Store terminal, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide a store terminal capable of processing a payment using a code image displayed on a customer's terminal without an employee taking custody of the customer' terminal.SOLUTION: A store terminal comprises: a first code image acquisition unit which acquires a first code image displayed on a customer's terminal presented by a customer visiting the store; a reading unit which reads first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code-image generation unit which generates a second code image different from the first code image using the first code information; and an output unit which outputs the second code image.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a store terminal, an information processing method, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art A technique is known in which a code image displayed on a terminal such as a smartphone is read by a reader and payment is made using the read information.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a QR code payment system in which a QR code (registered trademark, the same applies hereinafter) displayed on the screen of a user terminal is read by a code reader in a POS (Point of Sale) register, and the read information is used to authenticate the user and perform payment. In this QR code payment system, when a user shows the QR code displayed on the screen to a store staff member, the staff member reads the QR code using a code reader in the store terminal. The store terminal decodes the QR code, extracts coupon information, and sends a payment request with the coupon information attached to a payment server. The payment server checks the coupon information included in the payment request, and if it is confirmed that the coupon is legitimate, it notifies the store terminal and the user terminal of this fact. This allows the user to make payment using the coupon. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-173534 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] In payments using code images, the customer's location may be far from the location of a payment device such as a POS register. A specific example is payment at a gas station that offers full service, where store employees handle everything from refueling to payment. In such services, the customer can receive refueling and payment services from the employee while remaining in their vehicle. After the employee has finished refueling, the customer displays a specified code image used for payment on their own terminal and hands the terminal to the employee. The employee then takes the customer's terminal to the payment device and scans the code displayed on the terminal with the payment device to make the payment. Once the payment is complete, the employee returns to their vehicle and returns the terminal to the customer.

[0006] In this way, in services where an employee uses a customer's terminal to make a payment, the customer must leave the terminal with the employee until the payment is completed, which can cause the customer to feel uneasy until their terminal is returned.

[0007] In view of the above-mentioned problems, the purpose of the present disclosure is to provide a store terminal, an information processing method, and a program that enable payment to be made using a code image displayed on a customer's terminal without an employee having to take possession of the customer's terminal. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The store terminal according to the present disclosure is a first code image acquisition unit that acquires a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading unit that reads first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating unit that generates a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and an output unit that outputs the second code image.

[0009] The information processing method according to the present disclosure includes: The computer a first code image acquisition step of acquiring a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading step of reading first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating step of generating a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and an output step of outputting the second code image.

[0010] The program according to the present disclosure is a first code image acquisition step of acquiring a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading step of reading first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating step of generating a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and an output step of outputting the second code image. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] The store terminal, information processing method, and program disclosed herein enable an employee to make a payment using a code image displayed on a customer's terminal without having to take possession of the customer's terminal. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0012] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a store terminal. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the store terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of the payment system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a schematic flow of processing performed by the payment system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the store terminal. [Figure 6]FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the store terminal. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer that realizes a store terminal or the like. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In each drawing, the same or corresponding elements are designated by the same reference numerals. For clarity of explanation, duplicated explanations will be omitted as necessary.

[0014] <Embodiment 1> A store terminal 100 according to the present disclosure will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the store terminal 100.

[0015] (Configuration of store terminal 100) The store terminal 100 includes a first code image acquisition unit 101, a reading unit 102, a second code image generation unit 103, and an output unit 104. The first code image acquisition unit 101 acquires a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store. The reading unit 102 reads first code information indicated by the first code image. The second code image generation unit 103 uses the first code information to generate a second code image different from the first code image. The output unit 104 outputs the second code image.

[0016] The store terminal 100 includes a processor, a memory, and a storage device (not shown). The storage device stores a computer program that implements the processing described herein. The processor can load the computer program from the storage device into the memory and execute the computer program. As a result, the processor realizes the functions of a first code image acquisition unit 101, a reading unit 102, a second code image generation unit 103, and an output unit 104.

[0017] The first code image acquisition unit 101, the reading unit 102, the second code image generation unit 103, and the output unit 104 may each be realized by dedicated hardware. Some or all of these components may be realized by general-purpose or dedicated circuits, processors, etc., or a combination of these. They may be configured by a single chip, or by multiple chips connected via a bus. Some or all of the components may be realized by a combination of the above-mentioned circuits, etc., and a program.

[0018] (Processing of store terminal 100) Next, the processing performed by the store terminal 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the store terminal 100.

[0019] First, the first code image acquiring unit 101 acquires a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store (S101). Next, the reading unit 102 reads the first code information indicated by the first code image acquired by the first code image acquiring unit 101 (S102). Subsequently, the second code image generating unit 103 generates a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information read by the reading unit 102 (S103). Then, the output unit 104 outputs the second code image generated by the second code image generating unit 103 (S104).

[0020] As described above, the store terminal 100 according to the present disclosure acquires a first code image displayed on a customer terminal and reads first code information indicated by the first code image. The store terminal 100 also uses the first code information to generate a second code image different from the first code image and outputs the generated second code image. This allows the second code image output from the store terminal 100 to be acquired by a payment device that performs payment, and the payment device can perform payment processing using the second code image. In this way, the store terminal 100 can perform payment using the code image displayed on the customer terminal without an employee having to take custody of the customer terminal.

[0021] <Embodiment 2> Next, a description will be given of embodiment 2. Embodiment 2 is a specific example of embodiment 1 described above.

[0022] (Overall configuration of payment system 5) FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the overall configuration of a payment system 5 according to the present disclosure. An overview of the payment system 5 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. The payment system 5 includes a store terminal 1, a customer terminal 2, a POS terminal 3, and a fuel pump 4. The store terminal 1, the customer terminal 2, and the POS terminal 3 communicate with each other via a network N. The network N is a wired or wireless communication line. For example, a wireless LAN (Local Area Network) or an internet line may be used as the network N. The type of communication is not limited.

[0023] The store terminal 1 is a terminal device used by store employees. An employee is someone who provides services to customers in the store. The store terminal 1 is, for example, a portable device such as a smartphone or tablet. The employee carries the store terminal 1 when providing services to customers. The store terminal 1 is equipped with a display unit 18 that displays various information. For example, the display unit 18 displays a second code image generated in the store terminal 1.

[0024] The customer terminal 2 is a terminal device used by customers who visit the store. A customer refers to a person who receives service from an employee at the store. The customer terminal 2 is, for example, a portable device such as a smartphone or tablet. The customer carries the customer terminal 2 while receiving service from an employee. The customer terminal 2 has a display unit 28 that displays various information. The display unit 28 displays a first code image that includes, for example, coupon information.

[0025] The POS terminal 3 is a payment device that performs payment. The POS terminal 3 includes a reading device 31. The reading device 31 is a reading device that can capture a code image used for payment and read code information indicated by the code image. For example, the POS terminal 3 acquires payment-related information via a second code image displayed on the display unit 18 of the store terminal 1, and performs payment processing using the acquired payment-related information. Specifically, the POS terminal 3 acquires the payment-related information indicated by the second code image by acquiring the reading result of the second code image from the reading device 31, and performs payment processing using the payment-related information.

[0026] The POS terminal 3 is also connected to the fuel dispenser 4 and acquires predetermined information from the fuel dispenser 4. The predetermined information is, for example, the type and amount of oil dispensed by the fuel dispenser 4. The type of oil may be, for example, "regular," "high octane," or "diesel." The amount of oil dispensed is expressed, for example, in liters.

[0027] The fuel dispenser 4 is a device for dispensing fuel. The fuel dispenser 4 is equipped with a fuel dispenser hose (not shown) for dispensing fuel, a display unit (not shown) that displays the type of fuel and the amount of fuel dispensed, etc. The fuel dispenser 4 may also be equipped with an audio output unit (not shown) that outputs information about fuel dispense and payment by voice.

[0028] The number of store terminals 1, customer terminals 2, POS terminals 3, and fuel dispensers 4 may be any number. For example, the payment system 5 may include a plurality of store terminals 1, customer terminals 2, POS terminals 3, and fuel dispensers 4. Also, for example, the POS terminal 3 may be connected to a plurality of fuel dispensers 4. Also, although the POS terminal 3 and the fuel dispenser 4 are shown separately in FIG. 3, this is not limiting. The POS terminal 3 and the fuel dispenser 4 may be configured as an integrated unit.

[0029] The payment system 5 is an information processing system that allows a store terminal 1 to read a first code image displayed on a customer terminal 2 presented by a customer, and the store terminal 1 to perform a predetermined process using the first code image to perform a payment. For example, the payment system 5 is used in a store that allows code payment using the first code image displayed on the customer terminal 2.

[0030] For example, payment system 5 is used in stores where the customer's location and the POS terminal 3 are located at a predetermined distance or more when making a code payment using customer terminal 2, or in stores where an employee must move customer terminal 2 to a location out of the customer's sight. In such stores, when making a payment, customer terminal 2 is removed from the customer's hand for a predetermined period of time, which may cause the customer to feel uneasy. Payment system 5 enables an employee to make a payment using the code image displayed on customer terminal 2 without having to take customer terminal 2 from the customer.

[0031] The payment system 5 may be used in a store that accepts payment methods other than code payment. For example, the payment system 5 may be used in a store that accepts cash payments using coupon information indicated by the first code image.

[0032] The first code image displayed on the customer terminal 2 may include, for example, a one-dimensional code or a two-dimensional code. An example of the one-dimensional code is a barcode. An example of the two-dimensional code is a QR code. The following description will be given using an example in which the customer terminal 2 displays a QR code.

[0033] In the following, an example will be described in which the payment system 5 is used at a gas station that provides full service. Full service means that gas station staff provide services such as refueling and payment to customers. The service content may include services other than refueling and payment.

[0034] The payment system 5 may be used in any store other than a gas station. For example, the payment system 5 may be used in a department store, a restaurant, or the like. The payment system 5 may be used in various spaces where payments are made using a code displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer visiting the store. The "store" is not limited to a physical store, and may be, for example, a temporarily set up sales space.

[0035] (Processing flow performed by payment system 5) The flow of processing performed by the payment system 5 will be described with reference to Figure 4. Figure 4 is a diagram that schematically shows the flow of processing performed by the payment system 5. The figure shows the flow of processing performed by the payment system 5 when a customer C who visits a gas station receives a refueling service and a payment service from an employee E.

[0036] In the following description, it is assumed that customer C installs an application (hereinafter referred to as the "fueling application") provided by a company that operates a gas station in advance on customer terminal 2, and receives services at the store using the fueling application. The fueling application executes processes related to fueling on customer terminal 2.

[0037] The customer C can display the first code image C1 on the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2 via the fueling app. Hereinafter, the information displayed by the first code image C1 will be referred to as first code information. The first code information includes payment-related information related to the payment for the product that the customer C intends to purchase. The payment-related information includes, for example, payment destination information such as credit card information indicating the payment destination, and coupon information indicating the details of coupons that can be used at the store. For example, the fueling app generates the first code image C1 that is coded by integrally including the payment destination information and the coupon information. Note that the customer C may download the first code image C1 in advance from a predetermined server to the customer terminal 2 via a website published by the gas station operator, for example. In this case, the customer terminal 2 stores the first code image C1 that includes only the coupon information.

[0038] 4, first, customer C displays a first code image C1 on the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2 and presents it to employee E (S1). The first code image C1 is a QR code. Customer C may store the first code image C1 in a memory unit (not shown) of the customer terminal 2 via a fuel supply app.

[0039] Employee E uses the store terminal 1 to acquire the first code image C1 displayed on the customer terminal 2 (S2). Specifically, employee E photographs the first code image C1 using a camera provided in the store terminal 1. The store terminal 1 reads the first code information indicated by the first code image C1. Here, the first code information includes credit card information as payment destination information and a coupon ID as coupon information.

[0040] The store terminal 1 uses the first code information indicated by the first code image C1 to generate a second code image C2 that is different from the first code image C1, and displays the second code image C2 on the display unit 18 of the store terminal 1 (S3). The second code image C2 is a QR code, similar to the first code image C1. Hereinafter, the information indicated by the second code image C2 will be referred to as second code information. The second code information includes at least a part of the first code information. Here, the second code information includes credit card information and a coupon ID, similar to the first code information.

[0041] Employee E carries the store terminal 1 and moves to the location of the POS terminal 3 and fuel pump 4, where he fills up with fuel and makes payment (S4). Specifically, first, employee E uses the reading device 31 provided in the POS terminal 3 to capture the second code image C2 displayed on the display unit 18 of the store terminal 1. The reading device 31 is, for example, a QR code reader capable of reading QR codes.

[0042] The reading device 31 reads the second code information from the captured second code image C2. Here, the reading device 31 reads credit card information and a coupon ID as the second code information. The POS terminal 3 also obtains the type of fuel and the amount of fuel dispensed from the fuel dispenser 4. The POS terminal 3 performs payment using the second code information and the information obtained from the fuel dispenser 4.

[0043] For example, the POS terminal 3 calculates the product price based on the type of oil and the amount of oil filled. The POS terminal 3 calculates the product price, for example, by multiplying the unit price set for each type of oil by the amount of oil filled. The POS terminal 3 also calculates the discount amount of the coupon corresponding to the coupon ID. The discount amount may be stored in advance, for example, in a predetermined coupon information table. The POS terminal 3 references the coupon information table and obtains the discount amount corresponding to the coupon ID. The POS terminal 3 calculates the payment amount by subtracting the discount amount from the product price. The POS terminal 3 performs payment processing so that payment is made to the payee corresponding to the credit card information.

[0044] When the payment process is complete, employee E returns to the vehicle and reports to customer C that the payment has been completed (S5). Employee E may also hand customer C a receipt issued from the POS terminal 3. By performing this process, in the payment system 5, payment can be made using the first code image C1 displayed on customer terminal 2 without the employee having to take customer C's customer terminal 2 into their custody.

[0045] Next, the configuration of the store terminal 1 will be described in detail with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the store terminal 1.

[0046] (Store terminal 1 configuration) The store terminal 1 includes a camera 10, a first code image acquisition unit 11, a reading unit 12, a second code image generation unit 13, an output unit 14, an error processing unit 15, a display control unit 16, a notification unit 17, a display unit 18, and a communication unit 19.

[0047] The store terminal 1 may be a terminal device dedicated to executing the processes according to the present disclosure, or may be a general-purpose terminal device. For example, each functional unit of the store terminal 1 may be realized by installing a predetermined application (hereinafter referred to as a "code generation app") on a terminal device such as a smartphone. The store terminal 1 uses the code generation app to execute at least the processes of the first code image acquisition unit 11, the reading unit 12, the second code image generation unit 13, and the output unit 14. The code generation app may be configured to execute the processes of the error processing unit 15, the display control unit 16, and the notification unit 17.

[0048] The camera 10 is a photographing device that photographs a subject. The camera 10 photographs a first code image displayed on the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2. The first code image is, for example, a one-dimensional code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code. However, the first code image is not limited to these, and may be any image from which first code information can be extracted using a predetermined reading device.

[0049] The camera 10 is, for example, a rear camera provided on the rear surface of the store terminal 1. The rear surface of the store terminal 1 is the surface opposite to the surface on which the display unit 18 is provided. However, the camera 10 may be a front camera provided on the front surface of the store terminal 1. The front surface of the store terminal 1 is the surface on which the display unit 18 is provided. The camera 10 outputs the first code image obtained by photographing to the first code image acquisition unit 11.

[0050] The first code image acquiring unit 11 is an example of the above-mentioned first code image acquiring unit 101. The first code image acquiring unit 11 acquires, from the camera 10, a first code image displayed on a customer terminal 2 presented by a customer who visits the store.

[0051] The reading unit 12 is an example of the reading unit 102 described above. The reading unit 12 reads the first code information indicated by the first code image. For example, the reading unit 12 reads the first code information from the first code image by extracting the first code information from the first code image using any technique. The form of the first code information is arbitrary. The first code information may be, for example, numbers, English letters, kanji, katakana, hiragana, symbols, binary, or control codes. The first code information may also be a combination of these.

[0052] The first code information indicated by the first code image includes payment-related information related to payment for the product that the customer is trying to purchase. For example, the payment-related information may include product information, which is information about the product, coupon information for discounting the product price, or customer information about the customer.

[0053] Product information includes, for example, a product ID and a specified amount of fuel to be filled. The product ID is information that identifies a product. The specified amount of fuel to be filled is the amount of fuel to be filled specified by the customer. The specified amount of fuel to be filled may be a fixed amount specified by the customer in advance, or may be specified each time a purchase is made. The customer can specify the desired amount of fuel to be filled by inputting the specified amount of fuel to be filled via a fueling app. The specified amount of fuel to be filled may be expressed as "full tank" rather than a specific amount of fuel to be filled. Furthermore, instead of the specified amount of fuel to be filled, a specified amount for refueling corresponding to the desired payment amount may be used. In addition to these, product information may also include the unit price of the product, a price according to the desired quantity to be purchased, etc.

[0054] The coupon information may be a coupon ID that identifies the coupon or text information that indicates the discount. The coupon may be distributed to, for example, store members, or to all customers who have installed the fueling app.

[0055] Customer information includes, for example, a customer ID and payment destination information. The customer ID is information that identifies a customer. The customer ID may be a membership number assigned to the customer by a store or business. Payment destination information is credit card information or bank account information used in code payments. For example, credit card information includes a credit card number and the expiration date of the credit card. The credit card information may be a token issued using a tokenization function or data encrypted using any encryption technology. Without being limited to this, customer information may also include the customer's name and contact information. The customer's name and contact information may be associated with the customer ID and managed on a specified customer management server.

[0056] The above example is an example of payment-related information, and the first code information may include other information as payment-related information. For example, the first code information may include a payment ID that identifies a payment process, a business ID that identifies a business that operates a gas station, or a QR code payment business ID that identifies a QR code payment business.

[0057] The second code image generating unit 13 is an example of the above-mentioned second code image generating unit 103. The second code image generating unit 13 generates a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information. The second code image indicates the second code information. Note that "generating a second code image different from the first code image" does not mean simply duplicating the first code image by photographing the first code image, but means newly generating an image different from the first code image as the second code image.

[0058] The second code image is, for example, a one-dimensional code such as a barcode or a two-dimensional code such as a QR code. The second code image is not limited to these, and may be any image corresponding to the second code information. Specifically, the second code image may be any image from which the second code information can be extracted using a predetermined reading device.

[0059] The second code information may include a part or all of the first code information. That is, the second code image generating unit 13 may generate a second code image indicating the second code information including all of the first code information, or may generate a second code image indicating the second code information including a part of the first code information.

[0060] The second code image does not need to be different in shape from the first code image. The shape of the second code image generated by the second code image generation unit 13 may be the same as that of the first code image. For example, when the second code image generation unit 13 generates the second code image using the same information as the first code information, the first code image and the second code image may have the same shape.

[0061] The second code information may also include information other than the first code information. That is, the second code image generating unit 13 may add information that is not included in the first code information to the second code information. In this way, the second code image generating unit 13 can generate a second code image that includes more information than the first code image.

[0062] For example, suppose the first code information includes only a coupon ID. The second code image generating unit 13 generates a second code image by adding an employee ID to the coupon ID as second code information. In this way, the second code image generating unit 13 can include information indicating the employee who served the customer in the second code image.

[0063] Furthermore, the second code image generation unit 13 may use information obtained by excluding a part of the first code information as the second code information. For example, the second code image generation unit 13 may use information obtained by excluding information unrelated to payment from the first code information as the second code information. In this way, the second code image generation unit 13 can generate a second code image without including information unrelated to payment.

[0064] The second code image generation unit 13 may store the generated second code image in a storage unit (not shown) of the store terminal 1. For example, the second code image generation unit 13 temporarily stores the second code image until the payment process is completed. The second code image generation unit 13 may store the second code information read from the second code image.

[0065] Furthermore, the second code image generation unit 13 may erase the second code image from the store terminal 1 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second code image was generated. The second code image generation unit 13 may erase the second code information together with the second code image. In this way, the second code image generation unit 13 can prevent customer information from being leaked from the second code image or the second code information.

[0066] The output unit 14 is an example of the above-mentioned output unit 104. The output unit 14 outputs the second code image. For example, the output unit 14 outputs the second code image to the display unit 18, thereby displaying the second code image on the display unit 18. In this way, even if, for example, the customer terminal 2 transitions to a sleep state and the display of the first code image disappears, the display unit 18 can maintain the display of the second code image.

[0067] The output unit 14 may output the second code image by transmitting the second code image to a display device other than the store terminal 1. For example, the output unit 14 transmits the second code image to the POS terminal 3 via the network N. The output unit 14 may transmit the second code image to a system other than the payment system 5.

[0068] The error processing unit 15 determines whether the first code information is usable at the store, and performs error processing if the first code information is not usable at the store. The error processing unit 15 determines, for example, whether the coupon ID included in the first code information is usable at the store. The error processing unit 15 determines, for example, whether the store visited by the customer is eligible for the coupon, whether the date and time of the customer's visit is within the validity period, whether the desired oil type is eligible for the coupon, etc. For example, the error processing unit 15 makes these determinations by referring to a coupon information table.

[0069] If the first code information is information that cannot be used in the store, the error processing unit 15 outputs a message to that effect. For example, the error processing unit 15 displays an error message such as "This QR code cannot be used" on the display unit 18. The error processing unit 15 may also display a pop-up message or the like so that the employee can intuitively understand the error.

[0070] In this way, the error processing unit 15 can detect and display when the coupon usage conditions are not met or when a coupon unrelated to the store is presented. This allows the employee to prompt the customer to check on the spot, thereby preventing the employee who has gone to the POS terminal 3 or fuel pump 4 from having to go back to the vehicle.

[0071] If the first code information contains link information unrelated to a coupon or a store (for example, a website URL), the error processing unit 15 may suppress the process of opening the linked page and not jump to the page, thereby preventing the error processing unit 15 from executing unnecessary processes.

[0072] The display control unit 16 displays the second code image output from the output unit 14 on a predetermined display unit. The predetermined display unit is, for example, the display unit 18 provided in the store terminal 1. The predetermined display unit may also be a display device provided outside the store terminal 1. For example, a display device provided near the reading device 31 of the POS terminal 3 may be used. In the following, an example will be used in which the display control unit 16 displays the second code information on the display unit 18.

[0073] The display control unit 16 may display the second code image in a display mode that improves the reading accuracy of a reading device that reads the second code image. The reading device is, for example, the reading device 31 provided in the POS terminal 3. However, other devices may be used as the reading device. For example, the display control unit 16 makes the display size of the second code image on the display unit 18 larger than the size of the first code image captured by the camera 10. The display control unit 16 may also increase the contrast (difference between light and dark) of the second code image.

[0074] In this way, by adjusting the display mode of the second code image, even if, for example, the customer has set the brightness of the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2 low and the display is dark, the reading device 31 can read the second code image accurately.

[0075] Furthermore, the display control unit 16 may erase the second code image from the display unit 18 after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second code image was displayed. This makes it possible to prevent employees and the like from misusing information that has already been used.

[0076] When a predetermined process using the second code image is executed, the notification unit 17 notifies the customer terminal 2 that the predetermined process has been executed. The predetermined process may be executed by at least one of the store terminal 1, the POS terminal 3, and the fuel pump 4. The notification unit 17 may also notify a device other than the customer terminal 2. The predetermined process is, for example, a payment process in the POS terminal 3. For example, when the payment process is executed and completed in the POS terminal 3, the notification unit 17 notifies the store terminal 1 and the customer terminal 2 of a payment completion notification indicating that the payment process has been completed.

[0077] The payment completion notice may include, for example, the date and time of payment, the type of fuel, the amount of fuel filled, whether or not a coupon was used, the payment amount, or the payment method. The customer can understand that the payment has been completed by looking at the payment completion notice received at the customer terminal 2. Also, the employee can confirm that the payment has been completed without any problems by looking at the payment completion notice received at the store terminal 1.

[0078] The predetermined process may be a process other than payment. For example, the notification unit 17 may notify the customer when the second code image is generated or deleted in the store terminal 1. This allows the customer to know that the information stored in the store terminal 1 has been properly deleted.

[0079] The display unit 18 is a display device that displays information according to the present disclosure. The display unit 18 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display unit 18 may be a touch panel that functions as an input unit that accepts input from employees.

[0080] The communication unit 19 communicates between the store terminal 1 and devices other than the store terminal 1 via the network N. The communication unit 19 may be a communication interface for performing wired or wireless communication.

[0081] The above describes the configuration of the payment system 5. The above-described configuration of the payment system 5 is merely an example and may be modified as appropriate. For example, when some or all of the components of the store terminal 1, customer terminal 2, POS terminal 3, and fuel pump 4 are realized by multiple information processing devices, circuits, etc., the multiple information processing devices, circuits, etc. may be centrally or decentralized. For example, the information processing devices, circuits, etc. may be realized as a client-server system, cloud computing system, or other system connected via a communication network. Furthermore, for example, some of the functions of the store terminal 1 may be provided in a SaaS (Software as a Service) format.

[0082] In addition, for example, in the above description, QR codes are used as the first code image and the second code image, but this is not limited to this. For example, the first code image and the second code image may be code images of different types. For example, the first code image may be a barcode, and the second code image may be a QR code.

[0083] Furthermore, the first code image and the second code image are not limited to images only, and may include, for example, text information. For example, in the first code image, if payment-related information is represented by text information rather than a QR code, the reading unit 12 may read the first code information using any character recognition technology.

[0084] Furthermore, the first code information indicated by the first code image does not have to include payment destination information. For example, if the first code information includes only coupon information, the customer may make payment by cash or credit card through an employee.

[0085] (Store terminal 1 processing) Next, the processing performed by the store terminal 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing performed by the store terminal 1. In the following, it is assumed that a refueling app is pre-installed in the customer terminal 2, and a code generation app is pre-installed in the store terminal 1. The customer terminal 2 and the store terminal 1 perform the processing described below by executing the refueling app and the code generation app, respectively.

[0086] 6, a customer operates the customer terminal 2 to display a first code image on the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2. An employee also operates the store terminal 1 to photograph the first code image displayed on the display unit 28 using the camera 10 of the store terminal 1.

[0087] The first code image acquisition unit 11 acquires the first code image displayed on the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2 from the camera 10 (S11). Next, the reading unit 12 reads the first code information indicated by the first code image (S12).

[0088] The first code information includes, for example, payment-related information related to payment for the product that the customer intends to purchase. The payment-related information may include, for example, product information, coupon information, or customer information. Here, the payment-related information includes a coupon ID as coupon information that the customer intends to use when refueling the vehicle, and credit card information as payment destination information as customer information.

[0089] Next, the error processing unit 15 determines whether the first code information can be used at the store (S13). The error processing unit 15 determines, for example, whether a coupon corresponding to the coupon ID can be used at the store. The error processing unit 15 determines, for example, whether the customer's visit date and time and the desired oil type are eligible for the coupon by referring to a predetermined coupon information table.

[0090] If it is determined that the first code information cannot be used in the store (NO in S13), the error processing unit 15 performs error processing (S15) and returns to step S11. For example, the error processing unit 15 displays on the display unit 18 that the coupon cannot be used in the store. In this case, the employee confirms with the customer whether or not a usable coupon can be presented.

[0091] If it is determined that the first code information can be used in the store (YES in S13), the second code image generation unit 13 generates a second code image (S14). The second code image generation unit 13 generates a second code image indicating the second code information, using information including a part or all of the first code information as the second code information. The second code image generation unit 13 may generate the second code image by using information to which an employee ID or the like is added as the second code information. Here, the second code image generation unit 13 generates the second code image by including the coupon ID and credit card information that were included in the first code information.

[0092] Next, the display control unit 16 causes the display unit to display the generated second code image (S16). The display control unit 16 may cause the display unit to display the second code image in a display mode that improves the reading accuracy of the reading device 31 of the POS terminal 3. For example, the display control unit 16 may cause the display unit to display the second code image by increasing the display size of the second code image or by increasing the contrast.

[0093] The employee goes to the location where the POS terminal 3 and fuel pump 4 are installed, and causes the reader 31 of the POS terminal 3 to read the second code image displayed on the display unit 18. The reader 31 photographs the second code image and reads the second code information indicated by the second code image. Here, the second code information includes the coupon ID and credit card information.

[0094] The employee then uses the fuel dispenser 4 to fill up the tank. If the amount of fuel to be filled and the price have been specified verbally or by the first code image, the employee fills up the tank in accordance with the specified conditions. Once the fuel has been filled up, the fuel dispenser 4 outputs the type of fuel and the amount of fuel filled to the POS terminal 3. The POS terminal 3 obtains the type of fuel and the amount of fuel filled from the fuel dispenser 4. The POS terminal 3 performs payment using the coupon ID and credit card information indicated by the second code information and the type of fuel and the amount of fuel obtained from the fuel dispenser 4.

[0095] For example, the POS terminal 3 refers to a coupon information table to obtain the discount amount of the coupon corresponding to the coupon ID. The POS terminal 3 calculates the payment amount by subtracting the discount amount from the product price calculated based on the type of oil and the amount of fuel filled. The POS terminal 3 performs payment processing using the credit card information and the payment amount. When the payment processing is completed, the POS terminal 3 sends a notification to the store terminal 1 that the payment processing has been completed.

[0096] The notification unit 17 determines whether the payment process has been completed (S17). If it is determined that the payment process has not been completed (NO in S17), the notification unit 17 repeats the process of step S17. If it is determined that the payment process has been completed (YES in S17), the notification unit 17 sends a payment completion notice to the customer terminal 2 (S18). The notification unit 17 may send the payment completion notice to the store terminal 1 together with the customer terminal 2. Note that the POS terminal 3 may send the payment completion notice instead of the notification unit 17. Furthermore, the notification unit 17 may notify the customer terminal 2 that a predetermined process has been executed when a predetermined process has been executed, not limited to the payment process.

[0097] The display control unit 16 may determine whether a predetermined time has passed since the second code image was displayed on the display unit 18, and if it determines that the predetermined time has passed, may erase the second code image from the display unit 18. The second code image generation unit 13 may determine whether a predetermined time has passed since the second code image was generated, and may erase the second code image from the store terminal 1 if it determines that the predetermined time has passed.

[0098] As described above, in the payment system 5 according to the present disclosure, the store terminal 1 acquires a first code image displayed on the customer terminal 2 and reads first code information indicated by the first code image. The store terminal 1 uses the first code information to generate a second code image different from the first code image and displays the second code image on the display unit 18 of the store terminal 1.

[0099] As a result, the reader 31 of the POS terminal 3 can read the second code image displayed on the display unit 18, and the POS terminal 3 can perform payment processing using the second code information indicated by the second code image. In this way, the store terminal 1 allows a customer to make a payment using the first code image displayed on the customer terminal 2 without an employee having to take custody of the customer terminal 2. This allows customers to receive services without anxiety.

[0100] Furthermore, since the store terminal 1 reads the first code image and generates the second code image, there is no need to keep the first code image displayed on the customer terminal 2. As a result, even if the time to transition to sleep mode of the customer terminal 2 is set short and the display of the first code image disappears in a short time, there is no need to display the first code image again. Therefore, there is no need for customers or employees to go through the trouble of operating the customer terminal 2, and employees can provide services smoothly.

[0101] Furthermore, the store terminal 1 can display the second code image in a display mode that improves the reading accuracy of the second code image in the reader 31, so that the reader 31 can read the second code image with high accuracy. This allows the store terminal 1 to reduce problems that may occur when reading the second code image, such as when the display unit 28 of the customer terminal 2 is dark.

[0102] Furthermore, the store terminal 1 does not simply photograph the first code image and adjust the image quality before displaying it, but regenerates a second code image that is different from the first code image based on the first code image. This allows the store terminal 1 to add information that is not included in the first code image to the second code image. This allows the store terminal 1 to generate a second code image that includes, for example, information about the employee who handled the transaction.

[0103] <Hardware configuration example> Each functional component of the store terminal 1, customer terminal 2, POS terminal 3, and fuel pump 4 (hereinafter referred to as "store terminal 1, etc.") may be realized by hardware (e.g., hardwired electronic circuits, etc.) that realizes each functional component, or may be realized by a combination of hardware and software (e.g., a combination of an electronic circuit and a program that controls it). Below, we will further explain the case where each functional component of the store terminal 1, etc. is realized by a combination of hardware and software.

[0104] 7 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a computer 900 that realizes the store terminal 1, etc. The computer 900 may be a dedicated computer designed to realize the store terminal 1, etc., or may be a general-purpose computer. The computer 900 may also be a portable computer such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0105] For example, by installing a predetermined application on the computer 900, the computer 900 realizes the functions of the store terminal 1, etc. The application is configured by a program for realizing the functional components of the store terminal 1, etc.

[0106] The computer 900 includes a bus 902, a processor 904, a memory 906, a storage device 908, an input / output interface 910, and a network interface 912. The bus 902 is a data transmission path that allows the processor 904, the memory 906, the storage device 908, the input / output interface 910, and the network interface 912 to transmit and receive data to and from each other. However, the method of connecting the processor 904 and other components to each other is not limited to a bus connection.

[0107] The processor 904 is a variety of processors such as a central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), or a quantum processor (quantum computer control chip). The memory 906 is a main storage device realized using a random access memory (RAM) or the like. The storage device 908 is an auxiliary storage device realized using a hard disk, a solid state drive (SSD), a memory card, a read only memory (ROM), or the like.

[0108] The input / output interface 910 is an interface for connecting the computer 900 to an input / output device. For example, the input / output interface 910 is connected to an input device such as a keyboard and an output device such as a display device.

[0109] The network interface 912 is an interface for connecting the computer 900 to a network. This network may be a LAN (Local Area Network) or a WAN (Wide Area Network).

[0110] The storage device 908 stores programs (programs that realize the above-mentioned applications) that realize the various functional components of the store terminal 1, etc. The processor 904 reads these programs into the memory 906 and executes them to realize the various functional components of the store terminal 1, etc.

[0111] Each processor executes one or more programs containing instructions for causing a computer to perform the algorithms described with reference to the figures. The programs contain instructions (or software code) that, when loaded into a computer, cause the computer to perform one or more functions described in the embodiments. The programs may be stored on various types of non-transitory computer-readable media or tangible storage media. By way of example and not limitation, non-transitory computer-readable media or tangible storage media include RAM, ROM, flash memory, SSD or other memory technologies, CD-ROM, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), Blu-ray® disc or other optical disk storage, magnetic cassette, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices. The programs may also be transmitted over various types of transitory computer-readable media or communication media. By way of example and not limitation, transitory computer-readable media or communication media include electrical, optical, acoustic, or other forms of propagated signals.

[0112] Although the present disclosure has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present disclosure within the scope of the present disclosure. Furthermore, each embodiment can be combined with other embodiments as appropriate.

[0113] Each drawing is merely an example for describing one or more embodiments. Each drawing may relate not only to one particular embodiment, but also to one or more other embodiments. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, various features or steps described with reference to any one drawing can be combined with features or steps shown in one or more other drawings to create, for example, an embodiment not explicitly shown or described. Not all features or steps shown in any one drawing are necessary to describe an exemplary embodiment, and some features or steps may be omitted. The order of steps described in any drawing may be changed as appropriate.

[0114] A part or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but not limited to, the following supplementary notes. (Appendix 1) a first code image acquisition unit that acquires a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading unit that reads first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating unit that generates a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; an output unit that outputs the second code image; Store terminal. (Appendix 2) the first code information includes payment-related information related to payment for the product that the customer intends to purchase, The payment device that performs the payment acquires the payment-related information via the output second code image, and performs payment processing using the payment-related information. Store terminal described in Appendix 1. (Appendix 3) a display control unit that displays the output second code image on a predetermined display unit; The display control unit displays the second code image in a display mode that improves reading accuracy in a reading device that reads the second code image. A store terminal as described in Appendix 1 or 2. (Appendix 4) The display control unit erases the second code image from the display unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second code image was displayed. Store terminal described in Appendix 3. (Appendix 5) The second code image generating unit erases the second code image from the store terminal after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second code image was generated. A store terminal according to any one of appendix 1 to 3. (Appendix 6) The device further includes a notification unit that, when a predetermined process using the second code image is executed, notifies the customer terminal that the predetermined process has been executed. A store terminal according to any one of appendix 1 to 5. (Appendix 7) The apparatus further includes an error processing unit that determines whether the first code information is information that can be used in the store, and performs error processing if the first code information is information that cannot be used in the store. A store terminal according to any one of appendixes 1 to 6. (Appendix 8) The store terminal executes processes in the first code image acquisition unit, the reading unit, the second code image generation unit, and the output unit using a predetermined application. A store terminal according to any one of appendixes 1 to 7. (Appendix 9) The computer a first code image acquisition step of acquiring a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading step of reading first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating step of generating a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and an output step of outputting the second code image. Information processing methods. (Appendix 10) a first code image acquisition step of acquiring a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading step of reading first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating step of generating a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and outputting the second code image. program.

[0115] Some or all of the elements (e.g., configurations and functions) described in Supplements 2 to 8 that are dependent on Supplement 1 may also be dependent on Supplements 9 and 10 in the same dependency relationship as Supplements 2 to 8. Some or all of the elements described in any Supplement may be applied to various hardware, software, recording means for recording software, systems, and methods. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1. Store terminal 2. Customer terminal 3. POS terminals 4. Fuel Tanker 5. Payment System 10 Camera 11 First code image acquisition unit 12 Reading unit 13 Second code image generation unit 14 Output section 15 Error handling section 16 Display control unit 17 Notification Department 18 Display 19 Communications Department 28 Display section 31 Reading device 100 store terminals 101 First code image acquisition unit 102 Reading unit 103 Second code image generation unit 104 Output section 900 Computers 902 Bus 904 processor 906 memory 908 Storage Devices 910 Input / Output Interface 912 Network Interface C customer C1 1st code image C2 Second code image E. Employee N Network

Claims

1. a first code image acquisition unit that acquires a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading unit that reads first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating unit that generates a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; an output unit that outputs the second code image; Store terminal.

2. The first code information includes payment-related information related to payment for the product that the customer intends to purchase, The payment device that performs the payment acquires the payment-related information via the output second code image, and performs payment processing using the payment-related information. The store terminal according to claim 1 .

3. a display control unit that displays the output second code image on a predetermined display unit; The display control unit displays the second code image in a display mode that improves reading accuracy in a reading device that reads the second code image. The store terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The display control unit erases the second code image from the display unit after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second code image was displayed. The store terminal according to claim 3.

5. The second code image generating unit erases the second code image from the store terminal after a predetermined time has elapsed since the second code image was generated. The store terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The device further includes a notification unit that, when a predetermined process using the second code image is executed, notifies the customer terminal that the predetermined process has been executed. The store terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The device further includes an error processing unit that determines whether the first code information is information that can be used in the store, and performs error processing if the first code information is information that cannot be used in the store. The store terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

8. The store terminal executes processes in the first code image acquisition unit, the reading unit, the second code image generation unit, and the output unit using a predetermined application. The store terminal according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The computer a first code image acquiring step of acquiring a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading step of reading first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating step of generating a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and an output step of outputting the second code image. Information processing methods.

10. a first code image acquiring step of acquiring a first code image displayed on a customer terminal presented by a customer who visits the store; a reading step of reading first code information indicated by the first code image; a second code image generating step of generating a second code image different from the first code image by using the first code information; and outputting the second code image. program.

Images