Payment system and payment method

Abstract

To provide, when a service and its payment are repeatedly performed, a service provision device which does not require to select a payment method for each payment if the same payment method is used.SOLUTION: A payment method for making a payment for a service is selected, and the payment for the service is made using the selected payment method. After the payment is completed, the service is executed according to settings. If settings of a service to be executed next are the same as the settings of the previously executed service, the payment method selected for the payment of the previously executed service is used as a selection method for the service to be executed next.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 21

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to payment systems and the like. [Background technology]

[0002] Service providing devices that can be used for a fee may be installed in stores such as convenience stores, supermarkets, and restaurants, as well as in public facilities such as train stations, bus terminals, airports, government offices, and libraries. The service providing devices are, for example, multi-function printers / peripherals (MFPs) and kiosk terminals. Users of the service providing devices can receive services by paying a fee according to the service.

[0003] In a service providing device, the same user may use the same service more than once in succession. For example, a user may use an MFP to copy two documents. Typically, the service providing device provides the service after payment has been made in advance. Therefore, payment and copying for the first document are completed, followed by payment and copying for the second document.

[0004] In relation to the present disclosure, Patent Document 1 discloses a payment method selection screen that corresponds to each of a plurality of payment methods available in an information processing system and includes icons for selecting a payment method for settlement. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-82976 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] Recently, service providing devices often support multiple payment methods, such as cash payment, card payment, code payment, and electronic money payment. When using a service providing device in succession to receive multiple services, many users use the same payment method for all of these services.

[0007] Conventional service providing devices require users to select a payment method for each payment. Therefore, even if a user uses the same payment method for payments for multiple services, the conventional service providing device requires the user to select a payment method for each service.

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present disclosure is to provide a payment system that eliminates the need to select a payment method for each payment when the same payment method is used when repeatedly performing a service and its payment. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present disclosure provides a payment system comprising a control unit, an operation unit, and a payment unit for making payment for a service before the service is executed, wherein the control unit receives input via the operation unit to select a payment method for making payment for the service, the payment unit makes payment for the service using the payment method selected in accordance with the input, the control unit executes the service in accordance with settings after the payment is completed, and when the settings for the service to be executed next are the same as the settings for the service executed last time, the control unit uses the payment method selected for the payment for the service executed last time as the payment method for the service to be executed next.

[0010] The present disclosure also provides a payment method in which a payment method for payment for a service is selected, payment for the service is made using the selected payment method, and after the payment is completed, the service is executed according to settings, and if the settings of the service to be executed next are the same as the settings of the service executed last time, the payment method selected for payment for the service executed last time is used as the selection method for the service to be executed next. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the present disclosure, when the same payment method is used when repeatedly performing a service and its payment, a payment system can be provided in which there is no need to select a payment method for each payment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a conceptual schematic diagram for explaining a payment system according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a functional block diagram of an MFP (Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral) that functions as a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a payment terminal in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart for explaining a non-cash payment process of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a payment terminal in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of a portal screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]10 is an example of a color type selection screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] 10 is an example of a paper size selection screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] 10 is an example of a document reading operation screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] 10 is an example of a zoom setting screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 10 is an example of a first payment method selection screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] 10 is an example of a payment terminal operation request screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] These are example screens displayed on the display unit of a payment terminal in a payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, where Figure 14(A) is an example of a second payment method selection screen, Figure 14(B) is an example of a payment execution screen when the specified payment method is card payment, and Figure 14(C) is an example of a first payment completion screen when the specified payment method is card payment. [Figure 15] 10 is an example of a second payment completion screen displayed on the display unit of the service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] 10 is an example of a service execution screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] 10 is an example of a service continuation confirmation screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 18] 10 is an example of a receipt setting screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 19] These are examples of receipts printed according to the receipt setting screen of Figure 18 in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure, where Figure 19(A) is an example of a receipt that combines the fees for services for which "Print all at once" is checked, and Figure 19(B) is an example of a receipt for services for which "Print all at once" is not checked. [Figure 20] 10 is an example of a service end screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] 2A to 2C are diagrams for explaining the transition of screens displayed on the display units of the service providing device and the payment terminal in the payment system according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 22] 10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of a service providing device in a payment system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 23] 10A to 10C are diagrams for explaining the transition of screens displayed on the display units of the service providing device and the payment terminal in the payment system according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a payment system according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 25] FIG. 10 is a functional block diagram of an MFP (Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral) that functions as a service providing device in a payment system according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] 13 is a flowchart for explaining a non-cash payment process of a service providing device in a payment system according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 27] 13 is an example of a second payment method selection screen displayed on the display unit of the service providing device in the payment system according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 28] 13 is an example of a payment execution screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in a payment system according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 29] 13 is an example of a payment completion screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in a payment system according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 30] 13 is an example of a payment failure screen displayed on a display unit of a service providing device in a payment system according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] [1. First embodiment] [1.1 Overview] In the first embodiment, payment is made at a payment terminal connected to the service providing device. When repeatedly making a payment, if the user selects "Continue with the same settings," the payment terminal displays a payment screen for making a payment using the payment method used in the previous payment. On the other hand, if the user selects "Reset from scratch," the payment terminal displays a payment method selection screen.

[0014] Fig. 1 is a conceptual schematic diagram for explaining a payment system 1 according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 is a functional block diagram of an MFP (Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral) that functions as a service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 3 is a functional block diagram of a payment terminal 5 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0015] In the payment system 1, the payment terminal 5 displays a second payment method selection screen on the display unit 53. The second payment method selection screen includes a selection key for selecting one payment method from multiple payment methods as a specific payment method. When terminating a service, the service providing device 3 displays a service continuation confirmation screen. The service continuation confirmation screen includes a "Reset from the beginning" key 125a, a "Continue with the same settings" key 125b, and an "Exit" key 125c.

[0016] The "Reset from the beginning" key 125a is also referred to as the first option, and the "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is also referred to as the second option. When the "Reset from the beginning" key 125a is operated by the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 displays the second payment method selection screen again on the display unit 21. When the "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is operated by the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 sets the specific payment method used to pay for the previous service as the payment method for paying for the current service, without displaying the second payment method selection screen again on the display unit 21.

[0017] In this way, by operating the "Continue with the same settings" key 125b, payment is made using the specific payment method used in the previous service. Therefore, the user of the service providing device 3 can omit the operation of selecting a payment method.

[0018] When the settings related to a service are changed, the cost of the service may change significantly. In particular, if the cost increases significantly, it may exceed the upper limit of the amount that can be paid using a specific payment method. For example, the balance on the IC card may be insufficient. In anticipation of such a case, when the "Reset from scratch" key 125a is operated, both the selection of the payment method and the settings related to the service are reset.

[0019] [1.2 Payment System 1] The payment system 1 includes an MFP (Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral) 3, a payment terminal 5, and payment servers 9a, 9b, and 9c. The MFP 3 serves as a service providing device in the payment system 1 and provides services to users for a fee. The payment terminal 5 is connected to the service providing device 3. The payment terminal 5 can communicate with the payment servers 9a, 9b, and 9c via the service providing device 3 and the network NW. The payment servers 9a, 9b, and 9c are each operated by a business operator that handles payments. The payment server 9a is operated by a credit card company. The payment server 9b is operated by a business operator that provides a code payment service such as a QR code payment service. The payment server 9c is operated by a payment institution that handles payments using contactless IC cards such as so-called transportation IC cards.

[0020] [1.3 MFP3] An MFP3 or multifunction peripheral is a type of image forming device, and typically has a copy function, an image scanner function, a facsimile function, and a printer function. The MFP3 may also have other functions, such as an email sending / receiving function, a file server function, etc. The MFP3 has a display unit 21, an operation unit 23, an image input unit 25, an image forming unit 27, a control unit 29, a memory unit 31, a communication unit 33, a connection unit 35, a cash settlement unit 37, and a data bus 39.

[0021] The display unit 21 displays images and characters. For example, it is configured with a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence (EL) panel, etc. The display unit 21 may be a standalone display device, or may further include an externally connected display device.

[0022] The operation unit 23 accepts operation inputs from the user. For example, the operation unit 23 is configured with hardware keys and / or software keys. The operation unit 23 also includes operation keys such as task keys for issuing instructions to execute tasks such as sending a fax or scanning an image, and a stop key for issuing an instruction to cancel an operation. The display unit 21 and the operation unit 23 may be integrated into a touch panel display.

[0023] Image input unit 25 reads an image (original) and outputs it as image data. Image input unit 25 is configured with a general scanner (image input device). Image input unit 25 may input image data from an external storage medium such as a USB memory, or may receive an image via a network.

[0024] Image forming unit 27 forms (prints) an image on a medium such as copy paper based on image data. The printing method of image forming unit 27 is arbitrary, and may be, for example, an inkjet printer, a laser printer, a thermal transfer printer, etc. Image forming unit 27 may be a monochrome printer or a color printer. Image forming unit 27 may include a paper feed mechanism that supplies media, a transport mechanism that transports media, a sorter mechanism that sorts media after images have been formed, etc.

[0025] The control unit 29 controls the entire image forming apparatus. The control unit 29 is made up of one or more control devices and control circuits, and is made up of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit) which is a processor that executes various types of arithmetic processing, an SoC (System on a Chip), etc.

[0026] Furthermore, the control unit 29 can implement each function by reading out a program stored in the storage unit 31 and executing the process.

[0027] The storage unit 31 stores various programs and data necessary for the operation of the MFP3. The storage unit 31 has a service setting area 31a. The service setting area 31a stores a service number assigned to each service provided by the MFP3, settings related to the service provided by the MFP3, and the payment method used to pay for the service, all of which are associated with one another. The storage unit 31 includes one or more storage devices capable of temporary storage, such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), or non-temporary storage devices, such as a solid state drive (SSD) made of semiconductor memory or a hard disk drive (HDD) made of a magnetic disk. For convenience of explanation, the storage unit 31 is shown as a single unit. However, the storage unit 31 may be configured as separate devices for different purposes, such as an area used for executing programs (main storage area), an area for saving programs and data (auxiliary storage area), and an area used for caching.

[0028] The communication unit 33 connects the MFP 3 to a data communication network. For example, the communication unit 33 is configured with an interface that can connect to a wired LAN (Local Area Network), a wireless LAN, or an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network. By connecting the communication unit 33 to a network, the MFP 3 can be connected to other devices and external networks.

[0029] The connection unit 35 connects the MFP 3 to other devices so as to enable data communication. For example, the connection unit 35 is a USB interface to which a USB memory or the like is connected. The connection unit 35 may also be an interface other than a USB interface, such as HDMI (registered trademark). The connection unit 35 may also be an interface that performs short-range wireless communication, such as NFC (Near Field Communication) or Bluetooth (registered trademark).

[0030] The cash settlement unit 37 settles the usage fee for the MFP 3 in cash. The cash settlement unit 37 includes a coin slot, a bill slot, a change return lever, a coin return slot, and the like, all of which are not shown. The cash settlement unit 37 classifies currency inserted through the coin slot by type and counts the number of each type. Similarly, the cash settlement unit 37 classifies bills inserted through the bill slot by type and counts the number of each type. The cash settlement unit 37 calculates the amount inserted based on the results of these counts. When a service is provided by the MFP 3, the cash settlement unit 37 deducts a fee corresponding to the service content from the amount inserted and calculates the balance after deduction. If the balance is not zero, when the change return lever is operated, the cash settlement unit 37 returns change according to the balance. If the change consists only of coins, the cash settlement unit 37 returns the coins as change through the coin return slot. When the change consists of coins and banknotes, the cash settlement unit 37 returns the coins from the coin return slot and the banknotes from the banknote insertion slot.

[0031] [1.4 Payment Terminal 5] The payment terminal 5 is an information processing device that is connected to the MFP 3 and executes processing for settling fees according to services provided by the MFP 3. The payment terminal 5 includes a display unit 51, an operation unit 53, a connection unit 55, a code reading unit 57, a card memory unit 59, a control unit 51, and a memory unit 53.

[0032] The display unit 51 displays images and characters. For example, it is configured with a liquid crystal display (LCD), an organic electroluminescence (EL) panel, etc. The display unit 51 may be a standalone display device, or may further include an externally connected display device.

[0033] The operation unit 53 receives operation inputs from a user. For example, the operation unit 53 is configured with hardware keys and / or software keys. The display unit 51 and the operation unit 53 may be integrated into a touch panel display.

[0034] Connection unit 55 is connected to connection unit 35 of MFP 3 so as to enable data communication using the same method. The connection between connection unit 35 and connection unit 55 may be a wired connection or a wireless connection. For example, connection unit 35 and connection unit 55 may both have a USB interface and be connected to each other via a USB cable. Alternatively, connection unit 35 and connection unit 55 may be equipped with a wireless transceiver capable of wireless communication using a short-range wireless communication method such as Bluetooth, and may be connected to each other via short-range wireless communication.

[0035] The code reading unit 57 includes a scanner capable of optically reading codes such as bar codes and two-dimensional codes. The code reading unit 57 is used when performing code settlement, which will be described later.

[0036] The card reader 59 reads data from contact IC cards and contactless IC cards. The card reader 59 has a slot for inserting a contact IC card, and reads data from the contact IC card by bringing the inserted contact IC card into contact with electrodes provided in the slot. The card reader 59 also has an antenna coil that generates an AC magnetic field, and the AC magnetic field generated by the antenna coil induces a voltage in the contactless IC card in the AC magnetic field, thereby operating the contactless IC card and reading data from the contactless IC card.

[0037] The control unit 61 controls the entire image forming apparatus. The control unit 61 is made up of one or more control devices and control circuits, and is made up of, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), which is a processor that executes various types of arithmetic processing, an SoC (System on a Chip), etc. The control unit 61 can realize each function by reading out programs stored in the storage unit 63 and executing the processes.

[0038] The storage unit 63 stores various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the payment terminal 5. The storage unit 63 includes one or more recording devices capable of temporary storage, such as a dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and non-temporary recording devices, such as a solid state drive (SSD) made of semiconductor memory or a hard disk drive (HDD) made of magnetic disk. For convenience of explanation, the storage unit 63 is shown as a single configuration, but it may also be configured as separate devices for each purpose, such as an area used for executing programs (main storage area), an area for saving programs and data (auxiliary storage area), an area used for caching, etc.

[0039] [1.5 Operation of service providing device 3] 4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Note that the screens displayed will be described later.

[0040] The control unit 29 sets the value of flag F to 0 to initialize the flag F (step S1). The flag F indicates whether to use the same payment method as that used to pay for the previously used service (F=1) or not (F=0), and also indicates whether to display a second payment method selection screen (F=0) (described later) or not (F=1).

[0041] Next, control unit 29 sets service number N to 1 to initialize service number N (step S2). The service number is a number that is issued for each service that MFP 3 provides.

[0042] Next, control unit 29 displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21 and accepts an operation on portal screen 101 via operation unit 23 (step S3). Next, control unit 29 displays color type selection screen 103 on display unit 21 and accepts an operation on color type selection screen 103 via operation unit 23, and stores the selected color type in service setting area 31a in association with service number N (step S5).

[0043] Next, the control unit 29 displays the paper size selection screen 105 on the display unit 21, accepts operations on the paper size selection screen 105 via the operation unit 23, and associates the selected paper size with the service number N and stores it in the service setting area 31a (step S7).

[0044] If an operation to perform enlargement / reduction copying is performed on the paper size selection screen 105 (step S9, Yes), the control unit 29 displays the enlargement / reduction setting screen 109 on the display unit 21, accepts an operation on the enlargement / reduction setting screen 109 via the operation unit 23, associates the selected enlargement / reduction setting with the service number N, stores it in the service setting area 31a (step S11), and returns to step S7.

[0045] If no operation to enlarge / reduce copying is performed on the paper size selection screen 105 (step S9, No), the control unit 29 displays the document reading operation screen 107 on the display unit 21 and accepts operations on the document reading operation screen 107 via the operation unit 23 (step S13).

[0046] Next, the control unit 29 displays the first payment method selection screen 111 on the display unit 21, accepts an operation on the first payment method selection screen 111 via the operation unit 23, and stores the specified number of copies and the total amount corresponding to the number of copies in the service setting area 31a in association with the service number N (step S15). If an operation to select the "Cash" key 111f on the first payment method selection screen 111 is performed (step S17, Yes), the control unit 29 executes processing related to cash payment using the cash payment unit 37 (step S18). If an operation to select the "Card, Code, Electronic Money" key 111g on the first payment method selection screen 111 is performed (step S17, No), the control unit 29 proceeds to non-cash payment processing, which will be described later (step S19).

[0047] After the non-cash payment process, the control unit 29 displays a service execution screen 123 on the display unit 21 and accepts an operation on the service execution screen 123 via the operation unit 23 (step S21). Next, the control unit 29 displays a service continuation confirmation screen 125 on the display unit 21 and accepts an operation on the service continuation confirmation screen 125 via the operation unit 23 (step S23). Next, the control unit 29 operates in accordance with the key operated on the service continuation confirmation screen 125 by the operation unit 23 (step S25).

[0048] In step S25, if the "reset from scratch" key 125a is operated by the operation unit 23 (step S25, reset from scratch), the control unit 29 updates the value of flag F to 0 (step S27), adds 1 to the value of service number N (step S29), and returns to step S5.

[0049] In step S25, if the "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is operated by the operation unit 23 (step S25, continue with the same settings), the control unit 29 updates the value of flag F to 1 (step S27), adds 1 to the value of service number N (step S33), and returns to step S13.

[0050] In step S25, if the "Exit" key 125c is operated by the operation unit 23 (step S25, end), the control unit 29 determines whether or not a receipt needs to be printed based on the settings on the first payment method selection screen 111, the service execution screen 123, and the service continuation confirmation screen 125 (described later) (step S35). If the control unit 29 determines that a receipt should be printed (step S35, yes), the control unit 29 displays a receipt setting screen 127 on the display unit 21 and accepts an operation on the receipt setting screen 127 via the operation unit 23 (step S37). Next, the control unit 29 displays a service end screen 133 on the display unit 21 and accepts an operation on the service end screen 133 via the operation unit 23 (step S39), and the process returns to step S1. If the control unit 29 determines that a receipt should not be printed (step S35, no), the control unit 29 skips step S37 and proceeds to step S39.

[0051] [1.6 Non-cash payment processing] 5 is a flowchart for explaining the non-cash payment process of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Control unit 29 displays payment terminal operation request screen 113 on display unit 21 and accepts an operation on payment terminal operation request screen 113 via operation unit 23 (step S51). Next, control unit 29 determines whether the value of flag F is 0 or not (step S53).

[0052] If the value of flag F is 0 (step S53, Yes), control unit 29 transmits a payment method selection request and a payment request to payment terminal 5 via connection unit 23 (step S55). The payment method selection request requests payment terminal 5 to display second payment method selection screen 115, which will be described later. The payment request requests payment terminal 5 to execute payment processing. The payment request includes information regarding the service fee, which is determined based on operations performed on color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, zoom setting screen 109, and first payment method selection screen 111.

[0053] If the value of flag F is 1 (step S53, No), control unit 29 transmits a payment method designation and a payment request to payment terminal 5 via connection unit 23 (step S57). The payment method designation specifies the specific payment method stored in service setting area 31a in association with the service number immediately preceding the current service number as the payment method for the service related to the current service number.

[0054] In response to the transmission to the payment terminal performed in step S55 or S57, the payment terminal performs the operation shown in Fig. 6. If the payment is successful, the payment terminal 5 transmits a payment success notification and a payment method notification to the MFP3. If the payment fails, the payment terminal 5 transmits a payment failure notification to the MFP3. The operation of Fig. 6 will be described in detail later.

[0055] 5, when the connection unit 35 receives a response from the payment terminal 5, the control unit 29 determines whether the response is a payment success notification or a payment failure notification (step S59). If a payment success notification is received (step S59, payment success notification), the control unit 29 displays the second payment completion screen 121 on the display unit 21 (step S61).

[0056] Furthermore, control unit 29 stores the specific payment method notified in the payment method notification received simultaneously with the payment success notification in service setting area 31a in association with service number N (step S63). Thereafter, the service number of the service provided by MFP3 in step S21 immediately after the current non-cash payment process, the settings related to that service (color type, paper size, enlargement / reduction settings, number of copies, amount), and the payment method for that service are stored in association with each other in service setting area 31a.

[0057] If a payment failure notice is received (step S59, payment failure notice), the control unit 29 proceeds to step S15 and prompts the user to select another payment method.

[0058] [1.7 Operation of payment terminal 53] 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of payment terminal 5 in payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. As described above, in step S55 or step S57, MFP 3 transmits a payment method selection request or a payment method designation along with a payment request to payment terminal 5. In payment terminal 5, when connection unit 55 receives the payment request (step S81), control unit 61 determines whether the payment request was received with the payment method selection request or the payment method designation (step S83).

[0059] When a payment request is received together with the payment method selection request (step S83, payment method selection request), the control unit 61 displays a second payment method selection screen 115 on the display unit 51 and accepts an operation on the second payment method selection screen 115 via the operation unit 53 (step S85). Next, the control unit 61 displays a payment execution screen 117 on the display unit 51 for executing payment using the payment method corresponding to the key selected on the second payment method selection screen 115 (step S87). Since card payment is selected on the payment execution screen 117 illustrated in FIG. 14(B), the control unit 61 reads the user's card with the card reading unit 59, accepts necessary input (e.g., password input) via the operation unit 53, and then performs data communication with the payment server 9a that supports card payment to execute the payment.

[0060] If a payment request is received along with the specified payment method (step S83, No), the control unit 61 skips step S85 and proceeds to step S87. At this time, the control unit 61 performs the payment again using the payment method used in the previous payment. That is, the control unit 61 reads out the specific payment method stored in association with the service number of the previous service from the service setting area 31a, and displays the payment execution screen 117 for performing the payment using this specific payment method on the display unit 51 (step S87). At this time, the control unit 61 performs the payment by performing data communication with one of the payment servers 9a, 9b, and 9c that corresponds to the same payment method as the payment for the previous service.

[0061] If the payment is successful using the payment method displayed on the payment execution screen 117 (step S89, Yes), the control unit 61 displays the first payment completion screen 119 on the display unit 51 (step S91) and sends a payment success notification and a payment method notification to the MFP 3 via the connection unit 55 (step S93).

[0062] On the other hand, if the payment using the payment method displayed on the payment execution screen 117 fails (step S89, No), the control unit 61 displays a payment failure screen 120 on the display unit 51 (step S95) and sends a payment failure notification to the MFP 3 via the connection unit 55 (step S97).

[0063] [1.8 Screen] FIG. 7 shows an example of a portal screen 101 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The portal screen 101 is displayed in step S3 of FIG. 4. The portal screen 101 has keys 101a to 101g. The keys 101a to 101g are operated via the operation unit 23 as virtual key switches displayed on the portal screen 101. The keys 101a and 101c to 101h correspond to services provided by the MFP3. The key 101b corresponds to an operation performed by a user of the MFP3 to connect their smartphone to the MFP3 via wireless communication such as Bluetooth. In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the key 101a is operated via the operation unit 23 in step S3. The key 101a corresponds to the service "single-sided copy" provided by the MFP3. The control unit 21 proceeds to step S5 in response to the operation of the key 101a.

[0064] 8 shows an example of a color type selection screen 103 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The color type selection screen 103 is displayed in step S35 of FIG. 4. The color type selection screen 103 is a screen for selecting the type of color to be used when making a single-sided copy selected on the portal screen 101. The color type selection screen 103 has keys 103a to 103i. The keys 103a to 103i are operated via the operation unit 23 as virtual key switches displayed on the color type selection screen 103.

[0065] Each of the keys 103a to 103h corresponds to a color type, and when operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 stores a setting for single-sided copying in the color type corresponding to that key in the storage unit 31. The key 103a corresponds to color copying, the key 103b corresponds to black and white copying, and the keys 103c to 103h correspond to monochrome color copying in red, green, blue, light blue, magenta, and yellow, respectively.

[0066] In step S5, when color type selection screen 103 is displayed, if any of keys 103a to 103h is operated by operation unit 23, control unit 21 stores the color type setting corresponding to the operated key in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31, and proceeds to step S7. Key 103i is a key for suspending a service, and when operated by operation unit 23, control unit 29 suspends single-sided copying and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21.

[0067] FIG. 9 shows an example of a paper size selection screen 105 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The paper size selection screen 105 is displayed in step S7 of FIG. 4. The paper size selection screen 105 is a screen for selecting the size of paper to be used for single-sided copying selected on the portal screen 101. The paper size selection screen 105 has keys 105a to 105j and a deposited amount display field 105k. The keys 105a to 105j are each operated via the operation unit 23 as virtual key switches displayed on the paper size selection screen 105. The deposited amount display field 105k is a field for displaying the amount of cash previously deposited in the cash settlement unit 37.

[0068] When key 105a is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 determines the paper size of the document based on the scan results of the document set in image input unit 25. When key 105b is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 returns the screen displayed on display unit 21 to the previous screen. In other words, control unit 29 displays color type selection screen 103 on display unit 21.

[0069] Each of the keys 105c to 105g corresponds to a paper size. As shown in the figure, the keys 105c to 105g display the fee per sheet for each paper size. For example, key 105c corresponds to B5 size paper and displays 10 yen per sheet. When any of the keys 105c to 105g is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 stores a setting indicating that the paper size corresponding to the operated key has been selected in the service setting area 31a of the storage unit 31, and displays the keys 105c to 105g on the display unit 21 using a display mode indicating that the operated key is selected and the other keys are not selected. For example, when key 105c is operated, the keys 105d to 105g are grayed out to indicate that they are not selected. When any of the keys 105c to 105g is selected in this manner, if key 105h is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S13.

[0070] Key 105i is a key for interrupting the service, and when operated by operation unit 23, control unit 29 interrupts single-sided copying and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21. Key 105j corresponds to enlargement / reduction copying, and in response to an operation on operation unit 23 (step S9, Yes), control unit 29 proceeds to step S11 and displays enlargement / reduction setting screen 109 on display unit 21.

[0071] 10 shows an example of an original reading operation screen 107 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The original reading operation screen 107 is displayed in step S13 of FIG. 4. The original reading operation screen 107 is a screen for guiding the procedure for properly setting an original to be copied on one side in the image input unit 25. The original reading operation screen 107 has a moving image display field 107a, keys 107b to 107d, and an inserted amount display field 107e.

[0072] The video display field 107a is a field for displaying a video that guides the user through the procedure for properly setting a document to be single-sided copied in the image input unit 25. When key 105b is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 returns the screen displayed on the display unit 21 to the previous screen. That is, the control unit 29 displays the paper size selection screen 105 on the display unit 21. Key 107c is a key for interrupting the service. When key 107c is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 interrupts the single-sided copying and displays the portal screen 101 on the display unit 21. When key 107d is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 performs single-sided copying on the document set in the image input unit 25 in accordance with the operations on each of the color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, and enlargement / reduction screen 109. The deposited amount display field 105k is a field for displaying the amount of cash previously deposited in the cash settlement unit 37.

[0073] 11 shows an example of a zoom setting screen 109 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The zoom setting screen 109 is displayed in step S11 of FIG. 4. The zoom setting screen 109 is a screen for making settings related to zooming in / out for single-sided copying. The zoom setting screen 109 has keys 109a to 109d and an inserted amount display field 109e.

[0074] When key 109a is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores in service setting area 31a of memory unit 31 a setting for making a single-sided copy by enlarging or reducing the document scanned by image input unit 25 to fit the paper size selected on paper size selection screen 105.

[0075] When key 109b is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 displays a screen for specifying a magnification (not shown) on display unit 21 to prompt the user to input the magnification, and stores the setting for making a single-sided copy by enlarging or reducing the document at the magnification input via operation unit 23 in service setting area 31a of memory unit 31.

[0076] When key 109c is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31 a setting for making a single-sided copy of the document, enlarging the document to the equivalent of two or four A3 / B4 sheets of paper.

[0077] Key 109d is a key for suspending the service, and when operated by operation unit 23, control unit 29 suspends single-sided copying and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21. Deposit amount display field 109e is a field for displaying the amount of cash that has been deposited in advance in cash settlement unit 37.

[0078] 12 shows an example of a first payment method selection screen 111 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The first payment method selection screen 111 is displayed in step S15 of FIG. 4. The first payment method selection screen 111 is a screen for accepting input of the number of copies to be made on one side, whether the payment method is cash payment or not, and whether a receipt needs to be printed. The first payment method selection screen 111 has a number of copies display field 111a, keys 111b to 111d, 111f to 111j, 111m, and 111n, a total amount display field 111e, and an inserted amount field 111k.

[0079] The number of copies display field 111a is a field that displays the number of copies to be made on one side. Operating key 111b increases the number of copies in number of copies display field 111a by one, and operating key 111c decreases the number of copies in number of copies display field 111a by one. Operating key 111d displays a numeric input field (not shown). When a number is directly entered into this numeric input field via operation unit 23, control unit 29 displays the number as is in number of copies display field 111a. Furthermore, control unit 29 adds up the number of copies displayed in number of copies display field 111a and the fee per sheet of paper for the paper size selected on paper size selection screen 105 to calculate a total amount, and displays the total amount in total amount display field 111e.

[0080] When key 111f is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 sets cash payment as the payment method. When key 111g is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 sets a payment method other than cash payment as the payment method. In this example, the options are card payment, code payment, and electronic money payment, but the first payment method selection screen 111 does not set whether it is card payment, code payment, or electronic money payment. Furthermore, when key 111g is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 proceeds to non-cash payment processing, which will be described later.

[0081] When key 111h is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores a setting to print a receipt in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31. When key 111i is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores a setting to not print a receipt in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31.

[0082] Key 111j is a key that allows the user to instruct MFP3 to start payment based on the settings stored in service setting area 31a through operations on color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, zoom setting screen 109, and first payment method selection screen 111. When key 111j is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores the number of copies displayed in copy number display field 111a and the total amount displayed in total amount display field 111e at that time in service setting area 31a. Deposit amount display field 111k is a field for displaying the amount of cash previously deposited in cash settlement unit 37.

[0083] When key 111m is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 returns the screen displayed on display unit 21 to the previous screen. That is, control unit 29 displays document reading operation screen 107 on display unit 21. Key 111n is a key for interrupting the service, and when operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 interrupts single-sided copying and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21.

[0084] The above-mentioned color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, document reading operation screen 107, enlargement / reduction setting screen 109, and first payment method selection screen 111 are all screens on which the settings of the service to be executed next can be changed. For this reason, these screens are also collectively referred to as setting change screens.

[0085] 13 shows an example of a payment terminal operation request screen 113 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The payment terminal operation request screen 113 is displayed in step S51 of FIG. 5. The payment terminal operation request screen 113 is a screen for prompting the user operating the MFP 3 to operate the payment terminal 5 to make a payment. The payment terminal operation request screen 113 has keys 113a and 113b and an inserted amount display field 111c.

[0086] When key 113a is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 returns the screen displayed on display unit 21 to the previous screen. That is, control unit 29 displays document reading operation screen 107 on display unit 21. Key 113b is a key for interrupting the service, and when operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 interrupts single-sided copying and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21. Deposit amount display field 113c is a field for displaying the amount of cash that has been deposited in advance in cash settlement unit 37.

[0087] 14 shows example screens displayed on the display unit 51 of the payment terminal 5 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 14(A) is an example of the second payment method selection screen 115. The second payment method selection screen 115 is displayed in step S85 of FIG. 6. The second payment method selection screen 115 has keys 115a to 115c.

[0088] Key 115a corresponds to card payment. Card payment is payment made using a credit card. Key 115b corresponds to code payment. Code payment is payment made using a barcode or two-dimensional code. Electronic money payment is payment made using a contactless IC card.

[0089] Figure 14(B) is an example of a payment execution screen 117 when the specified payment method is card payment. The payment execution screen 117 is displayed in step S87 of Figure 6. The payment execution screen 117 has a payment method display field 117a and a message field 117b. The payment execution screen 117 is an example of the display when card payment 115a is selected as the specified payment method on the second payment method selection screen 115 displayed in step S85 of Figure 6. To indicate this, the specified payment method display field 117a displays "Card payment." To make a card payment, the user needs to have their credit card read by the card reading unit 59. To prompt this, the message field 117b displays "Please insert your card."

[0090] When code payment 115b is selected on the second payment method selection screen 115, "Code payment" is displayed in the specific payment method display field 117a. The message displayed in the message field 117b differs depending on whether the code payment method is the store scan method or the user scan method.

[0091] In the case of the store scan method, the message field 117b displays, for example, "Please display the QR code (registered trademark) on the screen of your smartphone and have the payment terminal read it." This message can prompt the user to display the QR code on the screen of their smartphone and have the code reading unit 57 read the QR code.

[0092] On the other hand, if the code payment method is a user scan method, the message field 117b displays, for example, "Please read the QR code displayed on the screen with the camera of your smartphone." This message can prompt the user to read the QR code displayed on the display unit 51 using the camera of their smartphone.

[0093] When electronic money payment 115c is selected on the second payment method selection screen 115, "Electronic Money Payment" is displayed in the specific payment method display field 117a. To make an electronic money payment, the user must bring the contactless IC card close to the AC magnetic field generated by the antenna coil of the card reading unit 59. To prompt this, the message field 117b displays, for example, "Please touch your card."

[0094] Figure 14(C) is an example of the first payment completion screen 119 when the specified payment method is card payment and the payment is successful. The first payment completion screen 119 is a screen for notifying the user that the payment has been completed on the payment terminal 5. The first payment completion screen 119 is displayed in step S89 of Figure 6. The first payment completion screen 119 has a specified payment method display field 119a and a message field 119b.

[0095] The first payment completion screen 119 is an example of the display when card payment 115a is selected as the specified payment method on the second payment method selection screen 115 displayed in step S85 of Figure 6. To indicate this, the specified payment method display field 119a displays "Card payment." The message field 119b displays an icon (check mark) indicating payment completion and the text "Payment completed."

[0096] 14(D) is an example of a payment failure screen 120 when the specified payment method is card payment and the payment has failed. The payment failure screen 120 is a screen for notifying that the payment at the payment terminal 5 has failed.

[0097] 15 shows an example of a second payment completion screen 121 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The second payment completion screen 121 is a screen for notifying the completion of payment on the MFP 3. The second payment completion screen 121 is displayed in step S61 of FIG. 5. The second payment completion screen 121 has a key 121a, an inserted amount display field 121b, and a key 121c.

[0098] Key 121a is operated via operation unit 23 when the user checks payment completion second screen 121. In response to the operation of key 121a, control unit 29 ends the non-cash payment process, proceeds to step S21, and displays a service execution screen 123 (described later) on display unit 21. Deposit amount display field 121b is a field for displaying the amount of cash previously deposited in cash payment unit 37. Key 121c is a key for suspending the service, and when operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 suspends single-sided copying and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21. When key 121c is operated on payment completion second screen 121, control unit 29 communicates with one of payment servers 9a, 9b, and 9c that performed the non-cash payment process via communication unit 33 and network NW, and requests cancellation of the performed non-cash payment process.

[0099] 16 is an example of a service in progress screen 123 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The service in progress screen 123 is a screen indicating that a service (single-sided copying in this case) requested by the user from the MFP 3 is currently being executed. The service in progress screen 123 has keys 123a to 123c, an inserted amount display field 123d, and a key 123e.

[0100] When key 123a is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stops the currently running service (single-sided copy). For example, if key 123a is operated while image forming unit 27 is currently forming an image of a page of a document on paper, control unit 29 uses image forming unit 27 to form an image of that page on paper, and then ends the service without forming images of pages after that page on paper.

[0101] When key 123b is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores a setting to print a receipt in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31. When key 123c is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores a setting to not print a receipt in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31.

[0102] When key 111h or key 111i is operated on first payment method selection screen 111, key 123b or key 123c corresponding to the key operated on first payment method selection screen 111 is displayed on service execution screen 123 in a display mode indicating that the key is selected. For example, when key 111i for "print receipt" is operated on first payment method selection screen 111, key 123b may be displayed grayed out to indicate that key 123c corresponding to key 111i is selected on service execution screen 123. Alternatively, key 123c may be highlighted by blinking to indicate that key 123c is selected.

[0103] The deposited amount display field 123d is a field for displaying the amount of cash that has been deposited in advance in the cash settlement unit 37. The key 123e is a key for interrupting the service, and when operated by the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 interrupts the single-sided copy and displays the portal screen 101 on the display unit 21. 17 shows an example of a service continuation confirmation screen 125 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The service continuation confirmation screen 125 is displayed in step S23. The service continuation confirmation screen 125 has keys 125a to 125e and an inserted amount display field 125f. The service continuation confirmation screen 125 notifies or inquires the user about the following: -Notify the user that the service (single-sided copying) has ended. Ask the user whether they want to continue using the service. When continuing to use the service, the user is asked whether or not to change the settings currently stored in the service setting area 31a.

[0104] Key 125a corresponds to continuing to use the service and changing the settings currently stored in service setting area 31a. When key 125a is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 overwrites the value of flag F with 0 and then proceeds to step S5. In this case, color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, zoom setting screen 109, first payment method selection screen 111, and second payment method selection screen 115 are displayed, and the user can change the settings stored in service setting area 31a by appropriately operating these screens.

[0105] Key 125b corresponds to continuing to use the service without changing the settings currently stored in service setting area 31a. When key 125b is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 overwrites the value of flag F with 1 in step S29 and then proceeds to step S13. Therefore, no operations are performed on color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, or zoom setting screen 109, which are displayed in steps S5, S7, and S11 before step S13. Also, because flag F is 1, MFP 3 (control unit 29) transmits only a payment request to payment terminal 5 in step S57, but does not transmit a payment method selection request. Therefore, payment terminal 5 skips step S85 and executes step S87, so second payment method selection screen 115 is not displayed on display unit 51 of payment terminal 5. Therefore, when key 125b is operated via operation unit 23, the user can use the service (single-sided copy) with the same settings as the previous time without performing any setting operations. Furthermore, the user can use the same payment method as the previous time without having to perform any setting operations.

[0106] Key 125c corresponds to ending the service without continuing to use the service. When key 125c is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 proceeds to step S31 and displays receipt setting screen 127, which will be described later.

[0107] When key 125d is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores a setting to print a receipt in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31. When key 125e is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 stores a setting to not print a receipt in service setting area 31a of storage unit 31.

[0108] As described above, the display form of the keys 123b and 123c on the service execution screen 123 changes depending on the operation of the keys 111h and 111i on the first payment method selection screen 111. Similarly, the operation of the keys 111h and 111i on the first payment method selection screen 111 and the operation of the keys 123b and 123c on the service execution screen 123 affect the display form of the keys 125d and 125e on the service continuation confirmation screen 125.

[0109] That is, when the service continuation confirmation screen 125 is displayed with either key 123b or 123c selected on the service execution screen 123, the key among keys 125d and 125e corresponding to the key that was selected on the service execution screen 123 is also displayed in a selected state on the service continuation confirmation screen 125. The display form showing the selected state is the same as that of the first payment method selection screen 111.

[0110] The deposited amount display field 125f is a field for displaying the amount of cash that has been deposited in advance in the cash settlement unit 37.

[0111] 18 shows an example of a receipt setting screen 127 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The receipt setting screen 127 is displayed in step S37. The receipt setting screen 127 has a table 127a, keys 127b and 127c, and an inserted amount display field 127d.

[0112] Table 127a is a screen for specifying whether to print receipts collectively for each service. Table 127a has records 127a1, 127a2, and 127a3. Records 127a1, 127a2, and 127a3 each correspond to one service number. The "Print collectively" field in each record is a check box, which can be checked or unchecked by operating the operation unit 23. The values ​​of "Paper size," "Color type," "Number of sheets," and "Fees" in each record are based on the corresponding settings stored in the service setting area 31a in association with the corresponding service number. If the user wants to issue a single receipt collectively covering the fees for multiple services, the user operates the operation unit 23 to check the check boxes for the services they want to combine. For fees for services with no check boxes checked, a receipt will be issued for each service.

[0113] Key 127b is a "select all" key. When key 127b is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 checks the check boxes of all records in table 127 at once. For example, when key 127b is operated on receipt setting screen 127 in the state of FIG. 18, control unit 29 checks all check boxes of records 127a1, 127a2, and 127a3.

[0114] Key 127c is a "Print" key. When key 127c is operated via operation unit 23, control unit 29 prints a receipt using image forming unit 27 in accordance with the check status of the check column in table 127a at that time. When key 127c is operated on receipt setting screen 127 shown in FIG. 18, control unit 29 uses image forming unit 27 to print two receipts, which will be described next.

[0115] FIG. 19 shows examples of receipts printed according to the receipt settings screen of FIG. 18 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 19(A) is an example of a receipt that combines the fees for services for which the "print all at once" box is checked, and FIG. 19(B) is an example of a receipt for services for which the "print all at once" box is not checked. In step S37, when the receipt settings screen 127 is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 uses the image forming unit 27 to print both the receipt 129 of FIG. 19(A) and the receipt 131 of FIG. 19(B). The receipt 129 has a name field 129a for the user to enter their name, an amount field 129b, and a date field 129c for the date the receipt was created. Similarly, the receipt 131 has a name field 131a, an amount field 131b, and a date field 131c.

[0116] Receipt 129 is a receipt that combines the fees for services that have a check mark in the "print all at once" column. The fees for records 127a1 and 127a3, which have a check mark in the "print all at once" column, are 40 yen and 30 yen, respectively, and the total of these fees, 70 yen, is entered in amount column 129b.

[0117] Receipt 131 is a receipt for the fee for a service for which the "Print all at once" field is unchecked. The fee of 10 yen for record 127a2 for which the "Print all at once" field is unchecked is entered as is in the amount field 131b. In the example of Figure 18, there is only one record for which the "Print all at once" field is unchecked, so only one type of receipt corresponding to that record is printed for which the "Print all at once" field is unchecked.

[0118] If there are M records (M is an integer greater than or equal to 2) with the "Print all at once" field unchecked, receipts corresponding to the records with the "Print all at once" field unchecked will be printed in the number corresponding to each of those records, resulting in M ​​types of receipts being printed. In this case, the above-mentioned receipt 129 will be printed on these M types of receipts, resulting in a total of M+1 types of receipts being printed.

[0119] 20 shows an example of a service termination screen 133 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. The service termination screen 133 is displayed in step S39. The service termination screen 133 has a key 133a. When the key 133a is operated via the operation unit 23, the control unit 29 proceeds to step S1.

[0120] 21 is a diagram for explaining the transition of screens displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 and the display unit 51 of the payment terminal 5 in the payment system 1 according to the first embodiment of the present disclosure. Screen group 151 surrounded by dotted lines indicates the screen transition on the display unit 51 of the payment terminal 5, and the others indicate the screen transition on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3. Compared with the screen transitions in the second embodiment (FIG. 23) described later, the main difference is the screen transitions after the service continuation confirmation screen 125.

[0121] When "Reset from the beginning" key 125a is operated on service continuation confirmation screen 125, MFP3 displays color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, enlargement / reduction setting screen 109, and first payment method selection screen 111. This allows the user to set the color type, paper size, enlargement / reduction, number of copies, and payment method ("cash" or "card, code, electronic money").

[0122] Furthermore, when the "Reset from the beginning" key 125a is operated on the service continuation confirmation screen 125, the payment terminal 5 performs payment using the specific payment method selected on the second payment method selection screen 115. After this, the MFP 3 transitions to the service execution screen 123 and provides the service.

[0123] On the other hand, when "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is operated on service continuation confirmation screen 125, MFP 3 does not display color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, zoom setting screen 109, or first payment method selection screen 111. Therefore, if the user wishes to receive the service with the same settings, unnecessary operations can be omitted by operating "Continue with the same settings" key 125b.

[0124] Furthermore, when the "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is operated on the service continuation confirmation screen 125, the payment terminal 5 does not display the second payment method selection screen 115. In this case, the payment terminal 5 displays the payment execution screen 117, which allows payment to be made using the payment method used for the previous service, and transitions to the service execution screen 123 to provide the service. Therefore, if the user wishes to make payment using the same payment method, there is no need to select the payment method again.

[0125] [1.9 Effects] According to the first embodiment, when the service providing device provides a service and then subsequently provides another service, if the user selects "Continue with the same settings," the payment terminal displays a payment screen for making payment using the payment method used for the previous service, without the user having to reselect the payment method. This allows the user to omit the operation of selecting a payment method when repeatedly using a service from the service providing device.

[0126] [2. Second Embodiment] A second embodiment will be described. Compared to the first embodiment, the second embodiment differs in the screen transition of the MFP 3. The following description will focus on only the differences in configuration and processing from the first embodiment.

[0127] 22 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the service providing device 3 in the payment system 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Compared to the flowchart of the first embodiment in FIG. 4, it differs in that step S27 is replaced with step S101. Other points are the same as those of the first embodiment.

[0128] In the second embodiment, when either the "Reset from the beginning" key 125a or the "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is operated on the service continuation confirmation screen 125 displayed in step S23, flag F is updated to 1. Therefore, regardless of which key is operated, in the non-cash payment process (FIG. 5) for the next service, a payment method designation and a payment request are sent to the payment terminal 5 in step S57, and the second payment method selection screen 115 is skipped in the payment terminal 5.

[0129] 23 is a diagram for explaining the transition of screens displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3 and the display unit 51 of the payment terminal 5 in the payment system 1 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. Screen group 151 surrounded by dotted lines indicates the screen transition on the display unit 51 of the payment terminal 5, and the others indicate the screen transition on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 3. Compared with the screen transitions in the first embodiment described above (FIG. 21), the main difference is the screen transitions after the service continuation confirmation screen 125.

[0130] When "Reset from the beginning" key 125a is operated on service continuation confirmation screen 125, MFP3 displays color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, enlargement / reduction setting screen 109, and first payment method selection screen 111. This allows the user to set the color type, paper size, enlargement / reduction, number of copies, and payment method ("cash" or "card, code, electronic money").

[0131] On the other hand, when "Continue with the same settings" key 125b is operated on service continuation confirmation screen 125, MFP 3 does not display color type selection screen 103, paper size selection screen 105, or zoom setting screen 109. Therefore, if the user wishes to receive the service with the same settings, unnecessary operations can be omitted by operating "Continue with the same settings" key 125b.

[0132] Whether the key operated on the service continuation confirmation screen 125 is the "reset from the beginning" key 125a or the "continue with the same settings" key 125b, the payment terminal 5 does not display the second payment method selection screen 115. In this case, the payment terminal 5 displays a payment execution screen 117 for making payment using the payment method used in the previous service, and transitions to the service execution screen 123 to provide the service.

[0133] According to the second embodiment, when the service providing device provides a service and then subsequently provides another service, whether the user selects "Continue with the same settings" or "Reset from the beginning," the payment terminal displays a payment screen for making payment using the payment method used for the previous service without the user having to reselect the payment method. This allows the user to omit the operation of selecting a payment method when repeatedly using a service from the service providing device.

[0134] 3. Third Embodiment The third embodiment will now be described. In the payment system 1 of the first embodiment, the MFP 3 (service providing device) and the payment terminal 5 were configured as separate devices. In contrast, the payment system 201 of the third embodiment differs in that the MFP 203 has built-in functions equivalent to the payment terminal 5. The following description will focus on only the differences in configuration and processing from the first embodiment.

[0135] 24 is a conceptual schematic diagram for explaining a payment system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The payment system 201 includes an MFP 203 and payment servers 9a, 9b, and 9c.

[0136] 25 is a functional block diagram of an MFP (Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral) 203 that functions as a service providing device in a payment system 201 according to the second embodiment of the present disclosure. The MFP 203 includes a code reading unit 205, a card reading unit 207, and a non-cash payment control unit 209 in addition to the functional blocks of the MFP 3 according to the first embodiment.

[0137] The code reading unit 205 includes a scanner capable of optically reading codes such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes. The code reading unit 205 is used when performing code payments.

[0138] Card reading unit 207 reads data from contact IC cards and contactless IC cards. Card reading unit 207 has a slot for inserting a contact IC card, and reads data from the contact IC card by bringing the inserted contact IC card into contact with electrodes provided in the slot. Card reading unit 207 also has an antenna coil that generates an AC magnetic field, and operates the contactless IC card by inducing a voltage in the contactless IC card in the AC magnetic field using the AC magnetic field generated by the antenna coil, thereby reading data from the contactless IC card.

[0139] The non-cash payment control unit 209 performs operations equivalent to those of the control unit 61 of the payment terminal 5, using the display unit 21, operation unit 23, memory unit 31, communication unit 33, code reading unit 205, and card reading unit 207. Note that the control unit 29 may be operated as the non-cash payment control unit 209, and the non-cash payment control unit 209 may be omitted.

[0140] 26 is a flowchart for explaining a non-cash payment process of the service providing device 203 in the payment system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. This flowchart corresponds to both the flowcharts of FIGS. 5 and 6 in the first embodiment.

[0141] When the "Card, Code, Electronic Money" key 111g is operated via the operation unit 23 on the first payment method selection screen 111 (Figure 4, Step S17, No), the non-cash payment control unit 209 determines whether the value of flag F is 0 or not (Step S201).

[0142] If the value of flag F is 0 (step S201, Yes), the non-cash payment control unit 209 displays the second payment method selection screen 221 on the display unit 21, accepts an operation to select a payment method via the operation unit 23, and sets the selected payment method as the specific payment method for the next service payment (step S203). The second payment method selection screen 221 corresponds to the second payment method selection screen 115 in the first embodiment.

[0143] If the value of flag F is 1 (step S201, No), the non-cash payment control unit 209 skips displaying the second payment method selection screen 221, reads out the specific payment method associated with the service number of the previous service from the service setting area 31a, and sets it as the payment method for the current service.

[0144] Next, the non-cash payment control unit 209 displays the payment execution screen 223 corresponding to the specified payment method on the display unit 21 and executes the payment (step S205). The payment execution screen 223 corresponds to the payment execution screen 117 in the first embodiment.

[0145] Next, the non-cash payment control unit 209 determines whether the payment is successful (step S207). If the payment is successful (step S207, Yes), the non-cash payment control unit 209 displays a payment completion screen 225 on the display unit 21 and ends the non-cash payment process (step S209). If the payment is unsuccessful (step S207, No), the non-cash payment control unit 209 displays a payment failure screen 227 on the display unit 21 and proceeds to step S15 in Figure 4 (S211).

[0146] 27 shows an example of a second payment method selection screen 221 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 203 in the payment system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The second payment method selection screen 221 is displayed in step S203. The second payment method selection screen 221 is a screen for selecting a specific payment method for paying for a service. The second payment method selection screen 221 has keys 221a, 221b, 221c, and 221d.

[0147] When key 221a is operated via operation unit 23, non-cash payment control unit 209 selects card payment as the specified payment method. When key 221b is operated via operation unit 23, non-cash payment control unit 209 selects code payment as the specified payment method. When key 221c is operated via operation unit 23, non-cash payment control unit 209 selects electronic money payment as the specified payment method. When key 221d is operated via operation unit 23, non-cash payment control unit 209 stops providing the service and displays portal screen 101 on display unit 21.

[0148] 28 shows an example of a payment execution screen 223 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 203 in the payment system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The payment execution screen 223 is displayed in step S205. The payment execution screen 223 has a payment method display 223a, a message field 223b, and a key 223c.

[0149] The payment method display 223a displays the selection method selected on the second payment method selection screen 221. The message field 223b displays a message explaining the operations to be performed by the user to make a payment using the payment method displayed on the payment method display 223a. When the key 223c is operated via the operation unit 23, the non-cash payment control unit 209 stops providing the service and displays the portal screen 101 on the display unit 21.

[0150] 27 is a payment execution screen that is displayed when card payment 221a is selected on the second payment method selection screen 221. In response to the selection of card payment 221a, "Card payment" is displayed in the payment method display 223a on the payment execution screen 223. In addition, a message prompting the user to insert a credit card into a slot (not shown) of the card reading unit 207 to perform card payment is displayed in the message field 223b.

[0151] 29 shows an example of a payment completion screen 225 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 203 in the payment system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The payment completion screen 225 is displayed in step S209. The payment completion screen 225 has a payment method display 225a, a message field 225b, and keys 225c and 225d.

[0152] The payment method display 225a displays the selection method selected on the second payment method selection screen 221. The message field 225b displays a message notifying the user that payment has been completed using the payment method displayed on the payment method display 225a. The key 225c is operated via the operation unit 23 to confirm that the user has read the message displayed in the message field 225b. In response to the operation of the key 225c, the non-cash payment control unit 209 terminates the non-cash payment process. When the key 225d is operated via the operation unit 23, the non-cash payment control unit 209 stops providing the service and displays the portal screen 101 on the display unit 21.

[0153] 30 shows an example of a payment failure screen 227 displayed on the display unit 21 of the service providing device 203 in the payment system 201 according to the third embodiment of the present disclosure. The payment failure screen 227 is displayed in step S211. The payment failure screen 227 has a payment method display 227a, a message field 227b, and keys 227c and 227d.

[0154] The payment method display 227a displays the selection method selected on the second payment method selection screen 221. The message field 227b displays a message notifying the user that the payment using the payment method displayed on the payment method display 227a has failed and encouraging the user to use another payment method. The key 227c is operated via the operation unit 23 to confirm that the user has read the message written in the message field 227b. In response to the operation of the key 227c, the non-cash payment control unit 209 terminates the non-cash payment process and proceeds to step S15. When the key 227d is operated via the operation unit 23, the non-cash payment control unit 209 stops providing the service and displays the portal screen 101 on the display unit 21.

[0155] According to the third embodiment, the service providing device has the functionality of a payment terminal, so that the number of devices to be installed for providing services can be reduced, thereby simplifying the management of devices when providing services using the service providing device.

[0156] [4. Modifications] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments and modifications, and various modifications are possible. In other words, embodiments obtained by combining appropriately modified technical means within the scope of the gist of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0157] For example, in the above-described embodiment, card payment, code payment, and electronic money payment are listed as payment methods other than cash payment. However, other payment methods may be used as long as they allow electronic payment by the payment terminal 5 or the payment unit 205. For example, debit cards and prepaid cards may be used. Furthermore, while credit cards, debit cards, and prepaid cards are generally machine-readable recording media, the system of the present disclosure does not care about the type of recording media. For example, these cards may be magnetic cards or IC cards. Furthermore, in the case of IC cards, they may be contact IC cards or contactless IC cards. In the case of contactless IC cards, for example, they may be NFC (Near Field Communication), FeliCa (registered trademark), RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), or other wireless methods.

[0158] In the above embodiment, an MFP has been described as the service providing device, but for example, a kiosk terminal or a vending machine may be used as the service providing device instead of an MFP.

[0159] The programs that run on each device in the embodiments are programs that control the CPU, etc. (programs that make a computer function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. Information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (e.g., RAM) during processing, and then stored in various storage devices such as ROMs (Read Only Memories) and HDDs, and is read, modified, and written by the CPU as needed.

[0160] Here, the recording medium for storing the program may be any of semiconductor media (e.g., ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), optical recording media / magneto-optical recording media (e.g., DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc), etc.), magnetic recording media (e.g., magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.), etc. Furthermore, not only are the functions of the above-described embodiments realized by executing the loaded program, but the functions of the present disclosure may also be realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc., based on instructions from the program.

[0161] Furthermore, when distributing the program on the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium and distributed, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0162] 1, 201 Payment System 3, 203 Service provision device (MFP, Multi-Function Printer / Peripheral) 5. Payment terminal 7 base station 9a, 9b, 9c Payment Server 21, 51 Display section 23, 53 Operation section 25 Image input unit 27 Image forming unit 29, 61 Control section 31, 63 Storage section 31a Service Settings Area 33, 55 Communications Department 35, 55 connection part 37 Cash Settlement Department 57, 205 Code reading unit 59, 207 Card reader 101 Portal screen 101a, 101b, 101c, 101d, 101e, 101f, 101g, 101h, 103a, 103b, 103c, 103d, 103e, 103f, 103g, 1 03h, 103i, 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, 105f, 105g, 105h, 105i, 105j, 107b, 107c, 107d, 10 9a, 109b, 109c, 109d, 111b, 111c, 111d, 111f, 111g, 111h, 111i, 111j, 111m, 111n, 113a, 113 b, 115a, 115b, 115c, 121a, 121c, 123a, 123b, 123c, 123e, 127b, 127c, 133a, 223c, 225c, 225d key 103 Color type selection screen 105 Paper size selection screen 105k, 107e, 109e, 113c, 111k, 113c, 121b, 123d, 127d Input amount display field 107 Original scanning operation screen 107a Video display column 109 Zoom setting screen 111 Payment method selection screen 1 111a Number of copies displayed 111e Total amount display field 113 Payment terminal operation request screen 115, 221 Payment method selection screen 2 115a, 115b, 115c selection keys 117, 223 Payment execution screen 223a, 225a Payment method display 117a, 119a Specific payment method display column 117b, 119b, 223b, 225b Message field 119 Payment completion first screen 120, 227 Payment failure screen 121 Payment completion second screen 123 Service running screen 125 Service continuation confirmation screen 127 Receipt setting screen 127a Table 127a1, 127a2, 127a3 records 129, 131 Receipt 129a, 131a Name column 129b, 131b Amount column 129c, 131c date field 133 Service termination screen 151 screen group 209 Non-cash payment control section 225 Payment completion screen NW Network

Claims

1. a control unit, an operation unit, and a payment unit that performs payment for a service before the service is executed; the control unit accepts an input via the operation unit to select a payment method for making payment for the service; the payment unit performs payment for the service using the payment method selected in accordance with the input; the control unit executes the service according to the setting after the payment is completed; When the setting of the service to be executed next is the same as the setting of the service executed last time, the control unit uses the payment method selected for the payment of the service executed last time as the payment method of the service to be executed next. Payment system.

2. Further comprising a display unit, The control unit After the service is completed, a screen including the first option and the second option is displayed on the display unit; when an input for selecting the first option is received via the operation unit, a payment method selection screen for selecting a payment method for the service to be executed next is displayed on the display unit; When an input for selecting the second option is received via the operation unit, the payment method selection screen is not displayed. The payment system according to claim 1 .

3. Further comprising a display unit, The control unit After the service is completed, a screen including the first option and the second option is displayed on the display unit; when an input selecting the first option is received via the operation unit, a setting change screen for changing the setting of the service to be executed next is displayed on a display unit; When an input for selecting the second option is received via the operation unit, the setting change screen is not displayed. The payment system according to claim 1 .

4. The control unit When an input for selecting the first option is received via the operation unit, a payment method selection screen for selecting a payment method is displayed; When an input for selecting the second option is received via the operation unit, the payment method selection screen is not displayed. The payment system according to claim 3 .

5. the control unit does not display a payment method selection screen for selecting a payment method both when an input for selecting the first option is received via the operation unit and when an input for selecting the second option is received via the operation unit; The payment system according to claim 3 .

6. A service providing device and a payment terminal are provided, the service providing device includes the control unit and the operation unit, The payment terminal includes the payment unit. The payment system according to claim 1 .

7. Select the payment method to pay for the service, Make payment for said service using the selected payment method; After the payment is completed, the service will be carried out according to the settings. If the settings of the service to be executed next are the same as the settings of the service executed last time, the payment method selected for the payment of the service executed last time is used as the selection method for the service to be executed next. Payment method.

Images