Information processing apparatus, information processing program, and information processing system

Abstract

To provide an order service capable of preventing unauthorized use.SOLUTION: An information processing apparatus comprises a group processing unit and an order processing unit. The group processing unit generates an order group based on a group name. The order processing unit enables receiving an order for the order group based on the group name entered at a terminal.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 9

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to an information processing device, an information processing program, and an information processing system. [Background technology]

[0002] Restaurants and other establishments have introduced systems that allow customers to read QR codes (registered trademarks) or the like assigned to each seat with their mobile devices, etc., and place orders using the mobile devices, etc. In such systems, there is a risk that customers may place fraudulent orders by using QR codes that they have previously used.

[0003] To prevent fraudulent orders by customers, measures such as changing the QR code as customers change or invalidating the QR code after a certain period of time have been considered, but these require the store to generate a QR code and provide it to customers each time, which places a burden on the store. Therefore, there is a need for stores to provide an ordering service that can easily prevent fraudulent use. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-46710 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technology that can provide an ordering service that can prevent fraudulent use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In one embodiment, the information processing device includes a group processing unit and an order processing unit. The group processing unit generates an order group based on a group name. The order processing unit enables acceptance of orders for the order group based on input of the group name at a terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of an order processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of a configuration example of a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration example of a user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of group management data according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an initial image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a setting image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a group name input image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of an order image displayed on the user terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process for setting a group name in the order processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating processing at the time of ordering in the order processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating processing at the time of payment in the order processing system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the scale of each part in each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may be changed as appropriate. Also, for the sake of explanation, each drawing used in the following description of the embodiments may omit components.

[0009] [Embodiment] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an outline of an example of the configuration of an order processing system S. The order processing system S is a system that manages product orders at a store. Products are mainly food and drink. Products include not only tangible products but also intangible products such as services. Services are services provided to customers. A store is, for example, a restaurant that provides food and drink to customers, but is not limited to this. A store may also be, for example, a facility that provides products and services to customers. In the following description, products are also referred to as order items or orders. A store is also referred to as a shop or a restaurant.

[0010] The order processing system S includes a server 1, a user terminal 2, a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal 3, and a store terminal 4. The server 1, the user terminal 2, the POS terminal 3, and the store terminal 4 are communicably connected to each other via a network NW. The network NW includes one or more of various networks such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, and a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be a wireless LAN or a wired LAN. The order processing system S may also refer to a system including at least one electronic device.

[0011] Although one user terminal 2 is shown in Fig. 1, the order processing system S may include multiple user terminals 2. Although one POS terminal 3 is shown in Fig. 1, the order processing system S may include multiple POS terminals 3. Although one store terminal 4 is shown in Fig. 1, the order processing system S may include multiple store terminals 4.

[0012] The server 1 is an electronic device that manages product orders from user terminals 2. For example, the server 1 manages product orders on the cloud. The server 1 manages product orders at multiple stores operated by multiple businesses. A business is a company that operates stores that provide products. For example, the business is a food and beverage business. The term business includes not only the business itself but also a group of businesses. A group of businesses is a group that operates stores recognized as a group. For example, a group of businesses is a group such as a franchise that operates stores using the same name. Note that the server 1 may also manage orders for products provided at one or more stores operated by a single business. An example configuration of the server 1 will be described later. The server 1 is an example of an information processing device.

[0013] The user terminal 2 is an electronic device used by a user. The term "user" includes the meaning of a customer. The user terminal 2 may be, but is not limited to, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, or a PC (Personal Computer). The user places an order for a product via the user terminal 2. Ordering a product means selecting a desired product from a list of food and drink displayed on the user terminal 2. The list of food and drink is also called a menu. Placing an order may be interpreted as registering a product or inputting a product. An example configuration of the user terminal 2 will be described later. The user terminal 2 is an example of a terminal.

[0014] The POS terminal 3 is a device that processes transactions at store X. For example, the POS terminal 3 has a payment function. The POS terminal 3 uses the payment function to process payment for a transaction based on order data. A transaction is the transfer of payment from a customer to a store for the provision of food and drink by the store. From the store's perspective, a transaction includes the provision of food and drink. From the customer's perspective, a transaction includes the receipt of food and drink. Payment processing refers to processing payment for a transaction. Payment is payment for the transaction. Payment includes the accounting. Completion of payment by the POS terminal 3 includes the completion of the transaction. The POS terminal 3 performs payment processing based on information related to the payment method. One transaction indicates a transaction for food and drink ordered by a table, a seat, a group, or a person. One transaction indicates a transaction for food and drink ordered for each unit of payment processing. A table refers to an area that can accommodate customers. A table includes the meaning of a seat where a customer can sit. A table may also be an area that does not include a seat. A seat refers to a seat where a customer can sit. A seat may refer to an area assigned to a customer. A group refers to a group of customers. A group of customers refers to at least one customer who places an order included in one transaction.

[0015] The store terminal 4 includes electronic devices installed in the store. The store terminal 4 is an electronic device that is operated by a store clerk to register products. The store terminal 4 is, for example, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a PC, etc., but is not limited to these. The store terminal 4 may also be, for example, a handheld terminal. For example, the store clerk may manage customer order data or usage time via the store terminal 4.

[0016] An example of the configuration of the server 1 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an outline of an example of the configuration of the server 1. As shown in FIG. The server 1 includes a processing circuit 10, a main memory 11, an auxiliary storage device 12, and a communication interface 13. The processing circuit 10, the main memory 11, the auxiliary storage device 12, and the communication interface 13 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Fig. 2, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0017] The processing circuit 10 corresponds to the central part of the server 1. The processing circuit 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The processing circuit 10 includes one or more circuits that perform multiple processes based on multiple functions. For example, the circuit may be, but is not limited to, a processor, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array). For example, the processor may be, but is not limited to, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processing circuit 10 loads a program stored in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that can cause the processing circuit 10 to execute processes by each unit described below. The processing circuit 10 executes the program loaded into the main memory 11, thereby enabling various processes to be performed.

[0018] The main memory 11 includes elements corresponding to the main memory portion of the server 1. The main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 11 stores an operating system or a program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten as appropriate by the processing circuit 10. For example, the main memory 11 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 11 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area.

[0019] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 includes one or more storage devices. Examples of storage devices are as described above. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processing circuit 10 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 10. The multiple storage areas included in the auxiliary storage device 12, which will be described later, may be included in one storage device or may be distributed across multiple storage devices.

[0020] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes a group management data storage area 121. The group management data storage area 121 stores group management data for each store. The group management data is data about order groups. An order group, for example, indicates a group generated for each transaction. An order group indicates the unit of transaction payment processing. An order group may also indicate the unit of order processing. An order group may be generated for each table, seat, group of customers, or person. For example, if seats in a store can be identified by table number, an order group may be generated for each table. Specifically, if a group of three customers sits at table number "1" and orders food and beverages, one order group is generated for the customers with table number "1." In this case, one order group is generated for each table or group of customers. One order group is generated for each transaction that includes at least one food and beverage order. An order group is also simply referred to as a group. In the following description, an order group is generated for each table, but this is not limited to this.

[0021] Group management data includes data for all or some of the following items, for example: store code, group ID, table number, group name, start time, end time, and status. The store code is identification information that can uniquely identify a store. The group ID is identification information that can uniquely identify an order group. The table number is identification information that can uniquely identify a table. The group name is identification information that can uniquely identify an order group. The group name is information that can be recognized by customers (members) included in the group. The group name includes, for example, text information. The table number may be data that indicates a room number, a seat number, etc.

[0022] The start time is the start time of a transaction. The start time may be, for example, the start time of use of an order group, the start time of use of a table, the time of entry, or the start time of an order. The start time of use of an order group includes the time when an order group is created, the time when a group name is set, or a time before or after any of these. The start time of use of a table includes the time when a customer is shown to the table, the time when a customer sits at the table, or a time before or after any of these. The entry time includes the time when a customer enters the store, the time of entry reservation, or a time before or after any of these. The start time of an order includes the time when the first item is ordered by a customer, or a time before or after any of these. The start time may be set by a user operating the user terminal 2. The start time may be set by a store clerk operating the store terminal 4, etc. The start time may be set by the server 1.

[0023] The end time is the end time of the transaction. The end of the transaction indicates, for example, the completion of payment. The end time may be, for example, the end time of use of the order group or the time of payment completion. The end time of use of the order group includes the time when the order group is invalidated, or a time before or after that. The payment completion time includes the time when payment for the transaction is completed, or a time before or after that. The end time may be set by the user operating the user terminal 2. The end time may be set by a store clerk operating the store terminal 4, etc. The end time may be set by the server 1.

[0024] The status is information indicating whether the order group is valid or invalid. The status may indicate a valid / invalid flag for the order group.

[0025] A group name may be set to be valid or invalid based on a start time and an end time. For example, a group name is valid from after the start time until before the end time. A group name being valid includes a group name that has not expired or is within the expiration date. A group name is invalid after the end time. A group name being invalid includes a group name that has expired or is past the expiration date.

[0026] The group management data may include data on items other than these items. The group management data storage area 121 may store group management data for multiple stores. The processing circuit 10 stores group management data acquired from the user terminal 2 via the network NW in the group management data storage area 121. The processing circuit 10 may store group management data acquired from the store terminal 4 via the network NW in the group management data storage area 121. The group management data storage area 121 is an example of a storage unit that stores group management data. The data stored in the group management data storage area 121 is updated by adding or deleting group management data, etc.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 12 includes an order data storage area 122. The order data storage area 122 stores order data for each store. The order data includes product data for ordered products for each order group. The product data includes data on all or some of the following items: product code, product name, and unit price. The product code is identification information that can uniquely identify a product. The product name is the name of the product. The unit price is the price per unit of the product. The product data may include data on the total price of the products for each order group. The product data may also include data on items other than these items. The product data is stored in the order data storage area 122 for each order group, linked to the group name. The processing circuit 10 may acquire the product data based on, for example, product master data stored in the auxiliary storage device 12.

[0028] The order data storage area 122 may store order data for multiple stores. The processing circuit 10 stores order data obtained from the user terminal 2 via the network NW in the group management data storage area 121. The processing circuit 10 may store order data obtained from the store terminal 4 via the network NW in the group management data storage area 121. The order data storage area 122 is an example of a storage unit that stores order data. The data stored in the order data storage area 122 is updated by adding or deleting order data, etc.

[0029] The communication interface 13 includes various interfaces that connect the server 1 to other electronic devices via the network NW in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol so that the server 1 can communicate with them. The communication interface 13 is an example of a communication unit of the server 1.

[0030] The hardware configuration of the server 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and the server 1 allows the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0031] Each unit realized by the processing circuit 10 will be described. The processing circuitry 10 implements a group processing unit 101, an order processing unit 102, a display processing unit 103, and a communication processing unit 104. Each unit implemented by the processing circuitry 10 can also be referred to as a function. Each unit implemented by the processing circuitry 10 can also be referred to as being implemented in a control unit including the processing circuitry 10 and a main memory 11.

[0032] The group processing unit 101 performs processing related to order groups. The group processing unit 101 generates an order group based on a group name. The group name is input, for example, from the user terminal 2. In this case, the group processing unit 101 generates an order group based on the group name input from the user terminal 2. Note that the group name may be generated automatically by the server 1. The group processing unit 101 invalidates the group name based on the completion of payment processing for the order group linked to the group name. Invalidation includes invalidating the group name or invalidating the order group linked to the group name. Invalidation includes not accepting orders for the order group linked to the group name.

[0033] The group processing unit 101 may invalidate the group name regardless of the completion of the payment process. For example, if an expiration date is set for the group name, the group processing unit 101 may invalidate the group name when the expiration date has expired. For example, the expiration date may be 12 hours or 1 day. The expiration date may be set based on the start time set in the group management data.

[0034] The order processing unit 102 processes orders for each order group. The order processing unit 102 makes the orders for the order group acceptable based on the group name input on the user terminal 2. The order processing unit 102 determines whether to accept the orders for the order group depending on the status of the group name. Whether to accept the orders may be determined based on whether the group name is determined to be valid in the group name validity determination. For example, if the group name is valid, the order processing unit 102 makes the orders for the order group acceptable. On the other hand, if the group name is invalid, the order processing unit 102 does not make the orders for the order group acceptable. Accepting an order includes registering a product and inputting a product. Being able to accept an order may be interpreted as being able to register a product or being able to input a product. Not being able to accept an order may be interpreted as being unable to register a product or being unable to input a product. The order processing unit 102 updates the order data for each order group based on the product data acquired from the user terminal 2.

[0035] The display processing unit 103 generates data for displaying various images on the user terminal 2 or the store terminal 4. The display processing unit 103 outputs the data for displaying various images on the user terminal 2 or the store terminal 4 via the network NW. Outputting includes the meaning of transmitting.

[0036] The communication processing unit 104 acquires data, information, instructions, etc. from other electronic devices via the network NW. Acquiring includes receiving. The communication processing unit 104 outputs the data, information, etc. to other electronic devices via the network NW.

[0037] An example of the configuration of the user terminal 2 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an outline of an example configuration of the user terminal 2. As shown in FIG. The user terminal 2 includes a processing circuit 20, a main memory 21, an auxiliary storage device 22, a communication interface 23, a display device 24, an input device 25, an audio output device 26, an audio input device 27, and an imaging device 28. The processing circuit 20, the main memory 21, the auxiliary storage device 22, the communication interface 23, the display device 24, the input device 25, the audio output device 26, the audio input device 27, and the imaging device 28 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Fig. 3, the interface is indicated as "I / F".

[0038] The processing circuit 20 corresponds to the central part of the user terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 is an element that constitutes the computer of the user terminal 2. The processing circuit 20 includes one or more circuits that execute multiple processes based on multiple functions. Examples of the circuits are as described above. The processing circuit 20 loads a program stored in the main memory 21 or the auxiliary storage device 22 into the main memory 21. The program is a program that can cause the processing circuit 20 to execute multiple processes. The processing circuit 20 executes the program loaded into the main memory 21, thereby enabling various processes to be executed.

[0039] The main memory 21 includes elements corresponding to the main storage portion of the user terminal 2. The main memory 21 is an element that constitutes the computer of the user terminal 2. The configuration of the main memory 21 may be the same as the configuration of the main memory 11.

[0040] The auxiliary storage device 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the user terminal 2. The auxiliary storage device 22 includes one or more storage devices. Examples of storage devices are as described above. The auxiliary storage device 22 stores the above-described programs, data used by the processing circuit 20 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processing in the processing circuit 20.

[0041] The communication interface 23 includes various interfaces that connect the user terminal 2 to other electronic devices via the network NW in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol so that the user terminal 2 can communicate with them. The communication interface 23 is an example of a communication unit of the user terminal 2.

[0042] The display device 24 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processing circuit 20. For example, the display device 24 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (Electroluminescence) display. The display device 24 is an example of a display unit of the user terminal 2.

[0043] The input device 25 is a device that can input instructions, information, etc. to the user terminal 2. The input device 25 may include a keyboard. The input device 25 may form a touch screen together with the display device 24. The input device 25 is an example of an input unit of the user terminal 2.

[0044] The audio output device 26 is a device capable of outputting audio based on audio data, and is, for example, a speaker.

[0045] The voice input device 27 is a device that can input voice data based on voice. For example, the voice input device 27 is a microphone. The voice input device 27 is an example of an input unit of the user terminal 2.

[0046] The photographing device 28 is a device capable of photographing under the control of the processing circuit 20. For example, the photographing device 28 is a camera. The photographing device 28 reads various code symbols and acquires information from the code symbols. For example, the code symbols are two-dimensional code symbols such as barcode symbols or QR Code (registered trademark).

[0047] The code symbol includes a product order link that indicates the address of a product order page set for each order group. The product order link includes data indicating a uniform resource locator (URL) that indicates the address of a product order page where products can be ordered. The product order link includes order group identification information that can identify the order group. For example, if the unit of payment processing is a table, the order group identification information includes information that can identify each table. In this example, the order group identification information includes, for example, data indicating a store code and data indicating a table number. In this example, the product order link is a URL that includes the address of the product order page, data indicating the store code, and data indicating the table number. The order group identification information is not limited to the above. The order group identification information may be any information that can identify the unit of payment processing. The code symbol is, for example, a barcode on which the product order link is recorded, or a two-dimensional code printed on a paper medium. The code symbol may also be in a form that is electronically displayed on a terminal screen.

[0048] The user of the user terminal 2 reads the code symbol via the photographing device 28 and accesses the product order page based on the product order link recorded in the code symbol. It is assumed that a product order page is prepared for each store.

[0049] The hardware configuration of the user terminal 2 is not limited to the above configuration. The user terminal 2 allows the above components to be omitted or changed, and new components to be added, as appropriate.

[0050] The group management data will now be described. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of group management data according to the embodiment. The group management data storage area 121 stores group management data for each order group.

[0051] The group management data includes data for the following items: store code, group ID, table number, group name, start time, end time, and status. We will use the group management data for group ID "001" as an example. The order group indicated by group ID "001" is a group with the group name "Room1" set in the table with table number "1" at the store indicated by store code "XXX." The start time of the order group indicated by group ID "001" is "August 19th, YY, 17:55" and the end time is "August 19th, YY, 20:25." The status of the order group indicated by group ID "001" is "Invalid." This indicates that orders for the order group indicated by group ID "001" cannot be accepted.

[0052] We will use the group management data for group ID "004" as an example. The order group indicated by group ID "004" is a group with the group name "Room2" set in the table with table number "2" in the store indicated by store code "XXX". The start time of the order group indicated by group ID "004" is "August 20th, YY, 19:00", and the end time is not set. The status of the order group indicated by group ID "004" is "Valid". This indicates that orders for the order group indicated by group ID "004" can be accepted.

[0053] (Display example) An example of an image displayed on the display device 24 of the user terminal 2 will be described. FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an initial image displayed on the user terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 5 shows an initial image Ima. The initial image Ima is an image displayed on the display device 24 when an initial access is made by the user of the user terminal 2. The initial access indicates, for example, that the user terminal 2 reads a code symbol and accesses a product order page indicated by a product order link including order group identification information stored in the code symbol. Note that the initial access is not limited to reading a code symbol, and may include accessing the product order page indicated by the product order link by any method.

[0054] The initial image Ima includes a message Ma indicating the table number. The message Ma may be, for example, a message such as "Welcome, number two." The message Ma is not limited to a text message and may be an icon, sign, symbol, etc. The message Ma may also be a video. Based on the message Ma, the user can recognize the table at which the user is seated. Note that the message Ma does not have to include information indicating the table number. The message Ma may also include information that can identify the order group.

[0055] The initial image Ima includes a group name setting button Ba and a group name input button Bb. The group name setting button Ba may include, for example, a message such as "New customer." The group name setting button Ba is an operator that allows an initial setting instruction to be input. The initial setting instruction indicates an instruction to set a group name for an order group. The processing circuit 20 outputs an initial setting instruction to the server 1 based on the user selecting the group name setting button Ba. Selection of the group name setting button Ba includes, for example, an operation by the user such as touch input. The server 1 performs a group name setting process based on the initial setting instruction. Based on the user selecting the group name setting button Ba, the processing circuit 20 displays a setting image, which will be described later, on the display device 24. The setting image is an image for setting a group name. Based on the user selecting the group name setting button Ba, the image displayed on the display device 24 transitions from the initial image Ima to the setting image.

[0056] For example, if the user has not set a group name, the user selects the group name setting button Ba. The user sets a group name for the order group, for example, before placing the first order for the table at which the user will be seated via the user terminal 2. "Before placing the first order" indicates a state in which the user has not placed an order for the table at which the user will be seated via the user terminal 2.

[0057] The group name input button Bb may include a message such as "For those who have a group name." The group name input button Bb is an operator that can input an instruction to transition to a group name input image. The group name input image is an image into which a set group name can be input. Based on the user selecting the group name input button Bb, the processing circuit 20 displays a group name input image, which will be described later, on the display device 24. Selection of the group name input button Bb includes, for example, an operation by the user such as a touch input. Based on the user selecting the group name input button Bb, the image displayed on the display device 24 transitions from the initial image Ima to a set image. Based on the user selecting the group name input button Bb, the processing circuit 20 may output an instruction to transition to the group name input image to the server 1.

[0058] For example, if the user has already set a group name, the user selects the group name input button Bb. The user inputs a group name, for example, when placing a second or subsequent order via the user terminal 2 for the table at which the user is seated. "When placing a second or subsequent order" indicates a state in which a group name has been set in the order group. The server 1 determines whether to accept the order based on the group name entered by the user. For example, if the group name entered by the user matches the group name set in the order group, the server 1 allows the order to be accepted. For example, if the group name entered by the user does not match the group name set in the order group, the server 1 does not allow the order to be accepted. In this case, the server 1 may output an error notification or the like to the user terminal 2.

[0059] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a setting image displayed on the user terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 6 shows a setting image Imb. The setting image Imb is an image that is displayed on the display device 24 when the user of the user terminal 2 selects the group name setting button Ba on the initial image Ima.

[0060] The setting image Imb includes a message Mb, a group name input area Txa, and a key area Ara. The message Mb is a message indicating that a group name is to be set. The message Mb includes, for example, a message such as "Please set a group name." The message Mb is not limited to a text message, but may also be an icon, sign, symbol, etc. The message Mb may also be a video. The user sets the group name based on the message Mb.

[0061] The setting image Imb includes a group name input area Txa. The group name input area Txa is an area where the user can input text for the group name. The key area Ara is an area that includes, for example, a keyboard (on-screen keyboard) displayed on the display device 24. The user, for example, performs key input operations in the key area Ara and inputs a desired group name into the group name input area Txa. For example, if the group name the user sets for the order group is "Room2," the user inputs "Room2" into the group name input area Txa.

[0062] The setting image Imb may include a confirmation button or the like that allows a user to input a confirmation instruction for setting a group name. The user selects the confirmation button by touch input or the like to set the group name. The processing circuit 20 outputs data indicating the group name to the server 1 based on the user's input of the group name or the confirmation instruction. The server 1 performs a group name setting process based on the data indicating the group name. For example, if the group name input by the user is not an available group name, the server 1 does not set the group name. An input group name that is not an available group name includes cases where the same group name as the input group name is already in use, or where the input group name is the same as another valid group name, etc. In this case, the server 1 may output an error notification or the like to the user terminal 2. The error notification may include, for example, a message such as "This group name cannot be used." The error notification may be displayed as a pop-up on the setting image Imb displayed on the display device 24.

[0063] FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a group name input image displayed on the user terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 7 shows a group name input image Imc, which is displayed on the display device 24 when the user of the user terminal 2 selects a group name input button Bb on the initial image Ima.

[0064] The group name input image Imc includes a message Mc, a group name input area Txb, and a key area Ara. The message Mc is a message indicating that a group name should be input. The message Mc includes, for example, a message such as "Please set a group name." The message Mc is not limited to a text message, but may also be an icon, sign, symbol, etc. The message Mc may also be a video. The user inputs a group name based on the message Mc.

[0065] The group name input image Imc includes a group name input area Txb. Similar to the group name input area Txa, the group name input area Txb is an area in which the user can input text for the group name. Similarly to the key area Ara, the key area Ara is an area including a keyboard or the like displayed on the display device 24. The user, for example, performs a key input operation in the key area Ara to input the group name set in the group name input area Txb. For example, if the group name set by the user for the order group is "Room2," the user inputs "Room2" in the group name input area Txb.

[0066] The group name input image Imc may include a confirmation button or the like that can be used to input a confirmation instruction for inputting the group name. The user selects the confirmation button by touch input or the like to confirm the input of the group name. The processing circuitry 20 outputs data indicating the group name to the server 1 based on the group name input or confirmation instruction by the user.

[0067] The server 1 performs a group name validity determination process based on data indicating the group name. For example, if the group name input by the user is valid, the server 1 allows the order to be accepted. Being valid includes the fact that the input group name is the same as the group name set in the order group, the fact that the input group name is valid, etc. The fact that the group name is valid indicates that the status of the order group corresponding to the group name is "valid," that the expiration date of the order group corresponding to the group name has not expired, that the expiration date of the group name has not expired, etc. In this case, the server 1 may output an order image to the user terminal 2 to accept the order.

[0068] For example, if the group name entered by the user is invalid, the server 1 will not accept the order. An invalid group name includes cases where the entered group name is different from the group name set in the order group, where the entered group name is invalid, etc. An invalid group name indicates that the status of the order group corresponding to the group name is "invalid," that the order group corresponding to the group name has expired, or that the group name has expired. In this case, the server 1 may output an error notification or the like to the user terminal 2. The error notification may be displayed as a pop-up on the group name input image Imc displayed on the display device 24.

[0069] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an order image displayed on the user terminal 2 according to the embodiment. 8 shows an order image Imd. The order image Imd is an image displayed on the display device 24 when the server 1 determines that the group name entered by the user is valid. The order image Imd is an image for the user to select the product to order.

[0070] The order image Imd includes a product selection area Arb, a top button Bc, an order button Bd, a history button Be, and a checkout button Bf. The product selection area Arb is an area where the user can input the product to be ordered. The product selection area Arb includes product buttons. The product buttons include category selection buttons such as a drink button, a meal button, and a dessert button. The category selection buttons are buttons that allow the user to select a product category. For example, when the user selects a category selection button by touch input, etc., products in the corresponding category are displayed. The user selects a displayed product and orders that product.

[0071] The top button Bc is an operator that can input, for example, an instruction to transition to a top screen such as the initial image Ima. The order button Bd is an operator that can input, for example, an instruction to order a selected product. The history button Be is an operator that can input, for example, an instruction to display the history of ordered products. The checkout button Bf is an operator that can input, for example, a checkout instruction. A checkout instruction indicates an instruction to proceed to the payment process. The processing circuitry 20 outputs the checkout instruction to the server 1, for example. Based on the checkout instruction, the processing circuitry 20 may display an image showing the checkout information on the display device 24.

[0072] (Example of operation) The processing in the order processing system S will be described. The processing procedure described below is merely an example, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, the processing procedure described below may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment.

[0073] 9 is a sequence diagram illustrating a process for setting a group name in the order processing system S according to the embodiment. The process for setting a group name is also called a group name setting process. In the following, it is assumed that a user CS of a user terminal 2 enters a restaurant, Store X, and orders food and drink via the user terminal 2. Store X performs payment processing on a table-by-table basis. For example, it is assumed that user CS is shown to table number "2" and orders food and drink. Store X has installed a code symbol for each table, which records a product order link including order group identification information that can identify the order group. The code symbol is, for example, a QR code (registered trademark). The code symbol is installed for each table in the form of being printed on a paper medium. Note that the code symbol may also be provided to the customer in the form of being electronically displayed on the screen of a terminal, such as the store terminal 4.

[0074] User CS reads the code symbol by operating user terminal 2. It is assumed that user CS has not placed an order via user terminal 2 for the table at which user CS is seated.

[0075] The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 performs initial access based on the product order link recorded in the code symbol (ACT21). The processing circuit 20 may access a web page for setting a group name or launch an application based on the product order link. In ACT21, for example, the processing circuit 20 outputs data indicating a URL indicating the address of the product order page and order group identification information to the server 1 via the network NW. The product order link data is an example of access information.

[0076] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires product order link data from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 performs access determination based on the product order link data (ACT1). ACT1 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT1, for example, the processing circuit 10 may determine whether a web page indicated by the product order link data is accessible. If the web page indicated by the product order link data is accessible, the processing circuit 10 may determine that the initial access is valid. On the other hand, if the web page indicated by the product order link data is not accessible, the processing circuit 10 may determine that the initial access is invalid. A valid initial access corresponds to a valid product order link. An invalid initial access corresponds to an invalid product order link. Note that the processing circuit 10 may, for example, determine whether an order group indicated by order group identification information is available. An order group being available includes, for example, whether a table indicated by the order group identification information is not being used by another customer or not being reserved by another customer. Processing circuitry 10 may determine that the initial access is valid if the order group is available, whereas processing circuitry 10 may determine that the initial access is not valid if the order group is not available.

[0077] If the initial access is not valid (ACT1: NO), the process transitions from ACT1 to ACT2.

[0078] The processing circuit 10 outputs an error notification (ACT2). ACT2 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. The error notification is a notification regarding the initial access determined by the processing circuit 10. For example, the error notification is a notification indicating that the initial access is invalid. In ACT2, the error notification is a notification for displaying a message indicating that the initial access was not performed properly. In ACT2, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the error notification to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0079] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 receives the error notification. For example, the processing circuitry 20 receives the error notification from the server 1 via the network NW. Based on the error notification, the processing circuitry 20 displays on the display device 24 a message indicating that the initial access was not performed properly.

[0080] If the initial access is valid (ACT1: YES), the process transitions from ACT1 to ACT3.

[0081] The processing circuit 10 outputs the initial image data (ACT3). ACT3 may be processing by the display processing unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10. The initial image data is data for displaying an initial image such as that shown in FIG. 5. In ACT3, for example, the processing circuit 10 generates the initial image data. The processing circuit 10 outputs the initial image data to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0082] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the initial image data. For example, the processing circuitry 20 acquires the initial image data from the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuitry 20 displays the initial image on the display device 24 based on the initial image data (ACT22).

[0083] The user CS operates the user terminal 2 and inputs an initial setting instruction. For example, the user CS selects a group name setting button included in the initial image by touch input or the like. The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the initial setting instruction based on the operation of the user CS. For example, the processing circuitry 20 outputs the initial setting instruction to the server 1 via the network NW.

[0084] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires an initial setting instruction from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 outputs setting image data based on the initial setting instruction (ACT4). ACT4 may be processing by the display processing unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10. The initial image data is data for displaying a setting image such as that shown in FIG. 6. In ACT4, for example, the processing circuit 10 generates setting image data. The processing circuit 10 outputs the setting image data to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0085] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the setting image data. For example, the processing circuitry 20 acquires the setting image data from the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuitry 20 displays the setting image on the display device 24 based on the setting image data (ACT23).

[0086] The user CS operates the user terminal 2 to input a group name to be set for the order group. The user CS, for example, inputs the group name in a group name input area included in the setting image. The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires data indicating the group name based on the input operation of the user CS (ACT24). The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 may also acquire the data indicating the group name based on the input of a confirmation instruction by the user CS. The processing circuit 20 outputs the data indicating the group name to the server 1, for example, via the network NW. The processing circuit 20 may also output data indicating the store code and data indicating the table number to the server 1. The data indicating the store code and the data indicating the table number may be the same data as the order group identification information.

[0087] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires data indicating a group name from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 performs a group name setting process based on the data indicating the group name. The group name setting process may be a process performed by a group processing unit 101 realized by the processing circuit 10. The group name setting process includes processes in ACT5 to ACT7, which will be described later.

[0088] The processing circuit 10 performs a duplication determination (ACT5). In ACT5, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines whether the group names are duplicated based on the group management data. The processing circuit 10 acquires the group management data from the group management data storage area 121. The processing circuit 10 determines whether the group management data includes a group name identical to the group name input by the user CS. If the group management data includes a group name identical to the group name input by the user CS, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the group names are duplicated. On the other hand, if the group management data does not include a group name identical to the group name input by the user CS, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the group names are not duplicated. A duplicate group name corresponds to the group name being unavailable. An unavailable group name corresponds to the group name being unavailable. A non-duplicate group name corresponds to the group name being available.

[0089] The processing circuit 10 may perform the duplication determination based on, for example, the group names of order groups whose status indicates "valid" among the group names included in the group management data. The group names of order groups whose status indicates "valid" are also referred to as valid group names. In this case, the processing circuit 10 may determine whether the input group name is identical to another valid group name. If the input group name is identical to another valid group name, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the group names are duplicated. On the other hand, if the input group name is not identical to another valid group name, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the group names are not duplicated. According to this example, the processing circuit 10 only needs to compare the input group name with valid group names, thereby reducing the amount of processing. Therefore, the processing circuit 10 can perform the duplication determination more efficiently.

[0090] If the group names are duplicated (ACT5: YES), the process transitions from ACT5 to ACT6.

[0091] The processing circuit 10 outputs an error notification (ACT6). ACT6 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. The error notification is a notification regarding a duplication determination made by the processing circuit 10. For example, the error notification is a notification indicating that the group name is duplicated. In ACT6, the error notification is a notification for displaying a message indicating that the group name cannot be used. In ACT6, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the error notification to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0092] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 receives the error notification. For example, the processing circuitry 20 receives the error notification from the server 1 via the network NW. Based on the error notification, the processing circuitry 20 displays a message indicating that the group name is unavailable on the display device 24.

[0093] If the group names do not overlap (ACT5: NO), the process transitions from ACT5 to ACT7.

[0094] The processing circuit 10 generates an order group (ACT7). ACT7 may be processing by the group processing unit 101 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT7, for example, the processing circuit 10 generates an order group based on order group identification information. The processing circuit 10 adds a group name to the group management data of the order group corresponding to the store code and table number indicated by the order group identification information. Generating an order group includes issuing a group name to the order group. The processing circuit 10 may store a start time in the group management data of the generated order group. In this example, the start time is, for example, the time when the order group is generated. Note that the processing circuit 10 may store the start time in the group management data of the order group identified by the order group identification information at the time of initial access by the user CS. The start time may be set based on an operation by the user CS. The start time may also be set by the server 1.

[0095] For example, the processing circuit 10 can manage orders at the table where the user CS is seated based on a group name set by the user CS. The processing circuit 10 can set a group name for each unit of transaction settlement processing, so that orders included in one transaction can be managed based on the group name. When placing an order, the user CS can use the set group name as a password. When placing an order for the same transaction as an order placed by another user at the same table, the user CS can share the group name with the other user. Therefore, the other user does not need to set a new group name. Multiple users at the same table can share the same group name and use the same group name as a password when placing orders.

[0096] According to this example, the server 1 generates order groups based on group names. Therefore, the server 1 can set a group name that can identify each order group based on the payment unit. For example, the group name is shared by customers in a group using the table that is the payment unit. Customers in other groups who do not know the group name cannot access the product order page via the product order link set for the same table. By setting a group name for each order group, the server 1 can prevent fraudulent use of the ordering service by customers in other groups who do not know the group name. The server 1 generates order groups based on group names entered by the user terminal 2. The user can arbitrarily set group names that only users using the same table can know. Therefore, the server 1 can generate order groups based on group names arbitrarily set by the user of the user terminal 2, and can generate order groups whose group names are difficult to leak or predict. This allows the server 1 to prevent fraudulent use of the ordering service.

[0097] Furthermore, by determining whether a group name is duplicated, the server 1 can set a group name that can uniquely identify an order group. This allows the server 1 to prevent the creation of an order group that happens to match a group name used by customers in another group. This allows the server 1 to prevent fraudulent use of the ordering service by customers in another group who do not know the group name.

[0098] The server 1 may change the group name based on an operation performed by the user CS on the user terminal 2. For example, the processing circuit 10 of the server 1 may generate initial image data that allows the user CS to change the group name. The initial image data that allows the user CS to change the group name includes, for example, a group name change button. The group name change button is an operator that allows the user to input an instruction to change the group name. The user terminal 2 may display an initial image that allows the group name to be changed on the display device 24. The user CS inputs an instruction to change the group name based on the initial image. The user terminal 2 may output the change instruction to the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 may acquire the change instruction via the network NW. Based on the acquisition of the change instruction, the processing circuit 10 may output the setting image data to the user terminal 2. The processing circuit 10 may perform processing similar to ACTs 5, 6, and 7, and generate an order group based on the changed group name. According to this example, the user CS can change the group name at any time, and the server 1 can therefore provide a highly convenient ordering service.

[0099] (Variation) In the processing of FIG. 9, the server 1 generates the order group based on the group name input by the user CS, but this is not limited to this. For example, the server 1 may automatically generate the group name. The server 1 may also generate the order group based on the automatically generated group name. In this example, the processing of ACT4 to ACT7 by the processing circuit 10 in the sequence diagram of FIG. 9 can be omitted. Furthermore, the processing of ACT23 to ACT24 in the user terminal can also be omitted.

[0100] For example, the processing circuit 10 of the server 1 performs access determination in ACT1, and if the initial access is valid, outputs initial image data to the user terminal 2. The processing circuit 10 acquires an initial setting instruction from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 automatically generates a group name based on the acquisition of the initial setting instruction from the user terminal 2. The processing circuit 10 outputs a notification indicating the automatically generated group name to the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The notification is, for example, a notification for displaying a message indicating the group name.

[0101] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the notification indicating the group name from the server 1 via the network NW. Based on the notification, the processing circuitry 20 causes the display device 24 to display a message indicating the group name.

[0102] The processing circuit 10 generates an order group based on the generated group name. This processing may be performed by the group processing unit 101 implemented by the processing circuit 10. For example, the processing circuit 10 generates an order group based on order group identification information. The processing circuit 10 adds a group name to the group management data for the order group corresponding to the store code and table number indicated by the order group identification information. Generating an order group includes issuing a group name to the order group. The processing circuit 10 may store a start time in the group management data for the generated order group. In this example, the start time is, for example, the time when the order group is generated. Note that the processing circuit 10 may store the start time in the group management data for the order group identified by the order group identification information at the time of initial access by the user CS. In this example, the start time may be set by the server 1.

[0103] According to this example, the server 1 generates an order group based on an automatically generated group name. The user does not need to set a group name. Therefore, the server 1 can generate an order group without requiring any operation by the user of the user terminal 2. For example, the server 1 randomly generates a group name. This allows the server 1 to omit processes such as determining whether group names are duplicated, thereby reducing the amount of processing.

[0104] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating processing at the time of ordering in the order processing system S according to the embodiment. In the following, it is assumed that user CS of user terminal 2 is shown to table number "2" at restaurant X and places an order for food and drinks. User CS operates user terminal 2 according to the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 9 and sets "Room 2" as the group name for the order group. User CS places an order from user terminal 2 for the table where user CS will be seated.

[0105] For example, a case will be described in which the user CS operates the user terminal 2 and reads a code symbol when placing an order. For example, if the user CS closes the web browser or application for the product order page after setting a group name for an order group, the user CS reads the code symbol again to open the product order page. For example, if a predetermined time has passed since the most recent user operation on the product order page via the user terminal 2 ended, the server 1 may request the user terminal 2 to read the code symbol again. The request may be, for example, a notification urging the user CS to read the code symbol. Based on the request, the user CS reads the code symbol again to open the product order page.

[0106] The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 performs order access based on the product order link recorded in the code symbol (ACT201). The order access indicates, for example, accessing a product order page to place an order via the user terminal 2. In ACT201, for example, the processing circuit 20 outputs data of the product order link to the server 1 via the network NW, similar to ACT21.

[0107] The server 1 acquires product order link data from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 may perform access judgment based on the product order link data, as in ACT1. The processing circuit 10 outputs initial image data to the user terminal 2 based on the validity of the access judgment.

[0108] Similar to the ACT 22, the processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the initial image data from the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuit 20 displays the initial image on the display device 24 based on the initial image data.

[0109] The user CS operates the user terminal 2 to input an instruction to transition to the group name input image. For example, the user CS selects a group name input button included in the initial image by touch input or the like. The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the instruction to transition to the group name input image based on the operation of the user CS. For example, the processing circuitry 20 outputs the instruction to transition to the group name input image to the server 1 via the network NW.

[0110] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires an instruction to transition to a group name input image from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. Based on the instruction to transition to the group name input image, the processing circuit 10 outputs group name input image data to the user terminal 2. The group name input image data is data for displaying a group name input image as shown in FIG. 7.

[0111] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the group name input image data from the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuitry 20 displays a group name input image on the display device 24 based on the group name input image data.

[0112] The user CS operates the user terminal 2 and inputs the group name set for the order group. The user CS, for example, inputs the group name into a group name input area included in the group name input image. In this example, the user CS inputs "Room2" into the group name input area. The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires data indicating the group name based on the input operation of the user CS. The processing circuit 20 may temporarily store the data indicating the group name in the auxiliary storage device 22. The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 may also acquire the data indicating the group name based on the input of a confirmation instruction by the user CS. The processing circuit 20 outputs the data indicating the group name to the server 1, for example, via the network NW. The processing circuit 20 may output data indicating the store code and data indicating the table number to the server 1.

[0113] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires data indicating a group name from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 performs a group name validity determination process based on the data indicating the group name (ACT101). ACT101 may be a process performed by the group processing unit 101 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT101, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines, based on the group management data, whether the acquired group name is valid as a group name for an order group identified by a store code and a table number.

[0114] For example, the processing circuit 10 may determine whether the acquired group name is the same as the group name of the order group identified by the store code and table number. If the acquired group name is the same as the group name of the order group identified by the store code and table number, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the group name is valid. On the other hand, if the acquired group name is not the same as the group name of the order group identified by the store code and table number, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the group name is invalid. A group name that is not valid corresponds to a group name that is invalid.

[0115] The processing circuitry 10 may determine whether the status of an order group identified by, for example, a store code and a table number is valid. The processing circuitry 10 may determine whether the status of an order group is valid based on status information included in the group management data. If the status is valid, the processing circuitry 10 may determine that the group name is valid. On the other hand, if the status is invalid, the processing circuitry 10 may determine that the group name is invalid. The processing circuitry 10 may determine whether the status of an order group is valid based on end time information included in the group management data. If the end time is not set, the processing circuitry 10 may determine that the group name is valid. On the other hand, if the end time indicates a time earlier than the current time, the processing circuitry 10 may determine that the group name is invalid.

[0116] If the group name is invalid (ACT101: NO), the process transitions from ACT101 to ACT102.

[0117] The processing circuit 10 outputs an error notification (ACT102). ACT102 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. The error notification is a notification regarding the validity of the group name determined by the processing circuit 10. For example, the error notification is a notification indicating that the group name is invalid. In ACT102, the error notification is a notification for displaying a message indicating that the group name cannot be used. In ACT102, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the error notification to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0118] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 receives the error notification. For example, the processing circuitry 20 receives the error notification from the server 1 via the network NW. Based on the error notification, the processing circuitry 20 displays a message indicating that the group name is unavailable on the display device 24.

[0119] If the group name is valid (ACT101: YES), the process transitions from ACT101 to ACT103.

[0120] The processing circuit 10 outputs the order image data based on whether the group name is valid (ACT103). ACT103 may be processing by the display processing unit 103 realized by the processing circuit 10. The order image data is data for displaying an order image as shown in FIG. 8. In ACT103, for example, the processing circuit 10 generates the order image data. The processing circuit 10 outputs the order image data to the user terminal 2 via the network NW. Based on whether the group name is valid, the processing circuit 10 enables the acceptance of an order for the order group linked to the group name. This processing may be processing by the order processing unit 102 realized by the processing circuit 10, for example.

[0121] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires the order image data. For example, the processing circuitry 20 acquires the order image data from the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuitry 20 displays the order image on the display device 24 based on the order image data (ACT202).

[0122] The user CS operates the user terminal 2 to select products to order according to the order image. For example, the user CS can use the input device 25 to select products to order from the products displayed in the order image.

[0123] The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires data indicating the ordered products based on the selection operation of the user CS (ACT203). The processing circuit 20 outputs the data indicating the ordered products to the server 1, for example, via the network NW. The data indicating the ordered products is also referred to as order information.

[0124] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires data indicating the ordered products from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 performs error determination processing based on the data indicating the ordered products (ACT104). ACT104 may be processing by the order processing unit 102 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT104, for example, the processing circuit 10 determines whether the ordered products are orderable based on the data indicating the ordered products. The processing circuit 10 may determine, for example, whether the ordered products are in stock based on the data indicating the ordered products. If the ordered products are in stock, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the ordered products are orderable. Being an orderable product corresponds to "no error." On the other hand, if the ordered products are out of stock, the processing circuit 10 can determine that the ordered products are not orderable. Being an orderable product corresponds to "there is an error." The processing circuit 10 may perform error determination processing based on an input error, a communication error, or the like.

[0125] If an error occurs (ACT104: YES), the process proceeds from ACT104 to ACT105.

[0126] The processing circuit 10 outputs an error notification (ACT105). ACT105 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. The error notification is a notification regarding an error determination made by the processing circuit 10. For example, the error notification is a notification indicating that there is an error in the order information. In ACT105, the error notification is a notification for displaying a message indicating that the order cannot be placed. In ACT105, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the error notification to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0127] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 receives the error notification. For example, the processing circuitry 20 receives the error notification from the server 1 via the network NW. Based on the error notification, the processing circuitry 20 displays a message indicating that the order cannot be placed on the display device 24.

[0128] If there is no error (ACT104: NO), the process proceeds from ACT104 to ACT106.

[0129] The processing circuit 10 confirms the order (ACT106). ACT106 may be processing by the order processing unit 102 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT106, for example, the processing circuit 10 confirms the order of a product based on data indicating the ordered product. The processing circuit 10 associates data such as the product name, price, and quantity indicated by the data indicating the ordered product with the group name and stores it in the order data storage area 122. The processing circuit 10 updates the order data each time the order is confirmed. The processing circuit 10 may also update the order data each time data indicating the ordered product is obtained. Note that the processing circuit 10 may output the order data to the store terminal 4 based on the confirmation of the order.

[0130] Note that the user CS may place an order from the order image displayed on the display device 24 without reading the code symbol. For example, the user CS may set a group name according to the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 9, and then issue an order instruction by touching an order button or the like included in the order image without closing the web browser or application on the product order page. Furthermore, after placing an order via the user terminal 2, the user CS may again issue an order instruction by touching an order button or the like included in the order image without closing the web browser or application. In the above case, the process of requesting the user CS to enter a group name in the user terminal 2 may be omitted. The server 1 may not output group name input image data for requesting the entry of a group name to the user terminal 2. The user terminal 2 outputs an order instruction to the server 1 via the network NW based on touch input of an order button or the like. The order instruction may include data indicating a store code, a table number, and a group name. The data indicating the group name is, for example, data indicating the group name entered by the user CS in the group name input image. The data indicating the group name may be, for example, data temporarily stored in the auxiliary storage device 22. In ACT101, the processing circuit 10 of the server 1 may determine whether the group name is valid based on the order instruction.

[0131] The server 1 may output the initial image data to the user terminal 2 when the user CS issues an order instruction via the user terminal 2 by touching an order button or the like included in the order image. For example, the server 1 may output the initial image data to the user terminal 2 based on the order instruction when a predetermined time has passed since the user CS accessed the product order page. In this case, the server 1 may output the group name input image data to the user terminal 2 based on an instruction from the user CS to transition to the group name input image. In ACT101, the processing circuit 10 of the server 1 may perform a group name validity determination process based on acquiring data indicating the group name from the user terminal 2. The server 1 may output the order image data to the user terminal 2 based on the determination result being valid.

[0132] According to this example, the server 1 allows an order group to be accepted based on a group name input in the user terminal 2. For example, the server 1 determines whether the group name is valid based on the group name linked to information capable of identifying the order group output from the user terminal 2 and the group name input by the user of the user terminal 2. The server 1 allows the order to be accepted only if the group name is valid based on the determination result. Therefore, if the group name is different or invalid, the user of the user terminal 2 cannot place an order. For example, the server 1 does not accept orders from the product order page by customers of other groups who do not know the group name. Furthermore, the server 1 does not accept orders from the product order page if the group name has expired. This allows the server 1 to prevent fraudulent use of the ordering service by users.

[0133] FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram illustrating processing at the time of payment in the order processing system S according to the embodiment. In the following, it is assumed that user CS of user terminal 2 performs payment processing for a food and drink order placed at table number "2" in store X. User CS operates user terminal 2 according to the sequence diagram shown in FIG. 9 and sets "Room 2" as the group name for the order group.

[0134] The user CS selects the checkout button included in the order image shown in FIG. 8 by touch input or the like to issue a checkout instruction. The user CS, for example, operates the user terminal 2, reads the code symbol, and issues an instruction to transition to the group name input image on the initial image. The user CS inputs the group name on the group name input image. The server 1 performs a group name validity determination process based on the data indicating the group name, and outputs the order image data to the user terminal 2 based on the determination result that the group name is valid. The user CS may operate the checkout button on the order image. The process of displaying the order image on the user terminal 2 is the same as the process shown in FIG. 10.

[0135] After setting a group name or placing an order, the user CS may issue a payment instruction by touching a payment button or the like without closing the web browser or application on the product order page. In this case, the process of requesting the user CS to input a group name may be omitted in the user terminal 2. The server 1 does not need to output group name input image data to the user terminal 2 to request the user CS to input a group name.

[0136] The server 1 may output the initial image data to the user terminal 2 when the user CS issues a checkout instruction via the user terminal 2 by touching a checkout button or the like included in the order image. For example, the server 1 may output the initial image data to the user terminal 2 based on the checkout instruction if a predetermined time has passed since the user CS accessed the product order page. In this case, the server 1 may output the group name input image data to the user terminal 2 based on an instruction from the user CS to transition to the group name input image. The server 1 may perform a group name validity determination process based on acquiring data indicating the group name from the user terminal 2. The server 1 may output the order image data to the user terminal 2 based on the determination result being valid.

[0137] The processing circuit 20 of the user terminal 2 performs a checkout access based on the receipt of the checkout instruction (ACT211). The checkout access indicates, for example, outputting a checkout instruction to the server 1 to perform the checkout via the user terminal 2. In ACT211, for example, the processing circuit 20 outputs the checkout instruction to the server 1 via the network NW. The checkout instruction includes data indicating the store code, table number, and group name.

[0138] The processing circuit 10 of the server 1 acquires a checkout instruction from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. Based on the checkout instruction, the processing circuit 10 performs a group name validity determination process (ACT111). ACT111 may be processing by the group processing unit 101 implemented by the processing circuit 10. In ACT111, for example, similar to ACT101, the processing circuit 10 determines, based on group management data, whether the acquired group name is valid as a group name for an order group identified by the store code and table number.

[0139] If the group name is invalid (ACT111: NO), the process transitions from ACT111 to ACT112.

[0140] The processing circuit 10 outputs an error notification (ACT112). ACT112 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 realized by the processing circuit 10. The error notification is a notification regarding the validity of the group name determined by the processing circuit 10. For example, the error notification is a notification indicating that the group name is invalid. In ACT112, the error notification is a notification for displaying a message indicating that the group name cannot be used. In ACT112, for example, the processing circuit 10 outputs the error notification to the user terminal 2 via the network NW.

[0141] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 receives the error notification. For example, the processing circuitry 20 receives the error notification from the server 1 via the network NW. Based on the error notification, the processing circuitry 20 displays a message indicating that the group name is unavailable on the display device 24.

[0142] If the group name is valid (ACT111: YES), the process transitions from ACT111 to ACT113.

[0143] If the group name is valid, the processing circuit 10 outputs the transaction information (ACT113). ACT113 may be processing by the communication processing unit 104 implemented by the processing circuit 10. The transaction information includes, for example, order data linked to the group name. The processing circuit 10 outputs the transaction information to the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The processing circuit 10 may also output payment method selection image data to the user terminal 2. The payment method selection image data is data for displaying a payment method selection image on the display device 24. The payment method selection image is, for example, an image that allows the user CS to select a payment method. Payment methods include online payment. Online payment is payment performed by the user terminal 2 in cooperation with other devices via the network NW. Examples of online payment include credit card payment, prepaid card payment, electronic money payment, debit card payment, code payment, and point payment. If the group name is valid, the processing circuit 10 enables payment processing for the order group linked to the group name.

[0144] The processing circuitry 20 of the user terminal 2 acquires transaction information. For example, the processing circuitry 20 acquires the transaction information from the server 1 via the network NW. The processing circuitry 20 performs payment processing based on the transaction information (ACT212). In ACT212, for example, the processing circuitry 20 displays an image on the display device 24 that shows the total amount of the transaction. The processing circuitry 20 displays a payment method selection image on the display device 24.

[0145] For example, the user CS operates the user terminal 2 and selects a payment method in accordance with the payment method selection image using the input device 25. The processing circuit 20 performs payment processing based on the payment method selected by the user CS.

[0146] The processing circuit 20 outputs a payment completion notification based on the completion of the payment process (ACT213). The payment completion notification is a notification indicating the completion of the payment process. In ACT213, for example, the processing circuit 20 outputs the payment completion notification to the server 1 via the network NW.

[0147] The server 1 receives a payment completion notification from the user terminal 2 via the network NW. The server 1 invalidates the group name based on the completion of the payment process (ACT114). ACT114 may be processing by the group processing unit 101 realized by the processing circuit 10. In ACT114, for example, the processing circuit 10 invalidates the group name based on the completion of the payment process for the order group linked to the group name. The processing circuit 10 updates the group management data for the order group linked to the group name. The processing circuit 10 sets the status of the group management data for the order group linked to the group name to "invalid." The processing circuit 10 may set a valid / invalid flag for the group management data for the order group linked to the group name. The processing circuit 10 sets an end time for the group management data for the order group linked to the group name. The processing circuit 10 may set, for example, the completion time of the payment process as the end time.

[0148] The processing circuit 10 may output information indicating the completion of the payment process to the store terminal 4 via the network NW.

[0149] In ACT113, the processing circuit 10 may output the transaction information to the POS terminal 3 via the network NW. The POS terminal 3 performs payment processing based on the payment method selected by the user CS. In this case, the payment method may include online payment and offline payment. Offline payment is payment that does not require the POS terminal 3 to connect with other devices via the network. For example, offline payment is payment with cash, gift certificates, etc. The POS terminal 3 outputs a payment completion notice to the server 1 via the network NW upon completion of the payment processing. The server 1 receives the payment completion notice from the POS terminal 3 via the network NW. As in ACT114, the server 1 invalidates the group name upon completion of the payment processing. The POS terminal 3 may also output a payment completion notice to the store terminal 4 upon completion of the payment processing.

[0150] According to this example, the server 1 enables payment processing for orders of an order group based on the group name input in the user terminal 2. For example, the server 1 determines whether the group name is valid based on the group name linked to information capable of identifying the order group output from the user terminal 2 and the group name input by the user of the user terminal 2. The server 1 enables payment processing only if the group name is valid based on the determination result. Therefore, if the group name is different or invalid, the user of the user terminal 2 cannot perform payment processing. For example, the server 1 does not accept payment instructions from customers of other groups whose group names the server 1 does not know. Furthermore, the server 1 does not accept payment instructions if the group name has expired. This allows the server 1 to prevent users from fraudulently using the ordering service.

[0151] Furthermore, the server 1 invalidates a group name upon completion of payment processing for an order group linked to the group name. A user cannot use a group name linked to an order group for which payment processing has been completed. After payment processing is completed, a user cannot use the same group name to place an order or make a payment from the product order page. This allows the server 1 to prevent mischief by a user who has used a previously set group name. This allows the server 1 to prevent fraudulent use of the ordering service by users.

[0152] (Other embodiments) Some or all of the multiple storage areas that the server 1 has may be held by one electronic device other than the server 1. Some or all of the multiple storage areas that the server 1 has may be distributed and held by multiple electronic devices other than the server 1.

[0153] The server 1 may be realized by one electronic device, or may be realized by a plurality of electronic devices with distributed functions.

[0154] The above-described embodiments may be applied to a method executed by the system, a program that can cause the computer of the system to execute each function, or a recording medium that stores the program.

[0155] Each of the one or more circuits constituting the processing circuit performs one or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of a single circuit, the single circuit performs all of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, each of the multiple circuits performs a part of the multiple processes. The part of the multiple processes may be one of the multiple processes, or two or more of the multiple processes. When the processing circuit is composed of multiple circuits, the multiple circuits may be included in a single device or may be distributed across multiple devices.

[0156] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in the electronic device according to the embodiment, or in a state where it is not stored in the electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is a computer-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or a memory card, as long as it is capable of storing the program and is computer-readable.

[0157] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims.

[0158] The above embodiment may be expressed as follows. (1) a group processing unit that generates an order group based on a group name; an order processing unit that enables acceptance of orders for the order group based on the input of the group name at a terminal; An information processing device comprising: (2) The group processing unit generates the order group based on a group name input from a terminal. The information processing device described in (1). (3) The group processing unit invalidates the group name based on the completion of the settlement process for the order group linked to the group name. The information processing device described in (1). (4) To the computer: The ability to generate order groups based on group names; a function of making it possible to accept orders for the order group based on input of the group name at a terminal; An information processing program capable of executing the above. (5) In an information processing system including a terminal and an information processing device, The information processing device includes: a group processing unit that generates an order group based on the group name; an order processing unit that enables acceptance of orders for the order group based on the input of the group name at the terminal; Equipped with Information processing system. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 1...server, 2...user terminal, 3...POS terminal, 4...store terminal, 10...processing circuit, 11...main memory, 12...auxiliary storage device, 13...communication interface, 20...processing circuit, 21...main memory, 22...auxiliary storage device, 23...communication interface, 24...display device, 25...input device, 26...audio output device, 27...audio input device, 28...photography device, 101...group processing unit, 102...order processing unit, 103...display processing unit, 104...communication processing unit, 121...group Management data storage area, 122...order data storage area, Ara...key area, Arb...product selection area, Ba...group name setting button, Bb...group name input button, Bc...top button, Bd...order button, Be...history button, Bf...checkout button, Ima...initial image, Imb...setting image, Imc...group name input image, Imd...order image, Ma~Mc...message, NW...network, S...order processing system, Txa...group name input area, Txb...group name input area, X...store.

Claims

1. a group processing unit that generates an order group based on the group name; an order processing unit that enables acceptance of orders for the order group based on the input of the group name at a terminal; An information processing device comprising:

2. the group processing unit generates the order group based on a group name input from a terminal. The information processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the group processing unit invalidates the group name based on completion of the settlement process for the order group linked to the group name; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

4. On the computer, The ability to generate order groups based on group names; a function of making it possible to accept orders for the order group based on input of the group name at a terminal; An information processing program capable of executing the above.

5. In an information processing system including a terminal and an information processing device, The information processing device includes: a group processing unit that generates an order group based on the group name; an order processing unit that enables acceptance of orders for the order group based on the input of the group name at the terminal; Equipped with Information processing system.

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