ticket information stored in the ticket purchaser management database, and transmits the authentication result to the authentication terminal 30.

[0071] The authentication control unit 204 processes an authentication request received from the authentication terminal 30 .

[0072] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the authentication control unit 204 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The operation of the authentication control unit 204 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0073] When receiving an authentication request, the authentication control unit 204 executes a matching process using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the biometric information included in the ticket purchaser management database (step S101).

[0074] Specifically, the authentication control unit 204 calculates the feature amount from the face image included in the authentication request.

[0075] Thereafter, the authentication control unit 204 sets the calculated feature amount as a matching target and performs a matching process with the feature amount stored in the ticket purchaser management database. More specifically, the authentication control unit 204 sets the calculated feature amount (feature vector) as a matching target and performs a 1:N matching (N is a positive integer, the same applies hereinafter) with the multiple feature amounts stored in the ticket purchaser management database.

[0076] The authentication control unit 204 calculates the similarity between the feature to be matched and each of the multiple feature values ​​on the registration side. The similarity can be calculated using chi-square distance, Euclidean distance, or the like. Note that the greater the distance, the lower the similarity, and the closer the distance, the higher the similarity.

[0077] The authentication control unit 204 determines that the matching process is successful if, among the multiple feature quantities stored in the ticket purchaser management database, there is a feature quantity whose similarity with the feature quantity to be matched is equal to or greater than a predetermined value. If the matching process is successful, the ticket purchaser of the entry with the highest similarity is identified as the admission applicant (person to be authenticated) detected by the authentication terminal 30.

[0078] If the above characteristics are not present, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the matching process has failed.

[0079] If the matching process fails (step S102, No branch), the authentication control unit 204 sets the authentication result to authentication failure (step S103).

[0080] If the matching process is successful (step S102, Yes branch), the authentication control unit 204 determines whether the ticket purchaser identified by the matching process is eligible to enter the movie theater (determining admission eligibility; step S104).

[0081] Specifically, if the date and time when the authentication request is received (authentication date and time) is between a predetermined time before the screening date and time of the movie corresponding to the ticket purchased by the ticket purchaser and the end date and time of the movie, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the ticket purchaser is eligible to enter the movie theater. For example, if the ticket purchaser attempts to enter the movie theater between 15 minutes before the screening time of the movie and the end time of the movie, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the ticket purchaser is eligible to enter the movie theater.

[0082] On the other hand, if the validity date of the ticket purchased by the ticket purchaser is different from the authentication date, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the ticket purchaser is not eligible to enter the movie theater. Alternatively, if the ticket purchaser attempts to enter the movie theater at a time other than the screening time on the ticket validity date, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the ticket purchaser is not eligible to enter the movie theater.

[0083] For example, in the example of FIG. 9, if the ticket purchaser in the first row attempts to enter the movie theater between 9:45 and 12:00 on February 10, 2024, the ticket purchaser is determined to be eligible to enter the movie theater. On the other hand, if the ticket purchaser in the first row attempts to enter the movie theater on a day other than February 10, 2024, the ticket purchaser is determined to be ineligible to enter the movie theater. Alternatively, if the ticket purchaser in the first row attempts to enter the movie theater at any time other than 9:45 and 12:00 on February 10, 2024, the ticket purchaser is determined to be ineligible to enter the movie theater.

[0084] In this way, the authentication control unit 204 determines whether the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the movie theater, depending on whether the person to be authenticated has purchased a valid ticket at the authentication date and time.

[0085] If the person seeking admission (person to be authenticated) is not qualified to enter the movie theater (step S105, No branch), the authentication control unit 204 sets the authentication result to authentication failure (step S103).

[0086] If the person seeking admission (person to be authenticated) is qualified to enter the movie theater (step S105, Yes branch), the authentication control unit 204 sets the authentication result to "authentication success" (step S106).

[0087] The authentication control unit 204 transmits the authentication result (authentication success, authentication failure) to the authentication terminal 30 (step S107).

[0088] If the authentication is successful, the authentication control unit 204 transmits an affirmative response indicating that to the authentication terminal 30. If the authentication is unsuccessful, the authentication control unit 204 transmits a negative response indicating that to the authentication terminal 30.

[0089] In this way, the authentication control unit 204 identifies the person to be authenticated by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the biometric information stored in the ticket purchaser management database. The authentication control unit 204 determines whether the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter a predetermined facility based on the ticket information of the identified person to be authenticated. If the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the predetermined facility, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the authentication of the person to be authenticated has been successful. More specifically, the authentication control unit 204 determines that the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the predetermined facility if the ticket purchased by the identified person to be authenticated is valid at the authentication date and time of the person to be authenticated.

[0090] The registration control unit 203 or the authentication control unit 204 accesses the ticket purchaser management database periodically or at a predetermined timing and deletes entries for which the movie screening has ended. The registration control unit 203 or the authentication control unit 204 deletes entries (biometric information and ticket information) for which the screening date and time has passed.

[0091] The storage unit 205 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the server device 10.

[0092] [Sales terminal] 11 is a diagram showing an example of a processing configuration (processing module) of vending terminal 20 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 11, vending terminal 20 includes communication control unit 301, vending control unit 302, and storage unit 303.

[0093] The communication control unit 301 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 301 receives data (packets) from the server device 10. The communication control unit 301 also transmits data to the server device 10. The communication control unit 301 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 301 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules transmit and receive data to and from other devices via the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 has a function as a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and a function as a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0094] The sales control unit 302 is a means for executing control regarding the sale of tickets.

[0095] 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the sales control unit 302 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The operation of the sales control unit 302 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0096] The sales control unit 302 acquires the movie viewing date desired by the user using a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like (step S201). For example, the sales control unit 302 displays a GUI such as that shown in Fig. 13 on a touch panel or the like.

[0097] When the user acquires the date (viewing date) on which he or she wishes to view the movie, the sales control unit 302 transmits a "screening list request" including the acquired viewing date to the server device 10 (step S202).

[0098] The sales control unit 302 receives a response (positive response or negative response) to the request for providing a showing list.

[0099] If a negative response is received (step S203, No branch), the sales control unit 302 notifies the user that there are no tickets available for purchase on the viewing date desired by the user (notification that tickets cannot be purchased; step S204).

[0100] When a positive response including the screening list is received (step S203, Yes branch), the sales control unit 302 presents the acquired screening list to the ticket purchaser (step S205). For example, the sales control unit 302 displays a GUI such as that shown in Fig. 14, allowing the user to select tickets to purchase.

[0101] When the user selects a ticket to purchase, the sales control unit 302 performs payment for the purchased ticket (step S206). Specifically, the sales control unit 302 performs payment for the ticket using payment means such as cash, electronic money, a transportation IC (Integrated Circuit) card, or credit card. Note that information regarding the ticket price, etc. is set in advance in the sales terminal 20.

[0102] Payment processing using credit cards and the like will be obvious to those skilled in the art and is outside the scope of the present disclosure, so detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0103] Once the payment is complete, the sales control unit 302 acquires the biometric information (e.g., a facial image) of the ticket purchaser (step S207). Specifically, the sales control unit 302 controls the camera device to capture an image of the ticket purchaser in front of the purchaser. The sales control unit 302 extracts the facial image from the image data obtained by capturing the image.

[0104] Note that since existing technology can be used for the facial image extraction process by the sales control unit 302, detailed explanation will be omitted. For example, the sales control unit 302 may extract facial images (facial regions) from image data using a learning model trained by a CNN (Convolutional Neural Network). Alternatively, the sales control unit 302 may extract facial images using a method such as template matching.

[0105] Once the biometric information is acquired, the sales control unit 302 sends a "purchaser registration request" to the server device 10, which includes ticket information (movie viewing date, movie title, screen number, screening time, etc.) regarding the ticket purchased by the user and the biometric information (step S208).

[0106] The sales control unit 302 receives a response (positive response, negative response) to the purchaser registration request from the server device 10.

[0107] If a positive response (registration successful) is received (step S209, Yes branch), the sales control unit 302 notifies the user that the ticket purchase is complete (step S210). At that time, the sales control unit 302 may issue a paper ticket or a digital ticket.

[0108] If a negative response (registration failed) is received (step S209, No branch), the sales control unit 302 executes a predetermined error process (step S211). For example, the sales control unit 302 may perform a process such as reacquiring the user's biometric information. Alternatively, the sales control unit 302 may instruct (guide) the user to go to a booth where a theater employee or the like is waiting.

[0109] The storage unit 303 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the sales terminal 20.

[0110] [Authentication terminal] 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of a processing configuration (processing module) of the authentication terminal 30 according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. Referring to FIG. 15, the authentication terminal 30 includes a communication control unit 401, a biometric information acquisition unit 402, an authentication request unit 403, and a storage unit 404.

[0111] The communication control unit 401 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 401 receives data (packets) from the server device 10. The communication control unit 401 also transmits data to the server device 10. The communication control unit 401 passes data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 401 transmits data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules transmit and receive data to and from other devices via the communication control unit 401. The communication control unit 401 has a function as a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and a function as a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0112] The biometric information acquisition unit 402 is a means for acquiring biometric information of the person to be authenticated (a person who wishes to enter the movie theater).

[0113] For example, the biometric information acquisition unit 402 controls a camera device to capture an image of a predetermined range periodically or at a predetermined timing, and attempts to extract a face image from the image data obtained by capturing the image.

[0114] If the facial image extraction is successful, the biometric information acquisition unit 402 passes the extracted facial image to the authentication request unit 403 .

[0115] Authentication request unit 403 is a means for requesting server device 10 to authenticate the person to be authenticated.

[0116] When the biometric information (face image) is acquired from the biometric information acquisition unit 402, the authentication request unit 403 transmits an “authentication request” including the biometric information to the server device 10.

[0117] The authentication request unit 403 receives a response (positive response, negative response) to the authentication request from the server device 10.

[0118] If an affirmative response (authentication success) is received, authentication request unit 403 opens the gate of authentication terminal 30 and allows the person to be authenticated to enter.

[0119] If a negative response (authentication failure) is received, authentication request unit 403 closes the gate of authentication terminal 30 and denies the person to be authenticated entry.

[0120] The storage unit 404 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the authentication terminal 30 .

[0121] [System Operation] Next, the operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0122] 16 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure, with reference to which the operation of the information processing system when registering information about a ticket purchaser will be described.

[0123] The sales terminal 20 acquires biometric information (for example, a facial image) of a user who has completed payment for a ticket (step S01).

[0124] The sales terminal 20 transmits a "purchaser registration request" including the acquired biometric information and ticket information of the ticket purchased by the user to the server device 10 (step S02).

[0125] The server device 10 stores the biometric information (feature amount generated from the face image) and ticket information included in the received purchaser registration request in the ticket purchaser management database (step S03).

[0126] The server device 10 transmits a response (positive response or negative response) to the purchaser registration request to the sales terminal 20 (step S04).

[0127] Sales terminal 20 outputs a message or the like in response to the received response (step S05).

[0128] 17 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. With reference to FIG. 17, the operation of the information processing system when authenticating an admission applicant who is trying to enter a movie theater will be described.

[0129] The authentication terminal 30 acquires biometric information (for example, a facial image) of the person wishing to enter (person to be authenticated) (step S11).

[0130] The authentication terminal 30 transmits an "authentication request" including the acquired biometric information to the server device 10 (step S12).

[0131] The server device 10 executes authentication processing using the biometric information included in the received authentication request and the biometric information and ticket information stored in the ticket purchaser management database (step S13).

[0132] The server device 10 transmits a response (positive response or negative response) to the authentication request to the authentication terminal 30 (step S14).

[0133] The authentication terminal 30 controls the gate in accordance with the received response (step S15).

[0134] Next, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described.

[0135] <Variation 1> The cinema may use biometric authentication to pay for goods or services (goods or services sold at concession stands or vending machines).

[0136] When a ticket purchaser pays for a purchased ticket using a credit card, the sales terminal 20 acquires credit card information with the ticket purchaser's consent. The sales terminal 20 then transmits the acquired credit card information to the server device 10.

[0137] Specifically, the sales terminal 20 transmits a "purchaser registration request" including credit card information, biometric information, and ticket information to the server device 10. The server device 10 stores the biometric information and the credit card information in association with each other in the ticket purchaser management database.

[0138] Payment terminals 50 are installed in concession stands and the like in movie theaters (see FIG. 18). Note that a vending machine is also one form of payment terminal 50. When selling a product to a user, the payment terminal 50 generates payment information related to the product being sold. For example, the payment terminal 50 generates payment information including the name of the product being purchased, the payment amount, and the like.

[0139] The payment terminal 50 transmits to the server device 10 a "payment request" including the generated payment information and the biometric information of the product purchaser.

[0140] The server device 10 according to the first modification includes a payment control unit 206 (see FIG. 19).

[0141] The payment control unit 206 processes a payment request received from the payment terminal 50, etc. The payment control unit 206 performs a matching process using the biometric information included in the payment request and the biometric information stored in the ticket purchaser management database, and identifies the product purchaser from among multiple ticket purchasers.

[0142] The payment control unit 206 performs payment for the purchased product using the credit card information and payment information of the identified product purchaser. Specifically, the payment control unit 206 transmits the payment information to the server of the credit card company to request payment for the product purchase price.

[0143] If the payment by the credit card company is successful, the payment control unit 206 sends an affirmative response indicating that the payment process was successful to the payment terminal 50. In this case, the product is handed over to the purchaser.

[0144] If the verification process fails, or if payment using credit card information fails, the payment control unit 206 sends a negative response to the payment terminal 50 to indicate that the payment process has failed. The payment terminal 50 then notifies the user that payment for the product or other item has failed. In this case, the product is not delivered to the user.

[0145] In this way, the registration control unit 203 further acquires the ticket purchaser's credit card information and stores the acquired ticket purchaser's biometric information, ticket information, and credit card information in association with each other in the ticket purchaser management database. The payment control unit 206 receives a payment request from a payment terminal 50 installed in a specified facility, the payment request including the biometric information of a purchaser attempting to purchase a product or service from the payment terminal 50 and payment information related to the payment for the product or service. The payment control unit 206 performs a matching process using the biometric information included in the payment request and the biometric information stored in the ticket purchaser management database. By performing the matching process, the payment control unit 206 identifies the purchaser of the product, etc., and performs payment processing for the product or service using the credit card information and payment information corresponding to the identified purchaser.

[0146] As described above, the information processing system disclosed herein may enable biometric authentication payments at movie theater concession stands, etc. In other words, a user who purchases a movie ticket may purchase goods at the concession stand, etc., using biometric authentication payment. As a result, increased revenues at the concession stand, etc., are expected.

[0147] <Variation 2> When processing an authentication request, the server device 10 may notify the authenticated person (the person who has been determined to have been successfully authenticated) of all or part of the ticket information of the authenticated person. When the authentication of the person to be authenticated is successful, the authentication control unit 204 may transmit an affirmative response including all or part of the ticket information of the person to be authenticated identified by the matching process to the authentication terminal 30.

[0148] When the authentication terminal 30 receives a positive response indicating successful authentication, it may display all or part of the ticket information of the person to be authenticated using a tablet, LCD monitor, etc. For example, the authentication request unit 403 may display on an LCD monitor the title of the movie corresponding to the ticket purchased by the person to be authenticated, the number of the screen where the movie will be screened, etc.

[0149] In this way, when a ticket purchaser attempts to enter the cinema through the authentication terminal 30, the authentication terminal 30 may output a message informing the person being authenticated that the authentication has been successful and that all or part of the ticket information can be recognized.

[0150] <Variation 3> As shown in Figure 20, an information terminal 51 is installed inside the movie theater, and all or part of the ticket purchaser's ticket information may be provided to the ticket purchaser (a person who enters the movie theater) via the information terminal 51.

[0151] In this case, the server device 10 includes an information provision control unit 207 (see FIG. 21). The information provision control unit 207 is a means for controlling the provision of information to users (ticket purchasers, visitors to the movie theater).

[0152] The guidance terminal 51 detects a user in front of the user by, for example, analyzing image data obtained by controlling a camera device. When the guidance terminal 51 detects a user in front of the user, the guidance terminal 51 transmits the biometric information of the detected user to the server device 10.

[0153] The information provision control unit 207 executes a matching process using the received biometric information and the biometric information stored in the ticket purchaser management database. The information provision control unit 207 transmits all or part of the ticket information of the user (the person entering the movie theater) identified by the matching process to the information terminal 51.

[0154] The information terminal 51 uses all or part of the received ticket information to provide information about the ticket purchased by the user in front of it. For example, the information terminal 51 displays the number of the screen where the movie for which the user has purchased a ticket will be screened.

[0155] In this way, the information provision control unit 207 acquires, from the information terminal 51 installed in a predetermined facility, the biometric information of the person to be detected by the information terminal 51. The information provision control unit 207 executes a matching process using the acquired biometric information and the biometric information stored in the ticket purchaser management database. By executing the matching process, the information provision control unit 207 identifies the person to be detected and transmits all or part of the ticket information of the identified person to the information terminal 51.

[0156] <Variation 4> The ticket purchaser may register their contact information in the server device 10. For example, the ticket purchaser may register in the server device 10 an email address that can be received by the terminal 40.

[0157] For example, the ticket purchaser operates terminal 40 to display a two-dimensional barcode generated from an email address. Sales terminal 20 reads the two-dimensional barcode and obtains the email address. Alternatively, terminal 40 may transmit the email address to sales terminal 20 using a short-range wireless communication method such as Bluetooth (registered trademark) or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0158] The selling terminal 20 transmits the acquired email address together with the biometric information and ticket information to the server device 10. The selling terminal 20 transmits a purchaser registration request to the server device 10, including the biometric information, ticket information, and email address.

[0159] The server device 10 stores the acquired biometric information, ticket information, and email address in the ticket purchaser management database.

[0160] The server device 10 utilizes the email addresses stored in the ticket purchaser management database for various purposes.

[0161] Specifically, the information provision control unit 207 accesses the ticket purchaser management database periodically or at a predetermined timing, and extracts entries (ticket purchasers) for which the movie showtime is approaching. The information provision control unit 207 then sends a message to the email address stored in the extracted entry, informing the user that the movie showtime is approaching.

[0162] Alternatively, if the ticket purchaser management database stores the status of each ticket purchaser (already entered the movie theater, not yet entered), the information provision control unit 207 may send a message to the terminal 40 of a ticket purchaser who has not yet entered the theater and whose movie is about to start.

[0163] Alternatively, the information provision control unit 207 may transmit information about the movie for which the ticket purchaser has purchased a ticket (for example, the screen number where the movie will be shown) to the terminal 40 of the ticket purchaser who is in the movie theater.

[0164] Alternatively, the information provision control unit 207 may provide useful information to the user based on the ticket information of the ticket purchased by the user. For example, the information provision control unit 207 may send to the terminal 40 (to an email address that the terminal 40 can receive) recommendations for movies similar to the movie the user has watched, or announcements of events related to the movie the user has watched. Alternatively, the information provision control unit 207 may issue a discount coupon or the like to the ticket purchaser to encourage the ticket purchaser to revisit the movie theater.

[0165] In this way, the information provision control unit 207 may transmit information generated based on the ticket information stored in the ticket purchaser management database to the terminal 40 possessed by the ticket purchaser.

[0166] <Variation 5> The server device 10 may utilize information stored in a ticket purchaser management database and images obtained from security cameras installed in the movie theater.

[0167] For example, if a crime such as shoplifting occurs inside a movie theater, a police officer or a movie theater manager inputs a facial image of the shoplifter from a security camera into the server device 10. The information provision control unit 207 executes a matching process using the acquired facial image and the biometric information stored in the ticket purchaser management database, and identifies the shoplifter from among multiple ticket purchasers.

[0168] The information provision control unit 207 provides information about the identified shoplifter (for example, ticket information and credit card information) to police officers, etc. Police officers use the credit card information to identify the shoplifter, and use the ticket information to identify the movie (screen) that the shoplifter may be watching.

[0169] As described above, the server device 10 according to the first embodiment acquires biometric information and ticket information of a ticket purchaser from the sales terminal 20 that sells tickets. The server device 10 stores the acquired biometric information and ticket information in a ticket purchaser management database. The server device 10 authenticates a user (entry applicant) attempting to enter a movie theater. In this case, the server device 10 identifies the entry applicant by performing a matching process using the biometric information acquired from the authentication terminal 30 and the biometric information stored in the ticket management database. The server device 10 determines whether the entry applicant is eligible to enter the movie theater based on the ticket information of the identified entry applicant. If the entry applicant is eligible to enter the movie theater, the server device 10 notifies the authentication terminal 30 that the authentication was successful. The authentication terminal 30, upon receiving the notification of successful authentication, opens a gate or the like to allow the entry applicant to pass through. In this way, in the information processing system according to the first embodiment, authentication using biometric information is performed regarding the entry of a ticket purchaser to a movie theater. As a result, congestion at the entrances and exits of movie theaters and the like is alleviated.

[0170] Furthermore, in the information processing system according to the first embodiment, authentication of those wishing to enter is performed without human intervention, eliminating the need for staff to visually check tickets. As a result, the costs (labor costs) required for ticket verification are reduced. Furthermore, in the information processing system according to the first embodiment, tickets are stored electronically in the server device 10, eliminating the need for paper tickets. Furthermore, since those wishing to enter are authenticated by biometric authentication, fraudulent entry using counterfeit tickets is prevented.

[0171] Next, the hardware of each device constituting the information processing system will be described. Fig. 22 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server device 10.

[0172] The server device 10 can be configured by an information processing device (so-called computer), and has the configuration exemplified in Fig. 22. For example, the server device 10 includes a processor 311, a memory 312, an input / output interface 313, and a communication interface 314. The components such as the processor 311 are connected by an internal bus or the like, and are configured to be able to communicate with each other.

[0173] However, the configuration shown in Fig. 22 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the server device 10. The server device 10 may include hardware not shown, and may not include the input / output interface 313 as necessary. Furthermore, the number of processors 311 and the like included in the server device 10 is not intended to be limited to the example shown in Fig. 22, and for example, the server device 10 may include multiple processors 311.

[0174] The processor 311 is a programmable device such as a central processing unit (CPU), a micro processing unit (MPU), or a digital signal processor (DSP). Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as a field programmable gate array (FPGA) or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The processor 311 executes various programs including an operating system (OS).

[0175] The memory 312 is a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), etc. The memory 312 stores an OS program, application programs, and various data.

[0176] The input / output interface 313 is an interface for a display device and an input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The input device is, for example, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, or the like that accepts user operations.

[0177] The communication interface 314 is a circuit, module, etc. that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a network interface card (NIC).

[0178] The functions of the server device 10 are realized by various processing modules. The processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 311 executing a program stored in the memory 312. The program can be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transitory medium such as a semiconductor memory, a hard disk, a magnetic recording medium, or an optical recording medium. That is, the present invention can also be embodied as a computer program product. The program can be downloaded via a network or updated using a storage medium storing the program. The processing modules can also be realized by semiconductor chips.

[0179] Sales terminal 20, authentication terminal 30, etc. can also be configured using information processing devices in the same way as server device 10, and their basic hardware configurations are no different from server device 10, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0180] The server device 10 is equipped with a computer, and the computer executes a program to realize the functions of the server device 10. The server device 10 also executes a control method for the server device 10 by the program.

[0181] [Variations] The configuration, operation, etc. of the information processing system described in the above embodiment are merely examples, and are not intended to limit the configuration, etc. of the system.

[0182] In the above embodiment, the vending terminal 20 sells tickets for unreserved seats. However, the vending terminal 20 may also sell tickets for reserved seats. In this case, the server device 10 stores available seat information indicating the status (sold or unsold) of each seat for each movie (screen and time slot). When the server device 10 receives a showlist request from the vending terminal 20, it transmits to the vending terminal 20 a showlist including available seat information for each movie for which tickets are available. After the user selects the movie they wish to watch, the vending terminal 20 uses the available seat information to obtain information about the seat desired by the user. The vending terminal 20 simply transmits the ticket information, including the obtained seat information (e.g., seat number), and biometric information to the server device 10.

[0183] In the above embodiment, the case where a user purchases a ticket from the sales terminal 20 has been described. However, the user may purchase a ticket from a terminal 40 that the user possesses. That is, the terminal 40 may have the functions of the sales terminal 20. For example, a ticket purchase application may be installed on the terminal 40, and the application may transmit the user's biometric information and ticket information to the server device 10.

[0184] In the above embodiment, the authentication terminal 30 is described as having a gate that physically restricts the passage of users. However, the authentication terminal 30 may be a terminal or device that does not have a gate or the like. For example, the authentication terminal 30 may be a tablet or the like. In this case, when the authentication terminal 30 receives an authentication result (authentication successful, authentication failed) from the server device 10, it may notify an attendant or the like standing at the entrance or exit of the movie theater of the received authentication result. The attendant may permit or deny entry to the movie theater for the person wishing to enter, depending on the notified result.

[0185] A user may purchase multiple tickets (tickets that allow multiple users to enter the movie theater). In this case, the vending terminal 20 acquires the number of tickets that the user wishes to purchase. Furthermore, the vending terminal 20 acquires biometric information for the number of people corresponding to the acquired number of purchased tickets. For example, if a user wishes to purchase two tickets, the vending terminal 20 acquires biometric information for two people. The vending terminal 20 transmits the acquired multiple pieces of biometric information and ticket information related to the sold tickets to the server device 10. The server device 10 simply stores each of the acquired multiple pieces of biometric information in a different entry in the ticket purchaser management database, and stores the same ticket information in each entry.

[0186] In the above embodiment, the authentication terminals 30 are installed at all entrances and exits of the entire movie theater. However, in addition to or instead of the authentication terminals 30 installed at the entrances, an authentication terminal 30 may be installed at each screen. The authentication terminal 30 installed at each screen transmits an authentication request to the server device 10, including the biometric information of the person to be authenticated and a terminal ID that identifies the authentication terminal 30. The server device 10 identifies the admission applicant attempting to enter a screen through a matching process using the biometric information, and identifies the screen the admission applicant intends to enter using the terminal ID. The server device 10 determines whether the identified admission applicant is eligible to enter the identified screen (the room where the movie is being shown) based on the ticket information of the identified user. If the admission applicant is eligible to enter the screen (if they have purchased a ticket for the movie being shown at that screen), the server device 10 transmits a successful authentication to the authentication terminal 30.

[0187] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which the ticket purchaser management database and the like are configured inside the server device 10, but the database may also be configured on an external database server or the like. That is, some of the functions of the server device 10 may be implemented in another device. More specifically, the above-described "sales control unit (sales control means)," "authentication control unit (authentication control means)," and the like may be implemented in any of the devices included in the system.

[0188] In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which a facial image is transmitted as biometric information from sales terminal 20 or authentication terminal 30 to server device 10. However, feature amounts generated from a facial image may be transmitted as biometric information from sales terminal 20 or the like to server device 10. In this case, server device 10 can omit the process of generating feature amounts from a facial image.

[0189] The format of data transmission between each device (server device 10, sales terminal 20, etc.) is not particularly limited, but data transmitted and received between these devices may be encrypted. Biometric information and the like is transmitted and received between these devices, and in order to appropriately protect this information, it is desirable to transmit and receive encrypted data.

[0190] In the flow charts (flowcharts, sequence diagrams) used in the above explanation, multiple steps (processes) are described in order, but the execution order of the steps executed in the embodiments is not limited to the order described. In the embodiments, the order of the illustrated steps can be changed to the extent that the content is not affected, such as by executing each process in parallel.

[0191] The above-described embodiments have been described in detail to facilitate understanding of the present disclosure, and it is not intended that all of the above-described configurations are required. Furthermore, when multiple embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used alone or in combination. For example, it is possible to replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with another configuration.

[0192] The above explanation makes it clear that the present invention has industrial applicability, and the present invention can be suitably applied to an information processing system that authenticates a ticket purchaser who is attempting to enter a specified facility.

[0193] Some or all of the above embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0194] [Appendix 1] a registration control means for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information relating to the ticket, and for storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; an authentication control means for receiving an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting an authentication result to the authentication terminal; A server device comprising: [Appendix 2] The authentication control means identifying the person to be authenticated by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information; determining whether the identified person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility based on the ticket information of the identified person to be authenticated; 2. The server device according to claim 1, wherein the server device determines that authentication of the person to be authenticated has been successful if the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility. [Appendix 3] The server device described in Appendix 2, wherein the authentication control means determines that the identified person is eligible to enter the specified facility if the ticket purchased by the identified person is valid at the authentication date and time of the person. [Appendix 4] 4. The server device according to claim 3, wherein the authentication control means transmits to the authentication terminal all or part of the ticket information of the person to be authenticated who has been determined to have been successfully authenticated. [Appendix 5] the registration control means further acquires credit card information of the ticket purchaser, and stores the acquired biometric information, ticket information, and credit card information of the ticket purchaser in association with each other; The server device according to any one of appendices 1 to 4, further comprising a payment means for receiving, from a payment terminal installed within the specified facility, a payment request including biometric information of a purchaser attempting to purchase a product or service from the payment terminal and payment information relating to the payment for the product or service, identifying the purchaser by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the payment request and the stored biometric information, and performing payment processing for the product or service using credit card information corresponding to the identified purchaser and the payment information. [Appendix 6] The server device described in any one of Appendices 1 to 4 further comprises an information provision control means that acquires biometric information of the person to be detected by a guidance terminal installed within the specified facility, performs a matching process using the acquired biometric information and the stored biometric information to identify the person to be detected, and transmits all or part of the ticket information of the identified person to the guidance terminal. [Appendix 7] The server device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an information providing means for transmitting information generated based on the stored ticket information to a terminal carried by the ticket purchaser. [Appendix 8] 5. The server device according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined facility is a movie theater. [Appendix 9] a registration control step of acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information relating to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; an authentication control step of receiving an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting an authentication result to the authentication terminal; A method for controlling a server device, comprising: [Appendix 10] The authentication control step includes: identifying the person to be authenticated by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information; determining whether the identified person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility based on the ticket information of the identified person to be authenticated; 10. The control method of a server device according to claim 9, wherein if the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility, it is determined that authentication of the person to be authenticated has been successful. [Appendix 11] A control method for a server device described in Appendix 10, wherein the authentication control process determines that the identified person is eligible to enter the specified facility if the ticket purchased by the identified person is valid at the authentication date and time of the person. [Appendix 12] 12. The server device control method according to claim 11, wherein the authentication control step transmits all or part of the ticket information of the person to be authenticated who has been determined to have been successfully authenticated to the authentication terminal. [Appendix 13] the registration control step further acquires credit card information of the ticket purchaser, and stores the acquired biometric information, ticket information, and credit card information of the ticket purchaser in association with each other; A method for controlling a server device as described in any one of appendices 9 to 12, further comprising a payment process of receiving, from a payment terminal installed within the specified facility, a payment request including biometric information of a purchaser attempting to purchase a product or service from the payment terminal and payment information related to the payment for the product or service, identifying the purchaser by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the payment request and the stored biometric information, and performing payment processing for the product or service using credit card information corresponding to the identified purchaser and the payment information. [Appendix 14] A method for controlling a server device as described in any one of Appendices 9 to 12, further comprising an information provision control step of acquiring biometric information of a person to be detected by a guidance terminal installed within the specified facility, performing a matching process using the acquired biometric information and the stored biometric information to identify the person to be detected, and transmitting all or part of the ticket information of the identified person to the guidance terminal. [Appendix 15] A method for controlling a server device described in any one of Appendices 9 to 12, further comprising an information providing step of transmitting information generated based on the stored ticket information to a terminal held by the ticket purchaser. [Appendix 16] 13. The server device control method according to any one of claims 9 to 12, wherein the predetermined facility is a movie theater. [Appendix 17] The computer installed in the server device a registration control process for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information relating to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; an authentication control process that receives an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, authenticates the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmits an authentication result to the authentication terminal; A program to execute. [Appendix 18] The authentication control process includes: identifying the person to be authenticated by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information; determining whether the identified person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility based on the ticket information of the identified person to be authenticated; 18. The program of claim 17, wherein the program determines that authentication of the person to be authenticated is successful if the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility. [Appendix 19] The program described in Appendix 18, wherein the authentication control process determines that the identified person is eligible to enter the specified facility if the ticket purchased by the identified person is valid at the authentication date and time of the person. [Appendix 20] 20. The program according to claim 19, wherein the authentication control process transmits all or part of the ticket information of the person to be authenticated who is determined to have been successfully authenticated to the authentication terminal. [Appendix 21] the registration control process further acquires credit card information of the ticket purchaser, and stores the acquired biometric information, ticket information, and credit card information of the ticket purchaser in association with each other; A program as described in any one of Appendices 17 to 20, which receives a payment request from a payment terminal installed within the specified facility, including biometric information of a purchaser attempting to purchase a product or service from the payment terminal and payment information related to the payment for the product or service, identifies the purchaser by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the payment request and the stored biometric information, and performs payment processing for the product or service using credit card information corresponding to the identified purchaser and the payment information, and further executes the payment processing. [Appendix 22] The program described in any one of Appendices 17 to 20 further executes an information provision control process, which acquires biometric information of the person to be detected by the guidance terminal installed within the specified facility, performs a matching process using the acquired biometric information and the stored biometric information to identify the person to be detected, and sends all or part of the ticket information of the identified person to the guidance terminal. [Appendix 23] A program described in any one of Appendices 17 to 20, further executing an information provision process that sends information generated based on the stored ticket information to a terminal held by the ticket purchaser. [Appendix 24] 21. The program according to any one of appendices 17 to 20, wherein the specified facility is a movie theater.

[0195] Furthermore, some or all of the configurations described in Supplementary Notes 2 to 8, which are dependent on Supplementary Note 1, may also be dependent on Supplementary Notes 9 and 17 in the same dependent relationship as Supplementary Notes 2 to 8. Furthermore, not limited to Supplementary Notes 1, 9, and 17, but within the scope of each of the above-mentioned embodiments, some or all of the configurations described as Supplements may also be dependent on various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems.

[0196] The disclosures of the above-cited prior art documents are incorporated herein by reference. Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. Those skilled in the art will understand that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. In other words, the present invention naturally includes various modifications and alterations that may be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the entire disclosure, including the claims, and the technical concepts thereof. [Explanation of symbols]

[0197] 10 Server device 20 Sales terminals 30 Authentication Terminal 40 terminals 50 payment terminals 51 Information terminal 100 Server device 101 Registration Control Means 102 Authentication Control Measures 201 Communication control unit 202 Sales Control Department 203 Registration control section 204 Authentication control section 205 Storage section 206 Payment Control Unit 207 Information provision control section 301 Communication Control Unit 302 Sales Control Department 303 Storage section 311 processor 312 memory 313 Input / Output Interface 314 Communication Interface 401 Communication control unit 402 Biometric information acquisition unit 403 Authentication Request Section 404 Storage section

Claims

1. a registration control means for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information relating to the ticket, and for storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; an authentication control means for receiving an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting an authentication result to the authentication terminal; A server device comprising:

2. The authentication control means identifying the person to be authenticated by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information; determining whether the identified person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the specified facility based on the ticket information of the identified person to be authenticated; 2. The server device according to claim 1, wherein the server device determines that the authentication of the person to be authenticated has been successful if the person to be authenticated is qualified to enter the predetermined facility.

3. 3. The server device according to claim 2, wherein the authentication control means determines that the identified person is qualified to enter the specified facility if a ticket purchased by the identified person is valid at the authentication date and time of the person.

4. 4. The server device according to claim 3, wherein the authentication control means transmits all or part of the ticket information of the person to be authenticated who has been determined to have been successfully authenticated to the authentication terminal.

5. the registration control means further acquires credit card information of the ticket purchaser, and stores the acquired biometric information, ticket information, and credit card information of the ticket purchaser in association with each other; 5. The server device according to claim 1, further comprising a payment means for receiving, from a payment terminal installed within the specified facility, a payment request including biometric information of a purchaser attempting to purchase a product or service from the payment terminal and payment information related to the payment for the product or service, identifying the purchaser by performing a matching process using the biometric information included in the payment request and the stored biometric information, and performing payment processing for the product or service using credit card information corresponding to the identified purchaser and the payment information.

6. The server device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, further comprising an information provision control means for acquiring biometric information of a person to be detected by a guidance terminal installed within the specified facility, performing a matching process using the acquired biometric information and the stored biometric information to identify the person to be detected, and transmitting all or part of the ticket information of the identified person to the guidance terminal.

7. 5. The server device according to claim 1, further comprising an information providing unit that transmits information generated based on the stored ticket information to a terminal carried by the ticket purchaser.

8. The server device according to claim 1 , wherein the predetermined facility is a movie theater.

9. a registration control step of acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information relating to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; an authentication control step of receiving an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, authenticating the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmitting an authentication result to the authentication terminal; A method for controlling a server device, comprising:

10. The computer installed in the server device a registration control process for acquiring biometric information of a ticket purchaser who has purchased a ticket for admission to a predetermined facility and ticket information relating to the ticket, and storing the acquired biometric information of the ticket purchaser and ticket information; an authentication control process that receives an authentication request including biometric information of a person to be authenticated who is attempting to enter the specified facility from an authentication terminal installed in the specified facility, authenticates the person to be authenticated based on the biometric information included in the authentication request and the stored biometric information and ticket information, and transmits an authentication result to the authentication terminal; A program to execute.

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