Support server and program

Abstract

To provide a server and a program for support that promotes use of a support tool.SOLUTION: A support system 1 includes a cheer server 100 and a supporter terminal 200 used by a user. The supporter terminal 200 receives a support operation to support a support target via an electronically displayed virtual card, generates, on the basis of the received support operation, a support request, and transmits the request to the cheer server 100. The cheer server 100 determines, in response to the received support request, whether a support condition is satisfied and returns, when it determines that the condition is satisfied, a success response to the supporter terminal 200, and grants a cheering point to the support target represented by the virtual card.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a server and a program for support. [Background technology]

[0002] In content distribution services, there are known support tools that allow users to send so-called tips, which are equivalent to gifts or tips, to content performers, distributors, etc. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a technology that enhances the feeling of a live performance by superimposing a tip effect image that decorates a singing video during live distribution. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2020-017870 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, even if content distribution service providers spend time and money developing support tools, the support tools are often not used effectively within the content distribution service. Therefore, a mechanism is needed to encourage users to use the support tools.

[0005] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and has as its object to provide a support support server and program that can promote the use of support support tools. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, the support server according to the present invention comprises: A support server connected to a supporter terminal via a network, The supporter terminal, The virtual card to which the support target is assigned is memorized and displayed. Accepting cheering operations to cheer for the support target represented by the displayed virtual card, In response to the accepted support operation, generate a support request, transmit the request to the server, and display a message indicating that the support has been performed; The server In response to the support request received from the supporter terminal, support points having monetary value are given to the support target corresponding to the support request.

[0007] For example, each virtual card has a support condition set thereon, and the support request includes supporter identification information that identifies the supporter. The server determines whether the support conditions set on the virtual card related to the support request are met based on the supporter identification information included in the received support request, and if it determines that the support conditions are met, it returns a success response to the supporter terminal and grants the support points to the support target corresponding to the received support request.

[0008] For example, the server stores a plurality of virtual cards with sales conditions set thereon, and the supporter terminal transmits to the server a purchase request including the virtual card identification information and purchaser identification information of a virtual card to be purchased from among the plurality of virtual cards stored in the server, and the server determines whether or not the sale is possible based on the sales conditions assigned to the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the received purchase request and the purchaser identification information included in the received purchase request, and if it determines that the sale is possible, it transmits information about the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the received purchase request to the supporter terminal.

[0009] For example, each of the virtual cards is assigned card points, and when the server determines that the support conditions are met, it consumes the remaining card points of the virtual card and grants support points corresponding to the consumed card points to the support target.

[0010] The server converts the support points allocated to each support target into a monetary value and executes a process of sending the converted value to a person preset as the support target.

[0011] For example, an item carrying download information for downloading information on a specific virtual card from the server is distributed, and the supporter terminal acquires the download information from the item, and based on the acquired download information, downloads and displays the information on the specific virtual card from the server.

[0012] In addition, the program of the present invention causes the computer program to execute a process of determining whether the support conditions of the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the support request received from the terminal are met by the supporter identified by the supporter identification information included in the support request received from the terminal, and if it is determined that the conditions are met, returning a success response to the terminal and granting support points to the support target assigned to the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the received support request.

[0013] The program of the present invention also includes a step of receiving, via a virtual card electronically displayed on a computer, a cheering operation to cheer for a cheering target represented by the virtual card; Based on the accepted cheering operation, a cheering request for cheering on the cheering target represented by the displayed virtual card is generated and transmitted to an external server connected via a network, and a process is executed to notify that the cheering target represented by the displayed virtual card has been cheered on. [Effects of the Invention]

[0014] According to the present invention, users can easily provide support points to support targets, thereby promoting the use of support support tools. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0015] [Figure 1]1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a cheering support system according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2A] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an Ale server according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2B] 2 is a block diagram showing the functional configuration of an Ale server according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 3A] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a supporter terminal (user terminal) according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 3B] 3 is a block diagram showing a functional configuration of a supporter terminal according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. [Figure 4A] 1A is a diagram showing an example of the front side of a virtual card according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 1B is a diagram showing an example of the back side of a virtual card according to an embodiment. [Figure 4B] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the back side of a virtual card according to an embodiment. [Figure 4C] 10A and 10B are diagrams showing an example of a cheering success image superimposed on a virtual card according to an embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of an item distributed to encourage use of the support service. [Figure 6A] 2C is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of supporter information shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. [Figure 6B] 2C is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of virtual card information shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. [Figure 6C] 2C is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of support target information shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. [Figure 6D] 2C is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of allocation information shown in FIG. 2B. FIG. [Figure 7] 3C is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of owned virtual card information shown in FIG. 3B. FIG. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart of a virtual card purchasing process according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart of a virtual card selling process according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a cheering execution process A according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of a cheering execution process B. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0016] Hereinafter, a support support server and a program according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The cheering support system according to this embodiment is an information system that provides a cheering support service in which users (supporters) cheer for a target to be cheered for via a virtual card. The target to be cheered for may be tangible or intangible, for example, a live concert, a sporting event, a food festival, an exhibition, or other event, or a company, organization, group, or individual (artist, player, speaker, staff, etc.) that hosts or participates in the event, or a facility such as a museum or art gallery, or an exhibit, etc.

[0017] 1, the cheer support system 1 according to this embodiment includes a cheer server 100, a plurality of supporter terminals 200A,...,200B operated by supporters, and a plurality of support target terminals 300A,...,300B operated by support target personnel. In the following description, when there is no need to distinguish between the individual supporter terminals 200A,...,200B,..., they will be collectively referred to as supporter terminals 200. Furthermore, when there is no need to distinguish between the individual support target terminals 300A,...,300B,..., they will be collectively referred to as support target terminals 300.

[0018] The cheer server 100, each supporter terminal 200, and each support target terminal 300 are connected via a network NW so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0019] The cheer server 100 is managed, for example, by a business operator that manages or operates the cheer support system 1, and is configured from a general-purpose computer such as a workstation or a personal computer. The cheer server 100 may be configured from a single computer or multiple computers that can communicate data with each other.

[0020] The cheer server 100 acquires information supporting the support target from the supporter terminal 200 via the network NW and executes the process of delivering it to the support target. The cheer server 100 also acquires information related to the support target from the support target terminal 300 via the network NW and provides it to the supporter so that it can be viewed.

[0021] The supporter terminal 200 is used by a supporter or a person authorized by the supporter, and is a user terminal configured from a computer such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, laptop or desktop personal computer. An application program for using the support support system 1 is installed on the supporter terminal 200. In the following explanation, it is assumed that the supporter terminal 200 is a smartphone. Information on virtual cards representing the support target for which the supporter wishes to support is provided to the supporter terminal 200 from the cheer server 100. The supporter operates the supporter terminal 200 to select and acquire the virtual card they wish to support. Each virtual card is assigned points with monetary value. The supporter supports the support target via the virtual card, i.e., executes a process to send points.

[0022] The support target terminal 300 is used by the person being supported or a related party, and is a user terminal configured as a computer such as a smartphone, tablet terminal, laptop or desktop personal computer. The support target terminal 300 has a browsing function. In the following explanation, the support target terminal 300 is assumed to be a smartphone. The support target terminal 300 uploads information about the person, thing, or event (support target) wishing to receive support, information about a virtual card related to the support target, etc. to the cheer server 100, and also receives and displays information about support records, etc. from the cheer server 100.

[0023] The network NW is, for example, the Internet, and may include any communication network such as a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a virtual private network (VPN), a mobile communication network, or a wired telephone network.

[0024] (Ale Server 100 hardware configuration) Next, an example of the hardware configuration of the Yell server 100 will be described. As shown in Fig. 2A, the Yell server 100 physically comprises a processor 101, a memory 102, a storage 103, a communication interface (communication I / F (InterFace)) 104, and an input / output I / F 105. These components are electrically connected to each other via a bus line 106.

[0025] The processor 101 is a computing device that controls the overall operation of the air server 100. The processor 101 is configured by a general-purpose processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The processor 101 is not limited to a general-purpose processor, and may also be an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array).

[0026] The memory 102 is a main storage device and includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) and a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The processor 101 reads programs and various data from the ROM or the storage 103 onto the RAM and executes the processes, thereby realizing various functions of the Yell server 100.

[0027] The storage 103 is an auxiliary storage device and includes a nonvolatile storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive). The storage 103 stores programs executed by the processor 101, various data required when the programs are executed, etc. Note that some of the programs and various data required when the programs are executed may be stored in a ROM.

[0028] The communication I / F 104 is an I / F for communicating with external devices such as the supporter terminal 200 and the support target terminal 300 via the network NW in a wired or wireless manner. The communication I / F 104 includes, for example, a network board, a wired / wireless LAN module, etc.

[0029] The input / output I / F 105 is an I / F for connecting to input devices such as a keyboard and a mouse, and output devices such as a display and a speaker. The input / output I / F 105, for example, takes in operation data input by an operator via the input device, and outputs data such as moving images and audio to the output device.

[0030] (Ale Server 100 functional configuration) Next, a description will be given of the functional configuration of the Yell server 100. The Yell server 100 functionally comprises a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, a communication unit 130, and an input / output unit 140, as shown in FIG.

[0031] The control unit 110 is mainly realized by the processor 101 and the memory 102, and controls the overall functions of the Yell server 100. The control unit 110 executes a control program 121 stored in the storage unit 120 to function as a user management unit 111, a virtual card management unit 112, a sales unit 113, and a support management unit 114. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit integrated with the control unit 110.

[0032] The user management unit 111 manages the user information stored in the storage unit 120, specifically, supporter information 122 and support target information 124. The supporter information 122 includes information on each supporter who has registered an account. The support target information 124 includes information on each support target who has registered an account. For example, the user management unit 111 adds information on newly registered supporters and support targets to the supporter information 122 and support target information 124, and deletes information on those who have withdrawn from the membership.

[0033] The virtual card management unit 112 manages the virtual card information 123 stored in the memory unit 120. The virtual card information 123 includes information on virtual cards provided to supporters by the cheer server 100. A virtual card is an image similar to a photo card or trading card that is electronically stored and displayed on the supporter terminal 200 and represents the target of support. Supporters can select and download a virtual card for the target of support they wish to support from the virtual card information 123 that has been created in advance and stored in the memory unit 120. The virtual card management unit 112 adds information on newly created virtual cards to the virtual card information 123.

[0034] In this embodiment, cheering for a support target by a supporter via a virtual card is referred to as an "cheer," and cheering for a support target may be expressed as "sending a cheer to the support target," etc. A supporter can provide monetary value points to the support target by purchasing a virtual card and points and sending a cheer to the support target via the virtual card.

[0035] The virtual card VC will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4C.

[0036] As shown in Figures 4A(A) and (B), the virtual card VC is composed of a front side VCa and a back side VCb. When there is no need to distinguish between the front side and the back side of the virtual card, it will simply be referred to as the "virtual card VC."

[0037] The front side VCa includes an image IE representing the appearance of the support target and an information area IA showing the support target's name, event information, etc. The back side VCb includes a video playback area VA capable of playing promotional videos of the support target, and a thumbnail group VT displaying multiple thumbnails of live footage and promotional videos of the support target. The video displayed in the video playback area VA may be live video transmitted from an external device. In this case, for example, the card may connect to a specific video site to determine whether video is available. If video is available, the received live video may be displayed; if video is unavailable, the card may display stored video. Furthermore, by including audio or music data in the content defining the virtual card VC, audio or music may be played along with the image or video display. The following explanation focuses on images and videos for ease of understanding.

[0038] FIG. 4B shows another example of the back side VCb corresponding to the front side VCa shown in FIG. 4A(A). This back side VCb displays, for example, in a video playback area VA, streaming video of an event in which the support target (artist, etc.) of this virtual card VC is appearing. In this case, the supporter terminal 200 may use its wireless communication function or the like to connect to a site that provides streaming video of the event, obtain live images, and display them. This allows, for example, supporters (fans, etc.) attending the event at the venue to get a close-up view of the support target on stage through the streaming video displayed in the video playback area VA. Furthermore, supporters who were unable to attend the event at the venue can participate in the event online through the streaming video.

[0039] The target of support via the virtual card VC, i.e., the target of support, is arbitrary, and the design of the virtual card can be set arbitrarily depending on the target of support. For example, if the target of support is an art gallery or museum, a photograph of a representative collection of the target of support may be displayed. Furthermore, an image and description of the exhibit being viewed by the supporter may be obtained via wireless communication and displayed in the video playback area VA.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 4A and 4B, the display screen DS of the virtual card VC includes an owned point display area PA that displays the points held by the supporter. The supporter can send cheers to the support target within the range of the owned points displayed in the owned point display area PA. The number of points that can be sent to the support target with one cheer may be a preset value, or the supporter may set it by operating the terminal. The user may specify the number of points within the range of their owned points each time they cheer. Furthermore, an upper limit on the number of points that can be sent for each virtual card VC may be set. Points include points that accompany the purchased (downloaded) virtual card VC and points that are purchased separately from the virtual card VC. The total points may be displayed. Separately purchased points may be added to the owned points of each virtual card VC. Points at the time of purchasing the virtual card VC, points sent (used) for cheers, the upper limit of points that can be used for cheers, and the remaining value of points purchased separately from the virtual card VC may be displayed separately.

[0041] The display screen DS has operation buttons such as a profile button BP, a switch button BT, a home button BH, a collection button BC, a cheer button BE, a purchase button BB, etc. The buttons may be of a touch panel type.

[0042] The profile button BP is an icon button for transitioning to a profile display screen (not shown) that introduces the career and characteristics (hereinafter collectively referred to as the profile) of the person being supported. The switch button BT is an icon button for selecting whether to display the front side VCa or the back side VCb. By tapping the switch button BT, the user can switch between displaying the front side VCa and the back side VCb on the display screen DS. The home button BH is an icon button for transitioning to the home screen of the application.

[0043] The cheer button BE is an icon button for sending a cheer to the cheer target of the virtual card VC displayed on the display screen DS. When a supporter taps the cheer button BE, the control unit 110 sends a cheer request to the cheer server 100, indicating that the supporter wishes to cheer for the cheer target represented on the virtual card VC currently displayed. The cheer server 100 determines whether the cheer request satisfies the cheer conditions set on the virtual card, and if it determines that the conditions are met, cheers for the cheer target by awarding points to the cheer target. The cheer server 100 also sends a cheer success notification to the supporter terminal 200, indicating that the cheer was successful. Upon receiving the cheer success notification, the supporter terminal 200 displays a heart-shaped heart image IH superimposed on the virtual card VC, as shown in FIGS. 4C(A) and (B). The heart image IH moves across the screen and disappears after a certain period of time. The heart image IH indicates that the cheer was successful.

[0044] By viewing the heart image IH, the supporter can confirm that an cheer has been sent to the target of support. Along with the heart image IH, the display screen DS may display the number of points sent to the target of support this time through the supporter's cheer, the total number of points sent through this virtual card, and other information. Furthermore, multiple levels may be set according to the total number of points sent through the currently displayed virtual card, and the color of the heart image IH and the background color of the display screen DS may be changed according to the level to which the supporter belongs. Furthermore, the shape, size, display time, pattern, movement mode, and background color and pattern of the heart image IH may be changed according to the level. In this way, the success of the cheer and the level of the cheer can be ascertained simply by looking at the heart image IH.

[0045] The purchase button BB is an icon button for purchasing a new virtual card VC. When the purchase button BB is tapped, the screen transitions to a virtual card list display screen (not shown) that displays a list of virtual cards VC that the user can purchase. The user can refer to the virtual card list display screen, select a desired virtual card, and purchase it.

[0046] The shape of the virtual card is not limited to a regular card, but may be a strip that allows a large amount of information to be viewed by scrolling, a sheet, or a card set that allows cards to be switched in order by flicking.

[0047] As a method for encouraging the use of the cheering support system 1, for example, a wristband EW as shown in FIG. 5 may be distributed to event participants (supporters). A two-dimensional code TC representing the URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of a website for event participants is displayed on the wristband EW. The website for event participants contains downloadable videos for event participants, application software for using the cheering support system 1, and other content. Event participants can scan the two-dimensional code TC with their mobile devices to automatically access the participant-only website, where they can install the application software (if not already installed) and download a specific virtual card. Event participants can use points attached to the downloaded virtual card for event participants or points purchased separately to send cheers and support the event in which they are participating. Event participants can also purchase virtual cards for event performers separately to send cheers to individual event performers.

[0048] Similar wristbands EW may be distributed to visitors to museums, art galleries, amusement facilities, conferences, etc. Furthermore, the two-dimensional code TC may be printed and distributed on pamphlets, flyers, advertisements, etc. Furthermore, the two-dimensional code TC may be displayed or projected at any location in the hallway, venue, etc.

[0049] Returning to FIG. 2B , the selling unit 113 sells virtual cards and points in response to a purchase request received from the supporter terminal 200. In response to a purchase request acquired via the communication unit 130, the selling unit 113 references the supporter information 122 and the virtual card information 123 stored in the memory unit 120 to determine whether the supporter wishing to purchase meets the sales conditions for the virtual card. The sales conditions for the virtual card are conditions for identifying supporters who are eligible to purchase, and various conditions can be set, such as residing or being located in a specific area, meeting an age condition, the purchase amount not exceeding a maximum amount, and being able to pay using a specified payment method.

[0050] If the sales unit 113 determines that the sales conditions are met, it pays for the virtual card using the set payment method. After completing the transaction process, the sales unit 113 sends a purchase completion notification to the supporter terminal 200 and makes the corresponding virtual card information available for transmission or download. On the other hand, if it determines that the sales conditions are not met, the sales unit 113 sends a purchase failure notification to the supporter terminal 200 along with the reason for the failure. The sales unit 113 also performs the same process as above when it receives a points purchase request sent from the supporter terminal 200.

[0051] The cheer management unit 114 manages cheers sent by supporters to support targets. For example, the cheer management unit 114 determines whether preset cheer conditions are met and executes cheer execution processing based on the determination result. The cheer conditions are conditions for identifying supporters who are eligible for cheering, and include, for example, whether the supporter's age meets the age conditions, whether the supporter's current location meets the geographical conditions, whether the supporter has points, and whether the used points or number of cheers does not exceed the upper limit. If the cheer management unit 114 determines that the cheer conditions are met, it sends a cheer success notification to the supporter terminal 200. In addition, the cheer management unit 114 updates the remaining points, cheer history, etc. of the supporter in the supporter information 122, and adds the currently awarded points to the acquired points of the support target in the support target information 124. On the other hand, if the cheer management unit 114 determines that the support conditions are not met, it sends a cheer failure notification to the supporter terminal 200.

[0052] The memory unit 120 is mainly realized by the storage 103, and stores a control program 121 executed by the control unit 110 and various data. The various data include supporter information 122, virtual card information 123, support target information 124, and allocation information 125. Note that a part of the memory unit 120 may be realized by the memory 102.

[0053] The control program 121 is executed by the control unit 110 and causes the control unit 110 to function as a user management unit 111, a virtual card management unit 112, a sales unit 113, a support management unit 114, and the like.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 6(A), supporter information 122 includes supporter identification information for identifying a supporter (user) and owned virtual card information related to the virtual card owned by the supporter. The supporter identification information includes the supporter's name, a supporter ID that identifies the supporter, personal information such as address, contact information, and date of birth, payment information, and other attribute information. The owned virtual card information includes information such as the category of the virtual card owned by the supporter, the virtual card name, the virtual card ID, content, price, the initial value of associated points (initial points), remaining points, used points, total support points, cheer history, unit points that are the number of points used for one cheer, sales conditions that are the conditions for selling a virtual card, and cheering conditions that are the conditions for implementing a cheer. Note that used points are the number of points associated with a virtual card that have been used for cheers. Remaining points + used points = initial points. Total support points are the total number of points used for cheers using that virtual card, and total support points = used points + purchase points, which is the points used for cheers using that virtual card. Furthermore, the supporter information 122 includes the remaining points (remaining purchase points) of the points purchased by the supporter.

[0055] Virtual card information 123 shown in FIG. 2B is information about a virtual card registered by a support target and available to a supporter. As shown in FIG. 6B, virtual card information 123 includes information such as the category to which the virtual card belongs, the virtual card name, a virtual card ID (identification information for the virtual card), remaining points, used points, total support points, cheer history, price, initial points, unit points, sales conditions, and support conditions. Here, the virtual card ID is divided into a group ID and a card ID. The group ID is an ID commonly assigned to virtual cards with the same content. The card ID is an ID used to identify individual virtual cards within a group. By linking the group ID and the card ID, an individual virtual card can be identified. Here, the card ID, remaining points, used points, total support points, and cheer history are unique to each virtual card, and therefore are information specific to each virtual card. Other information is information common to the group. Furthermore, content is information defining the front and back sides of the virtual card. For a virtual card VC that connects to an external terminal and downloads or receives and displays video, the content may include a program. The price is the selling price of the virtual card. The initial points are the number of points attached to the virtual card. The unit points are the points consumed for one cheer. For example, if the initial points are 3000 and the unit points are 100, cheers can be sent 30 times (=3000 / 100). The sales conditions are conditions that must be met when selling the virtual card VC to a supporter. The sales conditions usually match the support conditions in the supporter information 122.

[0056] The support target information 124 shown in FIG. 2B is information about the support target, and as illustrated in FIG. 6C, includes the support target name, support target ID, contact information, total points earned, total points earned history, account information, and other attribute information. Of these, the total points earned is a numerical value indicating how many points each support target earned during the calculation period. If the support target is associated with multiple virtual cards, it is the total value of the points earned through the multiple virtual cards. Points earned by each virtual card may also be stored. The total points earned history indicates the history of points earned by each calculation period. The account information is the support target's account at a financial institution. By depositing an amount corresponding to the total points earned into this account, the supporter will financially support the support target. Note that this method is not limited to bank transfer, as long as an item or information having monetary value can be provided for the support target. Any known method can be used.

[0057] The distribution information 125 shown in FIG. 2B is information that specifies the distribution rate of points sent through the virtual card VC, and includes information such as a group ID, total points earned, total point history, and distribution rate. Among these, the group ID is the group ID of the virtual card and represents a collection of virtual cards of the same type. The total points earned is a numerical value indicating how many points were earned from supporters through the virtual cards of that group during the tallying period. Furthermore, points earned by card ID may be stored as an auxiliary. The total point history indicates the history of total points earned by tallying period. The distribution rate is information indicating the ratio at which earned points are distributed to related parties. For example, the example in FIG. 6D indicates that points earned through virtual cards belonging to the group with group ID=IE123 are distributed 20% to AA company, 10% to BC company, and so on.

[0058] The communication unit 130 shown in FIG. 2B is realized by the communication I / F 104, and transmits and receives various data to and from the supporter terminal 200 and the support target terminal 300 via the network NW in accordance with the control of the control unit 110. The communication unit 130, for example, receives new virtual card information from the support target terminal 300 and supplies the information to the control unit 110. The communication unit 130 receives a purchase request, a support request, etc. from the supporter terminal 200 and supplies the information to the control unit 110. In addition, the communication unit 130, for example, transmits a support success notification or a support failure notification to the supporter terminal 200 in accordance with the control of the control unit 110.

[0059] The input / output unit 140 is realized by the input / output I / F 105, and inputs various data from an input device, and outputs various data to an output device according to the control of the control unit 110.

[0060] (Hardware configuration of supporter terminal 200) Next, we will explain an example of the hardware configuration of supporter terminal 200. As shown in Fig. 3A, supporter terminal 200 physically comprises processor 201, memory 202, storage 203, communication I / F 204, input / output I / F 205, sensor 206, and display device 207. These components are electrically connected to each other via bus line 208.

[0061] The processor 201 is a computing device that controls the overall operation of the supporter terminal 200. The processor 201 is, for example, a general-purpose processor such as a CPU, MPU, or GPU, or a dedicated processor such as an ASIC or FPGA.

[0062] The memory 202 is a main storage device and includes a ROM, a RAM, etc. The processor 201 reads out programs and various data from the ROM or the storage 203 onto the RAM and executes the processes, thereby realizing the functions of the supporter terminal 200.

[0063] The storage 203 is an auxiliary storage device, for example, a semiconductor memory such as an internal or external flash memory. The storage 203 stores programs executed by the processor 201 and various data required when the programs are executed. In particular, in this embodiment, application programs required for using the support system 1 are installed. Note that some of the programs and various data required when the programs are executed may be stored in ROM.

[0064] The communication I / F 204 is an I / F for wirelessly communicating with an external device such as the cellular server 100 via the network NW. The communication I / F 204 includes, for example, an antenna, a wireless communication module, a wireless LAN module, etc. The communication I / F 204 also has a near field communication (NFC) function and performs wireless communication with a nearby terminal having a communication function.

[0065] The input / output I / F 205 is an I / F for inputting and outputting data to and from an external device. The input / output I / F 205 may be, for example, an operation button provided on the supporter terminal 200, a microphone or speaker built into the supporter terminal 200, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, or other device for inputting and outputting various types of data.

[0066] The sensors 206 are a plurality of devices that convert physical and chemical phenomena of the supporter terminal 200 and its surrounding environment into electrical signals and data and output the signals. The sensors 206 include, for example, a position sensor such as a GPS (Global Positioning System) sensor, a timer, a temperature sensor, an image sensor, a sound sensor, an acceleration sensor, an angular velocity sensor, a geomagnetic sensor, and the like.

[0067] The display device 207 is, for example, a touch screen including a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and an operation detection device such as a touch panel. The display device 207 displays various information and accepts input operations from the user.

[0068] (Functional configuration of supporter terminal 200) Next, we will explain the functional configuration of supporter terminal 200. As shown in Fig. 3B, supporter terminal 200 functionally comprises control unit 210, storage unit 220, communication unit 230, input / output unit 240, and display unit 250.

[0069] The control unit 210 is mainly realized by the processor 201 and the memory 202, and controls the overall functions of the supporter terminal 200. The control unit 210 has, as functional units, a purchase unit 211 and a support execution unit 212 by executing a control program stored in the storage unit 220. Note that some or all of these functional units may be realized by hardware such as an integrated circuit integrated with the control unit 210.

[0070] The purchasing unit 211 executes a purchasing process for purchasing a virtual card or points. For example, the purchasing unit 211 generates a virtual card purchase request in response to a virtual card purchase operation acquired via the input / output unit 240, and transmits the generated request to the Yell server 100. When the purchasing unit 211 acquires a purchase completion notice from the Yell server 100 in response to the virtual card purchase request, the purchasing unit 211 causes the display unit 250 to display the purchased virtual card based on the virtual card information included in the purchase completion notice. The purchasing unit 211 may display a message prompting the user to download the purchased virtual card, and may display the virtual card on the display unit 250 after the download is complete. When the purchasing unit 211 acquires a purchase failure notice from the Yell server 100 in response to the virtual card purchase request, the purchasing unit 211 causes the display unit 250 to display a purchase cancellation image or message indicating that the purchase of the virtual card is being canceled.

[0071] . The cheer execution unit 212 executes cheering processing for a supporter to send a cheer to a support target. For example, in response to an operation of the cheer button BE while a virtual card is displayed, the cheer execution unit 212 generates a cheer request including identification information of the virtual card, points to be awarded to the support target, and the like, and transmits the generated request to the cheer server 100. When the cheer execution unit 212 receives a cheer success notification from the cheer server 100 in response to the cheer request, the cheer execution unit 212 causes the display unit 250 to display a preset cheer execution image. For example, the cheer execution unit 212 displays a heart image IH superimposed on the virtual card VC as the cheer execution image. When the cheer failure notification is received from the cheer server 100 in response to the cheer request, the cheer execution unit 212 causes the display unit 250 to display a cheer cancellation image or a message indicating that the cheer will be canceled.

[0072] The memory unit 220 is mainly realized by the storage 203, and stores various data and a control program executed by the control unit 210. The memory unit 220 stores, for example, held virtual card information 221. Note that a part of the memory unit 220 may be realized by the memory 102.

[0073] Owned virtual card information 221 is information about virtual cards owned by a user. As shown in Fig. 7, virtual card information 221 includes information such as the virtual card name, virtual card ID, content information, price, initial points, remaining points, unit points, total support points, and support conditions. Here, the virtual card ID includes a group ID and a card ID. Furthermore, the total support points are the total number of points that a supporter has sent to a support target using the virtual card.

[0074] 3B is realized by the communication I / F 204, and transmits and receives various data to and from the cheer server 100 in accordance with the control of the control unit 210. For example, the communication unit 230 transmits a virtual card purchase request, a support request, etc. to the cheer server 100. In addition, the communication unit 230 receives, for example, a purchase completion notification or a purchase failure notification from the cheer server 100.

[0075] The input / output unit 240 is realized by the input / output I / F 205, and inputs various data from an input device, and outputs various data to an output device according to the control of the control unit 210.

[0076] The display unit 250 is realized by the display device 207, and displays various information under the control of the control unit 210. The display unit 250 displays, for example, a virtual card VC, a cheering execution image, a cheering cancellation image, and the like, as exemplified in Figures 4A to 4C.

[0077] (Configuration of the support target terminal 300) 1 is composed of a mobile terminal, a personal computer, etc., and its hardware configuration is the same as that of the supporter terminal 200. Functionally, the support target terminal 300 has a communication function and a browser function.

[0078] Some of the functions of the supporter terminal 200 and the support target terminal 300 may be provided in the cheer server 100. Also, some of the functions of the cheer server 100 may be provided in the supporter terminal 200 or the support target terminal 300.

[0079] Next, an action of cheering for a cheer target or an action of receiving cheers from a supporter using the cheering support system 1 will be described.

[0080] (User registration) Those who wish to use the cheer support system 1, that is, those who wish to cheer and those who wish to receive support, register as users. Specifically, those who wish to cheer specify their name, personal information, payment direction, etc., and register as users in the cheer server 100. The control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 assigns a supporter ID and registers the supporter identification information from the supporter information 122 shown in FIG. 6A in the memory unit 120. Furthermore, those who wish to receive support specify the name, contact information, account information, etc. of the supportee, and register as users in the cheer server 100. The control unit 110 assigns a supportee ID and registers the supportee information 124 shown in FIG. 6C in the memory unit 120.

[0081] (Registering virtual card information) A person who wishes to receive support determines the contents of the virtual card VC related to the support target. They also determine the category, price, initial points, unit points, sales conditions, support conditions, and distribution rate. The person who wishes to receive support transmits this information, along with a request to register card information, from the support target terminal 300 to the cheer server 100. The control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 receives this via the communication unit 130.

[0082] The control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 identifies the category of the card based on the received information and assigns a group ID. The control unit 110 adds the received information, category, and group ID to virtual card information 123, as shown in FIG. 6B. At this stage, the card ID, used points, total cheer points, and cheer history are blank. The group ID and distribution rate are added to distribution information 125, as shown in FIG. 6D. At this stage, the total earned points and point acquisition history are blank. Furthermore, the control unit 110 adds information about the virtual card that has just been registered to the menu of virtual cards for sale.

[0083] (Virtual card purchase processing) When a supporter wishes to purchase a virtual card VC, the supporter operates the supporter terminal 200 to request a virtual card menu from the cheer server 100. In response to the request from the supporter terminal 200, the control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 transmits a list or menu of virtual cards to the supporter terminal 200. The supporter terminal 200 displays the received list on the display unit 250. The supporter identifies the virtual card VC they wish to purchase from the list, and then operates the purchase button BB.

[0084] 8, generates a virtual card purchase request including information specifying the virtual card, information specifying the supporter (purchaser), and sensor information output by the sensor 206, and transmits it to the cheer server 100 (step S101). At the time of transmitting the purchase request, the control unit 210 sets a timer to measure the elapsed time since transmission.

[0085] The control unit 210 refers to the timer and determines whether a preset time has elapsed since the virtual card purchase request was sent (step S102). If it determines that the predetermined time has not elapsed (step S102: NO), the control unit 210 determines whether a purchase completion notice has been received (step S103). If it determines that the transaction process for the virtual card in the cheer server 100 has been completed and that a purchase completion notice indicating that the sales process has been successfully executed has been received via the communication unit 230 (step S103: YES), the control unit 210 adds and stores the virtual card information included in the purchase completion notice in the owned virtual card information 221 in the storage unit 220, as shown in FIG. 7. At this stage, the remaining points are equal to the initial points, and the used points, total cheer points, and cheer history are 0 or blank. The control unit 210 further causes the display unit 250 to display the front of the purchased virtual card VC (step S105). The control unit 210 may also display a message prompting the user to download the purchased virtual card and display the virtual card on the display unit 250 after the download is complete.

[0086] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S103 that a purchase completion notice has not been received (step S103: NO), the control unit 210 determines whether a purchase failure notice has been received (step S104).If it is determined that a purchase failure notice indicating that the sales process in the Yell server 100 was not executed normally and the reason for this has been received (step S104: YES), the control unit 210 causes the display unit 250 to display a purchase cancellation image indicating that the purchase of the virtual card will be canceled and the reason for this (step S106).

[0087] If it is determined that a purchase failure notification has not been received (step S104: NO), the control unit 210 returns the process to step S102. If a predetermined time has elapsed without receiving either a purchase success notification or a purchase failure notification from the ale server 100 (step S102: YES), the control unit 210 causes the display unit 250 to display a purchase cancellation image indicating that the purchase of the virtual card will be canceled due to a timeout (step S106).

[0088] When the control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 receives a virtual card purchase request from the supporter terminal 200, it starts the sales process shown in FIG. When the sales process starts, the control unit 110 refers to the supporter information 122 and virtual card information 123 stored in the memory unit 120, and identifies the attribute information, sensor information, etc. of the prospective purchaser and the sales conditions of the specified virtual card VC (step S201).

[0089] Next, the control unit 110 determines whether the supporter information satisfies the sales conditions (step S202). For example, the control unit 110 checks whether the sales conditions are met, such as the age of the potential purchaser satisfies the age limit of the sales conditions, the address and current location of the potential purchaser satisfy the sales location conditions, the current date and time is included in the sales period of the virtual card, and the number of sold virtual cards has not reached the upper limit.

[0090] If it is determined that the sales conditions are met (step S202: YES), the control unit 110 executes the accounting process for the price of the virtual card using the payment method designated by the prospective purchaser (step S204). Although not shown, communication with the supporter terminal 200 may occur during the accounting process.

[0091] After executing the transaction process, the control unit 110 sends a purchase completion notification to the supporter terminal 200 (step S204). The control unit 110 assigns a card ID to the virtual card being sold this time from the virtual card information 123, sets the remaining points to the initial points, and sets the total support points to 0. The control unit 110 attaches the virtual card information of the virtual card purchased this time to the purchase completion notification and sends it to the supporter terminal 200. Information for downloading the virtual card information may also be sent together with the purchase completion notification.

[0092] On the other hand, if it is determined that the sales conditions are not met (step S202: NO), or if the transaction process (step S203) is unsuccessful, the control unit 110 sends a purchase failure notification and the reason for the failure to the supporter terminal 200 (step S205).

[0093] (Purchase of virtual cards using wristbands, etc.) The following describes the operation of distributing or selling a wristband EW as shown in FIG. 5 upon participation in an event, entry into a facility, etc., and obtaining a virtual card VC using the wristband EW.

[0094] If the price of the virtual card VC is included in the admission fee, for example, the sales price of the virtual card information is set to 0, the initial points are set to a predetermined number of points, and the sales conditions column is set to indicate that the current location matches the location of the event venue or facility.

[0095] Also, a wristband EW, pamphlet, etc., is prepared, to which a two-dimensional code TC, which encodes a purchase request instructing downloading of the virtual card VC, is attached.

[0096] When a supporter has the supporter terminal 200 read the two-dimensional code TC displayed on the wristband EW, pamphlet, etc., the control unit 210 decodes the two-dimensional code and starts processing that is substantially the same as the virtual card purchase processing shown in Fig. 8. However, the control unit 210 determines whether or not an application program for using the support support system 1 is installed on the supporter terminal 200, and if not, includes a request to download the application program for using the support support system 1 in the purchase request to purchase the specified virtual card VC.

[0097] Upon receiving the purchase request, the cheer server 100 performs a virtual card sales process similar to the process shown in FIG. 9 and transmits virtual card information for the specified virtual card VC to the supporter terminal 200. If the virtual card purchase request includes a request to download an application program, the cheer server 100 transmits the required application program to the supporter terminal 200 that made the request. Upon receiving the application program, the supporter terminal 200 installs it. In other respects, the virtual card purchase process is the same as that described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0098] (Additional point purchase) To purchase additional points, the supporter operates the supporter terminal 200, specifies the points they wish to purchase, and operates the purchase button BB. In response to this operation, the control unit 210 of the supporter terminal 200 executes a point purchase process similar to the virtual card purchase process shown in Figure 8, generates a point purchase request including the supporter's ID and the amount, and sends it to the cheer server 100.

[0099] In response to the request from the supporter terminal 200, the control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 performs processing similar to the virtual card sales processing shown in FIG. 9 to determine whether the supporter (purchaser) satisfies the point sales conditions.

[0100] If it is determined that the sales conditions are met, the control unit 110 executes the transaction process for the price of the virtual card. After executing the transaction process, the control unit 110 notifies the supporter terminal 200 that the purchase has been completed and the number of points purchased this time.

[0101] On the other hand, if it is determined that the sales conditions are not met, or if the transaction process is not successful, the control unit 110 notifies the supporter terminal 200 that the purchase was not successful and the reason why.

[0102] Furthermore, the control unit 110 adds the number of points purchased this time to the number of remaining purchase points in the supporter information of the purchaser, and adds this information to the point purchase history. Similarly, the control unit 210 adds the number of points purchased this time to the number of remaining purchase points in the owned virtual card information, and adds this information to the point purchase history. Note that the purchased points may be added to the remaining points of the virtual card displayed on the supporter terminal 200 or of a virtual card specified by operating the supporter terminal 200.

[0103] (Cheering action) Next, with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11, a process in which each supporter sends cheers to support the support target will be described. A supporter operates supporter terminal 200 to select any virtual card from among the virtual cards identified by owned virtual card information 221 stored in memory unit 220. Control unit 210 synthesizes an image to be displayed from the content of the selected virtual card, as illustrated in FIGS. 4A and 4B, and displays it on display unit 250 together with operation buttons and the like. In response to operation of switching button BT, control unit 210 switches between displaying the front side VCa and the back side VCb, as shown in FIGS. 4A(A) and (B). In response to the display of virtual card VC, control unit 210 starts cheering execution process A.

[0104] When a supporter wants to support a target via the displayed virtual card VC, the supporter operates the cheer button BE while the virtual card VC is displayed. With one operation of the cheer button BE, points can be sent in the cheer point units set on the displayed virtual card VC.

[0105] The control unit 210 (cheering execution unit 213) of the supporter terminal 200 continues to execute the cheering execution process A shown in Fig. 10 while the application that processes the virtual card is running, and determines whether the cheer button BE has been operated (step S301). If it is determined that the cheer button BE has not been operated (step S301: NO), the control unit 210 waits until it is operated.

[0106] On the other hand, if it is determined that the cheer button BE has been operated (step S301: YES), the control unit 210 generates a cheer request including information on the virtual card being displayed at that time, the user's own ID, and the detection data of the sensor 206, and transmits the request to the cheer server 100 (step S302). The control unit 210 resets the timer at the timing when the cheer request is transmitted.

[0107] Next, the control unit 210 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed (step S303). The control unit 210 references the timer and determines whether a set time has elapsed since the cheer request was sent. If it determines that the set time has not elapsed (step S303: NO), the control unit 210 determines whether a cheer success notification has been received (step S304). If it determines that a cheer success notification indicating that cheer execution process B, which will be described later, has been successfully executed in the cheer server 100 has been received via the communication unit 230 (step S304: YES), the control unit 210 displays a cheer execution image indicating that a cheer has been sent to the cheer target (step S306). For example, as shown in FIGS. 4C(A) and (B), the control unit 210 displays a heart image IH superimposed on the virtual card VC for a certain period of time. The control unit 210 also updates the owned virtual card information 221 stored in the storage unit 220 by subtracting unit points from the card balance of the corresponding virtual card. The control unit 210 also updates the cheer execution history.

[0108] On the other hand, if it is determined that the cheering success notification has not been received (step S304: NO), the control unit 210 determines whether or not a cheering failure notification has been received (step S305). If it is determined that a cheering failure notification indicating that the cheering execution process B has not been executed normally in the server 100 has been received via the communication unit 230 (step S305: YES), the control unit 210 causes the display unit 250 to display a cheering cancellation image indicating that the cheering will be cancelled (step S307). The control unit 210 may cause the display unit 250 to display a message indicating that the cheering will be cancelled.

[0109] If it is determined that the support failure notification has not been received (step S305: NO), the control unit 210 returns the process to step S303. If a predetermined time has passed without receiving either a purchase success notification or a purchase failure notification from the cheer server 100 (step S303: YES), the control unit 210 causes the display unit 250 to display a support cancellation image indicating that the support will be cancelled (step S307).

[0110] After executing the process of step S306 or step S307, control unit 210 returns the process to step S301.

[0111] Next, cheer execution process B executed by control unit 110 of cheer server 100 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Cheering execution process B is executed by cheer server 100 in parallel with cheering execution process A executed by supporter terminal 200 when a supporter sends a cheer to a support target.

[0112] The control unit 110 (support management unit 114) continues to execute the support execution process and determines whether or not a support request has been received from the supporter terminal 200 (step S401). If the control unit 110 determines that a support request has not been received (step S401: NO), the control unit 110 repeats the process of step S401 and waits for reception.

[0113] When it is determined that a support request has been received (step S401: YES), the control unit 110 refers to the supporter information 122 stored in the storage unit 120 and extracts attribute information (step S402).

[0114] Next, the control unit 110 determines whether or not the read attribute information and the received sensor information satisfy the support conditions set in the virtual card VC (step S403). For example, if the support condition is 18 years of age or older, and the supporter's attribute information indicates that they are 16 years of age, they will be determined not to meet the support condition. Also, for example, if the support condition is that sales are only available within the event venue, and the supporter's GPS information indicates that they are outside the event venue, they will be determined not to meet the support condition.

[0115] If it is determined that the support conditions are met (step S403: YES), control unit 110 transmits a support success notification to supporter terminal 200 (step S404).

[0116] Next, the control unit 110 updates the remaining points by subtracting the unit points from the remaining points in the supporter information 122. For example, if the unit points are 100 and the remaining points are 2300, the remaining points are updated to 2200 (=2300-100). Also, the cheer history information is updated.

[0117] Next, the control unit 110 similarly updates the corresponding remaining points in the virtual card information 123. Furthermore, the control unit 110 adds the unit points to the total earned points identified by the group ID in the distribution information 125, thereby updating the total earned points (step S405).

[0118] On the other hand, if it is determined that the sales conditions are not met (step S403: NO), the control unit 110 transmits a support failure notification to the supporter terminal 200 (step S406).

[0119] After executing the process of step S405 or step S406, the control unit 110 returns the process to step S401. Note that the cheer execution process B is repeatedly executed until the power of the cheer server 100 is turned off, for example.

[0120] (Distribution processing) The control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 checks the virtual card information 123 every time a certain tallying period has elapsed, tallying the total cheering points for each group ID, and calculating the total value. This total value is the total number of points that supporters have earned for the support target via the virtual card VC belonging to that group ID from the previous tallying to the present time. Next, the control unit 110 adds the total earned points corresponding to the corresponding group ID in the distribution information 125 to the point earning history column, and sets the total value calculated this time in the total earned points column.

[0121] Next, the control unit 110 divides the total earned points proportionally according to the distribution information to determine the distribution for each support target. The control unit 110 then adds the total earned points for each support target in the support target information 124 to the point acquisition history column, and sets the total value calculated this time in the total earned points column. For example, in the example of FIG. 6D, the total points provided to the support targets via the virtual card VC identified by group ID=IE123 are 5,000,000 points. Meanwhile, according to the distribution information, the distribution rate for AA Company is 20%, so the points allocated to AA Company are 1,000,000 (=5,000,000 * 20%) points.

[0122] Thereafter, the cheer server 100 transfers the amount based on the total points earned for each support target for each preset counting period to a pre-registered bank account, updates the point earning history, and resets the current total earned points.

[0123] As described above, according to the cheer support system 1 of this embodiment, a supporter can send points to cheer for a support target to the cheer server 100 via a virtual card VC electronically displayed on the supporter's own terminal 200. The cheer server 100 tallies points received from multiple supporter terminals 200 and distributes the points to each support target. Therefore, a supporter can directly cheer for a person being cheered for.

[0124] By adopting a mechanism for supporting a support target via a virtual card VC, users, who are supporters, can increase their desire to collect virtual cards or increase the user's satisfaction by supporting a support target through their owned virtual cards. Therefore, the support support system 1 can promote the use of support support tools. Unlike simple tipping, users can enjoy collecting virtual cards by stacking them, displaying them side by side, or shuffling them, just like real cards. Unlike real cards, videos and images can be displayed and updated. In addition, virtual cards can also be accompanied by audio or music.

[0125] The above embodiment can be modified as appropriate. For example, in the above embodiment, the support destination is set in advance for each virtual card. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, candidates for the support target may be set for each virtual card, and the supporter may select and register the support target and its allocation rate from among the candidates.

[0126] In this case, the allocation information 125 is set with an allocation destination and allocation rate for each combination of group ID and card ID, i.e., for each individual virtual card. In this case, the supporter operates their own supporter terminal 200 to read and display candidate allocation destinations and allocation rates that are provisionally set for each group ID from the allocation information 125 stored in the cheer server 100. The supporter operates the supporter terminal 200 to modify the allocation destination and allocation rate and return it to the cheer server 100. The control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 registers the received combination of allocation destination and allocation rate in the allocation information 125 as the allocation rate for that virtual card.

[0127] Furthermore, for each virtual card, the supporter may be allowed to freely designate the support target and freely set the distribution rate.

[0128] The supporter may also be allowed to set the unit points to be consumed for one cheer. In this case, storage unit 120 stores, for example, the unit points included in virtual card information 123 for each virtual card. The supporter operates their own supporter terminal 200 to specify the number of points to be consumed for one cheer and transmits this to cheer server 100. Control unit 110 of cheer server 100 rewrites the unit points of the corresponding virtual card included in virtual card information 123 to the specified number of points and notifies supporter terminal 200 of this fact. In response to the notification, control unit 210 of supporter terminal 200 rewrites the unit points included in owned virtual card information 221 to the notified value.

[0129] An example of how the cheering support system 1 configured as above is used will be described. (Example of application: supporting a cause in the hobby world) A series of virtual cards VC from various fields will be registered on the Ale Server 100.

[0130] Each supporter operates their own mobile device or the like as a supporter terminal 200, purchases a virtual card of the support target of their interest, and stores it on their mobile device. Supporters can view the saved virtual card as needed. They can also operate the cheer button EB as needed to send points to the support target. This makes it easy to send support to people active in various fields, especially those in niche or minor fields.

[0131] (Example of application at a concert) When a concert is planned, a virtual card VC is designed and registered in the cheer server 100, and a wristband EW is prepared. The wristband EW is distributed to attendees of the concert, and the attendees' mobile terminals function as supporter terminals 200.

[0132] During the concert, images of the stage are sent to the venue via short-range wireless communication, and as shown in Figure 4B, the sent images are displayed on handheld mobile devices. The concert audience, i.e., supporters, can watch the stage while referring to their handheld devices. They can also send points as needed to support the artists and those who support the concert. Furthermore, by displaying a heart image IH on the screen and pointing it toward the stage, they can show their support for the artists on stage.

[0133] (Application examples in art galleries and museums, etc.) A virtual card VC for the facility itself and each of the collections is designed and registered in the cheer server 100, and a wristband EW is also prepared. The wristband EW is distributed to visitors to the facility, and the visitors' mobile terminals function as supporter terminals 200.

[0134] Exhibits near the supporter terminal 200 are identified through short-range wireless communication, and their explanations are displayed via the virtual card VC. Visitors can view the exhibits while referring to the display on their mobile devices. Visitors can also send points as needed to support the facility and related parties.

[0135] (Examples of application in stadiums, etc.) Dedicated virtual cards for the game itself, the teams, and each player are designed and registered in the cheer server 100, and a pamphlet is prepared on which a two-dimensional barcode of the URL of the site where the dedicated virtual cards are posted is printed. The pamphlet is distributed to visitors, and their mobile terminals function as supporter terminals 200. Visitors download the cards they want.

[0136] Commentary and results of the ongoing competition are sent to the supporter terminal 200 via short-distance wireless communication and displayed on a virtual card. Visitors can watch the competition while referring to the display on their mobile device. Visitors can also specify the destination to cheer for and send points to support the competition organization, team, individual players, and related parties.

[0137] (Example of application in restaurants, etc.) Virtual cards are designed for the restaurant itself, each chef, and staff member and registered in the cheer server 100. When a dish is served, a menu card is attached with a printed two-dimensional code of the URL of a website from which a virtual card for the restaurant itself or the chef who prepared the dish can be downloaded. Customers download the card they want. Customers can support the restaurant, chef, or staff member by specifying the support recipient and sending points.

[0138] (Example of application in toilets, etc.) Virtual cards for public and shared toilets and cleaning staff are designed and registered on the Yell server 100. When a toilet is finished being cleaned, a two-dimensional code of the URL of a website from which the toilet or cleaning staff's virtual card can be downloaded is attached to the cleaning record and placed on the wall of the toilet. Toilet users download the virtual toilet card from the two-dimensional code. Toilet users can then send points to support the toilet facilities, cleaning staff, etc.

[0139] (Application examples in advertising, public relations, etc.) Companies, organizations, etc. design virtual cards with content they want to advertise and register them on the cheer server 100. For example, the value of the points attached to the cards can be set higher than the sales price. For example, the price of an advertising virtual card can be set to 0 yen and the points can be set to 50. The support recipient for the advertising virtual card can be set in advance, or the purchaser can select the support recipient. Users can support the support recipient by sending points to a support recipient that is set in advance or that they select themselves. The condition for sending points can also be that the advertising virtual card is displayed a predetermined number of times or that the video content of the advertising virtual card is played. For example, a supporter can purchase an advertising virtual card for Company A, watch an advertisement for Company A, and send points based on the content of the viewing to the artist, player, or other support target.

[0140] In the case of this type of virtual card, points may be added to the virtual card depending on the viewing of the advertisement. For example, one point is awarded for displaying an advertisement virtual card once, and 10 points are awarded for viewing the entire video content of the advertisement virtual card once. Additional points are awarded depending on the viewing style of the advertisement.

[0141] In this case, for example, the control unit 210 of the supporter terminal 200 detects that the advertisement virtual card has been played and that the video content of the advertisement virtual card has been played. The control unit 210 transmits to the cheer server 100 the supporter ID, the virtual card ID of the advertisement virtual card, the ID of the displayed or played advertisement content, and playback information indicating playback modes such as playback time.

[0142] The control unit 110 of the Yell server 100 analyzes the received playback information, identifies the played advertisement and its playback mode, and determines the number of points to be awarded. For example, if only the advertisement virtual card is played, 1 point is awarded, and if the video content is viewed in its entirety, 10 points are awarded.

[0143] The control unit 110 adds the specified number of points to the remaining points of the corresponding card in the virtual card information 123. Also, the control unit 110 adds the specified number of points to the remaining points of the corresponding advertising virtual card in the supporter information 122.

[0144] Next, the control unit 110 transmits information regarding the point update to the supporter terminal 200. The control unit 210 of the supporter terminal 200 updates the remaining points of the corresponding advertisement virtual card in the stored owned virtual card information 221. In this way, points can be obtained by viewing advertisements via the advertisement virtual card.

[0145] Instead of giving points to the advertisement virtual card for viewing an advertisement, points may be sent to a preset support target or a support target selected by the supporter.

[0146] (obtaining big data) The supporter information 122 stored in the storage unit 120 of the cheer server 100 is a type of data that indicates consumption trends, and therefore can be used as big data. Furthermore, information on product sales, service usage, etc. may also be collected for the supporters identified by the supporter information, and the entire collected data may be analyzed as big data.

[0147] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and applications are possible without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, the configuration of tables arranged in the Yell server 100 and the terminals 200 and 300 can be changed as appropriate, and for example, duplication of information may be avoided. Furthermore, the image displayed on the virtual card can be changed as needed. For example, the cheering image is not limited to a heart image IH, but can be any image such as a star, fireworks, etc. Also, for example, at a concert, the venue may specify a display color using NFC, and the specified color may be displayed on the display screen of the supporter terminal 200, allowing it to be used in the same way as a glow stick.

[0148] In the above embodiment, for example, the control program executed by the processor 101 that realizes the control unit 110 of the cheer server 100 is stored in advance in the storage 103. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the control program for executing the various processes described above may be implemented in an existing general-purpose computer, framework, workstation, etc., to function as a device equivalent to the cheer server 100 according to the above embodiment. The same applies to the control program executed by the processor 201 that realizes the control unit 210 of the supporter terminal 200.

[0149] In the above embodiment, the wristband EW may be any other item as described above. Furthermore, the download-only URL, the information specifying the file to be downloaded, and the like do not have to be in the form of a two-dimensional code. Any form of information that can be acquired and decoded by the supporter terminal 200 may be used. For example, character codes may be used. Furthermore, for example, an RF tag may carry information specifying the dedicated URL or the file to be downloaded, and the supporter terminal 200 may read this information via communication. Furthermore, instead of the wristband EW, any other item such as a catalog, glow stick, or fan may be used.

[0150] In the above embodiment, it has been explained that 1 point given to a virtual card and 1 point given by cheering = 1 point given to a cheering target = 1 yen, but this can be changed as appropriate. For example, 1 point on a virtual card = L cheering points = K yen. Here, L and K are positive real numbers.

[0151] Such programs may be provided in any manner, for example, by storing them on a computer-readable recording medium (such as a flexible disk, a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM, or a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM) and distributing them, or by storing the programs in storage on a network such as the Internet and providing them by downloading them.

[0152] Furthermore, when the above processing is performed by sharing the work between an OS (Operating System) and an application program, or by cooperation between the OS and the application program, only the application program may be stored on a recording medium or storage. It is also possible to distribute the program via a network by superimposing the program on a carrier wave. For example, the program may be posted on a bulletin board system (BBS) on a network and distributed via the network. The program may then be launched and run under the control of the OS in the same way as other application programs, thereby enabling the above processing to be performed. [Explanation of symbols]

[0153] 1...Support support system, 100...Ale server, 200, 200A, 200B...Supporter terminal, 300, 300A, 300B...Support target terminal, 101...Processor, 102...Memory, 103...Storage, 104...Communication interface (communication I / F), 105...Input / output interface (input / output I / F), 106...Bus line, 110...Control unit, 111...User management unit, 112...Virtual card management unit, 113...Sales unit, 114...Support management unit, 120...Memory unit, 130...Communication unit, 140...Input / output unit, 201...Processor, 202...Memory, 203...Storage, 204...Communication interface (communication I / F), 205...input / output interface (input / output I / F), 206...sensor, 207...display device, 208...bus line, 210...control unit, 211...purchase unit, 212...support execution unit, 220...storage unit, 230...communication unit, 240...input / output unit, 250...display unit, BP...profile button, BT...switching button, BH...home button, BC...collection button, BE...cheer button, BB...purchase button, IH...heart image, DS...display screen, PA...held point display area, VC...virtual card, VCa...surface, VCb...surface, IA...information area, IE...image, VT...thumbnail group, NW...network

Claims

1. A support server connected to a supporter terminal via a network, The supporter terminal, The virtual card to which the support target is assigned is memorized and displayed. Accepting cheering operations to cheer for the support target represented by the displayed virtual card, In response to the accepted support operation, generate a support request, transmit the request to the server, and display a message indicating that the support has been performed; The server In response to the support request received from the supporter terminal, granting support points having monetary value to the support target corresponding to the support request; server.

2. A support condition is set for each of the virtual cards, The support request includes supporter identification information that identifies the supporter, The server determining whether or not a support condition set in the virtual card related to the support request is satisfied based on the supporter identification information included in the received support request; If it is determined that the conditions are met, a success response is returned to the supporter terminal, and the support points are awarded to the support target corresponding to the received support request. The server of claim 1 .

3. the server stores a plurality of the virtual cards, each having a sales condition set thereon; the supporter terminal transmits to the server a purchase request including identification information of a virtual card to be purchased from among the plurality of virtual cards stored in the server and purchaser identification information; The server determines whether or not the sale is permitted based on the sales conditions assigned to the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the received purchase request and the purchaser identification information included in the received purchase request, and if it determines that the sale is permitted, transmits information about the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the received purchase request to the supporter terminal.

3. The server according to claim 1 or 2.

4. Each of the virtual cards is assigned card points, When the server determines that the support condition is satisfied, the server consumes the remaining card points of the virtual card; The support points corresponding to the consumed card points will be awarded to the support target. The server of claim 2.

5. The server converts the support points allocated to each support target into a monetary value and sends the converted value to a person preset for the support target. The server of claim 1 .

6. An item carrying download information for downloading specific virtual card information from the server is distributed; the supporter terminal acquires the download information from the item, and downloads and displays information about the specific virtual card from the server based on the acquired download information. The server of claim 1 .

7. On the computer, determining whether a supporter identified by supporter identification information included in the support request received from the terminal satisfies a support condition of a virtual card identified by virtual card identification information included in the support request received from the terminal; If it is determined that the conditions are satisfied, a success response is returned to the terminal, and support points are awarded to the support target assigned to the virtual card identified by the virtual card identification information included in the received support request. A program that executes a process.

8. On the computer, accepting, via an electronically displayed virtual card, a cheering operation to cheer for a cheering target represented by the virtual card; generating a cheering request requesting that the user cheer for the cheering target represented by the displayed virtual card based on the received cheering operation, and transmitting the generated cheering request to an external server connected via a network; notifying the player that they have supported the support target represented by the displayed virtual card; A program that executes a process.

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