Biometric authentication system

Abstract

To provide a biometric information system that utilizes body information for multiple purposes.SOLUTION: A biometric information system 100 includes: an entrance terminal 111 installed at the entrance to an exhibition, acquiring biometric information of visitors entering the exhibition; a booth terminal 140 correspondingly positioned at booths within the exhibition, acquiring the biometric information of the visitors; a biometric information storage unit that stores the biometric information of the visitors; an identification unit that identifies the visitors corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the entrance terminal 111 based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit, and identifies the visitors corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the booth terminal 140 based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit; and a management unit that manages the entry of the visitors into the facility based on the identification of the visitors by the identification unit, and manages the visitor's actions within the facility based on the identification of the visitors by the identification unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a system that uses biometric information of a person. [Background technology]

[0002] Systems using people's biometric information have been proposed in various fields. For example, Patent Document 1 describes a system that performs facial authentication when entering a house. The system includes a camera and an information processing device. The camera captures an image of the face of a person entering the house and generates an image. The information processing device has a storage unit that stores a facial image of a family member to be authenticated, and a calculation processing unit that authenticates the person by comparing an image acquired from the camera with the stored facial image, and unlocks the door to the house if authentication by the calculation processing unit is successful.

[0003] Patent Document 2 also describes a system that performs facial authentication in a restaurant. The system includes a reader, a camera, and an information processing device. The reader acquires identification information for food items brought to the cash register. The camera captures an image of the face of the user at the cash register and generates an image. The information processing device has a storage unit that stores the user's facial image and the user's payment information in advance in association with each other, authenticates the user based on the image acquired from the camera and the stored facial image, determines the price of the food based on the food identification information acquired from the reader, and settles the cost of the food based on the authenticated user's payment information. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-058267 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2023-126915 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The technology described in Patent Document 1 is specialized for entering and leaving a home, and the technology described in Patent Document 2 is specialized for payment in a restaurant. As such, technologies that use biometric information for specific purposes have been proposed in the past. However, no technology has been proposed that uses biometric information for multiple purposes.

[0006] Therefore, an object of the present invention is to provide a biometric information system that uses biometric information for multiple purposes. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the biometric information system of the present invention is characterized by comprising: a first acquisition unit that is installed at the entrance to a facility and acquires biometric information of visitors entering the facility; a second acquisition unit that is arranged corresponding to equipment within the facility and acquires the biometric information of the visitors; a biometric information storage unit that stores the biometric information of the visitors; an identification unit that identifies the visitor corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the first acquisition unit based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit, and also identifies the visitor corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the second acquisition unit based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit; and a management unit that manages the visitor's entry into the facility based on the identification of the visitor by the identification unit, and manages the visitor's behavior in the equipment based on the identification of the visitor by the identification unit.

[0008] The biometric information system is also characterized by comprising a third acquisition unit that is installed at the exit of the facility and acquires biometric information of visitors exiting the facility; an identification unit that identifies the visitor corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the third acquisition unit based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit; and a management unit that manages the visitor's exit from the facility based on the identification of the visitor by the identification unit.

[0009] The biometric information system is also characterized by comprising a fourth acquisition unit that acquires biometric information of the visitor, and a registration unit that registers the biometric information acquired by the fourth acquisition unit in the biometric information storage unit.

[0010] In addition, in the above biometric information system, the facility is a venue where an exhibition is held, the equipment is a booth set up within the venue, and the visitor's behavior at the equipment is the visitor's visit to the booth.

[0011] In addition, in the above-mentioned biometric information system, the equipment includes a changing locker body installed within the facility, and the visitor's action in the equipment is the visitor storing their clothes in the changing locker body.

[0012] In addition, in the above biometric information system, the equipment includes a valuables locker body installed within the facility, and the visitor's action in the equipment is the visitor storing valuables in the valuables locker body.

[0013] In addition, in the above biometric information system, the equipment includes a shop set up within the facility, and the visitor's behavior in the equipment is the visitor's purchase of goods at the shop.

[0014] In addition, in the above bioinformation system, the facility is an amusement park, the equipment is an attraction set up on the grounds of the amusement park, and the visitor's behavior at the equipment is the visitor's use of the attraction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0015] According to the present invention, biometric information can be used to manage entrance to a facility and also to manage behavior within equipment within the facility. In other words, biometric information can be used for multiple purposes. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0016] [Figure 1] Layout diagram of an event venue in the first embodiment of the present invention [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a system configuration diagram of the event system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] (a) A front view of a reception device provided in the event system, (b) A block diagram of the reception device [Figure 4] (a) A front view of an entrance device provided in the event system, (b) A block diagram of the entrance device [Figure 5] (a) Front view of the booth terminal provided in the event system. (b) Block diagram of the booth terminal. [Figure 6] (a) Visitor table, (b) Exhibitor table, (c) Admission history table, (d) Visit history table [Figure 7] Reception process flow chart [Figure 8] Admission process flow chart [Figure 9] Visit Processing Flow Diagram [Figure 10] Operation management server flow diagram [Figure 11] Biometric information management server flow chart [Figure 12] Layout diagram of a pool facility in a second embodiment of the present invention [Figure 13] System configuration diagram of the pool system according to the second embodiment [Figure 14] (a) A front view of a reception device provided in the pool system, (b) A side view of the reception device, and (c) A block diagram of the reception device. [Figure 15] (a) A front view of the entrance / exit device provided in the pool system, (b) A block diagram of the entrance device [Figure 16] (a) is a front view of a changing locker device provided in the pool system; (b) is a side view of a locker terminal; (c) is a block diagram of the changing locker device. [Figure 17] (a) Front view of the kiosk provided in the pool system, (b) Block diagram of the kiosk terminal [Figure 18](a) A front view of an automatic fare adjustment device provided in the pool system. (b) A block diagram of the automatic fare adjustment device. [Figure 19] (a) Visitor table, (b) Entry history table, (c) Exit history table, (d) Changing locker management table, (e) Valuables locker management table, (f) Sales management table [Figure 20] Changing locker management process flow [Figure 21] Operation management server flow diagram [Figure 22] Sales management process flow chart [Figure 23] Flow diagram of deferred payment processing [Figure 24] Exit processing flow chart [Figure 25] Layout diagram of an amusement park in the third embodiment of the present invention [Figure 26] Block diagram of an amusement park system according to a third embodiment [Figure 27] (a) A front view of the entrance device of the amusement park system. (b) A block diagram of the entrance device. [Figure 28] (a) Visitor table, (b) Admission history table, (c) Usage management table [Figure 29] Flow diagram of the operation management server of the above amusement park system [Figure 30] Usage confirmation process flow chart DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0017] [First embodiment]

[0018] <Overview of the event system> An event system 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 11. The event system 100 is a system that uses biometric information to manage and operate an event, and in this embodiment, an exhibition will be described as an example of an event.

[0019] As shown in Figure 1, a plurality of booths 11 set up by exhibitors are set up within an event venue 10. The event venue 10 also has two entrances leading into the venue. One of the two entrances is used as an entrance 12, and the other is used as an exit.

[0020] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the event system 100 includes a plurality of reception devices 110 located outside the event venue 10, a plurality of entrance devices 120 located at the entrance 12, booth terminals 140 installed in each of a plurality of booths 11, an operation management server 150, and a biometric information management server 160.

[0021] <Reception device 110> 2 and 3, the reception device 110 is a device that receives visitors and receives admission, and in this embodiment, multiple (three) reception devices 110 are placed on desks located outside the venue. Each reception device 110 is equipped with a reception terminal 111 and a printer 112.

[0022] The reception terminal 111 is a terminal that performs processes related to visitor admission reception in cooperation with the operation management server 150 and the biometric information management server 160 (described later), and is an information processing terminal such as a tablet terminal. The reception terminal 111 has a touch panel display 113, a network module 114, a camera 115, a Bluetooth (registered trademark) module 116, a memory 117, and a CPU 118. The touch panel display 113 functions as a display unit that displays information and an input unit that accepts input operations by visitors. The network module 114 functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the operation management server 150 and the biometric information management server 160 via a network. The camera 115 functions as an imaging unit that captures images of visitor faces. The Bluetooth module 116 functions as a short-range wireless communication unit that communicates wirelessly with nearby devices. The memory 117 functions as a storage unit that stores applications and information that define the processes described later. The CPU 118 functions as a processing unit that executes applications stored in the memory 117.

[0023] The printer 112 functions as a printing unit that prints information about visitors. The printer 112 is a printer 112 that is capable of Bluetooth communication, and prints the print information received from the reception terminal 111. In this embodiment, a small, portable printer 112 is used.

[0024] <Entrance device 120> 2 and 4, the entrance device 120 is a device that authenticates the entry qualifications of visitors and allows authenticated visitors to pass through, and in this embodiment, multiple (two) entrance devices 120 are installed at the entrance 12. Each of the entrance devices 120 includes an entrance terminal 121 and a gate device 122.

[0025] The entrance terminal 121 is a terminal that performs processes related to visitor entry by cooperating with the operation management server 150 and the biometric information management server 160, which will be described later. In this embodiment, an information processing terminal such as a small (smartphone-sized) tablet terminal is used. Like the reception terminal 111, the entrance terminal 121 includes a touch panel display 123 that functions as a display unit and an input unit, a network module 124 that functions as a network communication unit, a camera 125 that functions as an imaging unit, a Bluetooth module 126 that functions as a short-range wireless communication unit, a memory 127 that functions as a storage unit, and a CPU 128 that functions as a processing unit. The entrance terminal 121 is attached to a portable stand and placed near the face of the visitor.

[0026] The gate device 122 functions as a permission unit that permits entry (passage) of authenticated visitors. The gate device 122 of this embodiment is a so-called flap-type gate device 122, and includes housings 128 arranged on both sides of the passageway and a pair of flaps 129 provided on the inside of each housing 128. Each housing 128 is provided with an opening / closing mechanism (not shown) that opens and closes the flap 129, and a control device (not shown) that controls the opening / closing mechanism based on an opening command received via Bluetooth communication. Casters (not shown) are attached to the housings 128, making the gate device 122 movable. Therefore, the entrance device 120 is installed at the entrance 12 when an event is held and removed when the event is over.

[0027] <Booth terminal 140> 2 and 5, the booth terminal 140 is a terminal that functions as an acquisition unit that acquires facial images (biometric information) of visitors who visit the booth 11. In this embodiment, an information processing terminal such as a tablet terminal is used. Like the reception terminal 111, the booth terminal 140 includes a touch panel display 143 that functions as a display unit and an input unit, a network module 144 that functions as a network communication unit, a camera 145 that functions as an imaging unit, a memory 147 that functions as a storage unit, and a CPU 148 that functions as a processing unit. The booth terminal 140 is attached to a portable stand 149 and placed in a position near the face of the visitor.

[0028] The reception terminal 111, entrance terminal 121, and booth terminal 140 are capable of communicating with an operation management server 150 and a biological information management server 160 via a network.

[0029] <Operation management server 150> The operation management server 150 shown in Fig. 2 is a server that functions as a management unit that manages the operation of the event, and is equipped with a database that functions as an operation management information storage unit that stores information related to the operation management (hereinafter referred to as "operation management information"). The operation management information is typically visitor information related to visitors to the event, exhibitor information related to exhibitors, entrance history information related to the entrance history of visitors, and visit history information related to the visit history of booths 11. These pieces of information will be explained below with reference to Fig. 6.

[0030] Visitor information includes the visitor's name, the name of the company to which the visitor belongs, the company's address, the visitor's contact information (email address, etc.), and the date of visit, and this information is stored in the visitor table. Therefore, the visitor table functions as a visitor information storage unit that stores visitor information. The visitor table has a visitor ID field that stores visitor identification information (hereinafter referred to as "visitor ID") that is assigned to each visitor so that it is unique, a name field that stores the visitor's name, a company name field that stores the company's name, an address field that stores the company's address, an email address field that stores the email address, and a visit date field that stores the date of visit.

[0031] The exhibitor information includes the exhibitor's name, exhibitor's location, exhibitor's contact information, and booth information, and this information is stored in the exhibitor table. Therefore, the exhibitor table functions as an exhibitor information storage unit that stores exhibitor information. The exhibitor table includes an exhibitor ID field that stores exhibitor identification information (hereinafter referred to as "exhibitor ID") that is assigned to each exhibitor so that it is unique, a name field that stores the exhibitor's name, a location field that stores the exhibitor's location, an email address field that stores email addresses, and a booth ID field that stores the identification information (hereinafter referred to as "booth ID") of the booth 11 assigned to the exhibitor.

[0032] The admission history information is the visitor's admission date and time and the visitor ID of the visitor, and this information is stored in the admission history table. Therefore, the admission history table functions as an admission history information storage unit that stores admission history information. The admission history table has an admission date and time field that stores the admission date and time, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID.

[0033] The visit history information is the visitor ID of the visitor who visited and the booth ID of the visitor's booth, and this information is stored in the visit history table. Therefore, the visit history table functions as a visit information storage unit that stores visit information. The visit history table has a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID of the visitor who visited and a booth ID field that stores the booth ID of the visitor's booth.

[0034] The operation management server 150 shown in Fig. 2 includes a network module, memory, and CPU (not shown). The network module functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the above devices and terminals via a network. The memory functions as a storage unit that stores an operation management program that defines the processes for managing the operation of an event. The CPU functions as a processing unit that executes the operation management program.

[0035] <Biometric information management server 160> The biometric information management server 160 shown in FIG. 2 is a server that functions as a biometric information management unit that manages biometric information, and includes a database that functions as a biometric information storage unit that stores biometric information. Here, biometric information refers to information related to a person's physical features, such as face, iris, auricle, voiceprint, palm shape, and fingerprints. In this embodiment, information that indexes facial features (hereinafter referred to as "facial feature information") is used. The database includes a facial feature table that functions as a facial feature information storage unit that stores the facial feature information. The facial feature table includes a facial feature information field that stores the facial feature information of a visitor, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID of the visitor. In this way, the visitor's biometric information is stored in association with the visitor ID.

[0036] The biological information management server 160 includes a network module, a memory, and a CPU (not shown). The network module functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the above-mentioned devices and terminals via a network. The memory functions as a storage unit that stores a biological information management program that defines the process of managing biological information. The CPU functions as a processing unit that executes the biological information management program.

[0037] <System flow> The following describes the system flow of the event system 100. The system flow includes reception processing, admission processing, and visit processing.

[0038] <Reception process> 7, the reception process is a process for receiving visitors to the exhibition, and is executed by the reception device 110, the operation management server 150, and the biometric information management server 160. This will be explained in detail below.

[0039] First, the CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 of the reception device 110 executes a reception application stored in the memory 117. The reception process first executes an input process (s110). In the input process (s110), the CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 displays an input box for application information on the touch panel display 113. The application information includes the visitor's name, company name, address, email address, and date of visit. The visitor operates the touch panel display 113 to input the application information. When the application information is input, the CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 stores the application information in the memory 117 and transmits a visitor registration request including the application information to the operation management server 150.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 10, when the operation management server 150 receives a visitor registration request (s140: yes), it executes a visitor registration process (s141). In the visitor registration process (s141), the CPU of the operation management server 150 adds a new record to the visitor table and registers application information in each field of the new record. At this time, a new visitor ID is assigned and registered in the visitor ID field of the new record. When the visitor registration process is completed, the CPU of the operation management server 150 executes a completion notification process (s142). In the completion notification process (s142), the CPU of the operation management server 150 sends a registration completion notification including the visitor ID to the reception terminal 111 that sent the request.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 7, when the CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 receives the registration completion notification, it stores the visitor ID in memory and executes a selection process (s112). The selection process (s112) is a process that allows the visitor to select whether to register the visitor's face or to issue a QR code. If the visitor selects face registration, the visitor will be identified by capturing an image of the visitor's face in the entry process and visit process, which will be described later. On the other hand, if the visitor selects the QR code, the visitor will be identified by presenting the QR code in the entry process and visit process, which will be described later.

[0042] When face registration is selected in the selection process (s112), the CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 executes an image capturing process (s113). In the image capturing process (s113), the CPU 118 drives the camera 115 of the reception terminal 111 and acquires images generated at a predetermined frame rate from the camera 115. The CPU 118 then displays the acquired images on the touch panel display 113. At this time, an image of the visitor's face is generated by guiding the visitor to position their face in front of the camera 115 (displaying the face position on the touch panel display 113). The CPU 118 then transmits a face registration request including the image and the visitor ID to the biometric information management server 160. Note that the number of images included in the face registration request is not limited to one, and multiple images may be included. The CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 may also transmit a face registration request to the biometric information management server 160 every time an image is acquired from the camera 115. In this way, the reception terminal 111 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires images of the faces of visitors.

[0043] As shown in FIG. 11, when the biometric information management server 160 receives a registration request (image and visitor ID) (s150), it executes a registration process. In the registration process, the CPU of the biometric information management server 160 analyzes the received image and calculates facial features (information related to facial features) contained in the image (s151). The CPU registers the calculated features and the received visitor ID in a facial feature table (s152). Thereafter, the CPU transmits a registration completion notification to the reception terminal 111 that sent the request (s153).

[0044] 7, when a QR code is selected in the selection process (s112), the CPU 118 of the reception terminal 111 converts the visitor ID stored in the memory 117 into a QR code, and generates print information based on the QR code and the application information stored in the memory 117. The CPU 118 then transmits the print information to the printer 112.

[0045] When the printer 112 receives the print information, it prints the received print information. This generates a card on which a QR code identifying the visitor ID, the visitor's name, and the company name are printed. The visitor places the card in a card holder and carries it with them.

[0046] When the above process is completed, CPU 118 of reception terminal 111 displays a screen indicating that reception has been completed on touch panel display 113, and executes input processing (s110) to start reception processing for the next visitor. As described above, CPU 118 of reception terminal 111 functions as a reception unit that receives visitors.

[0047] <Entry process> 8, the entrance process is a process executed when entering the exhibition hall, and is executed by the entrance device 120, the operation management server 150, and the biometric information management server 160. This will be explained in detail below.

[0048] First, the CPU of the entrance terminal 121 of the entrance device 120 executes the entrance application stored in memory. In this entrance process, a selection process (s120) is executed. The selection process (s120) is a process that allows the visitor to select from two entrance methods. One of the entrance methods is a method of entering by presenting a QR code. The other entrance method is a method of entering by capturing an image of the visitor's face. The CPU of the entrance terminal 121 displays a GUI on the touch panel display that allows the visitor to select either "QR entry" (an entry method by presenting a QR code) or "face entry" (an entry method by capturing an image of the face).

[0049] If "QR Entry" is selected in the above selection process (s120), the CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 executes a QR code reading process. The QR code reading process is a process for reading a visitor ID from the QR code presented by the visitor. The CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 drives the camera 125 and acquires an image from the camera 125. The CPU 128 then executes a known QR code detection algorithm on the acquired image. Once the CPU 128 has read the visitor ID from the QR code, it executes a transmission process (s126) described below.

[0050] If "Face Entry" is selected in the above selection process (s120), the CPU of the entrance terminal 121 executes a face image acquisition process (s122). The face image acquisition process (s122) is a process for acquiring an image of the face of a visitor attempting to enter. The CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 drives the camera 125, acquires an image from the camera 125, and determines whether or not a face is present in the image. The method for this determination is not particularly limited, and a determination method using machine learning or a determination method based on the characteristics of face components (eyes, nose, mouth, contours, etc.) can be used. If it is determined that a face is included, the image is stored in the memory 127. In this way, the CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires the face image of the visitor.

[0051] In the face image acquisition process (s122), if a face image cannot be acquired (s123: no), the selection process (s120) is executed.

[0052] In the face image acquisition process (s122), if a face image can be acquired (s123: yes), a transmission process (s124) is executed. In the transmission process (s124), the CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 160.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 11, when the biometric information management server 160 receives an identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes an identification process (s155). The identification process (s155) is a process for identifying a visitor ID based on the received image. First, the CPU of the biometric information management server 160 calculates facial features in the received image. Then, the CPU searches a facial feature table for features that match or are similar to the calculated features, and extracts a visitor ID corresponding to the searched features.

[0054] Next, the CPU of the biometric information management server 160 executes a transmission process (s156) to transmit the identified visitor ID to the requesting entrance terminal 121. If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the entrance terminal 121 to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 8, when the CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 receives information indicating that the person cannot be identified, it executes the face image acquisition process (s122).

[0056] When the CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 acquires the visitor ID, it transmits a confirmation request including the visitor ID to the operation management server 150.

[0057] As shown in Fig. 10, when the operation management server 150 receives a confirmation request (attendee ID) (s143: yes), it executes a confirmation process (s144). The confirmation process (s144) is a process for confirming the legitimacy of the attendee ID based on the received attendee ID. The CPU of the operation management server 150 searches the attendee table for a record corresponding to the received attendee ID. Then, the CPU references the arrival date included in the searched record and compares the arrival date with the current date.

[0058] If the dates match in the above comparison, a result notification indicating that the request is valid is sent to the entrance terminal 121 that made the request in the result notification process (s145). At this time, the visitor ID and the current date and time are associated and registered in the entrance history table (s146). On the other hand, if the dates do not match, a result notification indicating that the request is invalid is sent to the entrance terminal 121 in the result notification process (s145).

[0059] 8, when the CPU 128 of the entrance terminal 121 receives a result notification indicating that the transaction is invalid (s127: no), the CPU 128 executes a display process (s128). In this display process (s128), a message indicating that the transaction will be accepted again is displayed on the touch panel display.

[0060] If the CPU of the entrance terminal 121 receives a result notification indicating authenticity (s127: yes), it executes gate opening processing (s129). In the gate opening processing (s129), an opening command is sent from the entrance terminal 121 to the gate device 122. Upon receiving the opening command, the gate device 122 opens the flap, thereby allowing the visitor to enter the venue.

[0061] <Visit Processing> The visit process is a process that is executed when a visitor visits the booth 11, and is executed by the booth terminal 140, the operation management server 150, and the biometric information management server 160. A specific description will be given below.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 9, the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 executes a visitor reception application stored in the memory 147. In this visit process, first, a selection process (s130) is executed. The selection process (s130) is a process that allows the visitor to select one of two reception methods. The first reception method is a method of reception by presenting a QR code. The second reception method is a method of reception by capturing an image of the face. In this selection process (s130), the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 displays on the touch panel display 143 a GUI that allows the visitor to select either "QR reception" (a reception method by presenting a QR code) or "face reception" (a reception method by capturing an image of the face).

[0063] If the reception method of presenting a QR code is selected in the selection process (s130), the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 executes a QR code reading process (s131). The QR code reading process (s131) is a process of reading a visitor ID from the QR code presented by the visitor. The CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 drives the camera 145 and acquires an image from the camera 145. The CPU 148 then executes a known QR code detection algorithm on the acquired image. After reading the visitor ID from the QR code, the CPU 148 executes a transmission process (s136) described below.

[0064] If the reception method using facial imaging is selected in the selection process (s130), the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 executes a facial image acquisition process (s132). The facial image acquisition process (s132) is a process for acquiring an image of the face of a visitor who has visited the booth 11. In the facial image acquisition process (s132), the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 drives the camera 145, acquires an image from the camera 145, and analyzes whether or not the acquired image contains a face. The method for analyzing the face is not particularly limited, and the presence or absence of a face may be determined based on an analysis method using machine learning or the characteristics of facial components (eyes, nose, mouth, contours, etc.). In this way, the booth terminal 140 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires an image of the visitor's face.

[0065] In the face image acquisition process (s132), if a face image cannot be acquired (s133: no), the selection process (s130) is executed.

[0066] In the face image acquisition process (s132), if a face image is acquired (s133: yes), a transmission process (s134) is executed. In the transmission process (s134), the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 160.

[0067] When the CPU of the biometric information management server 160 receives the identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes the above-mentioned identification process (s155) and transmits the identified visitor ID to the booth terminal 140 that sent the request (s156). If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the booth terminal 140 in the transmission process (s156) to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0068] If the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 receives information indicating that the person cannot be identified (s135: no), the CPU 148 executes the face image acquisition process (s132).

[0069] When the CPU of the booth terminal 140 acquires the visitor ID (s135: yes), it transmits a visit registration request including the visitor ID and the booth ID assigned to the booth terminal 140 to the operation management server 150.

[0070] 10, when the operation management server 150 receives a visit registration request (visitor ID and booth ID) (s147: yes), it executes a visit registration process (s148). The visit registration process (s148) is a process for registering the received visitor ID and booth ID in a visit history table in association with each other. After completing the visit registration process (s148), the CPU of the operation management server 150 executes a completion notification process (s149) for sending a registration completion notification to the booth terminal 140 that sent the request.

[0071] When the CPU 148 of the booth terminal 140 receives the registration completion notification, it displays on the touch panel display (s137) that the reception is complete, and then executes the above-mentioned selection process (s130) to receive the next visit.

[0072] <Visitor Management> In the event system 100, visitor information and admission history information are stored in a database of the operation management server 150. The exhibition organizer can request the operation management server 150 to transmit visitor information and admission history information from the organizer's terminal. Upon receiving the request, the operation management server 150 transmits the visitor information and admission history information stored in the database to the terminal that sent the request.

[0073] <Visit management> In the event system 100, attendee information and visitor information are stored in a database in the operation management server 150. Exhibitors can request the operation management server 150 to send information about their visitors from their terminals. When the operation management server 150 receives the request, it extracts the booth ID corresponding to the exhibitor from the exhibitor table and the visitor ID corresponding to the booth ID from the visit history table. It then extracts the visitor information corresponding to the visitor ID from the visitor table. The visitor information extracted in this way is sent to the terminal of the exhibitor that sent the request.

[0074] <Event System 100 Effects> According to the event system 100, facial images, which are biometric information of visitors, can be used not only for managing visitor attendance but also for managing visits to each booth 11. Furthermore, at events such as exhibitions, the number of reception staff, entrance guide staff, and booth staff can be reduced.

[0075] [Second embodiment]

[0076] <Overall Overview of Pool System 200> A pool system 200 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 12 to Fig. 23. The pool system 200 according to this embodiment is a system that uses biological information to manage the operation of a pool facility 201. The flow of the biological information management server 290 in the second embodiment is the same as the flow of the biological information management server 160 in the first embodiment (Fig. 11).

[0077] As shown in Fig. 12, pool facility 201 has multiple facilities within its premises. The multiple facilities are typically a flowing water pool, an indoor pool, separate changing rooms for men and women, and changing locker devices 240 provided in each changing room, but the facility of this embodiment also has multiple shops provided on the poolside and a valuables device 250 provided on the poolside. Pool facility 201 also has a single entrance leading to the facility.

[0078] As shown in Figures 12 and 13, this pool system 200 comprises multiple reception devices 210 installed outside the entrance (outside the facility) of the pool facility 201, entry / exit devices 220, 230 installed at the entrances and exits, changing locker devices 240 installed in each changing room, a valuables device 250 installed at the poolside, a convenience store device 260 installed in the convenience store, an automatic settlement device 270 installed at the poolside, an operation management server 280, and a biometric information management server 290.

[0079] <Reception device 210> As shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 , in this embodiment, multiple (two) reception devices 210 are installed outside the entrance / exit. Each reception device 210 performs processes related to visitor admission reception in cooperation with an operation management server 280 and a biometric information management server 290 (described later). The reception device 210 includes a housing 212 fixed to the ground by anchor bolts or other fixing means, and a tablet terminal 211 (information processing terminal) attached to the housing 212. The housing 212 stands upright, with the tablet terminal 211 mounted on top. The tablet terminal 211 includes a touch panel display 213, a network module 214, a camera 215, a memory 217, and a CPU 218. The touch panel display 213 functions as a display unit that displays information and an input unit that accepts input from visitors. The network module 214 functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the operation management server 280 and the biometric information management server 290 via a network. The camera 215 functions as an imaging unit that captures images of the faces of visitors. The memory 217 functions as a storage unit that stores applications and information that define the processes described below. The CPU 218 functions as a processing unit that executes applications.

[0080] <Entrance / Exit Devices 220, 230> 13 and 15, the entrance / exit devices 220, 230 include an entrance device 220 that authenticates the entry qualification of a visitor and allows the authenticated visitor to pass (enter), and an exit device 230 that checks whether the visitor is permitted to exit and allows the visitor to pass (exit) if it is determined that the visitor is permitted to exit. In this embodiment, one entrance / exit is divided into an entrance passage and an exit passage, and the entrance device 220 is installed in the entrance passage and the exit device 230 is installed in the exit passage. The entrance device 220 includes an entrance terminal 221 and a gate device 222, and the exit device 230 includes an exit terminal 231 and a gate device 232.

[0081] The entrance terminal 221 is a terminal that performs processes related to visitor entry by cooperating with the operation management server 280 and the biometric information management server 290, which will be described later. In this embodiment, an information processing terminal such as a small (smartphone-sized) tablet terminal is used. The entrance terminal 221 includes a touch panel display 223 that functions as a display unit and an input unit, a network module 224 that functions as a network communication unit, a camera 225 that functions as an imaging unit, a Bluetooth module 226 that functions as a short-range wireless communication unit, a memory 227 that functions as a storage unit, and a CPU 228 that functions as a processing unit. The entrance terminal 221 is fixed to the housing of the gate device 222.

[0082] The exit terminal 231 is a terminal that performs processes related to the exit of visitors by cooperating with the operation management server 280 and the biometric information management server 290 described below, and is a small tablet terminal similar to the entrance terminal 221. The memory of the exit terminal 231 stores an exit application that defines the processes related to exit, and the CPU executes the exit application.

[0083] The gate devices 222, 232 function as permission units that permit authenticated visitors to enter and exit the venue. The gate devices 222, 232 in this embodiment are so-called rotary bar type gate devices 222, 232. The entrance-side gate devices 222, 232 and the exit-side gate devices 222, 232 have the same configuration, although their installation orientations differ. Therefore, we will explain the entrance-side gate device 222 here, and omit the explanation of the exit-side gate device 232. The gate device 222 includes housings disposed on both sides of the entrance passage and a rotation bar 229 provided inside one of the housings. The housings include a structure for locking / unlocking the rotation of the rotation bar 229 and a control device that locks / unlocks the rotation bar 229 based on lock / unlock commands received via Bluetooth communication. The housing is fixed to the ground at the entrance / exit with anchor bolts or the like (not shown) and is immovable.

[0084] <Changing Locker Device 240> As shown in FIGS. 13 and 16, the changing locker device 240 is a device for storing the clothes and belongings of visitors, and includes a changing locker main body 242 and a locker terminal 241.

[0085] The changing locker body 242 is equipped with multiple storage compartments arranged vertically and horizontally, an opening / closing door provided for each storage compartment, and a locking / unlocking device 249 provided for each opening / closing door. Each storage compartment is assigned a locker number, which is displayed on the front of the opening / closing door. The locking / unlocking device 249 has Bluetooth communication capabilities and is a device that locks and unlocks the doors based on locking / unlocking commands received via Bluetooth communication; typically, an electronic lock or electric lock with Bluetooth communication capabilities is used.

[0086] The locker terminal 241 is a terminal that cooperates with the operation management server 280 and biometric information management server 290 (described below) and controls the locking / unlocking device 249 using the visitor's biometric information. In this embodiment, an information processing terminal such as a small (smartphone-sized) tablet terminal is used as the locker terminal 241. The locker terminal 241 includes a touch panel display 243 that functions as a display unit and an input unit, a network module 244 that functions as a network communication unit, a camera 245 that functions as an imaging unit, a Bluetooth module 246 that functions as a short-range wireless communication unit, a memory 247 that functions as a storage unit, and a CPU 248 that functions as a processing unit. The locker terminal 241 is provided on the side of the changing locker main body 242 and is fixed to the floor with anchor bolts (not shown).

[0087] <Valuables device 250> As shown in FIG. 13, the valuables device 250 is a device for storing valuables of visitors, and includes a valuables locker body (not shown) and a valuables terminal 251.

[0088] The valuables locker main body (not shown), like the changing locker main body 242, is equipped with a plurality of storage chambers, a plurality of opening and closing doors, and a plurality of locking / unlocking devices 259. The storage chambers and their opening and closing doors of the valuables locker main body are smaller than the storage chambers and their opening and closing doors of the changing locker main body 242. The locking / unlocking devices 259 also lock and unlock the opening and closing doors based on locking / unlocking commands received via Bluetooth communication, like the locking / unlocking device 249 of the changing locker main body 242.

[0089] Similar to the locker terminal 241, the valuables terminal 251 is a terminal that cooperates with the operation management server 280 and biometric information management server 290 (described later), and uses the visitor's biometric information to control the locking / unlocking device 242. The specific hardware configuration of the valuables terminal 251 is the same as that of the locker terminal 241, so a description thereof will be omitted.

[0090] <Kissor Device 260> As shown in FIGS. 13 and 17, the store device 260 is a device for processing payments for products purchased by visitors at the store, and includes a known cash register device 262 and a store terminal 261.

[0091] The cash register 262 includes a cash register body that inputs purchased items and calculates the total price of the input items, and a cash drawer that stores cash. The cash register 262 can communicate with the operation management server 280 via the network, and can wirelessly communicate with the store terminal 261 using Bluetooth communication.

[0092] The kiosk terminal 261 is a terminal that cooperates with the operation management server 280 and the biometric information management server 290 (described later) and acquires biometric information of visitors in order to manage their purchase history at the kiosk. In this embodiment, an information processing terminal such as a tablet terminal is used as the kiosk terminal 261. The kiosk terminal 261 includes a touch panel display 263 that functions as a display unit and an input unit, a network module 264 that functions as a network communication unit, a camera 265 that functions as an imaging unit, a Bluetooth module 266 that functions as a short-range wireless communication unit, a memory 267 that functions as a storage unit, and a CPU 268 that functions as a processing unit. The kiosk device 260 is attached to a portable stand and placed on the counter of the kiosk.

[0093] <Automatic payment device 270> As shown in FIGS. 13 and 18 , the automatic settlement device 270 is a device for settling fees incurred when using the pool facility 201. These fees typically include the entrance fee to the pool facility 201, the fee for using the changing locker device 240, the fee for using the valuables device 250, and the cost of food purchased at the convenience store. Like known automatic settlement devices that can be used outdoors, the automatic settlement device 270 is a device that can accept cash or credit card payments, and is provided on its front side with a touch panel display 273, a coin slot, a bill slot, a credit card reader 276, and a change / receipt outlet. The touch panel display 273 functions as a display unit that displays information related to settlement and as an input unit that accepts input from visitors. Coins inserted into the coin slot are counted by a coin counter 271. Furthermore, bills inserted into the bill slot are counted by a bill counter 272. The touch panel display 273, coin counter 271, bill counter 272, and credit card reader 276 are connected to a computer provided inside the housing. The automatic payment device 270 further includes a network module 274 and a camera 275. The network module 274 functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the operation management server 280 and the biometric information management server 290 via the network. The camera 275 functions as an imaging unit that captures an image of the face of a visitor positioned in front of the automatic payment device 270.

[0094] As shown in Figure 13, the reception terminal, entrance terminal 221, exit terminal 231, locker terminal 241, valuables terminal 251, shop terminal 261, and automatic settlement device 270 are capable of communicating with an operation management server 280 and a biometric information management server 290 via a network.

[0095] <Operation Management Server 280> The operations management server 280 is a server that functions as a management unit that manages the operations of the pool, and is equipped with a database that functions as an operations management information storage unit that stores information related to operations management (hereinafter referred to as "operations management information"). The operations management information typically includes visitor information about visitors to the pool facility 201, entry history information about visitor entry histories, exit history information about visitor exit histories, changing locker management information about the management of the changing locker devices 240, valuables locker management information about the management of the valuables device 250, and concession stand management information about the management of sales. The following explanation will be given with reference to FIG. 19.

[0096] Visitor information includes the visitor's name and visit date, and this information is stored in the visitor table. Therefore, the visitor table functions as a visitor information storage unit that stores visitor information. The visitor table has a visitor ID field that stores visitor identification information (hereinafter referred to as "visitor ID") that is assigned to each visitor so that it is unique, a name field that stores the visitor's name, and a visit date field that stores the visitor's date. Visitor information is registered in the visitor table during the reception process. Note that visitor information may also include information such as the visitor's address, age, and contact information.

[0097] The admission history information is the visitor's admission date and time and the visitor ID of the visitor, and this information is stored in the admission history table. Therefore, the admission history table functions as an admission history information storage unit that stores admission history information. The admission history table has an admission date and time field that stores the admission date and time, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID. The admission history information is registered in the admission history table during the admission process.

[0098] Exit history information is the visitor's exit date and time and the visitor ID of the visitor, and this information is stored in the exit history table. Therefore, the exit history table functions as an exit history information storage unit that stores exit history information. The exit history table has an exit date and time field that stores the exit date and time, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID. Exit history information is registered in the exit history table during the exit process.

[0099] The changing locker management information is the number assigned to the storage room in the changing locker body 242 and the visitor ID of the visitor (user) using the storage room, and this information is stored in the changing locker management table. Therefore, the changing locker management table functions as a changing locker management information storage unit that stores changing locker management information. The changing locker management table has a number field that stores the locker number assigned to the storage room and a user field that stores the visitor ID of the visitor (user) using the storage room. Note that the changing locker management information is not limited to the above information and may also include the start date and time of use and the end date and time of use.

[0100] The valuables locker management information is the locker number assigned to the storage room in the valuables locker itself and the visitor ID of the visitor (user) who uses the storage room, and this information is stored in the valuables locker management table. Therefore, the valuables locker management table functions as a valuables locker management information storage unit that stores valuables locker management information. The valuables locker management table has a number field that stores the locker number assigned to the storage room and a user field that stores the visitor ID of the visitor (user) who uses the storage room. Note that the valuables locker management information is not limited to the above information, and may also include the start date and time of use and the end date and time of use.

[0101] The concession stand management information includes the date and time of the sales, the details of the sales, the sales amount, a settlement flag indicating whether the payment has been settled or not, and the visitor ID of the visitor, and this information is stored in the sales management table. Therefore, the sales management table functions as a concession stand management information storage unit that stores the concession stand management information. The sales management table includes a sales code field that stores the sales code, a date and time field that stores the date and time of the sales, a sales details field that stores the details of the sales, an amount field that stores the sales amount, a settlement flag field that stores the settlement flag, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID. While FIG. 19 lists the sales of merchandise at the concession stand as the sales details, as mentioned above, the sales details also include the admission fee to the pool facility 201, the fee for using the changing locker device 240, and the fee for using the valuables device 250.

[0102] The operation management server 280 shown in Figure 13 includes a network module, memory, and CPU (not shown). The network module functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the above-mentioned devices and terminals via a network. The memory functions as a storage unit that stores an operation management program that defines the processes for managing the operation of the pool facility 201. The CPU functions as a processing unit that executes the operation management program.

[0103] <Biometric information management server 290> The biometric information management server 290 is a server that functions as a biometric information management unit that manages biometric information, and is equipped with a database that functions as a biometric information storage unit that stores biometric information. Biometric information is information about a person's physical characteristics, such as face, iris, auricle, voiceprint, palm shape, and fingerprints. In this embodiment, information that indexes facial characteristics (hereinafter referred to as "facial feature information") is used. The database is provided with a facial feature table that functions as a facial feature information storage unit that stores the facial feature information. The facial feature table is equipped with a facial feature information field that stores the facial feature information of a visitor, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID of the visitor.

[0104] The biological information management server 290 includes a network module, a memory, and a CPU (not shown). The network module functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the above-mentioned devices and terminals via a network. The memory functions as a storage unit that stores a biological information management program that defines the process of managing biological information. The CPU functions as a processing unit that executes the biological information management program.

[0105] <System flow> The following describes the system flow of the pool system 200. The system flow includes reception processing, entrance processing, changing locker management processing, valuables locker management processing, sales management processing, deferred payment processing, and exit processing.

[0106] <Reception process> The reception process is a process for receiving visitors to the pool facility 201, and is executed by the reception device 210, the operation management server 280, and the biometric information management server 290. Since this reception process is similar to the reception process in the first embodiment, a description of the common processes will be omitted. In the first embodiment, if a QR code is selected in the selection process (s112), a printing process (s115) is executed. However, this embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that a QR code provision process is executed. The QR provision process is a process for providing a visitor ID converted into a QR code (also referred to as a "visitor QR code") to a smartphone (mobile information terminal) owned by the visitor. For example, the CPU 218 of the reception device 210 uploads the visitor QR code to the operation management server 280, converts the URL of the upload destination into a QR code (the QR code is referred to as a "download QR code"), and displays the download QR code on the touch panel display 213. A visitor can download a visitor QR code by reading the download QR code with their own smartphone and accessing the operation management server 280, and save this visitor QR code on their smartphone. Then, in the process of selecting various processes described below, the visitor can display the visitor QR code on their smartphone and present the visitor QR code. Note that the QR provision process is not limited to the above-mentioned mode, and the visitor QR code may be sent to an email address specified by the visitor, or the visitor QR code may be displayed on the touch panel display 213 and the visitor may take a photograph of the visitor QR code.

[0107] <Entry process> The entrance process is executed when a visitor enters the pool facility 201, and is performed by the entrance device 220, the operation management server 280, and the biometric information management server 290. Since this entrance process is similar to the entrance process in the first embodiment, a description of the common processes will be omitted. In the first embodiment, if visitor verification is successful (s127: yes), a gate opening process (s129) is executed. However, in this embodiment, an unlocking process is executed. The unlocking process is a process for unlocking the lock state of the rotary bar of the gate device 222. This allows the visitor to rotate the rotary bar and enter the facility. Furthermore, the CPU of the operation management server 280 executes a sales registration process after the entrance registration process. In this sales registration process, the visitor ID of the visitor, the admission fee as the sales details, and the admission amount as the amount are registered in the sales management table, and the settlement flag is set to 0 (unsettled).

[0108] <Changing Locker Management Processing> The changing locker management process shown in Fig. 20 is executed when the changing locker device 240 is used, and is executed by the changing locker device 240, the operation management server 280, and the biological information management server 290. This will be explained in detail below.

[0109] The premise of this changing locker management process will be explained. Before a visitor begins using the changing locker device 240, the visitor searches for an empty storage room and stores their clothing and belongings in that storage room. The changing locker management process is then executed by operating the locker terminal 241. On the other hand, when the visitor has finished using the changing locker device 240, the visitor also operates the locker terminal 241 to execute the changing locker management process.

[0110] The CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 executes the locker management application stored in memory. This starts the changing locker management process. In the changing locker management process, a designation process (s210) is first executed. The designation process (s210) is a process for designating the storage room that the visitor will start using / end using, and the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 displays an input box for the visitor to input the locker number and selection buttons for selecting the locker number on the touch panel display 243. When a locker number is designated by the visitor, the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 stores the designated locker number in the memory 247.

[0111] Next, the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 executes a selection process (s211). The selection process (s211) is a process that allows the visitor to select from two locking / unlocking methods. The first locking / unlocking method is a method in which locking / unlocking is performed by presenting a QR code. The second locking / unlocking method is a method in which locking / unlocking is performed by capturing an image of the face. In this selection process (s211), the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 displays a GUI on the touch panel display 243 that allows the visitor to select either "QR locking / unlocking" (a locking / unlocking method by presenting a QR code) or "face locking / unlocking" (a locking / unlocking method by capturing an image of the face).

[0112] In the above selection process, if "QR Lock / Unlock" is selected, the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 executes a QR code reading process (s212). The QR code reading process (s212) is the same as the QR code reading process (s121) in the first embodiment. When the CPU 248 reads the visitor ID from the QR code, it executes a transmission process (s217) described below.

[0113] If "Facial Lock / Unlock" is selected in the selection process (s211), the locker terminal 241 executes a facial image acquisition process (s213). The facial image acquisition process (s213) is a process for acquiring a facial image of a visitor using the changing locker device 240, and is the same process as the facial image acquisition process (s122) in the first embodiment. In this way, the locker terminal 241 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires a facial image of the visitor.

[0114] In the face image acquisition process (s213), if a face image cannot be acquired (s214: no), the selection process (s211) is executed.

[0115] In the face image acquisition process (s213), if a face image is acquired (s214: yes), a transmission process (s215) is executed. In the transmission process (s215), the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 290.

[0116] When the biometric information management server 290 receives the identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes the identification process (s155) (FIG. 11). The details of the identification process (s155) are as described above. Next, the CPU of the biometric information management server 290 executes a transmission process (s156) to transmit the identified visitor ID to the locker terminal 241 that sent the request. If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the locker terminal 241 in the transmission process to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0117] If the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 receives information indicating that the person cannot be identified (s216: no), it executes the face image acquisition process (s213).

[0118] When the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 acquires the visitor ID (s216: yes), it transmits a locker management request including the visitor ID and the locker number stored in memory to the operation management server 280 (s217).

[0119] As shown in FIG. 21, when the CPU of the operations management server 280 receives a locker management request (visitor ID and locker number) (s220: yes), it executes a confirmation process (s221), an update process (s222), and a notification process (s223).

[0120] The confirmation process (s221) is a process that confirms the usage status based on the received locker number, and refers to the record corresponding to the locker number in the changing locker management table to confirm whether the visitor ID is registered in the user field of that record.

[0121] If the visitor ID is not registered in the user field, it is determined that the lock is vacant, and in the update process (s222), the received visitor ID is registered in the user field. Then, in the notification process (s223), a lock command is sent to the locker terminal 241. On the other hand, if a visitor ID is registered in the user field, it is determined that the visitor is currently using the facility, and the registered visitor ID is compared with the received visitor ID. If the comparison shows that the visitor IDs match, it is determined that the visitor's use has ended, and the visitor ID in the user field is deleted in the update process (s222). Then, in the notification process (s223), an unlock command is sent to the locker terminal 241. If the comparison shows that the visitor IDs do not match, it is determined that someone else is currently using the facility, and in the notification process (s223), an error is notified to the locker terminal 241. The above update process (s222) allows the usage status of each storage room to be managed. If a fee is incurred when using a locker, the update process (s222) adds a record to the sales management table, registering the visitor ID, usage fee, and locker use (sales details) in that record, and registering 0 (unsettled) in the settlement flag.

[0122] When the changing locker device 240 receives a notification from the operation management server 280, it executes a locking / unlocking process (s218) based on the command included in the notification. In the locking / unlocking process (s218), the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 sends a locking / unlocking command to each locking / unlocking device 242 in the changing locker body 242. The locking / unlocking command includes the locker number to be commanded and a locking / unlocking command. When each locking / unlocking device 242 receives a locking / unlocking command, it compares its own assigned locker number with the locker number in the locking / unlocking command, and if they match, it locks or unlocks the key in accordance with the command. If the locker numbers do not match, the locking / unlocking command is ignored. If the content of the notification is an error, the CPU 248 of the locker terminal 241 displays a message to that effect on the touch panel display 243.

[0123] <Valuables Locker Management> The valuables locker management process is executed when the valuables device 250 is used, and is performed by the valuables device 250, the operation management server 280, and the biometric information management server 290. This valuables locker management process is similar to the changing locker management process described above, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted.

[0124] <Sales management processing> As shown in FIG. 22, the sales management process is a process executed in response to the purchase of a product at a store, and is executed by the store device 260, the operation management server 280, and the biometric information management server 290.

[0125] In the sales management process, first, the cash register device 262 executes a product information acquisition process (s250). The product information acquisition process (s250) is a process for acquiring information about the product purchased by the visitor. The product information includes the product name and price. Product buttons are arranged on the keyboard of the cash register device 262, and the cash register device 262 identifies the product name and price based on input from the pressed product button.

[0126] Here, when a payment is made at the kiosk (s251), the cash register 262 executes a first transmission process (s252). The first transmission process (s252) is a process of sending a sales management request including the identified product name and amount to the operations management server 280. When the CPU of the operations management server 280 receives the sales management request (product name and amount) (s224: yes), it executes a registration process (s225). In the registration process (s225), the CPU of the operations management server 280 adds a new record to the sales management table, registers the received product name and amount in the new record, sets the payment flag for the new record, and registers the date and time of receipt in the date and time field.

[0127] On the other hand, if the payment is not made at the store (s251: no), the cash register 262 executes a second transmission process (s253). The second transmission process (s253) is a process of transmitting the identified product name and price to the store terminal 261. When the CPU 268 of the store terminal 261 receives the product name and price from the cash register 262, the CPU 268 stores the received product name and price in the memory 267.

[0128] Next, the CPU of the kiosk terminal 261 executes a selection process (s254). The selection process is a process that allows the visitor to select one of two management methods. The first management method is a method of management based on a presented QR code. The second management method is a method of management by capturing an image of the face. In this selection process (s254), the CPU 268 of the kiosk terminal 261 displays on the touch panel display 263 a GUI that allows the visitor to select either "QR management" (a management method by presenting a QR code) or "face management" (a management method by capturing an image of the face).

[0129] If "QR Management" is selected in the above selection process, the CPU 268 of the kiosk terminal 261 executes a QR code reading process (s255). The QR code reading process (s255) is similar to the QR code reading process (s121) of the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description will be omitted. After reading the visitor ID from the QR code, the CPU executes a fourth transmission process (s260) described below.

[0130] If "Face Management" is selected in the above selection process (s254), the shop terminal 261 executes a face image acquisition process (s256). The face image acquisition process (s256) is a process for acquiring a face image of a visitor who purchases a product, and is similar to the face image acquisition process (s122) in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. In this way, the shop terminal 261 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires a face image of a visitor.

[0131] In the face image acquisition process (s256), if a face image cannot be acquired (s257: no), the selection process (s254) is executed.

[0132] In the face image acquisition process (s256), if a face image is acquired (s257: yes), a third transmission process (s258) is executed. In the third transmission process (s258), the CPU 268 of the kiosk terminal 261 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 290.

[0133] When the biometric information management server 290 receives the identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes an identification process (s155). The details of the identification process (s155) are the same as those described above. Then, the CPU of the biometric information management server 290 executes a transmission process (s156) to transmit the identified visitor ID to the shop terminal 261 that sent the request. If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the shop terminal 261 in the transmission process (s156) to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0134] If the CPU 268 of the shop terminal 261 receives information indicating that the person cannot be identified (s259: no), it executes the face image acquisition process (s256).

[0135] When the CPU 268 of the shop terminal 261 acquires the visitor ID (s259: yes), it transmits to the operation management server 280 a sales management request including the visitor ID and the product name and price stored in memory.

[0136] When the CPU of the operation management server 280 receives a sales management request (visitor ID, product name, and price) (s224: yes), it executes a registration process (s225). In the registration process (s225), the CPU of the operation management server 280 adds a new record to the sales management table and registers the received visitor ID, product name, and price in the new record. Note that in this registration process (s225), the settlement flag is not set, and the transaction remains unsettled. When the CPU of the operation management server 280 completes the registration process (s225), it sends a completion notification to the store terminal 261 that made the request in a notification process (s226).

[0137] When the CPU 268 of the store terminal 261 receives the completion notification, it displays information indicating that the purchased product is now under management on the touch panel display 263 in a display process (s261), and executes a product information acquisition process (s250) to perform the next sales management.

[0138] <Postpaid processing> The deferred payment process shown in Fig. 23 is a process for settling unpaid fees, and is executed by cooperation between the automatic settlement device 270, the operation management server 280, and the biological information management server 290. A specific description will be given below.

[0139] The CPU of the computer 278 of the automatic payment device 270 executes the visit reception application stored in memory. This starts the post-payment process. In the post-payment process, first, a selection process (s270) is executed. The selection process (s270) is a process that allows the visitor to select one of two payment reception methods. The first payment reception method is a method of receiving payment by presenting a QR code. The second payment reception method is a method of receiving payment by capturing an image of the face. In the selection process (s270), the computer 278 displays a GUI on the touch panel display 273 that allows the visitor to select either "QR reception" (a reception method by presenting a QR code) or "face reception" (a reception method by capturing an image of the face).

[0140] If "QR Reception" is selected in the selection process (s270), the CPU of the computer 278 executes a QR code reading process (s271). The QR code reading process (s271) is a process for reading a visitor ID from the QR code presented by the visitor attempting to settle their bill, and as the process content is the same as the QR code reading process (s121) in the first embodiment, a detailed description will be omitted. Once the CPU has read the visitor ID from the QR code, it executes a transmission process (s276) to be described later.

[0141] If "Facial Reception" is selected in the above selection process (s270), the computer's CPU executes facial image acquisition process (s272). The facial image acquisition process (s272) is a process for acquiring an image of the face of the visitor operating the automatic settlement device 270, and is similar to the facial image acquisition process (s122) in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. In this way, the computer 278 of the automatic settlement device 270 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires an image of the visitor's face.

[0142] In the face image acquisition process (s272), if a face image cannot be acquired (s273: no), the selection process (s270) is executed.

[0143] In the face image acquisition process (s272), if a face image is acquired (s273: yes), a transmission process (s274) is executed. In the transmission process (s274), the CPU of the computer 278 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 290.

[0144] When the biometric information management server 290 receives the identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes the identification process (s155). The details of the identification process (s155) are as described above, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. Next, the CPU of the biometric information management server 290 executes the transmission process (s156) to transmit the identified visitor ID to the automatic payment device 270 that sent the request. If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the automatic payment device 270 in the transmission process (s156) to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0145] If the CPU of the computer 278 receives information indicating that the person cannot be identified (s273: no), it executes the face image acquisition process (s272).

[0146] When the CPU of the computer 278 acquires the visitor ID, it sends an unsettled confirmation request including the visitor ID to the operation management server 280.

[0147] When the CPU of the operation management server 280 receives the unsettled payment confirmation request (visitor ID) (s227: yes), it executes the unsettled payment confirmation process (s228). The unsettled payment confirmation process (s228) is a process for checking whether or not there are any unsettled payments, and searches the sales management table for a record that includes the received visitor ID. If there is no record that includes the visitor ID, it is determined that there are no unsettled payments, and a confirmation result indicating that there are no unsettled payments is sent to the automatic payment device 270 (notification process). On the other hand, if a record containing the visitor ID exists, the system checks the status of the settlement flag for that record. Then, it extracts records for which the settlement flag is not set (i.e., unsettled records), and sends a confirmation result, including the product name, amount, and sales code contained in the extracted record, to the automatic settlement device 270 (notification process). If the settlement flag is set, it sends a confirmation result to the automatic settlement device 270 indicating that all payments have been made.

[0148] When the computer 278 of the automatic settlement device 270 receives the confirmation result from the operation management server 280, it executes a result display process (s277) to display the confirmation result on the touch panel display 273.

[0149] Furthermore, if the received confirmation result includes a product name and amount, the computer 278 of the automatic settlement device 270 executes a known settlement process (s278) based on the product name and amount. That is, the computer 278 calculates the deposit amount based on input from the coin counter 271 and the bill counter 272, and settles the payment based on the deposited amount. This completes the settlement of the unsettled products. Thereafter, the computer 278 of the automatic settlement device 270 sends a settlement update request including the sales code corresponding to the product for which settlement has been completed to the operation management server 280 (s279).

[0150] When the CPU of the operation management server 280 receives the settlement update request (sales code) (s230: yes), it identifies the record in the sales management table that contains the received sales code and sets the settlement flag for that record (s231).

[0151] <Exit Processing> The exit process is a process executed when exiting the pool facility 201, and is executed by the exit device 230, the operation management server 280, and the biological information management server 290. A specific description will be given below.

[0152] First, the CPU of the exit terminal 231 of the exit device 230 executes the exit application stored in memory. This starts the exit process. In the exit process, first, a selection process (s280) is executed. The selection process (s280) is a process that allows the visitor to select one of two exit methods. The first exit method is a method of exiting by presenting a QR code. The second exit method is a method of exiting by capturing an image of the visitor's face. The CPU of the exit terminal 231 displays a GUI on the touch panel display that allows the visitor to select either "QR exit" (an exit method by presenting a QR code) or "face exit" (an exit method by capturing an image of the face).

[0153] If "QR Exit" is selected in the above selection process (s280), the CPU of the exit terminal 231 executes a QR code reading process (s281). The QR code reading process (s281) is a process for reading a visitor ID from the QR code presented by a visitor attempting to exit, and the process content is the same as the QR code reading process (s121) in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. Once the CPU reads the visitor ID from the QR code, it executes a transmission process (s286) described below.

[0154] If "Face Exit" is selected in the above selection process (s280), the CPU of the exit terminal 231 executes face image acquisition process (s282). The face image acquisition process is a process for acquiring an image of the face of a visitor who is about to exit, and the process content is the same as the face image reading process (s122) in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. In this way, the CPU of the exit terminal 231 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires the face image of the visitor.

[0155] If the face image cannot be acquired in the face image acquisition process (s282) (s283: no), the selection process (s280) is executed. If the face image can be acquired in the face image acquisition process (s282) (s283: yes), the transmission process (s284) is executed. In the transmission process (s284), the CPU of the exit terminal 231 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 290.

[0156] When the CPU of the biometric information management server 290 receives the identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes the identification process (s155). The identification process (s155) is as described above. Next, the CPU of the biometric information management server 290 executes the transmission process (s156) to transmit the identified visitor ID to the exit terminal 231 that sent the request. If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the exit terminal 231 to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0157] If the CPU of the exit terminal 231 receives information indicating that the visitor cannot be identified (s285: no), it executes the face image acquisition process (s282). If the CPU of the exit terminal 231 acquires the visitor ID (s285: yes), it transmits an exit confirmation request including the visitor ID to the operation management server 280 (s286).

[0158] When the operation management server 280 receives the exit confirmation request (visitor ID) (s232: yes), it executes the exit confirmation process (s233). The exit confirmation process (s233) is a process for confirming whether the visitor can exit based on the received visitor ID. The CPU of the operation management server 280 searches the sales management table for a record corresponding to the received visitor ID. The CPU then references the settlement flag included in the searched record and confirms whether the settlement flag is set (settled).

[0159] If the settlement flag is set, in the result notification process (s234), a result notification that exit is possible is sent to the exit terminal 231. At this time, in the exit registration process (s235), the visitor ID and the current date and time are associated and registered in the exit history table. If the settlement flag is not set, in the result notification process (s234), a result notification that exit is impossible is sent to the exit terminal 231.

[0160] If the CPU of the exit terminal 231 receives a result indicating that the visitor is allowed to leave (s287: yes), it executes an unlock process (s289). In the unlock process (s289), it sends an unlock command to the gate device 232. Upon receiving the unlock command, the gate device 232 unlocks the rotating bar. This allows the visitor to rotate the rotating bar to exit. If the CPU of the exit terminal 231 receives a result indicating that the visitor is not allowed to leave (s287: no), it displays in the display process (s288) that the payment has not been completed, and returns to the selection process (s280).

[0161] <Effects of Pool System 200> According to the pool system 200 of this embodiment, facial images, which are biometric information of visitors, can be used not only to manage visitor entry but also to manage the use of lockers in the changing rooms and the use of lockers for valuables. Therefore, in conventional pool facilities 201, visitors had to carry locker keys to swim, but with the pool system 200 of this embodiment, there is no need to carry a key.

[0162] Furthermore, according to the pool system 200 of this embodiment, the facial image, which is biometric information of the visitor, can be used for sales management and settlement management (post-payment) at the concession stand. In other words, since payment at the concession stand can be made after swimming, there is no need to carry a wallet while staying at the pool.

[0163] Furthermore, during the exit process, it is possible to check whether or not there are any outstanding payments, thereby preventing missed payments.

[0164] [Third embodiment]

[0165] <Overall Overview of Amusement Park System 300> An amusement park system 300 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 25 to 30. The amusement park system 300 is a system that uses biometric information in the operation of an amusement park. An amusement park is a place equipped with facilities for sightseeing and entertainment, and includes theme parks. Furthermore, amusement parks are not limited to outdoor parks, but also include indoor parks.

[0166] As shown in Fig. 25, an amusement park has a plurality of facilities within its grounds. The plurality of facilities are typically attractions for sightseeing and entertainment. In the amusement park of this embodiment, the available hours for each attraction are set in advance for each visitor to prevent visitors from concentrating on a particular attraction.

[0167] As shown in Figures 25 and 26, the amusement park system 300 includes a plurality of reception devices 310 located outside the park, an admission device 320 located at the entrance, and an attraction terminal 340 installed at the entrance to each attraction.

[0168] <Reception device 310> The reception device 310 of this amusement park system 300 is a device that performs processes related to visitor admission reception by cooperating with the operation management server 350 and the biometric information management server 360. Here, the reception device 310 of this embodiment has the same configuration as the reception device 210 of the second embodiment, and therefore detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0169] <Entrance device 320> 27, the entrance device 320 is a device that authenticates the entrance qualification of a visitor and permits the authenticated visitor to pass through (enter). The entrance device 320 includes a gate device 322 and an entrance terminal 321.

[0170] Gate device 322 functions as a permission unit that permits entry to authenticated visitors. Gate device 322 in this embodiment is a so-called walk-through type gate device 322, and its housing is composed of a pair of support pillars 332 erected on the left and right, and a beam-like portion 333 spanning the upper ends of each of the support pillars 332. A lamp 329 that indicates whether passage is permitted is provided on the front side of beam-like portion 333, and lamp 329 is electrically connected to a microcomputer 330 provided within beam-like portion 333. Microcomputer 330 is connected to a Bluetooth module 331, and communicates wirelessly with entrance terminal 321 using the Bluetooth module.

[0171] The entrance terminal 321 is a terminal that performs processes related to visitor entry by cooperating with the operation management server 350 and the biometric information management server 360 (described below). In this embodiment, an information processing terminal such as a small (smartphone-sized) tablet terminal is used. This tablet terminal is equipped with a touch panel display 323 that functions as a display unit and an input unit, a network module 324 that functions as a network communication unit, a camera 325 that functions as an imaging unit, a Bluetooth module 326 that functions as a short-range wireless communication unit, a memory 327 that functions as a storage unit, and a CPU 328 that functions as a processing unit. The entrance terminal 321 is fixed to a support pillar of the gate device 322.

[0172] <Attraction Terminal 340> The attraction terminal 340 is a terminal that confirms the use of attractions by cooperating with an operation management server 350 and a biometric information management server 360, which will be described later. The configuration of the attraction terminal 340 is the same as that of the booth terminal 140 in the first embodiment, and therefore a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0173] <Operation management server 350> The operations management server 350 is a server that functions as an operations information management unit that manages information related to the operation of the amusement park (hereinafter referred to as "operation information"), and is equipped with a database that functions as an operations information storage unit that stores the operation information. The operation information is typically visitor information related to visitors to the amusement park, admission history information related to the admission history of visitors, and usage information related to the usage times of attractions. The following explanation will be given with reference to FIG. 28.

[0174] Visitor information includes the visitor's name and visit date, and this information is stored in the visitor table. Therefore, the visitor table functions as a visitor information storage unit that stores visitor information. The visitor table has a visitor ID field that stores visitor identification information (hereinafter referred to as "visitor ID") that is assigned to each visitor so that it is unique, a name field that stores the visitor's name, and a visit date field that stores the visitor's date. Visitor information is registered in the visitor table during the reception process. Note that visitor information may also include information such as the visitor's address, age, and contact information.

[0175] The admission history information is the visitor's admission date and time and the visitor ID of the visitor, and this information is stored in the admission history table. Therefore, the admission history table functions as an admission history information storage unit that stores admission history information. The admission history table has an admission date and time field that stores the admission date and time, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID. The admission history information is registered in the admission history table during the admission process.

[0176] The usage information includes the visitor ID of the visitor and the available usage time for each attraction, and this information is stored in the usage management table. Therefore, the usage management table functions as a usage information storage unit that stores the usage information. The usage management table has a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID, and a usage time field that stores the available usage time (usage start time and usage end time) for each attraction. The usage information is registered in the usage management table during the reception process.

[0177] The operations management server 350 includes a network module, memory, and CPU (not shown). The network module functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the above-mentioned devices and terminals via a network. The memory functions as a storage unit that stores an operations management program that defines the processes for managing the operations of the amusement park. The CPU functions as a processing unit that executes the operations management program.

[0178] <Biometric information management server 360> The biometric information management server 360 is a server that functions as a biometric information management unit that manages biometric information, and is equipped with a database that functions as a biometric information storage unit that stores biometric information. Biometric information is information about a person's physical characteristics, such as face, iris, auricle, voiceprint, palm shape, and fingerprints. In this embodiment, information that indexes facial characteristics (hereinafter referred to as "facial feature information") is used. The database is provided with a facial feature table that functions as a facial feature information storage unit that stores the facial feature information. The facial feature table is equipped with a facial feature information field that stores the facial feature information of a visitor, and a visitor ID field that stores the visitor ID of the visitor.

[0179] The biological information management server 360 includes a network module, a memory, and a CPU (not shown). The network module functions as a network communication unit that communicates with the above-mentioned devices and terminals via a network. The memory functions as a storage unit that stores a biological information management program that defines the process of managing biological information. The CPU functions as a processing unit that executes the biological information management program.

[0180] <System flow> The following describes the system flow of the amusement park system 300. The system flow includes reception processing, admission processing, and usage confirmation processing.

[0181] <Reception process> The reception process is a process for receiving visitors to the amusement park, and is executed by the reception device 310, the operation management server 350, and the biometric information management server 360. Note that this reception process is similar to the reception process in the first embodiment, and therefore a description of the common parts will be omitted.

[0182] In this embodiment, in the input process (s110), in addition to inputting visitor information, the visitor selects the time at which they wish to use the attractions. To select the time, a timetable with pre-defined start and end times for each attraction is displayed on the touch panel display. Preferably, multiple timetable patterns are displayed. The visitor then selects the desired timetable by operating the touch panel display. Thereafter, in the transmission process, the CPU of the reception device 310 transmits a registration request including the visitor information and the selected timetable to the operation management server 350.

[0183] 29, when the CPU of the operation management server 350 receives a registration request (attendee information and timetable) (s140: yes), it registers the received attendee information in the attendee table in the attendee registration process (s141). Furthermore, the CPU of the operation management server 350 registers the attendee's usage information based on the received timetable in the usage management table in the usage time registration process (s300). Thereafter, the CPU of the operation management server 350 notifies the reception device 310 that the registration is complete in the completion notification process (s142).

[0184] Furthermore, the reception process of this embodiment executes a QR code providing process instead of the print process (s115) of the first embodiment. The QR code providing process is the same process as in the second embodiment.

[0185] <Entry process> The entrance process is executed when a visitor enters an amusement park, and is performed by the entrance device 320, the operation management server 350, and the biometric information management server 360. Note that this entrance process is similar to the entrance process in the first embodiment, and therefore a description of the common processes will be omitted. Here, in the first embodiment, if visitor verification is successful, a gate opening process (s129) is executed, but in this embodiment, a lamp lighting process is executed. The lamp lighting process is a process of lighting the lamp 329 of the gate device 322 in green. Specifically, the CPU of the entrance terminal 321 transmits a command to turn the lamp green to the gate device 322. Upon receiving the command, the microcomputer 330 of the gate device 322 lights the lamp 329 in green. This makes it possible to visually determine whether the visitor is permitted to enter the park.

[0186] <Usage confirmation process> The usage confirmation process shown in Figure 30 is a process for confirming whether or not an attraction can be used. The CPU of the attraction terminal 340 launches a usage confirmation application stored in memory. This starts the usage confirmation process. In the usage confirmation process, a selection process (s320) is first executed.

[0187] The selection process (s320) allows the visitor to select one of two verification methods. The first verification method is to confirm eligibility for use by presenting a QR code. The second reception method is to confirm eligibility for use by capturing an image of the visitor's face. In this selection process (s320), the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 displays a GUI on the touch panel display that allows the visitor to select either "QR verification" (a verification method by presenting a QR code) or "face verification" (a verification method by capturing an image of the visitor's face).

[0188] If "QR Confirmation" is selected in the above selection process, the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 executes a QR code reading process (s321). The QR code reading process (s321) is a process for reading a visitor ID from a QR code presented by a visitor at the entrance of the attraction, and the process content is the same as the QR code reading process (s121) in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. After reading the visitor ID from the QR code, the CPU executes a transmission process (s326) described below.

[0189] If "Face Verification" is selected in the selection process (s320), the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 executes a face image acquisition process (s322). The face image acquisition process (s322) is a process for acquiring an image of the face of a visitor who has come to the entrance of the attraction, and the process content is the same as the face image acquisition process (s122) in the first embodiment, so a description thereof will be omitted. In this way, the attraction terminal 340 functions as an acquisition unit that acquires an image of the face of the visitor.

[0190] If a face image cannot be acquired in the face image acquisition process (s322) (s323: no), the selection process (s320) is executed. On the other hand, if a face image is acquired in the face image acquisition process (s322) (s323: yes), the transmission process (s324) is executed. In the transmission process (s324), the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 transmits a specific request including the image to the biometric information management server 360.

[0191] When the biometric information management server 360 receives the identification request (image) (s154: yes), it executes an identification process (s155). The details of the identification process (s155) are as described above. Next, the CPU of the biometric information management server 360 executes a transmission process (s156) to transmit the identified visitor ID to the attraction terminal 340 that sent the request. If the visitor ID cannot be identified, the CPU transmits information to the attraction terminal 340 in the transmission process to the effect that the visitor ID cannot be identified.

[0192] If the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 receives information indicating that the visitor cannot be identified (s325: no), it executes the facial image acquisition process (s322). On the other hand, if the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 acquires the visitor ID (s325: yes), it transmits a usage confirmation request including the visitor ID and the terminal ID assigned to the attraction terminal 340 to the operation management server 350 (s326).

[0193] When the CPU of the operation management server 350 receives the usage confirmation request (visitor ID and terminal ID) (s310: yes), it executes usage confirmation processing (s311). The usage confirmation processing (s311) is a process for confirming whether the visitor is permitted to use the attraction in question, and extracts a record including the received visitor ID from the usage management table. Then, from the extracted record, it extracts the available usage time (usage start time and usage end time) for the attraction corresponding to the received terminal ID. If the current time is included in the extracted available usage time, it is determined that the attraction is available. On the other hand, if the current time is not included in the available usage time, it is determined that the attraction is not available.

[0194] In a result notification process (s312), the CPU of the operations management server 350 transmits the above determination to the attraction terminal 340. In a result display process (s327), the CPU of the attraction terminal 340 displays the received confirmation result (whether or not use is permitted) on the touch panel display.

[0195] According to the amusement park system 300 of this embodiment, biometric information can be used to not only manage admission to the amusement park but also manage usage schedules for each attraction.

[0196] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiment, and the following modifications may be made.

[0197] <Variation 1> In the above embodiment, the biometric information management server identifies visitors based on facial images. That is, the biometric information management server functions as an identification unit. However, the form of the identification unit is not limited to this form. For example, in the first embodiment, the entrance terminal 121 or the booth terminal 140 may identify visitors based on pre-registered facial features. Specifically, the CPU of the operation management server 150 references the visitor table, extracts the visitor IDs of visitors whose visit date is the current day, and transmits the extracted visitor IDs to the biometric information management server 160. The biometric information management server 160 extracts features corresponding to the received visitor IDs from the facial feature table, associates the extracted features with the visitor IDs, and transmits them to the entrance terminal 121 or the booth terminal 140. The entrance terminal 121 or the booth terminal 140 then calculates the features of the facial image acquired in the facial image acquisition process (s122, s132) and compares the calculated features with the features received from the biometric information management server 160. As a result of the matching, the visitor ID corresponding to the matching or most similar feature is identified. In this modified embodiment, the entrance terminal 121 functions as both the first acquisition unit and the first identification unit, and the booth terminal 140 functions as both the second acquisition unit and the second identification unit.

[0198] <Variation 2> In each of the above embodiments, a reception device is installed outside the facility, but this reception device is not essential and may be omitted. In such cases, visitors can install a reception application on their own smartphones and perform the reception process by running the reception application.

[0199] <Variation 3> The second embodiment is a biological information system using a pool facility as an example, but the biological information system may also be used in music events such as outdoor festivals. It may also be used in hot spring facilities and fitness gyms. [Explanation of symbols]

[0200] 100 Biological Information Systems 110 Reception device 120 Entrance device 140 booth terminals 150 Operation Management Server 160 Biometric information management server

Claims

1. a first acquisition unit that is installed at an entrance to the facility and acquires biometric information of visitors entering the facility; a second acquisition unit that is disposed corresponding to equipment within the facility and acquires biometric information of the visitor; a biometric information storage unit that stores biometric information of the visitor; an identification unit that identifies a visitor corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the first acquisition unit based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit, and also identifies a visitor corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the second acquisition unit based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit; a management unit that manages entry of the visitor into the facility based on the identification of the visitor by the identification unit, and also manages the visitor's behavior within the facility based on the identification of the visitor by the identification unit; A biometric information system comprising:

2. a third acquisition unit that is installed at an exit of the facility and acquires biometric information of visitors who are leaving the facility; an identification unit that identifies a visitor corresponding to the biometric information acquired by the third acquisition unit based on the biometric information stored in the biometric information storage unit; the management unit that manages the exit of the visitor from the facility based on the identification of the visitor by the identification unit; The bioinformation system according to claim 1 , comprising:

3. a fourth acquisition unit that acquires biometric information of the attendee; a registration unit that registers the biometric information acquired by the fourth acquisition unit in the biometric information storage unit; The bioinformation system according to claim 1 , comprising:

4. The facility is a venue where an exhibition is held, the facility is a booth set up within the venue, The biometric information system according to claim 1 , wherein the visitor's behavior at the facility is a visit to the booth by the visitor.

5. The facility includes a changing locker body provided within the facility, The biometric information system according to claim 1 , wherein the visitor's behavior in the facility is the visitor storing clothes in a changing locker body.

6. The facility includes a valuables locker body provided within the facility, 4. The biometric information system according to claim 1, wherein the visitor's behavior in the facility is the visitor storing valuables in the valuables locker body.

7. The facility includes a shop located within the facility; The biometric information system according to claim 1 , wherein the visitor's behavior in the facility is the visitor's purchase of a commodity in the shop.

8. the facility is an amusement park, the facility is an attraction provided within the grounds of the amusement park, The biometric information system according to claim 1 , wherein the visitor's behavior in the facility is the visitor's use of the attraction.

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