Electronic money loading system

Abstract

To provide an electronic money loading system which enables a variety of settlement methods for loading electronic money.SOLUTION: A store server 108 includes an electronic money lading apparatus for loading electronic money, and is connected to a plurality of two-dimensional code settlement servers 118 over an Internet communication line 112. In loading electronic money, a user can select a service for loading as to whether to add electronic money or to add points of which valid periods are different. When a payment for the value to be loaded is settled, the electronic money loading apparatus adds electronic money or points, according to the selection for the service, in addition to loading the electronic money.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores, which allows users to use a mobile information device owned by an individual or the like as a terminal device in a laundry store to charge an electronic money card for using paid laundry machines installed in the laundry store using the two-dimensional code payment system. More specifically, the present invention relates to an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores, which allows users to use a mobile information device owned by an individual as a terminal device and make payments using a QR code (registered trademark) to charge electronic money to an electronic money card for using paid laundry equipment installed in the laundry store. In this specification, the following terms are used and interpreted according to the following definitions: A two-dimensional code is a code that has information in both vertical and horizontal directions, and although QR codes are widely used, it is not limited to this. Security information refers to information that has the function of protecting information from being stolen or tampered with, and examples of such information include passwords and URLs (Uniform Resource Locators) that can be accessed only once. One-time security information refers to information that is valid only once or for a specific period of time. Terms indicating order such as "first" and "second" are used to distinguish between devices and do not affect the interpretation of the scope of the right. [Background technology]

[0002] As a first prior art, there is known an electronic money system in which a provider of goods or services displays transaction information such as the payment amount and payment account using a two-dimensional code, and the customer acquires the two-dimensional code using the camera (image capture) function of the user terminal device to make the payment (see, for example, Patent Document 1). As a second prior art, it is known that in coin laundries, a QR code is read using a mobile phone camera and an email with the QR code information attached is sent to a management server, thereby granting various benefits without the need for a point card (see, for example, Patent Document 2). As a third prior art, in an application filed by the present applicant, it is known that an IC card issuing and charging machine is used in a coin laundry (see, for example, Patent Document 3). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2013-530445 (Figures 1 to 15, paragraph 0012) [Patent Document 2] JP 2009-271899 (Figs. 1-2, paragraphs 0024-0030) [Patent Document 3] Patent Publication No. 2018-181037 (Figures 1, 5-7, paragraphs 0059-0071) Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The first prior art is a highly convenient system in that transaction information such as the payment amount and the payment account of the product or service provider is displayed on a printed two-dimensional code, which the user photographs using the camera function of their mobile information device and submits together with their own payment source information as payment request information to complete the payment.However, if this system is applied to laundry machines, it is difficult to adopt immediately in unmanned laundromats where the manager is not present, because there is a risk that the payee information in the printed two-dimensional code will be overwritten with different payee information and set up. The second prior art involves using a mobile phone camera to capture a QR code that shows the address of the destination at a coin laundry, but is not used to pay for laundry equipment. If this system were used for payment purposes, there would be concerns about the safety of transactions due to weak information security. In the third prior art, since electronic money cards can only be charged with cash, there is a demand for the ability to accept a variety of payments.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores that is highly secure in terms of information security and can be inexpensively constructed to enable a variety of payment methods. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The electronic money charging system of the present invention comprises a deposit means for collecting fees and an electronic money charging device for charging electronic money, and is an electronic money charging system in which the fee for the electronic money to be charged is collected by the deposit means, and provides benefits according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, the benefits including an electronic money additional service that adds a predetermined amount of electronic money according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, and a point additional service that adds predetermined points according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, and the electronic money charging device has a display means and an input means, and displays on the display means corresponding to the electronic money additional service and the point additional service selectable by the user using the input means, and adds the electronic money or the points according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged according to the benefit selected by the input means. In another aspect of the present invention, a store server is provided to a plurality of connected laundry machines, each equipped with a currency identification device that outputs a charging signal to start operation in response to payment of a fee, and outputs a pseudo-charging signal to a selected laundry machine from among the connected laundry machines in response to payment of the fee. The store server includes a display device, an input device, and a communication device, and receives from the laundry machine an operating signal that is output for a predetermined period of time from the laundry machine, is output based on the input of the charging signal or the pseudo-charging signal to the laundry machine, is presumed to be in operation, and indicates that payment of the fee is prohibited, and operation availability information that is output from the laundry machine and indicates whether the laundry machine is capable of providing a service. When a request is input from the input device to display on the display device a screen that allows the user to select a laundry machine to use from the connected laundry machines, the store server selects the corresponding laundry machine based on the operating signal and operation availability information input from the laundry machine. determining a status of the laundry equipment, and displaying the laundry equipment on the display device in a display manner selectable by the input device according to the status; when performing two-dimensional code payment for the fee of the laundry equipment selected by the input device from among the laundry equipment displayed on the display device, accessing via the communication device a two-dimensional code payment server corresponding to the two-dimensional code payment system to be used selected by the input device from among a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device selectable by the input device; transmitting a payment transaction authorization request including a request for authorization for the two-dimensional code payment for the fee of the selected laundry equipment and transaction identification information identifying the transaction to enable the two-dimensional code payment for the fee of the selected laundry equipment to be paid by the accessed two-dimensional code payment server; when information indicating that the fee has been paid by the two-dimensional code corresponding to the payment transaction authorization request in which the two-dimensional code payment for the fee has been authorized is input from the accessed two-dimensional code payment server via the communication device,The pseudo billing signal is output to the laundry machine selected by the input device. Another aspect of the two-dimensional code payment method of the present invention is a two-dimensional code payment method for a fee in a store server connected to a plurality of laundry machines, each equipped with a currency identification device that outputs a charging signal to start operation in response to payment of a fee, and outputs a pseudo-charging signal to a selected laundry machine from among the connected laundry machines, causing the selected laundry machine to start operation in response to payment of the fee. The store server is equipped with a display device, an input device, and a communication device, and includes the steps of: inputting from the laundry machine an operating signal that is output from the laundry machine for a predetermined period of time, that is output based on the input of the charging signal or the pseudo-charging signal to the laundry machine, that indicates that the laundry machine is in operation and that payment of the fee is prohibited, and operation availability information that is output from the laundry machine and indicates whether the laundry machine is capable of providing a service; and, when a request is input from the input device to display on the display device a screen that allows the display device to select the laundry machine to use from the connected laundry machines, the operation availability information input from the laundry machine is displayed. determining the status of the corresponding laundry equipment based on the in-service signal and the operation availability information, and displaying the laundry equipment on the display device in a display manner selectable by the input device according to the status; when the fee for the laundry equipment selected by the input device from the laundry equipment displayed on the display device is to be paid using a two-dimensional code, accessing via the communication device a two-dimensional code payment server corresponding to the two-dimensional code payment system to be used selected by the input device from a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device selectable by the input device, and transmitting a payment transaction authorization request including a request for authorization to pay the fee for the selected laundry equipment and transaction identification information identifying the transaction, in order to enable the fee for the selected laundry equipment to be paid using the two-dimensional code by the accessed two-dimensional code payment server; when information indicating that the fee corresponding to the payment transaction authorization request has been paid using the two-dimensional code is input from the accessed two-dimensional code payment server via the communication device,and outputting the pseudo billing signal to the laundry machine selected by the input device.

[0007] Another aspect of the present invention provides a money composite processing device that is connected to a plurality of laundry machines and controls the operation of the laundry machines in response to payment for the laundry machines, wherein when the payment has been made, the money composite processing device outputs a charging signal to the laundry machines indicating that the payment has been made, and the laundry machines start operating in response to the input of the charging signal, the money composite processing device has a housing equipped with a display device and an input device, and a plurality of payment means, one of the connected laundry machines is selected by the input device, a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems for paying the payment are displayed by the display device, one of the two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device is selected by the input device, and the money composite processing device is configured to support the selected two-dimensional code payment system and outputs a request for permission to make a two-dimensional code payment for the price, including transaction identification information that identifies a transaction using the laundry equipment selected by the input device, to the two-dimensional code payment server, and receives from the two-dimensional code payment server a result of the two-dimensional code payment for the price made by the two-dimensional code payment server based on the request for two-dimensional code payment for the price corresponding to the transaction that has been previously authorized by the two-dimensional code payment server to be paid using two-dimensional code based on the request for permission to make the two-dimensional code payment for the price, and outputs the charging signal and operates the laundry equipment selected by the input device when the price has been paid using two-dimensional code, and does not output the charging signal and does not operate the laundry equipment selected by the input device when the price has not been paid using two-dimensional code. Another aspect of the present invention provides a two-dimensional code payment system that is connected to a plurality of laundry machines and includes a money composite processing device that controls the operation of the laundry machines in response to payment for the laundry machines, and that settles the payment using two-dimensional code data via a two-dimensional code payment server, wherein when the payment is settled, the money composite processing device outputs a charging signal to the laundry machine indicating that the payment has been settled, and the laundry machine starts operating in response to the input of the charging signal, the money composite processing device has a housing equipped with a display device and an input device, and a plurality of payment means, wherein one laundry machine is selected from the connected laundry machines by the input device, a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems for settling the payment are displayed by the display device, one two-dimensional code payment system is selected from the two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device by the input device, and the money composite processing device The device is connected via a network to a two-dimensional code payment server corresponding to the selected two-dimensional code payment system, outputs a permission request to the two-dimensional code payment server for two-dimensional code payment of the price, including transaction identification information identifying a transaction using the laundry equipment selected by the input device, and receives from the two-dimensional code payment server a result of the two-dimensional code payment of the price made by the two-dimensional code payment server based on the request for two-dimensional code payment of the price corresponding to the transaction for which two-dimensional code payment has been previously authorized by the two-dimensional code payment server based on the permission request for two-dimensional code payment of the price. If the price has been paid using the two-dimensional code, the device outputs the charging signal and operates the laundry equipment selected by the input device, and if the price has not been paid using the two-dimensional code, the device does not output the charging signal and does not operate the laundry equipment selected by the input device. Another aspect of the present invention is a two-dimensional code payment method for a money composite processing device that is connected to a plurality of laundry machines and controls the operation of the laundry machines in response to payment of the price for the laundry machines, wherein when the price is paid, the money composite processing device outputs a charging signal indicating that the price has been paid to the laundry machines, and the laundry machines start operating in response to the input of the charging signal, and the money composite processing device has a housing equipped with a display device and an input device, and a plurality of payment means, and the method includes the steps of selecting one of the connected laundry machines using the input device, displaying a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems for paying the price on the display device, selecting one of the two-dimensional code payment systems from the two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device using the input device, and displaying a two-dimensional code payment system corresponding to the selected two-dimensional code payment system. The system includes the steps of connecting to a two-dimensional code payment server via a network and outputting to the two-dimensional code payment server a request for permission to make a two-dimensional code payment for the payment, the request including transaction identification information that identifies a transaction using the laundry equipment selected by the input device; inputting from the two-dimensional code payment server a result of the two-dimensional code payment for the payment made by the two-dimensional code payment server based on a request for two-dimensional code payment for the payment corresponding to the transaction that has been previously authorized for two-dimensional code payment by the two-dimensional code payment server based on the permission request for two-dimensional code payment for the payment; outputting the charging signal and operating the laundry equipment selected by the input device when the payment has been paid using the two-dimensional code; and not outputting the charging signal and not operating the laundry equipment selected by the input device when the payment has not been paid using the two-dimensional code. In another aspect of the present invention, a money composite processing device is connected to a plurality of laundry machines and controls the operation of the laundry machines in response to payment for the laundry machines, the money composite processing device having a display device and an input device, wherein one of the connected laundry machines is selected by the input device, a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems for settling the payment are displayed on the display device, and one of the two-dimensional code payment systems is selected by the input device from the two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device, the money composite processing device is connected via a network to a two-dimensional code payment server corresponding to the selected two-dimensional code payment system, and a result of the two-dimensional code payment of the payment made by the two-dimensional code payment server based on a request for two-dimensional code payment of the payment corresponding to a transaction that has been previously permitted to be settled by the two-dimensional code payment server based on a request for permission to settling the payment using the two-dimensional code is input, and the payment is entered using the two-dimensional code payment server. and when the payment is not made by two-dimensional code payment, the laundry equipment selected by the input device is operated, and when the payment is not made by two-dimensional code payment, the laundry equipment selected by the input device is not operated; the laundry equipment has a card processing device that makes payment by electronic money stored in an electronic money card, and the card processing device outputs a charging signal to operate the laundry equipment in response to payment of the payment by the electronic money stored in the electronic money card, and even when the payment is not made by two-dimensional code payment using the two-dimensional code payment server, the laundry equipment is operated when the payment is made by the electronic money; the money hybrid processing device has a charging device that charges the electronic money to the electronic money card, and the payment for charging the electronic money to the electronic money card is paid by one of the two-dimensional code payment systems selected by the input device from among the plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems displayed on the display device. Other aspects of the invention for achieving the object are described below. To achieve this object, a first aspect of the present invention is configured as follows: An electronic money charging system using a plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems for a laundry store, the system being configured with an electronic money charging device for a laundry store in which at least one laundry machine is installed, a two-dimensional code payment server, a user terminal equipped with an imaging device, and an electronic money card for laundry, the electronic money charging device including at least a reader for the electronic money card for laundry, a payment system selection device for selecting one of the plurality of two-dimensional code payment systems, a charging amount setting device for setting charging amount information as a charging amount, a two-dimensional code conversion device for converting the charging amount information set by the charging amount setting device into a two-dimensional code, and a two-dimensional code conversion device for converting the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code conversion device into a two-dimensional code. and a display device for displaying the charge amount information, wherein the user terminal device acquires two-dimensional code calculation information including the charge amount information based on the two-dimensional code captured by the imaging device, and then transmits the charge amount information to the two-dimensional code payment server, and the two-dimensional code payment server performs a payment process to pay the charge amount information from the payer to the payee, and then transmits payment completion information to the electronic money charge device, and the electronic money charge device adds the charge amount information to the electronic money information recorded on the laundry electronic money card using the reading device based on the payment completion information from the two-dimensional code payment server, and records the added amount information. The second aspect of the invention is configured as follows. The first aspect of another invention is an electronic money charging system using multiple two-dimensional code payment systems for laundry stores, characterized in that the two-dimensional code contains transaction-specific information.

[0008] The third aspect of the invention is configured as follows. The electronic money charging device is an electronic money charging system using multiple two-dimensional code payment systems for laundry stores of the first aspect of other inventions or the second aspect of other inventions, characterized in that, based on receipt of the payment completion information, point information based on predetermined rules is recorded on the laundry electronic money card.

[0009] The fourth aspect of the invention is configured as follows. The electronic money charging device is an electronic money charging system using multiple two-dimensional code payment systems for laundry stores, which is a third aspect of another invention, characterized by confirming the electronic money information and point information recorded on the laundry electronic money card, and converting the point information into electronic money information. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores that has high security in terms of information security and can inexpensively build a payment system that allows for a variety of payment methods. According to a first aspect of the present invention, when a user charges an electronic money card with electronic money (information) at a laundry store, the user inserts the electronic money card to be charged into the card processing device of the electronic money charging device. The user sets the charge amount information, which is the charge amount, using the charge amount setting means, according to the instructions displayed on the display device of the electronic money charging device. The user also selects a two-dimensional code payment system as the payment method using the two-dimensional code payment system payment means. A two-dimensional code is displayed on the display device of the electronic money charging device based on the selected two-dimensional code payment system. The user uses a portable information device to capture an image of the two-dimensional code displayed on the display device of the electronic money charging device. The portable information device analyzes the captured two-dimensional code, converts it into two-dimensional code calculation information that can be calculated, and then transmits it to a two-dimensional code payment server. In the two-dimensional code payment server, the payment destination information of the charge amount information can be included in the two-dimensional code. The payment source information can be identified from information related to the mobile information device. The charge amount information is included in the two-dimensional code calculation information. Therefore, the two-dimensional code payment server can perform payment processing to pay the charge fee from the payer to the payee. Upon completion of the payment process, the two-dimensional code payment server transmits payment completion information to the electronic money charging device. The electronic money charging device adds the amount of electronic money set on the electronic money card to the amount of electronic money previously stored based on the payment completion information from the two-dimensional code payment server, and records the added amount. Therefore, the electronic money charging device can also perform payment processing using the two-dimensional code payment system. The two-dimensional code payment system has a predetermined information security feature, so it is highly safe against information theft, etc., and the object of the present invention can be achieved. Another advantage is that cashless transactions can be achieved without the use of paper money or coins.

[0011] According to the second aspect of the other invention, the main configuration is the same as the first aspect of the other invention, so it is highly secure and can use two-dimensional code payment, thereby achieving the object of the present invention. Furthermore, in the second aspect of the other invention, the two-dimensional code includes transaction-specific information. The transaction-specific information is essentially unique information in the world. Therefore, by processing in association with the transaction-specific information, it is possible to prevent processing errors and to check the transaction history when a problem occurs. Another advantage is that it is possible to achieve a cashless system that does not use paper money or coins.

[0012] According to the third aspect of the other invention, the main configuration is the same as the first or second aspect of the other invention, so it is highly secure and can use two-dimensional code payment, thereby achieving the object of the present invention. Furthermore, in the third aspect of the other invention, the electronic money charging device records point information based on predetermined rules on the laundry electronic money card based on receipt of the payment completion information. Therefore, points are added when electronic money is charged, which has the advantage of increasing customers' motivation to charge electronic money.

[0013] According to the fourth aspect of the other invention, the basic configuration is the same as that of the third aspect of the other invention, and therefore the object of the present invention can be achieved. Furthermore, in the fourth aspect of the other invention, it is possible to check the electronic money information and point information recorded on the laundry electronic money card and convert the point information into electronic money information, so that electronic money and points can be managed with a single card, which has the advantage of being highly convenient for point management. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] 3 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]4 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It shows a washing machine as an example of laundry equipment in the example, where (A) is an external view and (B) is a block diagram. [Figure 5] 5 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an electronic money processing device attached to the laundry machine. [Figure 6] 6 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] 7 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 8 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The screens shown on the display device of the store server when using the two-dimensional code payment system are as follows: (A) is a menu screen, and (B) is a screen for selecting the laundry equipment to be used. [Figure 9] 9 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The screens shown in FIG. 9 are screens that appear on the display device of the store server when using the two-dimensional code payment system, where (C) is the usage mode selection screen and (D) is the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen. [Figure 10]10 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The screens shown on the display device of the store server when using the two-dimensional code payment system are shown in Fig. 10, where (E) is the two-dimensional code display screen and (F) is the processing screen. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 12 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] 13 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is an example of a payment server table and a user table recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server. [Figure 14] 14 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. It is an explanatory diagram of the payment application, where (A) is a flowchart for downloading, and (B) is a payment server table in the payment server. [Figure 15] 15A and 15B are flowcharts for explaining the operation of an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The figure shows a user terminal (portable information device), where (A) is a block diagram and (B) is an example of a user terminal record table. [Figure 16]16 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. The display screens on the user terminal are an example of an account registration screen (A), a payment application login screen (B), a photo shooting preparation screen (C), and a transaction confirmation screen (D). [Figure 17] Figure 17 is an explanatory diagram of the operation of a user terminal of an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to Example 1 of the present invention, where (A) is a flowchart of a modified example, and (B) is an example of a payment screen in the flowchart of (A). [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the electronic money charging system using the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] Figure 19 shows a guide shown on a display device to explain the operation of an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to Example 1 of the present invention, where (A) is a menu screen, (B) is a charging amount selection screen, (C) is a payment method selection screen, (D) is a two-dimensional code payment system selection screen, (E) is a QR code display screen, (F) is a charging screen, and (G) is a transaction confirmation screen. [Figure 20] Figure 20 shows a guide shown on a display device to explain the operation of an electronic money charging device using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores according to Example 1 of the present invention, where (A) is a menu screen, (B) is a charging amount selection screen, (C) is an electronic money card operation guide screen, (D) is a payment method selection screen, (E) is a two-dimensional code payment system selection screen, (F) is a QR code display screen, (G) is a charging screen, and (H) is a transaction confirmation screen. [Figure 21] Figure 21 shows screens displayed on a display device for explaining the balance confirmation device of an electronic money charging system using a two-dimensional code payment system for laundry stores in Example 1 of the present invention, where (A) is the main menu, (B) is a card insertion prompt screen, and (C) is a balance display screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] The electronic money charging system using multiple two-dimensional code payment systems for laundry stores according to the present invention is an electronic money charging system using multiple two-dimensional code payment systems for laundry stores, which is composed of an electronic money charging device for laundry stores in which at least one laundry machine is installed, a two-dimensional code payment server, a user terminal equipped with an imaging device, and an electronic money card for laundry, and the electronic money charging device includes at least a reading device for the electronic money card for laundry, a payment system selection device for selecting one of the multiple two-dimensional code payment systems, a charging amount setting device for setting charging amount information as a charging amount, and a two-dimensional code for setting the charging amount information set by the charging amount setting device. and a display device that displays the two-dimensional code generated by the two-dimensional code conversion device, and the user terminal device acquires two-dimensional code calculation information including the charge amount information based on the two-dimensional code captured by the imaging device, and then transmits the charge amount information to the two-dimensional code payment server, and the two-dimensional code payment server performs a payment process to pay the charge amount information from the payer to the payee, and then transmits payment completion information to the electronic money charge device, and the electronic money charge device adds the charge amount information to the electronic money information recorded on the laundry electronic money card using the reading device based on the payment completion information from the two-dimensional code payment server and records it. It is also preferable that the two-dimensional code includes transaction-specific information. Furthermore, it is preferable that the electronic money charging device records point information based on predetermined rules on the laundry electronic money card upon receiving the payment completion information. Furthermore, it is preferable that the electronic money charging device checks the electronic money information and the point information recorded on the laundry electronic money card, and converts the point information into the electronic money information. [Example]

[0016] First, referring to FIG. 1, an overview of a two-dimensional code payment system 104 for laundry stores (hereinafter referred to as "two-dimensional code payment system 104") according to the present invention will be described. In this embodiment 1, laundry stores 100 (first laundry store 1001 to n-th laundry store 100n in FIG. 1) are equipped with laundry equipment 102 such as washing machines 106 and dryers 107, and a money composite processing device 166. The money composite processing device 166 has a built-in store server 108. Specifically, first laundry store 1001 is equipped with at least one, and preferably a large number of washing machines 1061a to 1061n, dryers 1071a to 1071n, detergent vending machines (not shown), etc. Similarly, n-th laundry store 100n is equipped with one or more, and preferably a large number of washing machines 106na to 106nn, dryers 1072a to 1072n, etc. In the following description, the washing machine 106, dryer 107, etc. may be collectively referred to as laundry equipment 102. Each washing machine 106 is individually equipped with an electronic money processing device 110 for handling an electronic laundry money card 150 for using electronic money. While the electronic money processing devices 110 should also be individually numbered, for convenience of explanation, the same number is used for all electronic money processing devices 110, and depending on the context, the same number may be used to refer to an individual or all electronic money processing devices 110. The electronic money processing devices 110 are connected to store servers 108 (first store server 1081, nth store server 108n) via a local area network (LAN) using a router (not shown), and the store servers 108 are connected to an internet communication line 112. A two-dimensional code payment server 118 is also connected to the internet communication line 112. The two-dimensional code payment server 118 is connected to numerous other financial institution payment servers 114 via dedicated lines 122. Furthermore, the money hybrid processing device 166 is equipped with an electronic money card issuing device 176 for issuing laundry electronic money cards 150, an electronic money charging device 178 for adding electronic money information (EMI) to the laundry electronic money cards 150, a balance checking device 182, a point redemption device 184, a currency exchange device 186, and a receipt issuing device 188.Another component is a user terminal 124 owned by a user (customer) of the laundry machine 102 service. The user terminal 124 is, for example, a portable information device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a tablet computer. The user terminal 124 can be connected to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 via a communication line such as the Internet communication line 112.

[0017] In this first embodiment, the two-dimensional code payment system 104 includes a two-dimensional code payment server 118, a user terminal 124, and a money composite processing device 166. These devices will be described in detail later.

[0018] First, the laundry store 100 will be described in detail. The laundry store 100 refers to a building having a roof, pillars, and walls, a room that is part of a building, or a substantially partitioned area in which at least one, preferably a plurality of washing machines 106 and dryers 107, detergent vending machines, etc., and a store server 108 are arranged. The laundry store 100 may be manned or unmanned, but an unmanned laundry store 100 is envisioned.

[0019] Next, the laundry machine 102 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. 4 shows an example of a washing machine 106, which is a representative appliance in the laundry appliance 102. A dryer 107 and the like are configured in the same way. The washing machine 106 is an appliance that has the function of providing laundry processing (washing, spin-drying, etc.) for a predetermined time based on the amount paid when the currency identification device 134 detects that a coin C of a predetermined value, such as a 100-yen coin 100C or a 500-yen coin 500C, has been inserted (paid) as a fee, when payment (settlement) is made using electronic money using the electronic money processing device 110, or when payment is made using the two-dimensional code payment system 104.

[0020] Next, the main hardware configuration of the washing machine 106 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. 4(B). The washing machine 106 broadly includes a laundry equipment control device 128, a laundry equipment configuration unit 132, a currency identification device 134, a laundry equipment identification information recording device 136, an operation availability information output device 138, an electronic money payment activation device 140, a fee information output device 142, a laundry equipment communication device 144, a two-dimensional code payment activation device 146, and an operation signal output device 148.

[0021] The laundry equipment control device 128 has the function of activating the laundry equipment configuration unit 132 based on a charging signal CHS indicating receipt (payment) of the fee and a pseudo charging signal FCS to provide the service user with a specified operation (a specified washing operation in this embodiment 1) in the laundry equipment 102, and in this embodiment 1, it also has the function of outputting to the store server 108 operation availability information AVI indicating whether the laundry equipment 102 is able to provide the service, and an operating signal RNS indicating that the laundry equipment is operating.

[0022] The laundry machine configuration unit 132 has the function of providing the functions of each laundry machine 102, which in this embodiment 1 is a predetermined washing operation, by activating various actuators, electric motors, etc. at predetermined timings or displaying predetermined information on a display based on the start-up signal STS from the laundry machine control device 128.

[0023] The currency identification device 134 has the function of outputting a charging signal CHS such as a pulse signal to the laundry equipment control device 128 when the fee set in the laundry equipment 102, in this embodiment 1 the washing machine 106, is received in currency, and a known coin sorting device 196, banknote identification device, etc. is used.

[0024] The laundry machine identification information recording device 136 has the function of recording laundry machine identification information AID, which is individually assigned to each laundry machine 102, or in this embodiment, each washing machine 106, and outputting it on request; a known recording device is used. The laundry machine identification information AID is composed of numbers, letters, or a combination thereof, is recorded in advance by an administrator, and can individually identify each laundry machine 102.

[0025] The operability information output device 138 has a function of recording and outputting the operability information AVI output from the laundry machine control device 128, and a known recording device is used.

[0026] The electronic money payment activation device 140 has the function of outputting a pseudo charging signal FCS, which has the same function as the charging signal CHS output from the currency identification device 134, when a payment (settlement) of a predetermined amount is made by the electronic money processing device 110 (described later). The laundry machine control device 128 has the function of sending an activation signal STS to the laundry machine configuration unit 132 based on the pseudo charging signal FCS, and starting the washing function. The washing function refers to the execution of water filling, washing, draining, rinsing, and spin-drying in a predetermined order for a predetermined period of time.

[0027] Fee information output device 142 has the function of recording and outputting laundry machine fee information LFI of laundry machine 102, or washing machine 106 in this embodiment 1, which is recorded in advance by an administrator in accordance with the fee setting of washing machine 106. Fees are not limited to one type; multiple types can be set, such as 10 minutes for 100 yen, 30 minutes for 200 yen, 50 minutes for 300 yen, and 60 minutes for 400 yen, and the selected amount can be used as laundry machine fee information LFI. It is preferable to set an upper limit for laundry machine fee information LFI. The upper limit is set to reduce losses in the event of fraudulent payment processing. For example, in the case of laundry machine 102, it is preferable to apply this to payments of 2,000 yen or less.

[0028] The laundry machine communication device 144 has the function of exchanging information with the store server 108 through communication, and a known communication device is used. This communication is performed wirelessly or via a wired connection. However, in a laundry facility, it is preferable to use a wireless system to increase the degree of freedom in the layout of the washing machines 106 and other devices. In this first embodiment, a wireless system via a router (not shown) is used.

[0029] The two-dimensional code payment activation device 146 has the function of transmitting a pseudo-charging signal FCS from the store server 108 to the laundry machine control device 128. The laundry machine control device 128 outputs a start-up signal STS to the laundry machine configuration unit 132 to start the washing function.

[0030] The operation signal output device 148 has a function of outputting an operation signal RNS when the washing machine 106 is in operation. In the first embodiment, the operation signal output device 148 outputs the operation signal RNS based on the output of the charging signal CHS or the pseudo charging signal FCS. Therefore, by detecting the operation signal RNS, it can be assumed that the washing machine 106 is in operation. Note that the operation signal RNS can also be used to output other signals having similar functions, such as an inhibit signal that inhibits the insertion of coins into the currency identification device 134 or the acceptance of the pseudo charging signal FCS while the washing machine is in operation.

[0031] Next, the operation of the laundry machine 102, in this embodiment, the washing machine 106, will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG. First, in step LS1, the operation availability information AVI from the operation availability information output device 138 is determined, and if it is operable, standby information WTI is output to the store server 108, and if it is inoperable, inoperable information IPI is sent to the store server 108 and the process proceeds to step LS2. In step LS2, it is determined whether a charging signal CHS has been output from the currency identification device 134, and if so, an operating signal RNS is sent to the store server 108 and the process proceeds to step LS4; if not, the process returns to step LS1. In step LS3, if a pseudo-charging signal FCS from the electronic money processing device 110 or the store server 108 is detected, an in-service signal RNS is sent to the store server 108 and the process proceeds to step LS4. In step LS4, the start signal STS is output to the laundry machine configuration unit 132 to start the function of the laundry machine 102, in this embodiment, the function of the washing machine 106, and the process proceeds to step LS5. In step LS5, the operating signal output device 148 outputs an operating signal RNS based on the start signal STS, and transmits the billing result information CEI to the store server 108 based on the operating signal RNS, and the process proceeds to step LS6. In step LS6, it is determined whether the laundry device 102 has operated for the selected predetermined operating time. If it has, the process proceeds to step LS7. If it has not, the process loops and continues operating until the predetermined time has elapsed. In step LS8, the operation of the laundry machine configuration unit 132 is stopped, and the process (washing function) is ended.

[0032] Next, the electronic money processing device 110 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. When using electronic money (information) to use laundry machine 102, electronic money processing device 110 subtracts electronic money information EMI equivalent to the usage fee from electronic money information EMI stored in electronic money recording device 150M of laundry electronic money card 150, records the new balance in electronic money recording device 150M of laundry electronic money card 150, and outputs a pseudo-charge signal FCS to the corresponding laundry machine 102. Although detailed description will be omitted, in this embodiment 1, electronic money processing device 110 preferably transmits processing history information of electronic money information EMI to store server 108 and records it in store storage device 246. In this embodiment 1, laundry electronic money card 150 is equipped with point recording device 150P that records point information PTI. 5, electronic money processing device 110 in this embodiment 1 includes card reader 152, electronic money processing device calculation device 154, electronic money processing device recording device 156, electronic money processing device communication device 158, electronic money processing device identification information recording device 160, electronic money processing device clock device 162, pseudo-billing signal output device 163, and electronic money processing device bus line 164. Note that in this embodiment 1, electronic money processing device 110 is configured separately from washing machine 106, which is laundry equipment 102, but it can also be configured as part of laundry equipment control device 128, in other words, integrated with washing machine 106. In this case, a configuration that performs the same functions as store server 108 corresponds to electronic money processing device 110.

[0033] First, the laundry electronic money card 150 will be described with reference to FIG. 5(B). Laundry electronic money card 150 is a known IC card (integrated circuit card) that stores value information (electronic money information EMI) in electronic money recording device 150M, which consists of an integrated IC chip, and stores point information PTI in point recording device 150P.Card reading device 152 can read the electronic money information EMI and write new value information.Normally, a known contactless IC card with guaranteed security is used for laundry electronic money card 150.

[0034] Next, the card reader 152 will be described. When using washing machine 106 using electronic money, card reading device 152 has the function of reading electronic money information EMI stored on laundry electronic money card 150 and storing electronic money information EMI corresponding to the balance obtained by subtracting electronic money information EMI corresponding to the usage fee from the electronic money information EMI. Card reading device 152 is a well-known contactless card reading device compatible with contactless laundry electronic money card 150. When using washing machine 106, a user using electronic money holds laundry electronic money card 150 over card reading device 152. Card reading device 152 communicates with laundry electronic money card 150 and reads electronic money information EMI stored on laundry electronic money card 150. Next, new electronic money information EMI from which the fee has been subtracted by electronic money processing device arithmetic unit 154 is written by card reading device 152 to laundry electronic money card 150 (electronic money recording device 150M).

[0035] Next, the electronic money processing device arithmetic unit 154 will be described. The electronic money processing device arithmetic unit 154 is composed of an arithmetic unit, a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and has the function of performing the functions of each device that constitutes the electronic money processing device 110 while communicating with the RAM appropriately based on the program recorded in the ROM.

[0036] Next, the electronic money processing device recording device 156 will be described. The electronic money processing device recording device 156 has the function of recording information processed by the electronic money processing device 110 as needed, and a known recording device is used.

[0037] Next, the electronic money processing device communication device 158 will be described. The electronic money processing device communication device 158 has a function of communicating with the laundry machine 102, in this first embodiment, the laundry machine control device 128 of the washing machine 106, and the store server 108, and a known communication device is used.

[0038] Next, the electronic money processing device identification information recording device 160 will be described. The electronic money processing device identification information recording device 160 has the function of recording the electronic money processing device identification information EID of the electronic money processing device 110. It has the function of recording and outputting the electronic money processing device identification information EID that is individually assigned to the electronic money processing device 110 and is unique in the world.

[0039] Next, the electronic money processing device clock device 162 will be described. The electronic money processing device clock 162 has a function of outputting date and time information DTI used in the electronic money processing device 110, and a known clock is used.

[0040] Next, the pseudo charging signal output device 163 will be described. The pseudo charging signal output device 163 has a function of outputting a pseudo charging signal FCS, which has the same function as the charging signal CHS, to the laundry machine controller 128. In other words, the pseudo charging signal FCS is a signal that triggers the start-up of the laundry machine 102. For example, the pseudo charging signal FCS is a pulse signal, and one pulse signal corresponds to a 100 yen coin. In other words, when electronic money information EMI equivalent to 100 yen is subtracted from electronic money information EMI, one pseudo charging signal FCS is output to the laundry machine controller 128, and when electronic money information EMI equivalent to 500 yen is subtracted, five pseudo charging signals FCS are output to the laundry machine controller 128.

[0041] Next, the electronic money processing device bus line 164 will be described. The electronic money processing device bus line 164 has the function of mediating the transfer of data between the devices that make up the electronic money processing device 110, and a known bus line is used.

[0042] Next, the operation of the electronic money processing device 110 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In step CS1, if electronic money processing device 110 detects laundry electronic money card 150 by card reader 152, it proceeds to step CS2, but if not, it loops step CS1 and enters a card standby state. In step CS2, the electronic money information EMI recorded in the electronic money recording device 150M is read, and the process proceeds to step CS3. In step CS3, a predetermined amount, for example, electronic money equivalent to 100 yen is subtracted, and electronic money information EMI equivalent to the new balance is written (recorded) in the electronic money processing device recording device 156, after which the process proceeds to step CS4. In step CS4, the electronic money processing device 110 transmits, for example, one pseudo-charging signal FCS to the laundry machine control device 128. If the laundry machine control device 128 determines in step LS3 that the pseudo-charging signal FCS has been received, it proceeds to step LS4, where it operates the laundry machine configuration unit 132 for a time equivalent to 100 yen, as described above, to provide the service for the laundry machine 102.

[0043] Next, the two-dimensional code payment system 104 for laundry will be described. The two-dimensional code payment system 104 for laundry is a system for making payment (settlement) for laundry equipment 102 using a two-dimensional code TDC, and in this embodiment 1, a two-dimensional code payment system 104L for laundry equipment and a two-dimensional code payment system 104M for electronic money cards are used.

[0044] First, the two-dimensional code payment system 104L for laundry equipment will be described. The two-dimensional code payment system 104L for laundry machines is a system for paying laundry fees (laundry machine fee information LFI) for using the laundry machine 102 using a two-dimensional code TDC, and has the functions of converting information including the laundry machine fee information LFI into a two-dimensional code TDC, displaying it on the display device 170, acquiring the two-dimensional code TDC using the user terminal 124, transmitting it to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 for payment processing SET, and after payment processing SET is completed, performing a predetermined card processing and operating the laundry machine 102. In this embodiment 1, the two-dimensional code payment system 104L for laundry machines includes the store server 108 (display device 170, input device 172, fee selection device 234, payment system selection device 236, transaction identification information generation device 238, two-dimensional code conversion device 242), the user terminal 124, and the two-dimensional code payment server 118, which will be described later.

[0045] Next, the store server 108 will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. In this embodiment 1, the store server 108 has a terminal function in the laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L, and in this embodiment 1, this is configured in the money composite processing device 166. The terminal function is a function that is integrated with each laundry machine 102 and enables those functions to be fulfilled. The money composite processing device 166 includes an electronic money card issuing device 176, an electronic money charging device 178, a balance confirmation device 182, a point redemption device 184, a currency exchange device 186, and a receipt issuing device 188.

[0046] First, the money composite processing device 166 will be described. The money composite processing device 166 basically has built-in components such as a composite processing device 168, which is a computer arranged in a housing 174, a display device 170, an input device 172, a store server 108 that performs a two-dimensional code payment function for laundry equipment, an electronic money card issuing device 176 that performs an electronic money card issuing function, an electronic money charging device 178 that performs an electronic money charging function, a balance checking device 182 that performs a balance checking function, a point redemption device 184 that has a point redemption function, a currency exchange device 186 that has a currency exchange function, and a receipt issuing device 188.

[0047] The multifunction device arithmetic device 168 is a so-called computer composed of a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), and RAM (Random Access Memory), and outputs various commands based on software recorded in the ROM to perform various functions. In other words, the multifunction device arithmetic device 168 has the function of performing calculations to cause the store server 108, display device 170, input device 172, store server 108, electronic money card issuing device 176, electronic money charging device 178, balance confirmation device 182, point redemption device 184, currency exchange device 186, and receipt issuing device 188 to perform predetermined functions. In the first embodiment, the multifunction device arithmetic device 168 is used in common by the store server 108, electronic money card issuing device 176, electronic money charging device 178, balance confirmation device 182, point redemption device 184, currency exchange device 186, and receipt issuing device 188, but may also be provided separately for each of them. The display device 170 and input device 172 are common to the store server 108, electronic money card issuing device 176, electronic money charging device 178, balance checking device 182, point redemption device 184, currency exchange device 186, and receipt issuing device 188.

[0048] Next, the housing 174 will be described with reference to FIG. Housing 174 is configured as a long, vertical box overall, with display device 170 located at the top of the front. A card slot 192 for inserting and removing laundry electronic money card 150 for electronic money card issuing device 176, electronic money charging device 178, and balance confirmation device 182 is located on the left side of the middle section of the front surface. A bill insertion slot 194 for electronic money charging device 178 and currency exchange device 186 is located in the center of the middle section, and a coin sorting device 196 for inserting coins for electronic money card issuing device 176 and electronic money charging device 178 is located on the right side of the middle section, with a coin receiving slot 198 below that for dispensing exchanged coins C. An antenna 202 for wireless communication with Internet communication line 112 is fixed to the top panel of housing 174. Although not shown, it goes without saying that a router is also included.

[0049] Next, the display device 170 will be described. The display device 170 is a dot matrix display device such as a known LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), and is a display device common to the store server 108, electronic money card issuing device 176, electronic money charging device 178, balance confirmation device 182, point redemption device 184, currency exchange device 186, and receipt issuing device 188. In combination with a known touch screen (not shown), the display device 170 constitutes the input device 172. Therefore, the input device 172 can input information such as information on the operation of various buttons or various other information. The input device 172 is not limited to a touch screen type, and other devices having similar functions can be used.

[0050] The display device 170 normally displays a menu screen MS shown in FIG. 8(A). The menu screen MS displays a card issuance button 206 that activates the function of the electronic money card issuing device 176, a charge button 208 that activates the function of the electronic money charge device 178, a balance check button 212 that activates the function of the balance check device 182, a point redemption button 214 that activates the function of the point redemption device 184, a currency exchange button 216 that activates the function of the currency exchange device 186, a receipt issue button 218 that activates the receipt issue function, and a laundry use button 220 that is operated when using the laundry machine 102. In addition to these, the menu screen MS is also provided with a guide display unit IDS that displays usage instructions, an amount display unit MDS that displays the monetary value identified by the currency identification device 134 or the amount to be paid in a credit card payment system or a two-dimensional code payment system, and a latest information display button NDB. Although not shown in the figure, pressing the latest information display button NDB opens a new latest information window in which information on new services, etc. is displayed.

[0051] Next, the multifunction peripheral arithmetic unit 168 will be described. When the card issuance button 206 is tapped, the multifunction device calculation device 168 outputs a card issuance command CIC to the electronic money card issuance device 176; when the charge button 208 is tapped, it outputs an electronic money charge command ECC to the electronic money charge device 178; when the balance confirmation button 212 is tapped, it outputs a balance confirmation command BIC to the balance confirmation device 182; when the point redemption button 214 is tapped, it outputs a point redemption command RPC to the point redemption device 184; when the currency exchange button 216 is tapped, it outputs an exchange command EXC to the currency exchange device 186; when the receipt issuance button 218 is tapped, it outputs a receipt issuance command RIC to the receipt issuance device 188; and when the laundry use button 220 is tapped, it outputs a laundry use command LUC.

[0052] Next, the store server 108 will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. When a decision is made regarding laundry equipment fee information LFI, the store server 108 at least generates transaction identification information TNO, converts information including the decided laundry equipment fee information LFI into a two-dimensional code and displays it on the display device 170, and when it receives billing result information CEI for the transaction identification information TNO from the two-dimensional code payment server 118, it has the function of outputting a pseudo billing signal FCS to the laundry equipment 102, in other words, making two-dimensional code payment available. In this embodiment 1, the store server 108 includes a multifunction device calculation device 168, a display device 170, an input device 172, a laundry equipment selection device 232, a fee selection device 234, a payment system selection device 236, a transaction specific information generation device 238, a two-dimensional code conversion device 242, a store timer device 244, a store memory device 246, a store clock device 248, a store communication device 250, and a store activation command device 252.

[0053] The display device 170 and the input device 172 have been described above, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0054] Next, the laundry machine selector 232 will be described. The laundry machine selection device 232 has a function to determine which laundry machine 102 installed in the laundry store 100 is to be used. In this embodiment 1, when the laundry use button 220 is tapped on the menu screen MS shown in FIG. 8(A), the laundry machine selection screen ULS shown in FIG. 8(B) is displayed on the display device 170. The laundry machine selection screen ULS has a washing machine area AWA and a dryer area ADA. In the washing machine area AWA, the washing machines installed in the laundry store 100 are displayed in a horizontally long rectangle together with washing machine numbers for identifying the washing machines, and these buttons, together with the input device 172, form the washing machine selection button 106B. In this embodiment 1, six machines, washing machine No. 1 selection button 1061 to washing machine No. 6 selection button 1066, are displayed. By tapping any of the washing machine No. 1 selection button 1061 to washing machine No. 6 selection button 1066, the tapped washing machine is selected. It is preferable to visually distinguish whether the washing machine is in operation or not by displaying washing machine selection button 106B in red when it is in use (operating) and displaying washing machine selection button 106B in green when it is not in use (not operating). In the dryer area ADA, the dryers 107 installed in the laundry store 100 are displayed in a horizontally long rectangle together with the dryer number, and together with the input device 172, form the dryer selection buttons 107B. In this embodiment 1, six dryers are displayed, from the dryer No. 1 selection button 1071 to the dryer No. 6 selection button 1076. By tapping any of the selected dryer No. 1 selection button 1071 to the dryer No. 6 selection button 1076, the tapped dryer is selected. Note that, like the washing machine selection button 106B, it is possible to visually distinguish between dryers B that are in use (operating) and those that are not in use (not operating). When washing machine selection button 106B or dryer selection button 107B is tapped, the screen switches to the usage mode selection screen USS shown in Fig. 9(C). Note that the laundry machine selection screen ULS shown in Fig. 8(B) is only an example, and any selection screen with similar functions can be used as appropriate.

[0055] Next, the fee selection device 234 will be described with reference to FIG. 9(C). The fee selection device 234 has a function of outputting the fee for the laundry machine 102 selected by the laundry machine selection device 232. In this embodiment 1, the fee selection device 234 includes an operation time specification button 234B displayed on the usage mode selection screen USS of the display device 170, and outputs laundry machine fee information LFI based on the fee set for each operation time specification button 234B that is tapped. The usage mode selection screen USS is a screen for determining the usage mode of the selected laundry machine 102. The usage mode of the laundry machine 102 is a condition directly related to determining the usage fee, such as the washing time according to the laundry amount and the degree of soiling, the drying time according to the ease of drying, and the combined use of the washing function and the drying function. In this embodiment 1, the operation time of the laundry machine 102 can be set. In this embodiment 1, the operation time specification button 234B is specifically the operation time specification button 256. The usage mode selection screen USS has a display section CDA for the selected laundry machine (hereinafter referred to as the "selected laundry machine display section CDA") and multiple operation time designation buttons 256. In this embodiment 1, the operation time designation buttons 256 include a 10-minute designation button 2561 for 10 minutes, a 20-minute designation button 2562 for 20 minutes, a 30-minute designation button 2563 for 30 minutes, a 40-minute designation button 2564 for 40 minutes, a 50-minute designation button 2565 for 50 minutes, and a 60-minute designation button 2566 for 60 minutes. When any of these operation time designation buttons 256 is tapped, the fee selection device 234 outputs an operation time signal OTS for operating the selected laundry machine 102 for a predetermined operation time based on the laundry fee for that laundry machine 102. Because the laundry machine 102 charges based on the operation time signal OTS, the operation time signal OTS indirectly serves as laundry machine charge information LFI. In this embodiment, when the 10-minute specification button 2561 is tapped, a 10-minute operation signal OTS10 is output. Similarly, when another operation time specification button 256 is tapped, a 20-minute operation signal OTS20, a 30-minute operation signal OTS30, a 40-minute operation signal OTS40, a 50-minute operation signal OTS50, or a 60-minute operation signal OTS60 is output. In other words, the 10-minute operation signal OTS10 corresponds to a 10-minute operation charge signal, the 20-minute operation signal OTS20 corresponds to a 20-minute operation charge signal, the 30-minute operation signal OTS30 corresponds to a 30-minute operation charge signal, the 40-minute operation signal OTS40 corresponds to a 40-minute operation charge signal, the 50-minute operation signal OTS50 corresponds to a 50-minute operation charge signal, and the 60-minute operation signal OTS60 corresponds to a 60-minute operation signal. The usage mode selection screen USS also displays a help message field HMS to assist in selecting a usage mode. When any of the 10-minute activation signals OTS10 to OTS60 is output, the screen switches to the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS shown in Figure 9(D). The activation signal OTS also indicates the operating time, so it can be output as laundry equipment fee information LFI, which is fee information.

[0056] Next, the payment system selection device 236 will be described. The payment system selection device 236 has the function of selecting which laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L is to be used to pay for the laundry machine fee information LFI set in the fee selection device 234. Therefore, the payment system selection device 236 can adopt other methods with similar functions. In this embodiment 1, as shown in FIG. 9(D), the payment system selection device 236 includes two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 236B displayed on the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS, and accesses the two-dimensional code payment server 118 identified based on the two-dimensional code payment system identification information TID set for each tapped two-dimensional code payment system selection button 236B.

[0057] Next, the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS will be explained with reference to FIG. 9(D). The two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS displays a two-dimensional code payment system selection button 236B that constitutes the payment system selection device 236. In this embodiment 1, the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 236B is the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266, and when the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 is tapped, a software startup signal for the two-dimensional code payment system 104 is output from the payment system selection device 236. In this embodiment 1, the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 is arranged with a first two-dimensional code payment system selection button 2661, a second two-dimensional code payment system selection button 2662, and a third two-dimensional code payment system selection button 2663. However, the number of two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 266 may be one or more. When the first two-dimensional code payment system selection button 2661 is tapped, payment processing software based on the first two-dimensional code payment system A is launched. When the second two-dimensional code payment system selection button 2662 is tapped, payment processing software based on the second two-dimensional code payment system W is launched. When the third two-dimensional code payment system selection button 2663 is tapped, payment processing software based on the third two-dimensional code payment system L is launched. Regardless of whether the first two-dimensional code payment system A, the second two-dimensional code payment system W, or the third two-dimensional code payment system L is activated, the subsequent basic processing flow is the same. Furthermore, for the first two-dimensional code payment system A through the third two-dimensional code payment system L, which are the backbone of the first two-dimensional code payment system L, access information (e.g., URL) for the backbone two-dimensional code payment server 118 is recorded in the payment app TAP, which will be described later. The two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS also includes a price display section MDS, a guidance display section IDS, a selected laundry machine display section CDA, a help message section HMS, and a latest information button NDB. Additionally, a two-dimensional code payment cancel button 268 for canceling processing by the selected laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L and a back button 270 for returning to the usage mode selection screen USS are displayed.

[0058] The two-dimensional code conversion device 242 will now be described. When the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 (236B) is tapped, the two-dimensional code conversion device 242 has the function of converting at least the laundry machine fee information LFI into a two-dimensional code TDC based on a predetermined rule. In other words, the two-dimensional code conversion device 242 has the function of converting at least the laundry machine fee information LFI based on the usage mode set in the fee selection device 234 into a two-dimensional code TDC. However, the two-dimensional code TDC may include the transaction identification information TNO, the selected laundry machine identification information LID, the store server identification information SID, and the payment destination identification information PSI. The laundry machine identification information LID is a combination of alphanumeric characters assigned to each laundry machine 102 and is essentially unique identification information worldwide. The store server identification information SID is a combination of alphanumeric characters assigned to each laundry store 100 and is essentially unique identification information worldwide. The payment destination identification information PSI is information that can identify the payment destination, such as the bank account of the owner of the laundry store 100.

[0059] Next, the processing when the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 is tapped will be described with reference to Figure 10. Even if the laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L is specified, in other words, if there is only one type and no choice is possible, when the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 is tapped as a payment method, it is treated as if that single laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L was selected. When the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 is tapped, the display device 170 displays the two-dimensional code display screen TDS, as shown in FIG. 10(E). That is, when the two-dimensional code payment system selection button 266 is tapped, the device has the function of outputting, as a payment request code SDC, at least the laundry equipment fee information LFI output from the fee selection device 234, preferably the transaction identification information TNO, and a two-dimensional code TDC obtained by converting the laundry equipment fee information LFI into a two-dimensional code TDC based on a predetermined rule. Specifically, a QR code conversion device configured with a known program is used, which has the function of converting at least the laundry equipment fee information LFI based on a predetermined rule and outputting the two-dimensional code TDC. Therefore, in this embodiment 1, the two-dimensional code TDC is the QR code QRC. The information to be converted into the two-dimensional code TDC as the payment request code SDC is at least the laundry equipment fee information LFI, and may include security information SCI, transaction identification information TNO, payment destination information PEI, etc. The payee information PEI is information that can directly or indirectly identify the payee PYE. Direct payee information PEI is account information at a financial institution, etc., while indirect payee information PEI is identification information for the two-dimensional code payment server 118 on which the account at the financial institution, etc. is recorded. In this sense, transaction identification information TNO and security information SCI can also be used as indirect payee information PEI. While security information SCI is not required, it is preferable for transaction security. The QR code QRC can also include other information necessary for electronic payment, such as two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID. As mentioned above, the QR code QRC is a type of two-dimensional code TDC, and can be replaced with other known two-dimensional code TDCs or future two-dimensional codes. The help message field HMS in Figure 10(E) displays "1,000 yen" as the payment amount RAM and the two-dimensional code payment system 104M for electronic money cards selected as the payment method MOP. Furthermore, a back button 280 is displayed, and when tapped, the screen returns to the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS shown in FIG. 9(D).

[0060] Next, the transaction specific information generating device 238 will be described. The transaction identification information generating device 238 has the function of generating transaction identification information TNO based on predetermined rules when laundry machine fee information LFI is output from the fee selection device 234, and is configured by a program in this embodiment 1. This transaction identification information TNO is sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 as a two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR, either alone or together with the laundry machine fee information LFI, or together with other information. The transaction identification information TNO can be a combination of numbers only, numbers and letters, letters only, or symbols only, and is essentially unique information that is the only one in the world. In this embodiment, the transaction identification information TNO is a combination of the date, time, and laundry machine identification information LID, as shown in the store table SST in Figure 11, but it can be configured as appropriate. Therefore, the transaction identification information TNO identifies a single transaction and is therefore unique worldwide. Other information to be included in the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR is expected to be the laundry machine identification information TID, the store server identification information SID, and the payment recipient information PEI, but this information is not necessary if it can be derived from other information, such as the transaction identification information TNO.

[0061] Next, the store timer device 244 will be described. The store timer device 244 starts timing after the output of the two-dimensional code TDC, or in this embodiment 1, the QR code QRC, and has the function of outputting timeout information TOI if payment result information SEI is not received from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 before the timing time reaches the predetermined allowable time ALT. Based on the timeout information TOI, the store server 108 invalidates the processing related to the transaction identification information TNO, and records this as billing result information CEI in the store table SST in association with the transaction identification information TNO. In this embodiment 1, the store timer device 244 is implemented by software. As shown in the flowchart of Figure 3, for example, the store timer device 244 starts timing in step SS16 after displaying the two-dimensional code TDC on the display device 170 in step SS15, and if the time until receiving the payment result information SEI from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 in step SS17 is within a predetermined allowable time ALT, the store timer device 244 validates the payment result information SEI, and if the allowable time ALT is exceeded, timeout information TOI is output and recorded in the store table SST in association with the transaction specific information TNO in step SS23, and after the information "timeout" is recorded, for example, the transaction is considered to have been aborted, and the processing related to the transaction specific information TNO is invalidated in step SS24.

[0062] Next, the store storage device 246 will be described. The store storage device 246 has the function of recording information necessary for various processes performed by the multifunction device computing device 168, and a known recording device is used. The store storage device 246 stores a store table SST, as shown in FIG. 11 . The store table SST records (stores) at least the laundry machine identification information LID, the two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID, the laundry machine fee information LFI, the transaction identification information generation time TGT, the security information SCI (one-pass code OPC), the two-dimensional code billing command TCO, the payment result information SEI, the billing result information CEI, and other necessary information, all linked to the transaction identification information TNO. Each time information is received from the laundry machine 102 and the two-dimensional code payment server 118, various pieces of information are recorded in the store table SST, linked to the corresponding transaction identification information TNO. The two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID is information for identifying the two-dimensional code payment server 118, such as a URL. However, the two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID can be incorporated into the payment application TAP, which will be described later. The transaction identification information generation time TGT is the time when the transaction identification information TNO was generated. The security information SCI (one-pass code OPC) is security information, which will be described later. The two-dimensional code charging command TCO is command information when the laundry equipment 102 is operated by the two-dimensional code payment system 104. The payment result information SEI is information indicating whether or not payment has been made in the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and in this embodiment 1, is a receipt email SCM or a payment failure email NSM that is output when payment has been made. The charging result information CEI is information indicating whether or not the system has been started by a command from the store start-up command device 252 of the store server 108.

[0063] Next, the store clock device 248 will be described. The store clock 248 has a function of outputting date and time information DTI used in the store server 108, and a known clock is used.

[0064] Next, the store communication device 250 will be described. The store communication device 250 has the function of communicating with the laundry machines 102 and the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a known communication device is used. The store communication device 250 preferably communicates wirelessly with the laundry machines 102 in the laundry store 100 via an antenna 202, and is connected to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 via a wired LAN, the Internet, or the like.

[0065] Next, the store activation command device 252 will be described. The store activation command device 252 has the function of, when the store server 108 identifies the payment result information SEI sent from the two-dimensional code payment server 118, outputting a pseudo charging signal FCS to the laundry equipment 102 associated with the payment result information SEI, thereby operating the laundry equipment 102. In the first embodiment, the store activation command device 252 is configured by software and hardware, but a configuration that can achieve the same functions and effects can be adopted. The pseudo charging signal FCS performs the same function as the pseudo charging signal FCS output from the electronic money processing device 110.

[0066] Next, the store table SST recorded in the store storage device 246 will be described with reference to FIG. The store table SST is a table for recording various information in association with the generated transaction identification information TNO, and records required information and optional information. In this embodiment 1, the store table SST records at least the payment destination identification information PSI, laundry machine identification information LID or money processing device identification information MID, two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID, laundry machine fee information LFI or charge amount information CMI, transaction identification information generation time TGT, security information SCI (one-pass code OPC), two-dimensional code charging command TCO, payment result information SEI, and charging result information CEI in association with the transaction identification information TNO, and can also record date and time information TDI on the store server 108, etc. The store server identification information SID is, for example, a URL. In the first embodiment, the laundry machine identification information LID is, for example, A-101-001; the two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID is, for example, "http / www.A.com", "http / www.L.com", or "http / www.W.com" which is the URL of the two-dimensional code payment server 118, or the money complex processing device identification information MID; the laundry machine fee information LFI is, for example, "100" meaning 100 yen, "500" meaning 500 yen, or the charge amount information CMI is, for example, "1000" meaning 1000 yen, "2000" meaning 2000 yen, or "3000" meaning 3000 yen; the security information SCI is, for example, "xxxxxx"; the two-dimensional code charging command TCO is, for example, "Y" meaning charging or "N" meaning no charging; the payment result information SEI is, for example, "Complet" meaning payment has been completed or "Uncomplet" meaning no payment, "Waiting" meaning processing is in progress, or "Not" meaning processing is pending. "yet" is recorded as the charging result information CEI, "completed" means that the laundry machine 102 has started operating, "timeout" means that the allowed time ALT has been exceeded, "waiting for payment" means that payment is being processed, "before URL is obtained" means that a payment request has not yet been sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118, etc. In the case of processing related to electronic money information EMI, no information is recorded in the two-dimensional code charging command TCO and charging result information CEI.In addition, in the case of processing related to electronic money information EMI, a table separate from the store table SST can be set up, and the money processing device identification information MID, electronic money information EMI, and other necessary information can be recorded in association with the transaction specific information TNO in that separate table.

[0067] Next, the operation of the store server 108 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 3. It is assumed that the laundry machine 102 outputs standby information WTI as operation availability information AVI.

[0068] In step SS1, it is determined whether the laundry use button 220 has been tapped. If it is detected that the laundry use button 220 has been tapped, the process proceeds to step SS2; if it has not been tapped, the process loops back to step SS1, and the laundry device 102 enters a standby state for use.

[0069] Next, in step SS2, it is confirmed whether each laundry equipment control device 128 is outputting standby information WTS. If standby information WTS is output, in other words, it is determined whether the laundry equipment 102 is in an operable state, and the process proceeds to step SS3.

[0070] In step SS3, the screen is switched to the laundry machine selection screen ULS (FIG. 8(B)), and then the process proceeds to step SS4.

[0071] In step SS4, each laundry device 102 is displayed on the laundry device selection screen ULS based on the operable or inoperable state determined in step SS2, and then the process proceeds to step SS5. As described above, for example, operable laundry devices 102 (washing machine 106, dryer 107) are displayed in green, and inoperable laundry devices 102 are displayed in red. The indication of whether or not a laundry device is operable can be set appropriately, such as by color coding, making operable laundry devices 102 visible, and making inoperable laundry devices 102 difficult to see. Inoperable laundry devices include broken down devices, devices in operation, and devices that are not turned on.

[0072] Next, in step SS5, it is determined whether the laundry machine 102 to be used has been selected, and if so, the process proceeds to step SS6, and if not, the process loops to step SS5 and waits for selection. In other words, if it is detected that either the washing machine selection button 106B (1061-1066) or the dryer selection button 107B (1071-1072) displayed on the laundry machine selection screen ULS has been tapped, the process proceeds to step SS6.

[0073] In step SS6, the transaction identification information generating device 238 outputs the transaction identification information TNO, and then the process proceeds to step SS7.

[0074] In step SS7, the usage mode selection screen USS shown in FIG. 9(C) is displayed on the display device 170, and then the process proceeds to step SS8.

[0075] In step SS8, if it is determined that any of the operation time designation buttons 234B (operation time designation buttons 256) has been tapped, the process proceeds to step SS9.

[0076] In step SS9, the fee selection device 234 outputs laundry machine fee information LFI corresponding to the type of operation time specification button 234B that was tapped, and then the process proceeds to step SS10.

[0077] In step SS10, the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS (FIG. 9(D)) is displayed on the display device 170, and the process proceeds to step SS11.

[0078] In step SS11, it is determined whether any of the two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 236B (two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 266) has been tapped. If a tap is determined, the process proceeds to step SS12; if not, the process loops back to step SS11 and enters a payment system selection standby state. In step SS12, at least the transaction identification information TID, preferably the laundry equipment fee information LFI, and store information, for example, the store server identification information SID, are also sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 of the selected two-dimensional code payment system 104, and after a two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR is made, the process proceeds to step SS13.

[0079] If the two-dimensional code payment server 118 determines that the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR is a request based on legitimate authority, it transmits transaction authorization information TAI that associates a one-pass code OPC with the transaction identification information TNO. The one-pass code OPC is, for example, a payment URL of the two-dimensional code payment server 118 that is valid only once.

[0080] If the transaction permission information TAI is determined in step SS13, the process proceeds to step SS13, but if not, the process loops to step SS13 and waits for the transaction permission information. Note that the two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request TCR in step SS13 is not essential.

[0081] In step SS14, based on the selected two-dimensional code payment system 104, at least the laundry equipment fee information LFI is converted into a two-dimensional code TDC by the two-dimensional code conversion device 242, and then the process proceeds to step SS15. In this embodiment 1, the transaction specific information TNO and one-pass code OPC sent from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 are also added and converted into a two-dimensional code, a QR code QRC.

[0082] In step SS15, the screen is switched to the two-dimensional code display screen TDS (FIG. 10(E)), and the process proceeds to step SS16.

[0083] In step SS16, the two-dimensional code TDC is displayed on the two-dimensional code display screen TDS, and then the process proceeds to step SS17.

[0084] In step SS17, the store timer device 244 starts timing the allowable time ALT, and then the process proceeds to step SS18. Note that timing of the allowable time ALT may start immediately after receiving the transaction permission information TAI, or may start after step SS11 if a two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request TCR is not made.

[0085] In step SS18, the processing screen IPS (FIG. 10(F)) is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step SS19.

[0086] In step SS19, if the payment result information SEI from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 is determined, the process proceeds to step SS20.

[0087] In step SS20, the payment result information SEI is recorded in the store table SST, and then the process proceeds to step SS21.

[0088] In step SS21, it is determined whether the time is within the allowable time ALT, and if it is within the allowable time ALT, the process proceeds to step SS22, and if it has exceeded the allowable time ALT, the process proceeds to step SS25.

[0089] In step SS22, a pseudo billing signal FCS is output to the laundry machine controller 128, and the process proceeds to step SS23.

[0090] In step SS23, if the billing result information CEI output from the laundry machine control device 128 is determined, the process proceeds to step SS24, and if not determined, the process loops back to step SS23 and enters a standby state.

[0091] In step SS24, the accounting result information CEI is recorded, and then the process ends.

[0092] If the allowable time ALT is exceeded in step SS21, this is recorded in the store table SST in step SS25, and the process then proceeds to step SS26.

[0093] In step SS26, the process associated with the same transaction identification information TNO is invalidated, and the process ends.

[0094] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. The two-dimensional code payment server 118 has the function of, upon receiving a two-dimensional code payment request TSR from the user terminal 124 (not necessarily including security information SCI, described below), outputting payment result information SEI to the user terminal 124 and the store server 108 if the transaction is valid after performing payment processing SET, as well as the payment processing function for the electronic money card issuing device 176 and the electronic money charging device 178, described below. However, here, the payment processing for use of the laundry machine 102 will be described. In this embodiment 1, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 also has the function of, upon receiving a two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR (at least transaction identification information TNO) from the store server 108, generating security information SCI and transmitting the generated security information SCI in association with the transaction identification information TNO to the store server 108 that received it. In other words, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 constitutes the backbone of the two-dimensional code payment system 104. Therefore, a two-dimensional code payment server 118 is installed for each two-dimensional code payment system 104. When security information SCI is used, a two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request TCR is received based on the security information SCI. If the security information SCI itself is a URL for connecting to the two-dimensional code payment server 118, it can be said that the fact that the URL was used to connect to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 is proof that security has been ensured. If a password is required to log in to the two-dimensional code payment server 118, the password is also included in the security information. The payment process SET is a process for transferring funds from a payment source PYS (payment source information PAI) such as a bank account registered by the user when signing a contract with the two-dimensional code payment system 104 to a payment destination PYE (payment destination information PEI) such as a bank account of the laundry facility operator that provides the laundry service or product, and the completion of the fund transfer process is considered to be the completion of the payment process SET. In other words, it means that the processing required for fund transfer has been completed in the two-dimensional code payment system 104, regardless of whether funds have actually been transferred. In the first embodiment, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 is a computer, and includes at least a two-dimensional code payment server computing device 272, a two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274, a two-dimensional code payment server display device 276, a two-dimensional code payment server communication device 278, a two-dimensional code payment server clock device 282, a two-dimensional code payment server input device 284, a security information generating device 286, a payment application providing device 288, and a two-dimensional code payment server bus line 292. In addition, it is preferable that the two-dimensional code payment server 118 also time outs and suspends processing if a payment request is not made within a predetermined time after sending the security information SCI to the two-dimensional code payment server 118.

[0095] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server computing device 272 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server computing device 272 is composed of a computing device (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), etc., and has the function of performing the functions of each device that constitutes the two-dimensional code payment server 118 while communicating with the RAM appropriately based on the program recorded in the ROM.

[0096] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274 has the function of recording information required for processing while communicating with the store server 108 and the user terminal 124, and a known recording device is used. At least the payment server table SVT and user table UTL, which will be described later, are recorded.

[0097] Next, the settlement server table SVT will be described with reference to FIG. The payment server table SVT stores various information linked to the transaction identification information TNO. This information includes, but is not limited to, laundry machine identification information LID or money processing device identification information MID, store server identification information SID, laundry machine fee information LFI or electronic money information EMI, transaction identification information generation time TGT, security information SCI (one-pass code OPC), two-dimensional code billing command TCO, payment result information SEI, and billing result information CEI. In this first embodiment, the same information as the store table SST is stored, except for the two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID.

[0098] Next, the user table UTL will be explained with reference to FIG. In the user table UTL, necessary information such as user name information UNI, user address information URI, user email address UMA, user payment account information UAI, and payment application login password UPW, associated with user identification information UID, are pre-recorded when subscribing to the two-dimensional code payment system 104. In this embodiment 1, payment source information PAI is financial institution account information FAI such as a bank account. However, payment source information PAI can also be payment source information PAI in a publicly known system that allows payment of fees, such as a credit card number or debit card number, or related information that can be used to trace payment source information PAI. Note that, as will be described later, in this embodiment 1, for convenience, the user email address UMA is used as the ID for logging in to the two-dimensional code payment system 104.

[0099] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server display device 276 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server display device 276 has an interface function with the operator of the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a known display device (display) is used.

[0100] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server communication device 278 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server communication device 278 has the function of exchanging information by communication with the store server 108 or the user terminal device 124 via the Internet communication line 112 or a public wireless communication line, and a known communication device is used.

[0101] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server clock device 282 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server clock device 282 functions to output date and time information DTI used in the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a known clock device is used.

[0102] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server input device 284 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server input device 284 has a function for inputting information required by the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a known keyboard is used.

[0103] Next, the security information generating device 286 will be described. The security information generation device 286 has a function of outputting security information SCI to prevent theft or tampering of communications, such as over the Internet. Security information SCI refers to information designed to prevent third parties from stealing or understanding communications, such as coded information and decryption information for encrypted data. In other words, it is a general term for information designed to prevent third parties from easily stealing communications or understanding their contents. In the first embodiment, the security information generation device 286 is implemented by software. The security information SCI can be one-time security information OSI, such as a one-pass code OPC, a one-time password OPW, or an encryption key. One-time security information OSI refers to information that is valid only once or for a specified period of time. In the first embodiment, a one-pass code OPC is used. The one-pass code OPC is information that can be used only once to establish a connection with the two-dimensional code payment server 118, regardless of whether the user is the user himself or herself, such as a URL that can be used only once. A one-time password is a method of generating a temporary character string that is valid only for a short time in addition to a secret character string (password) to make information available. An encryption key is a parameter given to the calculation procedure specified by the encryption method when encrypting data.

[0104] Next, the payment application providing device 288 will be described. The payment application providing device 288 has the function of providing the two-dimensional code payment application program TAP (Two Dimension settlement application program) required for payment to the user terminal 124. In this embodiment 1, when a download request for the two-dimensional code payment application program TAP (hereinafter referred to as the "payment application TAP") is made from the user terminal 124, it has the function of transmitting the software for the payment application TAP to the user terminal 124 and recording information required for use, such as the two-dimensional code payment application login information LGI, in the user table UTL. As described above, the user table UTL is recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274. In this embodiment 1, the payment application providing device 288 is configured by software. The payment application providing device 288 can be provided on a server separate from the two-dimensional code payment server 118.

[0105] Next, the two-dimensional code payment server bus line 292 will be described. The two-dimensional code payment server bus line 292 has a function of communicating between the devices that make up the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and is a known bus line.

[0106] Next, the operation of the two-dimensional code payment server 118 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In step TS1, it is determined whether a two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request TCR (which includes at least transaction specific information TNO, and may also include laundry equipment fee information LFI, store server identification information SID, and others) has been received from the two-dimensional code payment server 118.If it has been received, it proceeds to step TS2; if it has not, it loops through step TS1 and enters a waiting state for a two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request.

[0107] In step TS2, the security information generating device 286 generates a one-pass code OPC, which is security information SCI, and then proceeds to step TS3.

[0108] In step TS3, the one-pass code OPC is sent to the store server 108 identified by the store server identification information SID included in the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR, and then the process proceeds to step TS4. Note that if the store server 108 that received the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR can be identified by information other than the store server identification information SID, the store server 108 can be identified by that information. For example, if the transaction identification information TNO includes information that can identify the store, the transaction identification information TNO can be used to send security information SCI to the corresponding money multifunction processing device identification information MID (store server identification information SID).

[0109] In step TS4, it is determined whether a two-dimensional code payment request TSR has been received from the user terminal 124. If it has been received, the process proceeds to step TS5; if it has not been received, the process loops back to step TS4, and the process enters a two-dimensional code payment request waiting state. Therefore, between steps TS3 and TS4, predetermined processing is performed in the store server 108 and the user terminal 124 based on the two-dimensional code TDC.

[0110] In step TS5, the payment recipient PYE is identified based on the payment recipient information PEI etc. contained in the two-dimensional code TDC, the user identification information UID is identified based on the payment application login information LGI etc. of the user terminal device 124 described below, the user payment account information UAI, which is the payment source information PAI in the user table UTL, is identified, and the payment process SET is executed to transfer the amount of funds based on the laundry equipment fee information LFI, and then the process proceeds to step TS6.

[0111] In step TS6, based on the payment application login information LGI, the payment result information SEI is linked to the user email address MAD registered in the user table UTL and sent by email, and then the process proceeds to step TS7.

[0112] In step TS7, the payment result information SEI is sent to the store server 108 specified by the store server identification information SID included in the two-dimensional code payment request TSR, and then the process ends.

[0113] Next, the operation of the two-dimensional code payment server 118 when there is a request to download the payment application TAP will be described with reference to FIG. In step DS1, the payment application providing device 288 determines whether there is download request information DLR from the user terminal 124, and if download request information DLR is determined, proceeds to step DS2; if not, it loops through step DS1 and enters a state of waiting for download request information.

[0114] In step DS2, the user is prompted to input the user identification information UID required to use the two-dimensional code payment system 104, and the process proceeds to step DS3. The user identification information UID is, for example, but is not limited to, the telephone number assigned to the user terminal 124.

[0115] If it is determined in step DS3 that the user identification information UID has been received, the process proceeds to step DS4, but if it is not determined, the process loops to step DS4 and enters a state of waiting for user identification information.

[0116] In step DS4, personal identification information PID, which is one of the payment application login information LGI, is requested, and the process proceeds to step DS5. The payment application login identification information PID is, for example, but is not limited to, an email address UMA. The payment application login identification information PID can also be automatically transmitted from the user terminal 124.

[0117] In step DS5, if the personal identification information PID is determined, the process proceeds to step DS6, and if not determined, step DS5 is looped and the process enters a state of waiting for payment application login identification information.

[0118] In step DS6, a personal password APW, which is one piece of payment application login information LGI, is requested, and the process proceeds to step DS7. The personal password APW is, for example, a user password UPW that is set arbitrarily. This user password UPW can also be automatically sent from user terminal 124, reducing the user's effort.

[0119] In step DS7, if the user password UPW is received, the process proceeds to step DS8, and if not, step DS7 is looped to enter a user password waiting state.

[0120] In step DS8, the user is prompted to enter user payment account information UAI, and the process proceeds to step DS9. The user payment account information UAI may be, for example, but is not limited to, financial institution account information. This user payment account information UAI can also be automatically transmitted from the user terminal 124, reducing the user's effort.

[0121] If it is determined in step DS9 that the settlement account information UAI has been input, the process proceeds to step DS10; if not, the process loops to step DS9, and the process enters a state of waiting for settlement account information.

[0122] In step DS10, this information is associated with the user identification information UID and recorded in the two-dimensional code payment S user table TTL (Figure 14(B)) recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274, and the process ends. Note that the method for downloading the payment app TAP is not limited to the method described above, and any appropriate download method can be adopted, such as enabling download when a specified password is entered following a download request DLA. In this case, the above information must be recorded separately.

[0123] Next, the user terminal 124 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. The user terminal 124 acquires the payment request code SDC (QR code QRC) represented by the two-dimensional code TDC displayed on the display device 170 of the store server 108 of the two-dimensional code payment system 104, and has the function of transmitting at least a two-dimensional code payment request TSR to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 of the laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L via, for example, the Internet communication line 112 using the payment app TAP, as shown in FIG. 1. The two-dimensional code payment request TSR includes at least laundry machine fee information LFI and payment recipient identification information PSI, and preferably also includes security information SCI and store server identification information SID. The payment recipient identification information PSI is information that can identify the payment recipient of the fee related to the laundry machine fee information LFI, and includes information that can directly or indirectly identify the payment recipient. Examples of the payment destination identification information (PSI) include, for example, the transaction identification information (TNO), the store server identification information (SID), and the laundry machine identification information (LID), but other information may also be used. The user terminal 124 is a portable information device, such as a smartphone or tablet computer; in this Example 1, a smartphone is used. The user terminal 124 includes at least a user terminal computing device 296, a user terminal imaging device 298, a user terminal display device 302, a user terminal recording device 304, a user terminal communication device 306, a payment application recording device 308, a user terminal input device 312, a code analysis device 314, a user terminal clock device 316, and a user terminal bus line 318. To avoid confusion with other devices, the user terminal computing device 296 and other devices are referred to by a combination of common terms such as "user terminal" and "computing device." However, functionally, they are devices that perform the functions of the common terms, and interpretation of rights should be based on the common terms. This naming understanding is similar for other devices.

[0124] First, the user terminal computing unit 296 will be described. The user terminal computing device 296 is composed of a CPU, ROM, RAM, etc., and has the function of performing the functions of each device that makes up the user terminal 124 while communicating with the RAM appropriately based on a program recorded in the ROM.

[0125] Next, the user terminal imaging device 298 will be described. The user terminal imaging device 298 has a function of acquiring an image, is a so-called digital camera, acquires a photograph as a still image, and provides it to the code analysis device 314. In the present embodiment 1, it has a function of capturing an image of the two-dimensional code TDC, specifically the QR code QRC, which is the payment request code SDC displayed on the display device 170 of the store server 108, and is configured by a known imaging device.

[0126] Next, the user terminal display device 302 will be described. The user terminal display device 302 has an interface function with the user, and is implemented by a known display device (display). A transparent touch panel (not shown) is disposed on the surface of the user terminal display device 302, thereby forming a user terminal input device 312.

[0127] Next, the user terminal recorder 304 will be described. The user terminal recording device 304 has the function of recording the two-dimensional code TDC, which is the image information GRD acquired by the user terminal imaging device 298, and information required by the user terminal 124, and may be a known recording device. A user terminal table UTT is recorded in the user terminal recording device 304. As shown in FIG. 15(B), the user terminal table UTT records at least personal identification information PID (e.g., user email address UMA), which is the payment application login information LGI, and a user password UPW, which is the personal password APW. Using the recorded payment application login information LGI can simplify the operation of logging in to the two-dimensional code payment server 118.

[0128] Next, the user terminal communication device 306 will be described. The user terminal communication device 306 has the function of transmitting and receiving two-dimensional code payment requests TCR, receipt emails SCM, etc. between the two-dimensional code payment server 118 via the Internet communication line 112, etc., and a known communication device is used.

[0129] Next, the payment application recording device 308 will be described. The payment application recording device 308 has the function of recording the payment application TAP, which is used to execute payment processing, downloaded and installed from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 or the like, and a known recording device is used. The payment application TAP can be installed on one user terminal 124 for each two-dimensional code payment system 104, and can be used selectively depending on the application. The payment application recording device 308 also sequentially stores historical information such as transaction identification information TNO, laundry equipment fee information LFI, security information SCI, date and time information DTI sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118, two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID used, and receipt email SCM. This historical information about payments can be read and used as evidence if a payment problem occurs.

[0130] Next, the user terminal input device 312 will be described. The user terminal input device 312 has a function for inputting information required for downloading and logging in to the payment application TAP. In the first embodiment, for example, as shown in Fig. 16(B), it is a well-known display keyboard displayed on the user terminal display device 302. The display keyboard can input hiragana, katakana, kanji, uppercase and lowercase letters of the alphabet, numbers, and symbols by switching the character type.

[0131] Next, the code analyzer 314 will be described. The code analysis device 314 has the function of converting the QR code QRC, which is a two-dimensional code TDC acquired as image information GRD by the user terminal imaging device 298, into two-dimensional code calculation information TOI that can be processed by the user terminal calculation device 296 in the user terminal 124, etc., and outputting it, and is configured using a known program.

[0132] Next, the user terminal clock device 316 will be described. The user terminal clock device 316 has a function of outputting date and time information DTI used in the user terminal 124, and a known clock device is used.

[0133] Next, the user terminal bus line 318 will be described. The user terminal bus line 318 has a function of mediating the transfer of data between the devices that make up the user terminal 124, and a known bus line is used.

[0134] In the first embodiment, the payment application TAP is downloaded from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 and installed in advance on the user terminal 124. As shown in FIG. 16(A), when installing the application, input is made into a text box 324 displayed on the user terminal display device 302 using the user terminal input device 312. The text box 324 displays, for example, an identification information box 324A for inputting a mobile phone number MTN as user identification information UID, an account box 324B for inputting a user email address UMA as personal identification information PID, a password box 324C for inputting a user password UPW as personal password APW, and an account box 324D for inputting user payment account information UAI for identifying payment source information PAI, and as described above, these are registered (recorded) in advance in the two-dimensional code payment server 118. In addition, the user's name UNI, user address information URI, etc. are registered. In this embodiment 1, as described above, the mobile phone number MTN, the user email address UMA, and the payment application login password UPW are pre-registered in the user table UTL recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274 of the two-dimensional code payment server 118.

[0135] After entering this information, a send button 326 is displayed, which can be tapped to register the information, and a cancel button 328 is displayed to cancel registration. When the user taps the text box 324, the text box and the user terminal input device 312 are displayed on the user terminal display device 302, allowing text entry, as shown in FIG. 16(B). By using the user terminal input device 312 to enter information into each text box 324 and tapping the send button 326 after entering all the information, the information is transmitted to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 via the Internet communication line 112 and recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274. If the payment application login information LGI is recorded in the user terminal recording device 304 of the user terminal 124, the recorded information can be used for login, allowing for rapid launch of the payment application TAP. However, it is preferable to ensure a high level of security, such as by requiring biometric authentication when the user terminal 124 is started up.

[0136] The payment application TAP has a function of acquiring, as image information GRD, a QR code QRC, which is a payment request code SDC, converted into a two-dimensional code and displayed on the display device 170 using the user terminal imaging device 298, analyzing the QR code QRC using the code analysis device 314 and converting it into two-dimensional code calculation information TOI that can be calculated, and then transmitting at least the two-dimensional code calculation information TOI to the two-dimensional code payment system 104. Specifically, in this embodiment 1, the payment request code SDC is at least laundry equipment fee information LFI and preferably includes transaction identification information TNO.

[0137] To activate the payment app TAP, a user taps on the icon (not shown) of the payment app TAP displayed on the user terminal display device 302. This tap activates the payment app TAP, and as shown in Fig. 16(B), first, a first input box 342 for inputting the user email address UMA as payment application login information LGI, and a second input box 344 for inputting the user password UPW are displayed, along with the user terminal input device 312, send button 326, and cancel button 328.

[0138] The user inputs the user email address UMA and user password UPW and taps the send button 326 to send them to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 via the Internet communication line 112. If the two-dimensional code payment server 118 finds that the information matches the information previously recorded (registered) in the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274, it outputs a signal indicating the match, and then displays the photo shooting preparation screen PPS shown in Figure 16(C).

[0139] If the payment application login information LGI is recorded in the user terminal recording device 304 of the user terminal 124, the login information LGI can be verified quickly by performing verification on the user terminal 124. When the cancel button 328 is tapped, the payment application TAP ends and returns to the icon state. Note that other authentication methods, such as biometric authentication using biometric authentication technology or facial authentication, can also be used.

[0140] The photographing preparation screen PPS displays the image captured by the user terminal imaging device 298, which in this embodiment is the QR code QRC, as well as a photographing cancellation button 332. After the QR code QRC is automatically focused on in the payment application TAP, it is automatically photographed and the screen switches to the transaction confirmation screen TCS shown in Fig. 16(D). When the photographing cancellation button 332 is tapped, the payment application TAP is terminated and the screen returns to the icon state.

[0141] The transaction confirmation screen TCS displays a QR code QRC, a confirmation information field 334, a payment button 336, and a confirmation cancellation button 338. In this embodiment 1, the confirmation information field 334 displays transaction identification information TNO, laundry store name MNA, laundry machine identification information LID, laundry machine name SNI, laundry machine fee information LFI, etc., but it is sufficient if at least the laundry machine fee information LFI is displayed. The laundry store name can be obtained from the store server identification information SID. When the payment button 336 is tapped, a two-dimensional code payment request TSR is sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 identified by the payment app TAP via the Internet communication line 112, etc. When the confirmation cancellation button 338 is tapped, the payment app TAP is terminated and returns to the icon state.

[0142] Next, the operation of the user terminal 124 will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in Fig. 3. In the following description, it is assumed that the payment application TAP has already been installed, the user's email address UMA and user password UPW, which are the payment application login information LGI, have been entered to log in, and the payment application TAP has been launched.

[0143] In step US1, the screen switches to the photographing preparation screen PPS shown in Fig. 16(C), and the image captured by the user terminal imaging device 298 is displayed on the user terminal display device 302, and the process proceeds to step US2. In this Example 1, the QR code QRC is displayed on the display device 170 of the store server 108.

[0144] In step US2, when the user terminal imaging device 298 is aimed at the user terminal display device 302 so that the entire QR code QRC displayed on the display device 170 is clearly displayed, the device automatically focuses, and once the focus is achieved, the QR code QRC is automatically imaged, after which the process proceeds to step US3.

[0145] In step US3, the display on the user terminal device display device 302 switches to the transaction confirmation screen TCS of Figure 16(D), and the process proceeds to step US3. The contents of the confirmation information field 334 are displayed on the transaction confirmation screen TCS, and the process proceeds to step US4.

[0146] In step US4, it is determined whether the payment button 336 has been tapped. If such a tap is determined, the process proceeds to step US5. If not, step US4 is looped and the process enters a payment button standby state. The user checks the contents of the confirmation information field 334, and if the contents are correct, the user taps the payment button 336. If the contents are not correct, the user taps the confirmation cancel button 338 to abort the process. Note that if the loop of step US4 continues for a predetermined time, it is preferable to consider that usage has been interrupted and forcibly abort the process.

[0147] Next, in step US5, the two-dimensional code payment request TSR is sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 identified by the two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID, and the process proceeds to step US6. The two-dimensional code payment server identification information TID is incorporated into the payment application TAP. Based on this two-dimensional code payment request TRR, a payment process SET is performed in the two-dimensional code payment server 118. The payment process SET is a process in which a payee PYE (payee information PEI) is identified based on the payee identification information PSI, and a fee based on the laundry equipment fee information LFI is paid to the payee PYE from the payer PYS (payment source information PAI). The payee information PEI can be identified in the user table UTL from the payment application login information LGI of the user terminal 124 from the transaction identification information TNO or by including the payee information PEI in the QR code QRC.

[0148] In step US6, it is determined whether a receipt email SCM or a payment failure email NSM, which is payment result information SEI, has been received from the two-dimensional code payment server 118. If it is a receipt email SCM, the process proceeds to step US7, and if it is a payment failure email NSM, the process proceeds to step US8. Note that if the user terminal 124 does not receive payment result information SEI from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 within a predetermined time, it is preferable to perform error processing and end the process.

[0149] In step US7, a payment completion display (receipt email SCM, for example, payment completion screen SCS shown in FIG. 17(B) described later) is displayed on the user terminal display device 302, and the process ends.

[0150] In step US8, the user terminal display device 302 displays a payment failure message (payment failure email NSM), and the process ends.

[0151] It is preferable that the user terminal 124 performs the processing shown in FIG. The process proceeds from step US6 in Figure 3 to step US7a in Figure 17(A), and as shown in Figure 17(B), a payment completion screen SCS is displayed on the user terminal display device 302, after which the process proceeds to step US8a. The payment completion screen SCS displays a payment completion information field 352, which preferably displays a message indicating that payment has been made, such as "Payment Complete," laundry equipment fee information LFI, and the name of the payee, such as the store name, based on the tap of the payment button 336 in step US4. In addition, a screenshot button 346 and a second cancel button 348 are displayed below the payment completion information field 352.

[0152] In step US8a, it is determined whether the screenshot button 346 has been tapped. If it has been tapped, the process proceeds to step US9a. If it has not been tapped, the process loops back to step US8a, and the process enters a screenshot standby state.

[0153] In step US9a, a copy of the payment completion screen SCS is created and recorded in the user terminal storage device 178, and the process ends. This screenshot record can be used as evidence in case any trouble occurs with the payment at a later date. If the cancel button 348 is tapped, the screen returns to the photo shooting preparation screen PPS.

[0154] Next, the operation of the laundry machine two-dimensional code payment system 104L of the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart in Figure 3. It is assumed that the payment application TAP is downloaded to the user terminal 124, the payment application login information LGI is pre-recorded, and the necessary information is also recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server 118. First, when the power is turned on to the washing machine 106, which is the laundry equipment 102, and the laundry equipment control device 128 starts operating, in step LS1, the operation status information AVI from the operation status information output device 138 is determined, and if the operation status is operable, standby information WTI is output to the store server 108, and if the operation status is inoperable, inoperable information IPI is sent to the store server 108, and the process proceeds to step LS2.

[0155] In step LS2, it is determined whether or not the billing signal CHS has been output from the currency identification device 134. If it has been output, the process proceeds to step LS4; if it has not been output, the process proceeds to step LS3.

[0156] In step LS3, if the pseudo charge signal FCS from the electronic money processing device 110 or the store server 108 is detected, the process proceeds to step LS4, and if not, the process returns to step LS1.

[0157] In step LS4, the start signal STS is output to activate the laundry machine configuration unit 132 of the selected laundry machine 102 (washing machine 106), and the process proceeds to step LS5.

[0158] In step LS5, the billing result information CEI is sent to the store server 108, and the process proceeds to step LS6.

[0159] In step LS6, it is determined whether the predetermined time set in step LS8 has been operated, and if so, the process proceeds to step LS7, and if not, step LS6 is looped until the predetermined time has elapsed, and operation continues.

[0160] In step LS7, the operation of the laundry machine configuration unit 132 is stopped, and the process ends.

[0161] In step SS1, the store server 108 determines whether the laundry usage button 220 has been tapped. If it determines that the laundry usage button 220 has been tapped, it proceeds to step SS2; if it has not been tapped, it loops back to step SS1 and the laundry device 102 enters a standby state for use.

[0162] Next, in step SS2, it is confirmed whether each laundry equipment control device 128 is outputting standby information WTS, and if standby information WTS is being output, in other words, it is determined whether the laundry equipment 102 is in an operable state. If standby information WTS is being output, it is determined that the laundry equipment is operable, and if inoperable information IPI and an operating signal RNS are being output, it is determined that the laundry equipment is inoperable, and the process proceeds to step SS3.

[0163] In step SS3, the display on the display device 170 is switched to the laundry machine selection screen ULS (FIG. 8(B)), and then the process proceeds to step SS4.

[0164] In step SS4, each laundry device 102 is displayed on the laundry device selection screen ULS based on the standby information WTS, the disabled information IPI, or the operating signal RNS obtained in step SS2, and then the process proceeds to step SS5. For example, a laundry device 102 in an operable state is displayed in green, and a laundry device 102 in an disabled state or in operation is displayed in red.

[0165] Next, in step SS5, it is determined whether the laundry machine 102 to be used has been selected. If it has been selected, the process proceeds to step SS6; if it has not been selected, step SS5 is looped and the process waits for the laundry machine to be selected.

[0166] In step SS6, the transaction identification information generating device 238 outputs the transaction identification information TNO, and then the process proceeds to step SS7.

[0167] In step SS7, the usage mode selection screen USS shown in FIG. 9(C) is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step SS8.

[0168] If it is determined in step SS8 that any of the operation time designation buttons 234B has been tapped, the process proceeds to step SS9, and if no tap has been made, step SS8 is looped to enter an operation time designation standby state.

[0169] In step SS9, fee information output device 142 outputs laundry machine fee information LFI corresponding to the type of operation time specification button 234B that was tapped, and then proceeds to step SS10.

[0170] In step SS10, the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS shown in FIG. 9(D) is displayed, and the process proceeds to step SS11.

[0171] In step SS11, it is determined whether any of the two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 236B has been tapped. If a tap has been detected, the process proceeds to step SS12; if not, step SS11 is looped and the process waits for the payment system to be selected.

[0172] In step SS12, at least the transaction identification information TID is sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 of the selected two-dimensional code payment system 104, and a two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR is made.

[0173] In step TS1, when the two-dimensional code payment server 118 determines that it has received a two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request TCR, it determines whether it has legitimate authority to make the processing request, and if it does, it proceeds to step TS2.

[0174] In step TS2, a one-pass code OPC is issued as transaction authorization information TAI, and then the process proceeds to step TS3.

[0175] In step TS3, at least the one-pass code OPC is recorded in association with the received transaction identification information TNO in the payment server table SVT, and then the transaction identification information TNO is transmitted as transaction authorization information TAI to the store server 108 identified by the received store server identification information SID. The presence or absence of legitimate authority is determined, for example, by the transaction identification information TNO. Note that obtaining the one-pass code OPC in steps TS1 to TS3 can be omitted if the security of the transaction is guaranteed.

[0176] If the store server 108 determines in step SS13 that the transaction authorization information TAI has been received, it records the one-pass code OPC in association with the identical transaction identification information TNO in the store table SST, and then proceeds to step SS14.

[0177] In step SS14, based on the system of the two-dimensional code payment system 104L for laundry equipment selected in step SS10, at least the laundry equipment fee information LFI, preferably also the one-pass code OPC, and the transaction specific information TNO are converted into a two-dimensional code TDC by the two-dimensional code conversion device 242, and then proceed to step SS15.

[0178] In step SS15, the screen is switched to the two-dimensional code display screen TDS shown in FIG. 10(E), and the process proceeds to step SS16.

[0179] In step SS16, the two-dimensional code TDC is displayed on the two-dimensional code display screen TDS as shown in Fig. 10(E), and then the process proceeds to step SS17. In this embodiment 1, the laundry machine fee information LFI, the transaction identification information TNO as the payment destination identification information PSI, the store server identification information SID, and the one-pass code OPC as the security information SCI are converted into a QR code QRC for the two-dimensional code TDC and displayed on the display device 170. The QR code QRC is displayed on the display device 170 for, for example, 30 seconds, and after 60 seconds has elapsed, the processing screen IPS is displayed as shown in Fig. 10(F), for example.

[0180] In step SS17, the store timer device 244 starts counting the allowable time ALT, and then the process proceeds to step SS18.

[0181] In step SS18, the processing screen IPS is displayed on the display device 170, and the process proceeds to step SS19.

[0182] In step SS19, if the payment result information SEI from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 is determined, the process proceeds to step SS20.

[0183] Meanwhile, the user operates his / her own user terminal 124, launches the payment application TAP, and logs in to the payment application TAP. Therefore, at this point, any unauthorized logins are eliminated. By this login, the user terminal 124 proceeds to step US1, and the user terminal imaging device 298 of the user terminal 124 goes into a photographing preparation state. In other words, the photographing preparation screen PPS shown in Fig. 16(C) appears.

[0184] The user operates the user terminal imaging device 298 of his / her user terminal 124, and captures an image of the QR code QRC displayed on the display device 170 in step US2 of the user terminal 124, and then proceeds to step US3.

[0185] In step US3, the transaction confirmation screen TCS (FIG. 16(D)) is displayed on the user terminal display device 302, and the code analyzer 314 converts the QR code QRC into two-dimensional code calculation information TOI, after which the process proceeds to step US4. Therefore, the two-dimensional code calculation information TOI includes at least laundry machine fee information LFI, and in this embodiment 1, includes transaction identification information TNO, money composite processing device identification information MID as destination identification information PSI, and security information SCI.

[0186] If it is determined in step US4 that the payment button 336 has been tapped, the process proceeds to step US5; if not, the process loops back to step US4, and the process enters a payment confirmation waiting state.

[0187] In step US5, the two-dimensional code calculation information TOI is sent as a two-dimensional code payment request TSR to the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and then the process proceeds to step US6.

[0188] When the two-dimensional code payment server 118 determines in step TS4 that it has received the two-dimensional code payment request TSR, it proceeds to step TS5.

[0189] In step TS5, it is determined whether the transmitted one-pass code OPC has valid authorization. In the present embodiment 1, if the received one-pass code OPC matches the one-pass code OPC recorded in the settlement server table SVT, it is determined that there is valid authorization; if they do not, it is determined that the processing request is invalid. If the user has valid authority, the payment process SET is executed, and then the process proceeds to step TS6.

[0190] In step TS6, the payment result information SEI is sent by email to the user terminal 124 to which the two-dimensional code payment request TSR was sent. The email address of the user of the user terminal 124 to send the email can be obtained from the user table UTL recorded in the two-dimensional code payment server recording device 274 of the two-dimensional code payment server 118 based on the login information LGI.

[0191] If the payment result information SEI is a receipt mail SCM in step US6, the user terminal 124 proceeds to step US7, and if it is a payment failure mail, the user terminal 124 proceeds to step US8.

[0192] Furthermore, in step TS7, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 sends payment result information SEI (receipt email SCM or payment failure email NSM) to the store server 108 recorded in association with the received transaction specific information TNO in the payment server table SVT.

[0193] In step US8, the user terminal display device 302 displays a payment failure message (payment failure email NSM), and the process ends.

[0194] If the store server 108 determines in step SS19 that payment result information SEI (receipt email SCM) has been received, it proceeds to step SS20.

[0195] In step SS20, the received settlement result information SEI is recorded in association with the same transaction identification information TNO in the store table SST, and then the process proceeds to step SS21.

[0196] In step SS21, it is determined whether the timeout period TOH relating to the same transaction identification information TNO has exceeded a predetermined allowable period ALT, and if not, the process proceeds to step SS22.

[0197] In step SS22, if the receipt email SCM is received, the fact that it is within the timeout period TOH is recorded in the store table SST, and then a pseudo-billing signal FCS is sent to the laundry equipment control device 128 of the laundry equipment 102 identified by the laundry equipment identification information LID recorded in association with the same transaction identification information TNO recorded in the store table SST, and the process proceeds to step SS22.

[0198] If the laundry machine controller 128 determines in step LS3 that the false billing signal FCS is present, the process proceeds to step LS4.

[0199] In step LS4, the start signal STS is output to activate the laundry machine configuration unit 132, which activates the laundry machine 102, and the process then proceeds to step LS5.

[0200] In step LS5, the laundry machine control device 128 sends billing result information CEI indicating that it is operating to the store server 108, and then proceeds to step LS6.

[0201] In step LS6, it is determined whether a predetermined operating time has elapsed. If it is determined that the predetermined time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step LS7, and if not, step LS6 is looped.

[0202] In step LS7, the operation of the laundry machine 102 is terminated.

[0203] When the store server 108 determines the billing result signal CEI in step SS23, the process proceeds to step SS24.

[0204] In step SS24, the store server 108 records the received billing result signal CEI in association with the same transaction identification information TNO in the store table SST, and then ends the process. These records allow the facts to be confirmed by comparing the records at each stage in the event of a transaction dispute between the laundry store 100 (or its operator) and the user, and can be used to resolve the dispute.

[0205] Next, the two-dimensional code settlement system for electronic money cards 104M will be described mainly with reference to FIG. The two-dimensional code payment system for electronic money cards 104M is used to settle and record electronic money information EMI on the laundry electronic money card 150 using the two-dimensional code payment system. In this embodiment 1, it is composed of an electronic money card issuing device 176, an electronic money charging device 178, a two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a user terminal 124. However, either the electronic money card issuing device 176 or the electronic money charging device 178 may be used alone. In this embodiment 1, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 and the user terminal 124 are common to the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry machines 104L, and most of the money hybrid processing device 166 is also common to the two-dimensional code payment system for laundry machines 104L described above. The following describes the components that have not been described yet.

[0206] Next, the electronic money card issuing device 176 will be described mainly with reference to FIG. The electronic money card issuing device 176 has the function of sending out a new laundry electronic money card 150, which records electronic money information EMI purchased by payment from the payment device 180, from a card slot 192 and providing it to a purchaser (user). The electronic money card issuing device 176 in this embodiment 1 is composed of a two-dimensional code payment server 118, a bill identification device 230, a two-dimensional code payment system 104 (including the payment device 180 (coin sorting device 196, bill identification device 230) or a credit card terminal device 240), a card slot 192, a card issuance button 206, a card storage device 222, a card transport device 224, and a combined reader / writer 226.

[0207] The two-dimensional code payment system 104 used in the electronic money card issuing device 176 is a part of the store server 108, a two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a user terminal device 124.

[0208] Next, the payment device 180 will be described with reference to FIG. The payment device 180 has the function of paying the price when purchasing a new laundry electronic money card 150 with electronic money information EMI stored therein, or when adding and recording electronic money information EMI to an existing laundry electronic money card 150. In this embodiment 1, the payment device 180 is the two-dimensional code payment system 104, coin sorting device 196, banknote identification device 230, and credit card terminal 240, but it can also use other payment methods such as well-known debit card system terminals. The two-dimensional code payment system 104 is as described above.

[0209] Next, the coin sorting device 196 will be described. The coin sorting device 196 has the function of determining the authenticity and denomination of the coin C inserted into the coin slot 196E, and if it is a predetermined authentic coin, outputs a pulse signal to the multifunction device calculation device 168 and stores and keeps the coin C, and a known coin sorting device 196 can be used. If the coin sorting device 196 is specialized in sorting one type of coin, the pulse signal can be used as value information VLI. For example, when one pulse signal is output from the coin sorting device 196 for a 100 yen coin 100C, the one pulse signal means the 100 yen coin 100C. When multiple types of coins C are supported, value information VLI corresponding to the value of the accepted coin C is output, similar to the banknote recognition device 230.

[0210] Next, the bill validator 230 will be described. The banknote identification device 230 has the function of determining the authenticity and denomination of the banknote B inserted into the banknote insertion slot 194 and outputting value information VLI corresponding to the denomination to the multifunction device calculation device 168, as well as storing and storing the banknote B, and a publicly known banknote identification device 230 is used.

[0211] Next, the credit card terminal 240 will be described. The credit card terminal 240 is a known terminal device for processing payments using a credit card (not shown) on the payment system of a credit card international brand, and is a credit card terminal device dedicated to or used in conjunction with that credit card international brand. When the credit card terminal 240 executes a payment process for a predetermined amount, it outputs value information VLI indicating that amount to the multifunction device computing device 168.

[0212] Next, the card storage device 222 will be described. The card storage device 222 has the function of stacking and storing laundry electronic money cards 150, and the laundry electronic money cards 150 at the bottom or top of the stack are sent out one by one, and in this embodiment 1, a known card storage device is used.

[0213] Next, the card transport device 224 will be described. Card transport device 224 has the function of selectively transporting laundry electronic money card 150 in a predetermined direction, in other words, the function of transporting laundry electronic money card 150 from card storage device 222 to combined reader / writer device 226, and also the function of transporting laundry electronic money card 150 from combined reader / writer device 226 to card slot 192, or the function of selectively transporting laundry electronic money card 150 from card slot 192 to combined reader / writer device 226. It is composed of multiple rollers or belts that can be selectively rotated in forward or reverse directions, and a known card transport device is used.

[0214] Next, the combined reading and writing device 226 will be described. The combined reading and writing device 226 has the function of reading the electronic money information EMI or point information PTI recorded in the electronic money recording device 150M or point recording device 150P of the laundry electronic money card 150, or writing (recording) it in the electronic money recording device 150M or point recording device 150P, and a known non-contact or contact type reading and writing device is used.

[0215] Next, the operation of the electronic money card issuing device 176 will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the menu screen MS shown in FIG. 19(A) is displayed on the display device 170 of the electronic money card issuing device 176.

[0216] In step IS1, if it is determined that the card issuance button 206 has been tapped and a card issuance command CIC has been output, the process proceeds to step IS2; if not, the process loops back to step IS1 and enters a card issuance command standby state.

[0217] In step IS2, the issuance amount selection screen IMC shown in Fig. 19(B) is displayed on the display device 170, and then the process proceeds to step IS3. A plurality of issuance amount selection buttons 354 are displayed on the issuance amount selection screen IMC. In this embodiment 1, these are a first type issuance amount selection button 354A and a second type issuance amount selection button 354B. A portion of the first type issuance amount selection button 354A is recorded as electronic money information EMI, which has the same value as cash, and the remainder is recorded as point information POI. In this embodiment 1, a first composite issuance amount selection button 354A1 is displayed, which displays a payment of 1,000 yen to receive a prepaid electronic money EMI of 900 yen and 100 points of point information POI; a second composite issuance amount selection button 354A2 is displayed, which displays a payment of 2,000 yen to receive a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 1,900 yen and 300 points; and a third composite issuance amount selection button 354A3 is displayed, which displays a payment of 3,000 yen to receive a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 2,900 yen and 500 points. The second type issuance amount selection buttons 354B are all recorded as electronic money information EMI, which has the same value as cash. In this embodiment 1, a first issuance amount selection button 354B1 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money EMI of 1,100 yen when a payment of 1,000 yen is made, a second issuance amount selection button 354B2 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 2,300 yen when a payment of 2,000 yen is made, and a third issuance amount selection button 354B3 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 3,500 yen when a payment of 3,000 yen is made. The issuance amount selection screen IMC also displays an issuance cancellation button 356 and a message 358 stating, "The sales price includes a card deposit of 100 yen." Therefore, the amount displayed on the electronic money card issuing device 176 includes the card deposit of 100 yen.

[0218] If it is determined in step IS3 that any of the issuance amount selection buttons 354 has been tapped, the process proceeds to step IS4. In this case, it is assumed that the first combined issuance amount selection button 354A1 has been tapped.

[0219] In step IS4, as described above, the transaction identification information generating device 238 outputs the transaction identification information TNO based on a predetermined rule and records it in the store storage device 246, and then the process proceeds to step IS5.

[0220] In step IS5, the payment method selection screen SMC shown in Figure 19(C) is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step IS6. The payment method selection screen SMC displays the details of the first-class composite issuance amount selected on the issuance amount selection screen IMC, including the required fee of 1,000 yen, charge type "prepaid," charge amount "1,000 yen," validity period "December 31, 2019," and added points "100P." Furthermore, a back button 362 for returning to the issuance amount selection screen IMC, and a payment method selection button 364 are displayed. In this embodiment 1, the payment method selection buttons 364 are provided with a cash button 364C, a credit or electronic money button 364CE, and a two-dimensional code button 364T. Furthermore, an operation guide for "select payment method" is displayed on the guidance display unit IDS. In this embodiment 1, it is assumed that the two-dimensional code button 364T is selected. Note that, if the second type issuance amount selection button 354B is selected on the issuance amount selection screen IMC, naturally, the added points will not be displayed, or will be displayed as zero, on the payment method selection screen SMC.

[0221] In step IS6, if the two-dimensional code button 364T is tapped, the process proceeds to step IS7, and if not, the process loops to step IS6 and enters a state of waiting for the selection of a payment method.

[0222] In step IS7, the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS shown in Fig. 19(D) is displayed on the display device 170, and then the process proceeds to step IS8. In comparison with the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS shown in Fig. 9(D) described above, this two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS is identical in function and operation to the screen shown in Fig. 9(D) in that it determines the two-dimensional code payment brand TBS to be used, so a description thereof will be omitted. Note that the back button 366 is a button for returning to the payment method selection screen SMC.

[0223] If it is determined in step IS8 that one of the two-dimensional code payment systems 104 has been selected, the process proceeds to step IS9; if not, the process loops to step IS8, waiting for the selection of the two-dimensional code payment system.

[0224] In step IS9, the two-dimensional code conversion device 242 converts at least the charge amount of 1,000 yen determined in step IS3 and the payment destination identification information PSI pre-recorded in the store memory device 246 into a two-dimensional code TDC, and then proceeds to step IS10.

[0225] In step IS10, as shown in Figure 19(E), the two-dimensional code TDC, i.e., the QR code QRC, is displayed on the display device 170, and then the process proceeds to step IS11. By tapping the back button 370, the user can return to the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS (Figure 19(D)).

[0226] In step IS11, the store timer device 244 starts counting the allowable time ALT, and then the process proceeds to step IS12.

[0227] In step IS12, the card issuance screen CIG shown in FIG. 19(F) is displayed on the display device 170, and the process proceeds to step IS13.

[0228] In step IS13, if the payment result information SEI (receipt email SCM) from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 is determined, the process proceeds to step IS14.

[0229] Meanwhile, the user operates his / her own user terminal 124, launches the payment application TAP, and logs in to the two-dimensional code payment server 118. Therefore, as described above, unauthorized logins are eliminated at this point. By this login, the user terminal 124 proceeds to step US1, and the user terminal imaging device 298 of the user terminal 124 goes into a photographing preparation state. In other words, the photographing preparation screen PPS shown in Fig. 16(C) appears.

[0230] The user operates the user terminal imaging device 298 of his / her user terminal 124 in the same manner as described above, and in step US2 of the user terminal 124, captures an image of the QR code QRC displayed on the display device 170, and then proceeds to step US3.

[0231] In step US3, the transaction confirmation screen TCS (FIG. 16(D)) is displayed on the user terminal display device 302, and the code analyzer 314 converts the QR code QRC into two-dimensional code calculation information TOI, after which the process proceeds to step US4. Therefore, the two-dimensional code calculation information TOI contains the issued amount information IMI and the payee identification information PSI instead of the laundry equipment fee information LFI.

[0232] If it is determined in step US4 that the payment button 336 has been tapped, the process proceeds to step US5; if not, the process loops back to step US4, and the process enters a payment confirmation waiting state.

[0233] In step US5, the two-dimensional code calculation information TOI is sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118 as a two-dimensional code payment request TSR, and then the process proceeds to step US6. The two-dimensional code calculation information TOI includes at least the issued amount information IMI and the payee identification information PSI, and preferably also the transaction identification information TNO, the one-pass code OPC, and the store server identification information SID. Note that the security information SCI can be obtained by executing the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR in advance, as described above.

[0234] When the two-dimensional code payment server 118 determines in step TS4 that it has received the two-dimensional code payment request TSR, it proceeds to step TS5.

[0235] In step TS5, the settlement process SET is executed, and then the process proceeds to step TS6.

[0236] In step TS6, the payment result information SEI is sent to the user terminal 124 from which the two-dimensional code payment request TSR was sent.

[0237] In step US6, the user terminal 124 transmits the payment result information SEI, in other words, the payment failure email NSM, to the user terminal 124 from which the two-dimensional code payment request TSR was transmitted.

[0238] If the payment result information SEI is a receipt mail SCM in step US6, the user terminal 124 proceeds to step US7, and if it is a payment failure mail, the user terminal 124 proceeds to step US8.

[0239] Furthermore, in step TS7, the two-dimensional code payment server 118 transmits the payment result information SEI to the electronic money card issuing device 176, in other words, the money composite processing device 166, which is recorded in association with the received transaction specific information TNO in the payment server table SVT.

[0240] In step US8, the user terminal 124 displays an incomplete payment message (payment impossible mail NSM) on the user terminal display device 302, and ends the process.

[0241] If the electronic money card issuing device 176 determines in step IS13 that payment result information SEI has been received, it proceeds to step IS14.

[0242] In step IS14, the received settlement result information SEI is recorded in association with the same transaction identification information TNO in the store table SST, and then the process proceeds to step IS15.

[0243] In step IS15, it is determined whether the timeout period TOH relating to the same transaction identification information TNO has exceeded a predetermined allowable period ALT. If it has not, the process proceeds to step IS16; if it has exceeded the period, the process proceeds to step IS19.

[0244] In step IS16, the fact that the time-out period TOH is not yet reached is recorded in the store table SST, and then the process proceeds to step IS17.

[0245] In step IS17, card issuance processing CID is performed, and then the process proceeds to step IS18. The card issuing process CID uses card transport device 224 to retrieve one of laundry electronic money cards 150 stored in card storage device 222, transport it to multi-function reader / writer 226, and then stops it. Next, multi-function reader / writer 226 records electronic money information EMI, which corresponds to the price paid using two-dimensional code payment system 104, in electronic money recording device 150M of laundry electronic money card 150. If point information PTI has been awarded at this time, that point information PTI is also recorded in point recording device 150P. Then, laundry electronic money card 150 is sent to card slot 192 by card transport device 224. The purchaser can remove laundry electronic money card 150 from card slot 192 and use it to use laundry machine 102. These processes are executed based on commands from multi-function machine computing device 168.

[0246] When the cash button 364C is tapped, if the amount of cash identified by the bill identifying device 230 and / or the coin sorting device 196 reaches the selected amount, the card issuing process CID is performed.

[0247] Furthermore, when the credit or electronic money button 364CE is tapped, the electronic money information EMI is written to a new laundry electronic money card 150 and sent out, just as when the two-dimensional code button 364T described above is tapped. However, when a credit card is used instead of the electronic money card two-dimensional code payment system 104M, the backbone system of the credit card international brand system is used, and in the case of an electronic money card, the backbone server of the electronic money card system is used. Other payment methods, such as brand prepaid cards and brand debit cards, can also be used in the same way.

[0248] 19(G) is displayed for a predetermined time, and the process ends. The completion screen PCS displays, for example, the purchase amount of 1,000 yen, the deposited amount of 0 yen, the refund amount of 0 yen, the charge type of prepaid (prepayment), the charge amount of 900 yen, the validity period of December 31, 2019, the charge balance of 900 yen, the added points of 100 P, the point balance of 100 P, and the validity period of the points of March 31, 2010.

[0249] In step IS15, if the allowable time ALT is exceeded, in other words, if timeout information TOI is output, in step IS19, the timeout is recorded in the store table SST in association with the transaction specific information TNO, and then the process proceeds to step IS20.

[0250] In step LS19, the processing relating to the transaction identification information TNO is invalidated, and then the processing is terminated.

[0251] In relation to electronic money charging device 178, which will be described next, electronic money card issuing device 176 is the same as electronic money charging device 178 in the selection of the purchase amount, the selection of the payment method, the selection of two-dimensional code payment system 104, the writing of electronic money information EMI to laundry electronic money card 150, and the subsequent sending of laundry electronic money card 150. Therefore, electronic money card issuing device 176 can be said to be a device that includes electronic money charging device 178 as a part thereof.

[0252] Next, the electronic money charging device 178 will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. 6 to 7, 18 and 20. FIG. The electronic money charging device 178 has the function of receiving payment for the laundry electronic money card 150 that has already been issued, adding electronic money information EMI equivalent to the payment amount, and recording the information in the electronic money recording device 150M. In this embodiment 1, the electronic money charging device 178 is made up of a display device 170, an input device 172, a payment device 180 (coin sorting device 196, bill identifying device 230, payment system selecting device 236, transaction identifying information generating device 238, two-dimensional code conversion device 242, card transport device 224, combined reading / writing device 226, and a charge amount setting device 368. The display device 170, input device 172, value payment device 180, payment system selection device 236, transaction specific information generation device 238, two-dimensional code conversion device 242, card transport device 224, and multi-function reading / writing device 226 have already been described in detail, so the charge amount setting device 368, which has not yet been described, will be described below with reference to Figure 20.

[0253] The charge amount setting device 368 has at least the function of setting electronic money information EMI, which is value information VLI to be added to the laundry electronic money card 150. In this embodiment 1, the charge amount setting device 368 is mostly composed of software, and the software that constitutes the charge amount setting device 368 is activated by tapping the charge button 208. When the charge button 208 is tapped, it outputs an electronic money charge command ECC to the electronic money charge device 178, causing the constituent equipment to perform a predetermined function at a predetermined timing, thereby recording point information PTI in the electronic money recording device 150M and / or point recording device 150P of the laundry electronic money card 150.

[0254] When the charge button 208 is tapped, a second charge amount selection screen CCS2 is displayed on the display device 170. A plurality of second charge amount selection buttons 376 are displayed on the second charge amount selection screen CCS2. In this embodiment 1, these are a second first type charge amount selection button 376A and a second second type charge amount selection button 376B. The second first type charge amount selection button 376A is recorded as electronic money information EMI, which has the same value as cash, and point information POI, which is awarded at a fixed rate to the electronic money information EMI. In this embodiment 1, a second-first combined charge amount selection button 376A1 is displayed, which displays a payment of 1,000 yen to receive a prepaid electronic money EMI of 1,000 yen and 100 points of point information POI; a payment of 2,000 yen to receive a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 2,000 yen and 300 points of point information POI; and a second-third combined charge amount selection button 376A3 is displayed, which displays a payment of 3,000 yen to receive a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 3,000 yen and 500 points of point information POI. The second-type second-type recharge amount selection button 376B is recorded as electronic money information EMI, which is awarded at a predetermined rate relative to cash. In this embodiment 1, a second-type recharge amount selection button 376B1 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money EMI of 1,100 yen when a 1,000 yen payment is made, a second-type recharge amount selection button 376B2 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 2,300 yen when a 2,000 yen payment is made, and a second-type recharge amount selection button 376B3 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 3,500 yen when a 3,000 yen payment is made. The second recharge amount selection screen CCS2 also displays an issue cancel button 356. When any of the second recharge amount selection buttons 376 is tapped, the fee selection device 234 outputs the electronic money information EMI and / or point information PTI set for that recharge amount selection button 376.

[0255] Next, the operation of the electronic money charging device 178 will be described with reference to the flow chart in FIG. 18 and the guide screen in FIG. In step AS1, it is determined whether the charge button 208 shown in Figure 20(A) has been tapped. In other words, if an electronic money charge command ECC is detected, the process proceeds to step AS2; if not, the process loops through step AS1 and enters a charge command waiting state.

[0256] Next, in step AS2, the second charge amount selection screen CCS2 shown in FIG. 20(B) is displayed on the display device 170, and then the process proceeds to step AS3. The second charge amount selection screen CCS2 displays a plurality of second charge amount selection buttons 376. In this embodiment 1, these are a second first-type charge amount selection button 376A and a second second-type charge amount selection button 376B. The second first-type charge amount selection button 376A stores electronic money information EMI, which has the same value as cash, and point information POI, which is awarded at a fixed rate to the electronic money information EMI. In this embodiment 1, a payment of 1,000 yen displays a second-first combined charge amount selection button 376A1, which awards a 1,000 yen prepaid electronic money EMI and 100 point information POI; a payment of 2,000 yen displays a second-second combined charge amount selection button 376A2, which awards a 2,000 yen prepaid electronic money information EMI and 300 points; and a payment of 3,000 yen displays a second-third combined charge amount selection button 376A3, which awards a 3,000 yen prepaid electronic money information EMI and 500 points. The second-type second-type recharge amount selection button 376B is recorded as electronic money information EMI, which is granted at a predetermined rate relative to cash. In this embodiment 1, a second-type recharge amount selection button 376B1 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money EMI of 1,100 yen when a payment of 1,000 yen is made, a second-type recharge amount selection button 376B2 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 2,300 yen when a payment of 2,000 yen is made, and a second-type recharge amount selection button 376B3 is displayed, which records a prepaid electronic money information EMI of 3,500 yen when a payment of 3,000 yen is made. The second recharge amount selection screen CCS2 also displays an issue cancel button 356. Therefore, since displaying and tapping the second recharge amount selection button 376 determines the recharge amount, steps AS2 and AS3 are the recharge amount setting device 368.

[0257] If it is determined in step AS3 that any of the second recharge amount selection buttons 376 has been tapped, the process proceeds to step AS4. In this case, it is assumed that the second combined recharge amount selection button 376A1 has been tapped.

[0258] In step AS4, as described above, the transaction identification information generating device 238 outputs the transaction identification information TNO based on a predetermined rule and records it in the store storage device 246, and then the process proceeds to step AS5.

[0259] In step AS5, a card insertion guide screen CIS is displayed to prompt the user to insert laundry electronic money card 150 into card slot 192 of laundry electronic money card 150 shown in FIG. 20(C), and then the process proceeds to step AS6.

[0260] If it is determined in step AS6 that laundry electronic money card 150 has been inserted, the process proceeds to step AS7, and if not, step AS6 is looped to wait for card insertion. If it is determined in step AS6 that laundry electronic money card 150 has been inserted, card transport device 224 is activated to pull in laundry electronic money card 150 and place it at rest in combined reader / writer device 226.

[0261] In step AS7, the payment method selection screen SMC shown in FIG. 20(D) is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step AS8. The payment method selection screen SMC displays the second type 1 charge amount selected on the second charge amount selection screen CCS2, including the required fee of 1,000 yen, the charge type "prepaid," the charge amount "1,000 yen," the validity period "December 31, 2019," and the added points "100P." Furthermore, a back button 374 for returning to the charge amount selection screen CCS and a payment method selection button 364 are displayed. In this embodiment 1, the payment method selection button 364 includes a cash button 364C, a credit or electronic money button 364CE, and a two-dimensional code button 364T. Furthermore, the guidance display unit IDS displays an operation guide for "Select payment method." In this embodiment 1, it is assumed that the two-dimensional code button 364T is selected.

[0262] In step AS8, if the two-dimensional code button 364T is tapped, the process proceeds to step AS9, and if not, the process loops back to step AS8, waiting for a payment method to be selected.

[0263] In step AS9, the two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS shown in Fig. 20(E) is displayed on the display device 170, and then the process proceeds to step AS10. As mentioned above, this two-dimensional code payment system selection screen TSS is the same in function and operation as the screen shown in Fig. 9(D) in that it allows the user to select the two-dimensional code payment system 104 to be used, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. Note that the back button 375 is a button for returning to the payment method selection screen SMC.

[0264] In step AS10, if it is determined that one of the two-dimensional code payment systems 104 has been selected, in other words, if one of the two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 236B (two-dimensional code payment system selection buttons 266) has been tapped, the process proceeds to step AS11; if no determination has been made, the process loops back to step AS10 and enters a waiting state for the selection of a two-dimensional code payment system.

[0265] In step AS11, at least the transaction identification information TID, preferably the charge amount information CMI, is sent to the two-dimensional code payment server 118, and a two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR is made, after which the process proceeds to step AS12.

[0266] If the two-dimensional code payment server 118 determines that the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR is a request based on legitimate authority, it sends transaction authorization information TAI, which associates the one-pass code OPC with the transaction identification information TNO, to the electronic money charging device 178 that received the authorization request. The electronic money charging device 178 that made the authorization request can be identified by the money processing device identification information MID of the money multifunction processing device 166 included in the two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR. The money processing device identification information MID is, for example, a URL, and the aforementioned store server identification information SID can also be used, but it can also be assigned separately.

[0267] If the transaction authorization information TAI is determined in step AS12, the process proceeds to step SS13. If not, the process loops to step SS12 and waits for transaction authorization information. The two-dimensional code payment transaction authorization request TCR in step SS11 can be omitted.

[0268] In step AS13, based on the system of the selected two-dimensional code payment system 104M for electronic money cards, at least the charge amount information CMI set in step AS3 is converted into a two-dimensional code TDC by the two-dimensional code conversion device 242, and then the process proceeds to step AS14. In this embodiment 1, the transaction specific information TNO and one-pass code OPC sent from the two-dimensional code payment server 118 are also added, and converted into a QR code QRC, which is a two-dimensional code TDC, and then the process proceeds to step AS14.

[0269] In step AS14, the screen is switched to the two-dimensional code display screen TDS (FIG. 20(F)), and the process proceeds to step AS15.

[0270] In step AS15, the two-dimensional code TDC is displayed on the two-dimensional code display screen TDS, and then the process proceeds to step AS16.

[0271] In step AS16, the store timer device 244 starts timing the allowed time ALT, and then the process proceeds to step AS17. Note that timing of the allowed time ALT may start immediately after receiving the transaction permission information TAI, or may start after step AS10 if a two-dimensional code payment transaction permission request TCR is not made.

[0272] In step AS17, the charging screen CHG shown in FIG. 20(G) is displayed, and then the process proceeds to step AS18.

[0273] In step AS18, it is determined whether payment result information SEI (receipt email SCM) has been received from the two-dimensional code payment server 118. If so, the process proceeds to step AS19; if not, the process loops back to step AS18 and waits for payment result information.

[0274] In step AS19, the payment result information SEI (receipt email SCM) is recorded in the store table SST in association with the same transaction identification information TNO, and then the process proceeds to step AS20.

[0275] In step AS20, it is determined whether the timeout time TOH is within the allowed time ALT. If it is within the allowed time ALT, the process proceeds to step AS22, and if it exceeds the allowed time ALT, the process proceeds to step AS24.

[0276] In step AS21, charging processing CHP is performed. The charge process CHP causes the combined reader / writer 226 to record electronic money information EMI, which corresponds to the price paid using the electronic money card two-dimensional code payment system 104M, in electronic money recording device 150M of laundry electronic money card 150, which is stationary at the combined reader / writer 226. If point information PTI is awarded at this time, the point information PTI is recorded in point recording device 150P. Then, laundry electronic money card 150 is sent to card slot 192 by card conveyance device 224. The purchaser can remove laundry electronic money card 150 from card slot 192 and use it to use laundry machine 102. These processes are executed based on commands from the multifunction machine computing device 168. Therefore, if electronic money information EMI remains in electronic money recording device 150M, the new electronic money information EMI to be charged is added.

[0277] When the cash button 364C is tapped, if the amount of cash identified by the bill identifying device 230 and / or the coin selecting device 196 reaches the selected amount, a charge process CHP is performed.

[0278] Furthermore, when the credit or electronic money button 364CE is tapped, the electronic money information EMI is written to a new laundry electronic money card 150 and sent out, just as when the two-dimensional code button 364T described above is tapped. However, when a credit card is used instead of the electronic money card two-dimensional code payment system 104M, the backbone system of the credit card international brand system is used, and in the case of an electronic money card, the backbone server of the electronic money card system is used. Other payment methods, such as prepaid cards and debit cards, can also be used in the same way.

[0279] In step AS20, if the allowable time ALT is exceeded, timeout information TOI is output, and in step AS24 it is recorded in the store table SST in association with the transaction specific information TNO.The transaction is then considered to have been aborted, and in step AS25 the processing related to the transaction specific information TNO is invalidated, after which the processing is terminated.

[0280] It is preferable to use security information SCI such as one-pass code OPC in the processing using the two-dimensional code payment system 104 in the electronic money charging device 178 as well.

[0281] Next, the balance confirmation device 182 will be described mainly with reference to FIGS. The balance confirmation device 182 in this embodiment 1 has the function of being able to confirm the electronic money information EMI and / or point information PTI recorded in the electronic money recording device 150M and / or point recording device 150P of the laundry electronic money card 150, in other words, the value information VLI corresponding to currency and / or point information PTI related to non-currency, and in this embodiment 1 is composed of a display device 170, a balance confirmation button 212, a card transport device 224, and a combined reading / writing device 226.

[0282] When the balance check button 212 displayed on the menu screen MS is tapped, a balance check command BIC is output.

[0283] In step BS1, if a balance confirmation command BIC is detected, the process proceeds to step BS2.

[0284] In step BS2, the balance check guide BCG shown in FIG. 21(B) is displayed on display device 170, prompting the user to insert laundry electronic money card 150 into card slot 192, and then the process proceeds to step BS3.

[0285] When laundry electronic money card 150 is inserted into card slot 192, laundry electronic money card 150 is transported by card transport device 224 to combined reader / writer device 226 and then stopped.

[0286] In step BS3, the combined reader / writer 226 reads the electronic money information EMI stored in the electronic money recording device 150M and / or the point information PTI recorded in the point recording device 150P, and the process proceeds to step BS4.

[0287] In step BS4, the read electronic money information EMI and / or point information PTI is displayed on the display device 170, for example, by the balance confirmation screen BDS shown in FIG. 21(C). The balance confirmation screen BDS displays, for example, the electronic money information EMI recorded on the laundry electronic money card 150 as 1,000 yen, the charge type as prepaid, the validity period as December 31, 2019, and the point balance as 100. If the back button 382 is tapped, the screen returns to the menu screen MS. If the second charge button 384 is tapped, the screen proceeds to step CS2, and the second charge amount selection screen CCS2 shown in FIG. 20(B) described above is displayed. When the return button 386 is tapped, the laundry electronic money card 150 is then returned to the card slot 192. These processes are executed based on commands from the multifunction machine arithmetic unit 168.

[0288] Next, the point redemption device 184 will be described. Point redemption device 184 has the function of writing points recorded in point recording device 150P of laundry electronic money card 150 as electronic money information EMI to laundry electronic money card 150, and subtracting and recording value information VLI corresponding to the written point information PTI from electronic money information EMI. In this embodiment, point redemption device 184 is composed of display device 170, point redemption button 214, card transport device 224, and combined reader / writer 226. When point redemption button 214 is tapped and a point redemption command RPC is output, laundry electronic money card 150 inserted into card slot 192 is transported by card transport device 224 to combined reader / writer 226, where electronic money information EMI recorded in electronic money recording device 150M and PTI point information PTI recorded in point recording device 150P are read. By following the instructions displayed on display device 170, the specified point information PTI is recorded as electronic money information EMI in electronic money recording device 150M. The point information PTI converted into the electronic money information EMI is recorded in the point recording device 150 P after the conversion amount is subtracted. These processes are executed based on instructions from the multifunction device arithmetic unit 168.

[0289] Next, the changer 186 will be described. The currency exchange device 186 has the function of exchanging a banknote B inserted into the banknote insertion slot 194 for an equivalent coin C, and in this embodiment 1 includes the banknote insertion slot 194, a banknote recognition device 230, a coin dispensing device 210, and a currency exchange button 216. The coin dispensing device 210 has a function of dispensing a designated number of stored coins C, and a known coin dispensing device is used. When the exchange button 216 is tapped and an exchange command EXC is output, the authenticity and denomination of the banknote B inserted into the banknote insertion slot 194 are identified by the banknote identification device 230, and based on the identified denomination, an equivalent coin C is dispensed from the coin dispensing device 210 to the coin receiving slot 198. These processes are executed based on commands from the multifunction machine calculation device 168.

[0290] Next, the receipt issuing device 188 will be described. The receipt issuing device 188 has a function of issuing a receipt from the receipt issuing port 228 when the laundry electronic money card 150 is issued by the electronic money card issuing device 176 or when the electronic money information EMI is charged by the electronic money charging device 178. In this embodiment 1, the receipt issuing device 188 includes a receipt issuing button 218. The receipt issuing device 188 may be a known receipt issuing device that prints the receipt amount on paper and sends it out. When the receipt issue button 218 is tapped and a receipt issue command RIC is output, the receipt issuing device 188 sends out a paper sheet from the receipt issuing port 228 on which is printed an amount equal to the electronic money information EMI charged to the laundry electronic money card 150. These processes are executed based on commands from the multifunction device computing device 168. [Explanation of symbols]

[0291] 100 laundry stores 102 Laundry equipment 118 Two-dimensional code payment server 124 User terminal 150 Laundry Electronic Money Card 170 Display device 178 Electronic money charging device 226 Reading Device 242 two-dimensional code conversion device 298 User terminal imaging device 368 Charge amount setting device CMI charge amount information EMI electronic money information POI point information PYE Payment Destination PYS Payment Source TAP 2D code payment system app TCI payment completion information TDC 2D code TOI 2D code calculation information TNO Transaction Specific Information SET payment processing

Claims

1. a deposit means for receiving fees; an electronic money charging device for charging electronic money; An electronic money charging system that receives the fee for the electronic money to be charged by the depositing means, A benefit is provided according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, and the benefit includes an electronic money addition service that adds a predetermined amount of the electronic money according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, and a point addition service that adds predetermined points according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, The electronic money charging device has a display means and an input means, a display corresponding to the electronic money additional service and a display corresponding to the point additional service are displayed on the display means so that the user can select the display by using the input means; An electronic money charging system characterized in that the electronic money or the points are added according to the amount of the electronic money to be charged, depending on the benefit selected by the input means.

2. The electronic money to be charged and the electronic money added by the benefit have a set validity period, The points added to the electronic money to be charged by the benefit have a set validity period, 2. The electronic money charging system according to claim 1, wherein the validity period of the electronic money is different from the validity period of the points.

3. 2. The electronic money charging system according to claim 1, further comprising a point redemption device that converts the points into the electronic money.

4. 2. The electronic money charging system according to claim 1, wherein the depositing means is a two-dimensional code settlement means using a two-dimensional code.

5. the electronic money charging device is connected to a service device that provides a service to the user; collecting a fee for the service provided by the service device; 5. The electronic money charging system according to claim 1, wherein, when a fee for the service is received, a charging signal for starting operation of the service device is output.

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