Kiosk system

The kiosk system allows payment for services within and outside a facility using a kiosk terminal that associates services with an identification code, improving convenience and security by calculating and settling total amounts.

JP2025181331APending Publication Date: 2025-12-11GLORY LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
JP2024089258
Authority / Receiving Office
JP · JP
Patent Type
Applications
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-05-31
Publication Date
2025-12-11

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

Conventional systems limit payment options to products and services within a facility, requiring customers to use specific wristbands or tickets, which are cumbersome and expose them to fraud risks when using credit cards outside the facility.

Method used

A kiosk system with a kiosk terminal that accepts a selection of services at a first location and associates usage fees with an identification code on a medium, allowing payment for services at both the first and second locations, including services outside the facility, using a kiosk terminal that calculates and settles the total amount.

Benefits of technology

Enhances customer convenience by enabling payment for services both within and outside the facility, reducing the need for cash and minimizing fraud risks through indirect payment methods.

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Abstract

To construct a kiosk system having high convenience for a customer.SOLUTION: A kiosk system includes a kiosk terminal that is installed at a first place and can receive selection of service provided at a second place other than the first place, and a storage unit that stores an identification code attached to a predetermined medium owned by a customer in association with a use charge of the service provided for the customer at the first place, and stores the use charge of the service selected by inputting the identification code to the kiosk terminal and provided at the second place so as to be associated with the input identification code. The kiosk terminal is configured to accept input of the identification code, calculate a total amount of the user charges of the respective service stored in association with the input identification code in the storage unit, and execute settlement processing of the total amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1
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Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a kiosk system that provides services using a kiosk terminal, which is an information terminal. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, systems have been used in which payment is not received from customers when providing goods or services, but rather the payment is recorded in association with the customer's identification number and collected in a lump sum later. For example, when a customer visits a bathing facility, they receive a wristband with a barcode printed on it upon entering the facility. The identification number indicated by the barcode identifies each customer within the facility. When eating or drinking or purchasing goods within the facility, customers do not need to pay on the spot; they simply have a device read the barcode on the wristband. The payment is recorded in the system in association with the customer's identification number indicated by the barcode. When a customer leaves the facility, the total amount associated with the customer's identification number is calculated based on the records in the system. The customer can leave the facility by paying the calculated amount. Patent Document 1 discloses a system that uses tickets instead of wristbands at transportation facilities such as train stations, bus stops, airports, and ferry terminals. In this system, the customer's credit card number is associated with the ticket number. When purchasing goods within a transportation facility, passengers can pay for the goods by credit card by reading their ticket number into a device.When using transportation, passengers can pay for the fare by reading their ticket number into a device at each boarding and disembarking station. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 6868877 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the above-described conventional technology systems, the products and services that customers can pay for are limited to those within the facility. For example, in the case of a bathing facility, products sold outside the facility cannot be purchased using a wristband. In the case of a transportation facility, products sold at stores unrelated to the transportation facility cannot be purchased using a ticket number. It is cumbersome for customers to have to check whether they can use a specific wristband or ticket or another payment method when making a purchase, and a more convenient system has been desired. Furthermore, if customers who do not want to carry cash leave the facility with their credit cards used for shopping, they may become victims of fraud such as skimming, so a payment method that uses information that is not directly related to the customer's personal information has been desired.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above-mentioned conventional techniques, and one of its objectives is to provide a kiosk system that is highly convenient for customers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] The kiosk system of the present disclosure includes a kiosk terminal installed at a first location and capable of accepting a selection of services provided at a second location other than the first location, and a memory unit that associates and stores the usage fees of services provided to the customer at the first location with an identification code attached to a predetermined medium carried by the customer, and that stores the usage fees of services provided at the second location selected by inputting the identification code into the kiosk terminal, associated with the input identification code.The kiosk terminal accepts input of the identification code, calculates the total amount of usage fees for each service stored in the memory unit in association with the input identification code, and performs a settlement process for the total amount.

[0007] In the above configuration, the kiosk terminal may display a service selection screen and transmit information required to provide the service to an external device corresponding to the service selected on the selection screen.

[0008] In the above configuration, the storage unit stores customer information in which personal information including the customer's name and payment information necessary for receiving payment from the customer are associated with an identification code of a predetermined medium possessed by each of a plurality of customers, and the kiosk terminal selects information necessary for providing the service from the customer information and transmits it to an external device corresponding to the service selected by the customer. You may do so.

[0009] In the above configuration, the services selectable at the kiosk terminal may include services that customers staying at the first location can use when they temporarily leave the first location, and services that customers leaving the first location can use after leaving the first location.

[0010] In the above configuration, if a service to be used after a customer leaves the first location is selected and the usage fee for the service cannot be determined, the kiosk terminal may store payment information necessary to receive payment from the customer, and after the usage fee for the service is determined, execute a settlement process for the usage fee using the payment information.

[0011] In the above configuration, when a service to be used after a customer leaves the first location is selected and the usage fee for the service cannot be determined, the memory unit stores the payment information necessary to receive payment from the customer even after the customer leaves the first location, and the kiosk terminal executes the settlement process for the usage fee using the payment information after the usage fee for the service is determined.

[0012] In the above configuration, when a service to be used after the customer leaves the first location is selected, if the usage fee for the service can be determined, the kiosk terminal may add the determined usage fee to the total amount and perform the settlement process with the added amount.

[0013] In the above configuration, the kiosk terminal may change the service options according to the attributes of the customer.

[0014] In the above configuration, the kiosk terminal may communicate with an external device that manages services provided at the second location, and display a screen related to the services provided by the external device.

[0015] In the above configuration, the first location may be an accommodation facility, and the predetermined medium may be a medium used to lock and unlock a room in the accommodation facility.

[0016] In the above configuration, the kiosk terminal may further include an auxiliary device that acquires information necessary to provide the service selected by the kiosk terminal, and the kiosk terminal may transmit the information acquired by the auxiliary device to an external device corresponding to the service.

[0017] In the above configuration, the auxiliary device is a device that measures the weight and size of a package, and when a package delivery service is selected, the kiosk terminal may transmit the weight and size of the package obtained by the auxiliary device to an external device corresponding to the delivery service. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] According to the kiosk system of the present disclosure, for example, a kiosk terminal installed in a facility can be used to purchase products and receive services offered within the facility, as well as to reserve or purchase products and services offered outside the facility, thereby improving convenience for customers. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining an outline of a kiosk system according to this embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining a method for providing services to customers using a kiosk system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of customer information managed by the kiosk system. [Figure 4]FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process performed when a guest checks into a hotel. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing that is performed while a guest is staying at a hotel. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a process performed when a guest checks out of a hotel. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a guest checking out of a hotel selects the additional service of arranging a taxi. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a guest checking out of a hotel selects the additional service of luggage delivery. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] A kiosk system according to the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. The kiosk system according to the present disclosure can sell products and provide services to customers using kiosk terminals. While the location of the kiosk terminal and the types of products sold and services provided to customers by the kiosk terminal are not particularly limited, this embodiment will be described using an example in which a kiosk terminal installed in a hotel provides various services to hotel guests.

[0021] [Kiosk system overview] 1 is a diagram illustrating an overview of a kiosk system 1 according to this embodiment. The kiosk system 1 includes a kiosk terminal 10 installed in a hotel 11.

[0022] The kiosk terminal 10 is communicably connected to external devices, including a hotel server 21 and an external server 22, via the network 2. There is no particular limit to the number of external devices that can communicate with the kiosk terminal 10. The kiosk system 1 may also include the hotel server 21 and the external server 22. The hotel server 21 and the external server 22 are computer devices that include a memory unit and a control unit. In this embodiment, storage in the memory unit of the hotel server 21 may simply be described as the hotel server 21 storing the data. The hotel server 21 performs processing related to services provided within the hotel 11. The external server 22 performs processing related to services provided outside the hotel 11, i.e., at a location other than the hotel 11.

[0023] The kiosk system 1 may include an auxiliary device 30 used to provide the service. The kiosk terminal 10 acquires information necessary to provide the service using the auxiliary device 30. For example, when a customer uses a package delivery service, the auxiliary device 30 includes a device that measures the weight and size of the package.

[0024] As shown in Fig. 1, the kiosk terminal 10 includes an operation display unit 110, an information reading unit 120, a receipt issuing unit 130, a card key issuing unit 140, an electronic payment unit 150, a cash deposit unit 160 (160a, 160b), a cash withdrawal unit 170 (170a, 170b), and a communication unit 180. The kiosk terminal 10 is an information terminal that includes a control unit and a memory unit, and executes processes related to services provided to customers while exchanging information with customers and external devices via each of the components 110 to 180. In this embodiment, storage in the memory unit may be simply described as the kiosk terminal 10 storing information.

[0025] The kiosk terminal 10 uses an operation display unit 110 consisting of a touch panel liquid crystal display device to display various information to guests and to accept input of various information from guests. Guests can check into the hotel 11 using the operation display unit 110. The check-in operation identifies guest information (personal information) including the guest's name, address, telephone number, etc. The check-in operation identifies the guest's payment information. For example, the payment information includes information on the credit card used by the guest to pay the fee. The hotel 11 can use the payment information to receive payment for accommodation fees and service usage fees from the guest. The type of payment information is not particularly limited as long as it can receive payment from the guest, and may be other information such as information for payment by debit card or electronic money.

[0026] The kiosk terminal 10 issues a card key 200 from the card key issuing unit 140 to a guest who has completed the check-in procedure. The card key 200 is a card-type guest room key. The guest can use the card key 200 to lock and unlock the door of the guest room where they are staying.

[0027] Each card key 200 is assigned an identification number for identifying the card key. The method for assigning the identification number to the card key 200 is not particularly limited. For example, numbers or letters indicating the identification number, or a graphic code such as a barcode encoding the identification number, may be printed on the card key 200. The card key 200 may be a magnetic card that stores magnetic information including the identification number. The card key 200 may be an IC card that stores the identification number in an IC chip. The card key 200 is not limited to a physical key, but may also be a key that uses a graphic code such as a barcode or QR Code (registered trademark) printed on a paper medium. In this case, the usable time of the graphic code including the identification number information may be limited so that the card key 200 can be used only while the guest is staying at the hotel. The graphic code including the identification number information may be transmitted to a mobile device such as a smartphone carried by the guest, allowing the mobile device to be used as the card key 200. In this case, the graphic code may be displayed on the screen of the mobile device or transmitted and received between the mobile device and the kiosk terminal 10, thereby executing processing related to the various services described below.

[0028] The kiosk system 1 stores the guest's payment information in association with the identification number of the card key 200 issued to the guest by the card key issuing unit 140 (A1). In addition to the payment information, guest information including the guest's name and address may be stored in association with the identification number. The guest information may include a room number that identifies the guest room in which the guest is staying. The room number may be used as the identification number. The customer information including the payment information and guest information may be stored by the kiosk terminal 10, or may be stored by the hotel server 21 instead of or in addition to the kiosk terminal 10.

[0029] The card key 200 is an example of a medium bearing an identification number (identification code) used to identify guests staying at the hotel 11. As long as the kiosk terminal 10 can acquire the identification number, the type of medium bearing the identification number is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a band-type or keychain-type medium attached to a guest room key. A portable terminal carried by a guest may also be used as the medium. For example, a portable terminal capable of displaying a graphic code including the identification number or transmitting and receiving information including the identification number may be used as the card key 200.

[0030] The kiosk terminal 10 identifies the customer based on the identification number acquired from the customer's card key 200 (A2). The kiosk terminal 10 can read the identification number of the card key 200 using the information reading unit 120. If the card key 200 has characters or a graphic code printed on it, the information reading unit 120 can read the identification number using a scanner or camera. If the card key 200 is a magnetic card or IC card, the information reading unit 120 can read the identification number using a reading device compatible with the type of card key 200. If the customer's mobile terminal is used as the card key 200, the information reading unit 120 can read a graphic code including the identification number displayed on the screen of the mobile terminal. The information reading unit 120 may communicate with the mobile terminal to receive information including the identification number. The communication may be performed using a conventionally known short-range wireless communication technology. If the guest selects a service immediately after checking in, the information reading unit 120 does not need to read the identification number from the card key 200 because the guest has already been identified at the time of the check-in operation.

[0031] The identification number of the card key 200 is associated with the guest's payment information and guest information. Therefore, the kiosk terminal 10 can link the guest's personal information, such as the guest's name, with electronic payment information, such as a credit card number, required to receive payment from the guest, based on the identification number. The kiosk terminal 10 can identify the guest's personal information and electronic payment information based on the identification number.

[0032] The kiosk terminal 10 displays a service selection screen on the operation display unit 110, accepts the customer's selection operation, and executes processing related to arranging the selected service (A3). The customer can select a service from a plurality of services including services provided within the hotel 11 and services provided outside the hotel 11.

[0033] For example, a customer operates the kiosk terminal 10 to select a reservation for a restaurant in the hotel 11, and specifies the date, time, and number of people to dine at the restaurant. The kiosk terminal 10 then executes a process to arrange the restaurant reservation. For example, the kiosk terminal 10 transmits the identification number and the reservation date, time, and number of people specified by the customer to the hotel server 21, which manages restaurant reservations. The transmitted information may include the customer's name and room number. Based on the information received from the kiosk terminal 10, the hotel server 21 registers and stores the customer's reservation details in the restaurant reservation list. The restaurant can confirm and accommodate the customer's reservation based on the reservation information stored in the hotel server 21.

[0034] A customer can also use the kiosk terminal 10 to make a reservation at a restaurant outside the hotel 11. The kiosk terminal 10 accepts from the customer a selection of a restaurant, the date and time of the restaurant, and the number of people to arrange the restaurant reservation. For example, the kiosk terminal 10 transmits the identification number and the reservation date and time and number of people specified by the customer to an external server 22 that manages reservations for the restaurant specified by the customer. The transmitted information may include the customer's name and the name of the hotel 11. The external server 22 processes the customer's reservation details based on the information received from the kiosk terminal 10, allowing the restaurant to fulfill the customer's reservation.

[0035] Thus, one feature of kiosk system 1 is that it can accommodate the selection of services provided outside the facility in addition to the selection of services provided within the facility where kiosk terminal 10 is installed. Kiosk terminal 10 displays a selection screen including options for multiple services provided inside and outside the facility and accepts the customer's selection. Kiosk terminal 10 selects and transmits information necessary for the customer to receive the service to server devices 21 and 22 corresponding to the service selected by the customer. This allows the customer to operate kiosk terminal 10 inside the facility to use services provided inside the facility as well as services provided outside the facility.

[0036] The kiosk system 1 executes a settlement process for the accommodation fee for the hotel 11 and the fees for the services used by the guest operating the kiosk terminal 10 (A4). The guest can pay for the services provided using the kiosk terminal 10 all at once when checking out of the hotel 11, rather than paying for each service when it is used. The guest can pay for the fees for the services used within the hotel 11 and the fees for the services used outside the hotel 11 when checking out.

[0037] For fees paid by guests to facilities or stores other than the hotel 11, such as restaurants outside the hotel 11, the kiosk terminal 10 accepts the payment from the guest and executes payment processing for each facility or store. For example, the kiosk terminal 10 may store the account numbers of the facilities or stores in advance and execute account processing to transfer the usage fees from the hotel 11's bank account to each account. The kiosk terminal 10 may also store in advance information for paying fees to facilities or stores using electronic money and pay the usage fees using electronic money. The payment processing method is not particularly limited as long as the kiosk terminal 10 can pay the usage fees for the service received from the guest to the service provider.

[0038] [Hotel services] For example, a customer who has made a reservation at a restaurant in hotel 11 by operating kiosk terminal 10 has a reader installed in the restaurant read the identification number of card key 200 when using the restaurant. The reservation details registered with hotel server 21 are identified based on the identification number obtained by the reader. Once it is identified that the customer has made a reservation using kiosk terminal 10, the customer can dine at the restaurant without paying in cash. The restaurant uses a specified communications terminal to transmit the identification number of the customer's card key 200 and the restaurant fee to hotel server 21. The hotel server 21 stores the restaurant fee in association with the customer's identification number. For example, a cash register terminal equipped with a reader compatible with card key 200 may be installed in the restaurant, and this cash register terminal may be used to obtain the identification number from card key 200 and transmit the information to hotel server 21.

[0039] When a guest checks out of the hotel 11, the kiosk terminal 10 determines the amount to be charged to the guest based on the identification number read from the card key 200 by the information reading unit 120. The kiosk terminal 10 calculates the total amount of the usage fees for each service stored in the hotel server 21 in association with the identification number of the card key 200, and executes a settlement process for the total amount. For example, the total amount of the accommodation fee at the hotel 11 and the usage fee of a restaurant registered in the hotel server 21 becomes the settlement amount.

[0040] The kiosk terminal 10 can process the settlement amount electronically using the payment information stored in association with the identification number. By simply having the kiosk terminal 10 read the identification number of the card key 200, the guest can pay the total amount, including the accommodation fee and the fees for each service used inside and outside the hotel 11, all at once using the payment information previously associated with the identification number.

[0041] The kiosk terminal 10 can also accommodate requests from customers to make payments by electronic or cash payment other than by credit card registered in the payment information.

[0042] The kiosk terminal 10 can process the settlement amount electronically using the electronic settlement unit 150. The electronic settlement unit 150 includes a reading device and an operation unit for reading information from an electronic settlement medium or terminal and executing electronic settlement. A customer can have the reading device of the electronic settlement unit 150 read the payment information from the electronic settlement medium or terminal, and operate the operation unit as necessary to pay the settlement amount electronically. For example, electronic settlement media include debit cards and credit cards, and electronic settlement terminals include smartphones.

[0043] The kiosk terminal 10 can process the settlement amount in cash using the cash deposit unit 160 (160a, 160b) and the cash withdrawal unit 170. The cash deposit unit 160 includes a banknote deposit port 160a that accepts deposits of banknotes and a coin deposit port 160b that accepts deposits of coins. The cash withdrawal unit 170 includes a banknote withdrawal port 170a that dispenses banknotes and a coin withdrawal port 170b that dispenses coins. A customer who wishes to pay in cash can pay the settlement amount by depositing banknotes through the banknote deposit port 160a and coins through the coin deposit port 160b. If the deposited amount exceeds the settlement amount, change is dispensed. Change banknotes are dispensed through the banknote withdrawal port 170a, and change coins are dispensed through the coin withdrawal port 170b.

[0044] After completing the payment process, the kiosk terminal 10 issues a receipt with information about the accommodation and services printed on it from the receipt issuing unit 130, which includes a printer. The guest returns the card key 200, receives the receipt, and completes check-out. The card key 200 can be returned to a dedicated return box installed near the kiosk terminal 10.

[0045] The card key issuing unit 140 may be configured to accept the card key 200 returned by the customer, store it in the device, and reuse the stored card key 200 for the check-in process of another customer. In this case, the card key issuing unit 140 may be equipped with an identification number reading device, and instead of the information reading unit 120, the card key issuing unit 140 may read the identification number of the card key 200 returned by the customer who is checking out.

[0046] [Services outside the hotel] When making a reservation to eat at a restaurant outside the hotel 11, the guest can have the identification number of the card key 200 read by a reading device installed in the restaurant and eat without paying. As is done at restaurants within the hotel 11, the restaurant uses a predetermined device installed in the restaurant to read the identification number of the guest's card key 200 and transmits the identification number and the fee for the restaurant to the hotel server 21. The identification number and the fee may be transmitted to the hotel server 21 via an external server 22. For example, a cash register terminal equipped with a reading device compatible with the card key 200 may be installed in the restaurant, and the identification number may be obtained from the card key 200 and the information may be transmitted to the hotel server 21.

[0047] As with restaurants within the hotel 11, guests can settle their bills for restaurants outside the hotel 11 when checking out of the hotel 11. When the guest checks out, the kiosk terminal 10 calculates the total amount of the charges for each service stored in the hotel server 21 in association with the identification number of the card key 200, and executes a settlement process for the total amount. For example, the total of the hotel 11 accommodation fee, the charges for the restaurants within the hotel 11 registered in the hotel server 21, and the charges for the restaurants outside the hotel 11 is the settlement amount processed in the payment process. The kiosk terminal 10 executes a payment process to pay the charges for each service provided outside the hotel 11 to the providers of each service, and the charges are paid to the restaurants outside the hotel 11.

[0048] The settlement of the charges for services provided outside the hotel 11 may be performed immediately after the service is provided, without waiting for the guest to check out. For example, the hotel server 21 may receive an identification number and a charge from a restaurant outside the hotel 11 and use the payment information stored in association with the identification number to perform the settlement process for the charge. The settlement process may also be performed by the kiosk terminal 10.

[0049] For services provided outside the hotel 11, payment of the usage fee may be made at the location where the guest uses the service. For example, the kiosk terminal 10 or the hotel server 21 may receive the identification number of the card key 200 acquired at a restaurant outside the hotel 11, and transmit the payment information stored in association with the identification number to a predetermined device used by the restaurant or the external server 22. The payment information may be transmitted and received at the time of making a reservation at the restaurant. The restaurant can receive payment of the usage fee from the guest using the credit card number included in the payment information.

[0050] In this way, the kiosk system 1 associates the customer's payment information and the fees for each service the customer receives inside or outside the hotel 11 using the card key 200 with the identification number of the card key 200 issued to the customer, and stores the information to enable the payment settlement process for the service fees. The kiosk system 1 can also transmit the payment information associated with the customer's card key 200 to a predetermined device installed in the store or to the external server 22 so that a store outside the hotel 11 that provides the service to the customer can settle the fees at the store. This allows the customer to receive services inside or outside the hotel 11 using the card key 200. This improves customer convenience because the customer does not need to pay cash or present a credit card at the store where the service is provided. Note that the type of medium used as the card key 200 is not particularly limited, and the card key 200 may be a paper medium provided by the kiosk terminal 10, a mobile terminal carried by the customer, or the like, and the above-mentioned processes using the card key 200 may be performed using the card key 200. The name of the medium used is not limited either, and it may be called something other than "card key," such as "key" or "hotel key."

[0051] [Types of services and how they are provided] 2A and 2B are diagrams for explaining how the kiosk system 1 provides services to guests. FIG. 2A shows an example of a service provided within the hotel 11. FIG. 2B shows an example of a service provided outside the hotel 11.

[0052] When using a service provided within the hotel 11, as shown in FIG. 2(a), the kiosk terminal 10 accepts an operation by the guest to select a service and input information required to receive the service (B1). The kiosk terminal 10 transmits the information about the service accepted from the guest to the hotel server 21 (B2). The kiosk terminal 10 then executes a process to arrange for the service from the hotel server 21 as needed, such as arranging a restaurant reservation (B3). This allows the guest to use the service using the card key 200 and pay the service fee in one lump sum at the time of check-out.

[0053] Services provided within Hotel 11 include restaurant services within Hotel 11, as well as room service, ticket sales, cash withdrawals, etc.

[0054] A guest who wishes to use room service has the information reading unit 120 of the kiosk terminal 10 read the identification number of the card key 200, and then selects room service on the service selection screen. The guest then selects food and drink from the menu displayed on the operation display unit 110 and specifies the date and time of receipt of the food and drink. The kiosk terminal 10 transmits the identification number of the card key 200 and information indicating the food and drink and date and time specified by the guest to the hotel server 21. The hotel server 21 executes processing related to room service so that the specified food and drink are delivered to the guest room at the specified date and time. For example, the hotel server 21 executes a notification process to notify a staff member at the hotel 11 of information related to room service. The hotel server 21 stores the room service fee in association with the identification number. When the guest checks out, the kiosk terminal 10 receives the identification number of the card key 200, calculates the settlement amount including the accommodation fee and room service fee, which are stored in the hotel server 21 in association with the identification number, and executes the settlement process.

[0055] Ticket sales is a service in which the hotel 11 sells tickets. For example, admission tickets to facilities near the hotel 11 are sold using the kiosk terminal 10. A guest has the information reading unit 120 read the card key 200, enters the identification number into the kiosk terminal 10, and selects ticket purchase on the service selection screen displayed on the operation display unit 110. The guest then selects and purchases a ticket on the ticket selection screen displayed on the operation display unit 110. The kiosk terminal 10 uses the receipt issuing unit 130 to issue a ticket with predetermined information printed on it. The guest can use the ticket issued by the kiosk terminal 10 to enter the nearby facility. The kiosk terminal 10 transmits the identification number of the card key 200 and the service usage fee, including the ticket price, purchased by the guest to the hotel server 21. The hotel server 21 stores the usage fee in association with the identification number. When a guest checks out, the kiosk terminal 10 receives the input of the identification number of the card key 200, calculates the settlement amount including the accommodation fee and the fee for the ticket purchase service stored in the hotel server 21 in association with the identification number, and executes the settlement process.

[0056] Note that the present invention is not limited to the case where a nearby facility is accessed using a ticket issued by the receipt issuing unit 130 of the kiosk terminal 10, and the nearby facility may also be accessed using the card key 200. In this case, the identification number of the card key 200 of the customer who purchased the ticket at the kiosk terminal 10 is transmitted to a predetermined device installed at the nearby facility, and the device acquires the identification number from the card key 200 of the customer entering the facility and determines whether or not to permit entry. The present invention is not limited to the case where a ticket is first purchased at the kiosk terminal 10, and the customer may enter the identification number of the card key 200 into a predetermined device installed at the nearby facility to use the facility, and the device at the facility may then transmit the identification number and the facility usage fee to the hotel server 21.

[0057] Cash withdrawal is a service that dispenses cash in the currency of the country in which the hotel 11 is located. The guest inputs the identification number of the card key 200 into the kiosk terminal 10 and selects cash withdrawal on the service selection screen displayed on the operation display unit 110. The guest then specifies the denomination and the number of coins per denomination (or amount) on the screen displayed on the operation display unit 110. Based on the guest's specification, the kiosk terminal 10 dispenses banknotes from the banknote dispensing slot 170a and coins from the coin dispensing slot 170b. The kiosk terminal 10 transmits the identification number of the card key 200 and the service fee, including the total amount of dispensed banknotes and coins, to the hotel server 21. The hotel server 21 stores the fee in association with the identification number. When a guest checks out, the kiosk terminal 10 receives the identification number of the card key 200, calculates the settlement amount including the accommodation fee and the fee for the cash withdrawal service stored in the hotel server 21 in association with the identification number, and executes the settlement process.

[0058] It should be noted that the cash dispensed by kiosk terminal 10 is not limited to the currency of the country in which hotel 11 is located, and it may be possible to dispense cash in a currency specified by the guest. Settlement, including the fee for the cash dispensing service, may also be made in the same currency as the currency of the cash dispensed by kiosk terminal 10, or in a different currency. The name of the service is also not particularly limited, and for example, a service for dispensing cash in a currency different from the currency of the guest's country of nationality for foreign tourists staying at hotel 11 may be called "foreign currency exchange," "foreign currency withdrawal," or the like.

[0059] For services provided outside the hotel 11, i.e., services that require arrangement with the external server 22, processing is performed as shown in FIG. 2(b). First, the kiosk terminal 10 accepts an operation by the guest to select a service and input information required to receive the service (B11). The kiosk terminal 10 transmits information about the service received from the guest to the hotel server 21 (B12). The hotel server 21 stores information about the service selected by the guest. The kiosk terminal 10 then executes processing to arrange the service with the external server 22 corresponding to the service selected by the guest (B13). The processing related to arranging the service may be performed via the hotel server 21. After the guest uses the service outside the hotel 11, information about the service is transmitted from the external server 22 to the hotel server 21 (B14). This allows the guest to pay the service fees in one lump sum at the time of check-out.

[0060] Services provided outside the hotel 11 include transportation services, tourism services, and delivery services. Delivery services include a delivery service that transports luggage from the hotel 11 to a location specified by the guest, and specific examples will be given later.

[0061] Tourism-related services include reservations for restaurants outside the hotel 11 described above. Ticket sales for nearby facilities may also be included in tourism-related services. For example, when a guest purchases a ticket to a museum using the kiosk terminal 10, the kiosk terminal 10 transmits the guest's identification number and information about the ticket purchased by the guest to an external server 22 used by the museum. The information transmission may be performed by the hotel server 21. A guest visiting a museum has the identification number of the card key 200 read by a reader installed in the museum. The museum confirms that the identification number of the card key 200 matches the ticket purchaser's identification number received by the external server 22 and allows the guest to enter the museum. The external server 22 transmits information indicating that the guest has visited the museum to the hotel server 21. A guest who purchased a ticket using the kiosk terminal 10 enters the museum using the card key 200 of the hotel 11, and when checking out, can pay the service fees, including the museum admission fee, together with the accommodation fee and other service fees.

[0062] As described in the example of the service provided in the hotel 11, ticket sales may be performed by issuing tickets from the receipt issuing unit 130 of the kiosk terminal 10. The present invention is not limited to the case where tickets are purchased first at the kiosk terminal 10, and may be configured such that a guest can use a facility using a card key 200 without purchasing a ticket in advance, and after using the facility, information indicating the identification number of the card key 200 and the facility usage fee is transmitted from the external server 22 to the hotel server 21.

[0063] Transportation services include taxi reservations. Taxis that can be reserved are sometimes called hire cars or limousines. The customer has the information reading unit 120 of the kiosk terminal 10 read the identification number of the card key 200, and then selects taxi reservation on the service selection screen displayed on the operation display unit 110. The customer then specifies the boarding date and time on the screen displayed on the operation display unit 110. The kiosk terminal 10 transmits the identification number of the card key 200 and information indicating the boarding date and time specified by the customer to the hotel server 21. The kiosk terminal 10 transmits information regarding the taxi reservation to an external server 22 that dispatches a taxi so that the taxi will pick up the customer at the hotel 11 at the specified date and time. The hotel server 21 may also transmit the information. The information transmitted to the external server 22 includes the location of the hotel 11, the date and time specified by the customer, and the identification number of the customer's card key 200. The external server 22 executes processing to have the taxi head to the hotel 11 at the specified date and time. For example, the external server 22 executes a notification process to notify the taxi driver of information regarding the taxi reservation. The taxi heads to the hotel 11 at the date and time specified by the customer based on the information received by the external server 22, and uses a reader installed in the taxi to read the identification number of the card key 200 carried by the customer, thereby confirming that the customer is the person who made the reservation.

[0064] The hotel server 21 receives the amount information and stores it in association with the identification number, and the taxi fare is settled at the kiosk terminal 10 together with the accommodation fee and fees for other services at the time of check-out. The settlement process may be performed immediately after the guest gets out of the taxi, rather than at the time of check-out. In this case, the kiosk terminal 10 or the hotel server 21 receives information indicating the taxi fare from the external server 22 and executes the settlement process using the guest's payment information. The settlement process may also be performed in the taxi. In this case, the kiosk terminal 10 transmits the guest's payment information to the external server 22 used by the taxi company when arranging a taxi, and the taxi company settles the taxi fare when the guest gets out of the taxi.

[0065] In addition to a mode in which the kiosk terminal 10 accepts input of information related to a service and then transmits the information to the external server 22 to arrange the service, the kiosk terminal 10 may also cooperate with the external server 22 to accept the input of information. For example, the purchase of a bus or train ticket, which is included in a transportation service, may be performed by the kiosk terminal 10 displaying a ticket purchase screen provided by the external server 22 on the operation display unit 110 and accepting selection and input operations from the customer. The kiosk terminal 10 can recognize input boxes for a credit card number, name, etc. on the ticket purchase fee payment screen provided by the external server 22, select the necessary information from the payment information stored in the hotel server 21, and enter it into the corresponding input boxes. Even when receiving a service using a screen displayed by the external server 22, displaying this screen on the operation display unit 110 of the kiosk terminal 10 automatically enters the information stored in the hotel server 21 that is necessary to use the service, thereby improving convenience for the customer.

[0066] [Customer information] 3 is a diagram showing an example of customer information managed by the kiosk system 1. The kiosk system 1 can manage guest information, payment information, accommodation information, and service information as customer information by associating them with the identification number of the card key 200. At least one of the kiosk terminal 10 and the hotel server 21 stores the customer information.

[0067] The guest information is personal information including the guest's name and contact information such as address and telephone number. The payment information includes credit card information. The credit card information includes information necessary for credit card payment, such as the credit card number, the credit card holder, and the expiration date, i.e., information necessary for the settlement process performed by the kiosk terminal 10.

[0068] The accommodation information includes the accommodation fee, the date of stay, and the room number. When a guest makes a reservation using the accommodation reservation function of the hotel server 21, if the guest information, payment information, accommodation information, etc. have already been entered as reservation information, the hotel server 21 may store each piece of information included in the reservation information in association with the identification number of the card key 200 issued to the guest, as shown in Fig. 3, during the guest check-in process. During the check-in process, the kiosk terminal 10 may accept information input from the guest via the operation display unit 110.

[0069] The service information includes the service content, date and time, and fee. The service content is information indicating the type of service provided to the customer using the kiosk terminal 10. The service content field stores information that can identify each service, such as restaurant, room service, ticket sales, cash withdrawal, taxi reservation, and ticket purchase. The date and time field stores the date and time when the customer reserved the service. The date and time when the service was used may be registered in the date and time field instead of or in addition to the reservation date and time.

[0070] The charges for each service used by the guest are registered in the charges section. The amount to be charged to the guest at check-out is calculated based on the information registered in the charges section. For example, the charges for food and drink at restaurants and room service, the amount charged by Hotel 11 for ticket purchases and cash withdrawals, taxi fares, etc. are registered in the charges section.

[0071] If the service fee has already been paid, only the service content and date and time are registered in the service information, and the fee is not registered. For example, if a customer who uses a taxi reservation service has already paid the taxi fare, information indicating that the fee is 0 yen is registered in the fee item. Even if a customer uses the external server 22 via the kiosk terminal 10 to purchase a bus or train ticket and pay for it, information indicating that the fee has already been paid is registered in the fee item.

[0072] 3, the charges charged for each service used by a guest inside or outside the hotel 11 are registered in association with the identification number of the guest's card key 200. This allows the kiosk terminal 10 to calculate the total amount of the accommodation fee registered in association with the identification number of the card key 200 of the guest checking out and the charges for each service, and execute settlement processing for the total amount.

[0073] [Service provision processing] 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining an example of processing performed when a guest checks into the hotel 11. Fig. 4A is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing. Fig. 4B is an example of a screen displayed on the operation display unit 110 of the kiosk terminal 10.

[0074] 4(a), if there is insufficient information about the guest at check-in (step S1; No), the kiosk terminal 10 requests the guest to input the missing information on the operation display unit 110 and acquires it (step S2). If the guest information has already been acquired by the hotel server 21 at the time of booking and there is no missing information (step S2; Yes), the missing information is not entered.

[0075] The hotel server 21 determines the guest room number where the guest will stay and the identification number of the card key 200 to be issued to the guest. In this way, the guest information, payment information, and accommodation information among the customer information shown in Fig. 3 are confirmed during the check-in process (step S3). The hotel server 21 associates each piece of confirmed information with the identification number and manages it as customer information as shown in Fig. 3.

[0076] The kiosk system 1 can execute a proposal analysis process (step S4). The proposal analysis is a process of analyzing the attributes of a guest and determining the type of service to be proposed to the guest. For example, the hotel server 21 associates and stores the type of service to be proposed to the guest with each attribute of the guest, such as the guest's age, gender, whether the guest is staying alone or with family, and whether the guest includes children. The hotel server 21 executes the proposal analysis process to select a service that corresponds to the guest's attributes.

[0077] The kiosk terminal 10 displays a service proposal screen on the operation display unit 110 (step S5). The proposal screen is an example of a service selection screen. FIG. 4(b) is a diagram showing an example of the proposal screen. In the example shown in FIG. 4(b), a restaurant reservation in the hotel 11 and a taxi reservation are proposed to the guest. The service options displayed on the proposal screen change depending on the guest's attributes. For example, a family guest may be suggested to purchase admission tickets to a nearby tourist facility, and an elderly guest may be suggested room service. A male guest may be suggested to make a reservation for a gym in the hotel 11, and a female guest may be suggested to make a reservation for a spa in the hotel 11. A cash withdrawal service for exchanging foreign currency may also be proposed to a foreign guest.

[0078] If the customer does not wish to use the service, he or she can simply press the "Not needed" button on the proposal screen shown in Fig. 4(b). If no service is selected (step S6; No), the kiosk terminal 10 issues a card key 200 from the card key issuing unit 140 (step S10), and the check-in process ends.

[0079] If the customer selects a service on the service proposal screen (step S6; Yes), the kiosk system 1 executes a service provision process (step S7). Specifically, as described above, the kiosk terminal 10 executes a process for providing the selected service to the customer while transmitting and receiving information to and from the hotel server 21 and the external server 22 as necessary.

[0080] The customer can select multiple services displayed on the proposal screen (Step S8; No). When multiple services are selected, a service provision process corresponding to each service is executed. For example, when the restaurant reservation button is pressed on the proposal screen shown in FIG. 4(b), a process for reserving a restaurant in the hotel 11 is executed as described above. When the taxi reservation button is pressed on the proposal screen, a process for arranging for a taxi to the hotel 11 is executed as described above.

[0081] When the customer has finished selecting the service (Step S8; Yes), the kiosk terminal 10 issues a reservation slip from the receipt issuing unit 130 on which information about the service selected by the customer is printed (Step S9). For example, a restaurant reservation slip will be printed with the location, name, and phone number of the restaurant reserved by the customer, as well as the reservation date and time and number of people specified by the customer. A taxi reservation slip will be printed with the taxi boarding date and time specified by the customer. In some cases, a ticket to a nearby facility may be purchased and a reservation slip that can be used as a ticket may be issued. Next, the kiosk terminal 10 issues a card key 200 from the card key issuing unit 140 (Step S10), and the check-in process is completed.

[0082] The kiosk system 1 can execute processing to provide services to guests staying at the hotel 11. FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing that is performed while a guest is staying at the hotel 11. FIG. 5(a) is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing. FIG. 5(b) is an example of a screen displayed on the operation display unit 110 of the kiosk terminal 10.

[0083] 5(a) is initiated when a guest performs a predetermined operation on the operation display unit 110 of the kiosk terminal 10 to request the provision of a service. The kiosk terminal 10 enters a standby state, waiting for the information reading unit 120 to read the identification number, i.e., for the information reading unit 120 to read the card key 200 (step S11; No). When the guest holds the card key 200 over the information reading unit 120 to have the identification number read (step S11; Yes), the kiosk terminal 10 identifies the guest who is the holder of the card key 200 (step S12).

[0084] The kiosk terminal 10 displays a service selection screen on the operation display unit 110 (step S13). For example, the selection screen displays all services that can be accepted by the kiosk terminal 10 as options. FIG. 5(b) is a diagram showing an example of the selection screen. In the example shown in FIG. 5(b), options for the following services are displayed: restaurant reservations inside and outside the hotel 11, room service reservations, ticket sales, cash withdrawals, train ticket purchases, and luggage delivery.

[0085] If the customer presses the end button without selecting a service on the selection screen (step S14; No), the kiosk terminal 10 ends the process.

[0086] When the customer selects a service on the selection screen (step S14; Yes), the kiosk system 1 executes the service provision process (step S15), similar to the check-in process. The customer can select multiple services from the options displayed on the selection screen (step S16; No). When multiple services are selected, the service provision process corresponding to each service is executed.

[0087] When the customer presses the end button on the selection screen shown in Figure 5(b) to complete the service selection (step S16; Yes), the kiosk terminal 10 issues a reservation ticket with printed information about the service selected by the customer from the receipt issuing unit 130, just as during the check-in process (step S17), and ends the process.

[0088] The kiosk system 1 can execute processing for providing services to guests checking out of the hotel 11. FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of processing performed when a guest checks out of the hotel 11. FIG. 6(a) is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of processing. FIG. 6(b) is an example of a screen displayed on the operation display unit 110 of the kiosk terminal 10.

[0089] When a customer performs a predetermined operation on the operation display unit 110 of the kiosk terminal 10 to request check-out, the process shown in Fig. 6(a) begins. The kiosk terminal enters a standby state, waiting for the information reading unit 120 to read the identification number, i.e., for the information reading unit 120 to read the card key 200 (step S21; No). When the customer holds the card key 200 over the information reading unit 120 to have the identification number read (step S21; Yes), the kiosk terminal 10 identifies the customer who is the holder of the card key 200 and determines the accommodation fee to be charged to the customer (step S22). The accommodation fee is determined based on the identification number by referencing the customer information shown in Fig. 3.

[0090] The kiosk terminal 10 checks whether the customer's service usage history is registered in the customer information shown in Fig. 3 (step S23). If the service usage history is registered in the service information section of the customer information (step S23; Yes), the kiosk terminal 10 identifies the usage fee for each service used by the customer (step S24). If there is no service usage history (step S23; No), the processing of step S24 is omitted.

[0091] Next, the kiosk terminal 10 displays an additional service selection screen on the operation display unit 110 (step S25). The additional service selection screen displays options for services that can be provided to customers checking out. FIG. 6(b) is a diagram showing an example of the additional service selection screen. In the example shown in FIG. 6(b), service options for taxi arrangement and luggage delivery are displayed.

[0092] When the customer selects an additional service on the selection screen (step S26; Yes), the kiosk system 1 executes a service provision process (step S27). The customer can select multiple services displayed on the selection screen (step S28; No). When multiple services are selected, a service provision process corresponding to each service is executed.

[0093] If the customer does not wish to use the additional service, the customer simply presses the "Not needed" button on the selection screen shown in Fig. 6(b). If no additional service is selected (step S26; No), the kiosk terminal 10 displays the checkout screen (step S29). Similarly, if the customer has finished selecting one or more additional services (step S28; Yes), the checkout screen is also displayed (step S29).

[0094] The settlement screen displays the accommodation fee, the fees for the services used by the guest, and the total amount billed. After the guest checks the contents displayed on the settlement screen and performs a predetermined operation to approve the amount billed, the kiosk terminal 10 executes the settlement process for the amount billed (step S30). The settlement process is performed using payment information. In some cases, the settlement process is performed by electronic payment using the electronic payment unit 150, or by cash payment using the cash deposit unit 160 and cash withdrawal unit 170, without using payment information.

[0095] After completing the payment process, the kiosk terminal 10 issues a receipt from the receipt issuing unit 130 (step S31), and the check-out process ends. The payment amount, including the accommodation fee, is printed on the receipt. If there is a service usage history, the details of each service used by the customer and the amount used are printed on the receipt. If the customer selects an additional service on the additional service selection screen, information about the additional service selected by the customer is also printed on the receipt.

[0096] Specific examples of additional services will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a guest checking out of hotel 11 selects the additional service of arranging a taxi. Figure 7(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of processing performed to arrange a taxi. Figures 7(b) and 7(c) are diagrams illustrating examples of payment screens.

[0097] When a customer presses the taxi arrangement button on the additional service selection screen shown in FIG. 6(b) (step S41 in FIG. 7), for example, the kiosk terminal 10 executes a process to request a taxi dispatch via the hotel server 21 (step S42). For example, information indicating the location of the hotel 11 and the name and payment information of the customer who requested the taxi dispatch are transmitted to the dispatch server 22 of the taxi company that dispatches the taxi. When a customer requests the dispatch of a taxi by specifying the destination to which the customer will board the taxi, that is, the destination, the information transmitted from the hotel server 21 to the dispatch server 22 includes information indicating the destination.

[0098] The checkout screen shown in Figure 7(b) shows an example of a guest who has used room service during their stay at hotel 11 and, at checkout, has selected the additional service of ordering a taxi without specifying a destination. The checkout screen displays the accommodation fee, the room service fee, and the total amount of these, which is the billed amount. Because the taxi destination was not specified when selecting the additional service, the checkout screen displays information indicating that the taxi fee will be billed later by the taxi company.

[0099] The settlement screen shown in Figure 7(c) shows an example in which the customer has selected the additional service of specifying a destination and ordering a taxi. When the customer specifies a destination, for example, the taxi fare from the location of the hotel 11 to the destination calculated by the vehicle dispatch server 22 is transmitted to the kiosk terminal 10 via the hotel server 21. Therefore, the settlement screen displays the accommodation fee, the room service fee, and the taxi fare for the customer to take after check-out, as well as the total amount of these items, which is the billed amount.

[0100] When the guest presses the approval button on the settlement screen, the kiosk terminal 10 executes a settlement process to settle the billing amount displayed on the settlement screen. The settlement process is executed using the payment information stored in the hotel server 21.

[0101] If a customer finds that the information displayed on the checkout screen is incorrect or if there is information they would like to confirm, they can press the attendant call button on the checkout screen to call an attendant from Hotel 11, and have the attendant confirm the amount and correct it as necessary.

[0102] While the kiosk terminal 10 performs payment processing, the dispatch server 22 performs taxi dispatch processing based on the location of the hotel 11 and the name of the customer received from the hotel server 21. For example, the dispatch server 22 displays the location of the hotel 11, the customer's name, and information instructing the taxi to pick up the customer on the display unit of the communication terminal equipped in the taxi. If the customer has specified a destination, information indicating the destination is also displayed. The taxi driver heads to the location of the hotel 11 based on the displayed information, confirms the customer's name, and gets the customer into the taxi.

[0103] If the customer has not specified a destination, the driver will confirm the destination with the customer and then proceed to the destination. When the driver arrives at the destination, he or she can settle the taxi fare using the customer's payment information received from the hotel server 21 by the vehicle dispatch server 22.

[0104] Alternatively, the kiosk terminal 10 or the hotel server 21 may execute the taxi fare settlement process. In this case, the hotel server 21 stores the customer's payment information even after the customer checks out, and after the taxi fare is confirmed, the kiosk terminal 10 or the hotel server 21 receives information indicating the taxi fare directly from the taxi or via the dispatch server 22 and executes the taxi fare settlement process using the payment information. For example, if the customer's credit card information is stored in the kiosk terminal 10, the taxi fare information may be sent to the credit card company corresponding to the credit card information.

[0105] On the other hand, if the customer has already specified a destination, the driver picks up the customer at the hotel 11, then travels to the pre-specified destination and drops the customer off. The customer does not need to settle the taxi fare because the taxi fare has already been paid at the kiosk terminal 10 when checking out of the hotel 11. In this case, the taxi fare is paid to the taxi company through a payment process executed by the kiosk terminal 10 or the hotel server 21.

[0106] Fig. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example in which a guest checking out of hotel 11 selects the additional service of luggage delivery. Fig. 8(a) is a diagram illustrating an example of processing performed to deliver luggage. Fig. 8(b) is a diagram illustrating an example of a payment screen.

[0107] When a customer presses the baggage delivery button on the additional service selection screen shown in Fig. 6(b) (step S51 in Fig. 8), the kiosk terminal 10 displays information on the operation display unit 110 instructing the customer to measure the weight and size of the baggage to be delivered using the baggage measuring device 30. The baggage measuring device 30 can automatically measure the weight of the baggage placed on the device and the length, width, and depth of the baggage.

[0108] When the customer places the parcel to be delivered on the parcel measuring device 30, the parcel measuring device 30 measures the weight and size of the parcel (step S52). The measurement results by the parcel measuring device 30 are input to the kiosk terminal 10.

[0109] The kiosk terminal 10 inputs various information into waybill data in a predetermined format for delivering luggage. For example, the kiosk terminal 10 automatically inputs the name, address, and telephone number of the hotel 11 into the waybill data as information about the sender of the luggage. The kiosk terminal 10 also uses the guest information included in the customer information shown in FIG. 3 to automatically input the guest's name, address, and telephone number into the waybill data as information about the destination of the luggage. The guest can also change the information about the sender and destination of the luggage that has been automatically input into the waybill data. For example, when the guest operates the operation display unit 110 to input the name, address, and telephone number of the destination, the automatically input destination is changed to the destination input by the guest.

[0110] The kiosk terminal 10 executes a process to request delivery of the package via the hotel server 21 (step S53). For example, the hotel server 21 transmits waybill data including information on the sender and destination, and the weight and size of the package measured by the package measuring device 30, to the reception server 22 of the delivery company. The guest leaves the package for which delivery has been requested at the hotel 11. The delivery company that has received the delivery request at the reception server 22 can pick up the package at the hotel 11 and deliver it to the destination specified by the guest.

[0111] The checkout screen shown in FIG. 8(b) shows an example in which a guest who has used room service during their stay at hotel 11 selects the additional service of luggage delivery at checkout. The checkout screen displays the accommodation fee, the room service fee, the luggage delivery fee, and the total amount of these, which is the billed amount. The delivery fee is determined based on the address of hotel 11, the address of the delivery destination, and the weight and size of the luggage. The delivery fee may be determined by kiosk terminal 10, hotel server 21, or by the reception server 22 of a shipping company.

[0112] When the guest presses the approval button on the settlement screen, the kiosk terminal 10 executes a settlement process to settle the billed amount displayed on the settlement screen. The settlement process is executed using payment information stored in the hotel server 21. The guest can also execute the settlement process by pressing the attendant call button on the settlement screen to call an attendant from the hotel 11.

[0113] After the payment process is completed, the kiosk terminal 10 issues a receipt with the payment details printed on it from the receipt issuing unit 130. If a delivery request is made, the kiosk terminal 10 also prints and issues a package delivery receipt. After checking out, the customer can check the delivery details of the package on the package delivery receipt.

[0114] The kiosk terminal 10 may be connected to a printer that prints waybills, and the printer may issue a waybill with each piece of information automatically entered into the waybill data printed in the corresponding field. The waybill printer is an example of an auxiliary device 30 used to provide services to guests. In this case, the guest simply attaches the waybill printed by the waybill printer to their luggage and leaves it at the hotel 11.

[0115] In this embodiment, an example configuration of the kiosk system 1 is shown in FIG. 1, but this configuration is merely a functional schematic, and the system configuration is not limited to this physical configuration. For example, the kiosk terminal 10 may implement some or all of the functions and operations of the above-described hotel server 21. The hotel server 21 may implement some of the functions and operations of the above-described kiosk terminal 10. The form of distribution and integration of each device is not limited to the above example, and all or part of them can be functionally or physically distributed and integrated in any unit depending on various loads, usage conditions, etc.

[0116] The above describes embodiments of the kiosk system 1 and kiosk terminal 10 according to the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. However, the configuration and operation of the kiosk system 1 and kiosk terminal 10 are not limited to the above embodiments, and may be implemented with various improvements, changes, and modifications based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art, within the scope of the spirit of the invention. [Industrial Applicability]

[0117] The kiosk system according to the present invention is useful for increasing convenience for customers. [Explanation of symbols]

[0118] 1. Kiosk System 2 Network 10 Kiosk Terminals 21 Hotel Server 22 External Server 30 Auxiliary equipment 110 Operation display section 120 Information reading unit 130 Receipt Issuance Department 140 Card Key Issuance Department 150 Electronic Payment Department 160 Cash Deposit Section 170 Cash Withdrawal Department 180 Communications Department 200 Card Key

Claims

1. a kiosk terminal installed at a first location and capable of accepting a selection of a service provided at a second location other than the first location; a storage unit that stores an identification code attached to a predetermined medium carried by the customer in association with a usage fee for a service provided to the customer at the first location, and that stores a usage fee for a service provided at the second location selected by inputting the identification code into the kiosk terminal in association with the input identification code; Including, The kiosk terminal accepts the input of the identification code, calculates the total amount of the usage fees for each service stored in the storage unit in association with the input identification code, and executes a settlement process for the total amount. A kiosk system comprising:

2. The kiosk system according to claim 1, characterized in that the kiosk terminal displays a service selection screen and transmits information necessary for providing the service to an external device corresponding to the service selected on the selection screen.

3. the storage unit stores customer information in which personal information including the customer's name and payment information necessary to receive payment from the customer are associated with an identification code of a predetermined medium possessed by each of a plurality of customers; The kiosk terminal selects information necessary for providing the service from the customer information and transmits it to an external device corresponding to the service selected by the customer.

3. The kiosk system according to claim 2, wherein:

4. The services available at the kiosk include: A service that a guest staying at the first location uses while temporarily leaving the first location; A service that a customer leaving the first location uses after leaving the first location; 2. The kiosk system of claim 1, further comprising:

5. When a service is selected after the customer leaves the first location, the fee for the service cannot be determined; The storage unit stores payment information necessary to receive payment from the customer even after the customer leaves the first location, After the service fee is determined, the kiosk terminal executes a settlement process for the service fee using the payment information.

5. The kiosk system according to claim 4.

6. When a service is selected after the customer leaves the first location, the fee for the service cannot be determined; The kiosk terminal transmits payment information necessary to receive payment from the customer to an external device corresponding to the service.

5. The kiosk system according to claim 4.

7. If the service fee can be determined when the service is selected after the customer leaves the first location, The kiosk terminal adds the determined usage fee to the total amount and executes the settlement process with the added amount.

5. The kiosk system according to claim 4.

8. 2. The kiosk system according to claim 1, wherein the kiosk terminal changes service options depending on customer attributes.

9. The kiosk system according to claim 1 , wherein the kiosk terminal communicates with an external device that manages services provided at the second location and displays a screen relating to the services provided by the external device.

10. 2. The kiosk system according to claim 1, wherein the first location is a lodging facility, and the predetermined medium is a medium used to lock and unlock a guest room of the lodging facility.

11. an auxiliary device for acquiring information necessary for providing the service selected at the kiosk terminal; Furthermore, The kiosk terminal transmits the information acquired by the auxiliary device to an external device corresponding to the service.

2. The kiosk system according to claim 1.

12. The auxiliary device is a device for measuring the weight and size of luggage, When a parcel delivery service is selected, the kiosk terminal transmits the weight and size of the parcel acquired by the auxiliary device to an external device corresponding to the delivery service. The kiosk system of claim 11.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

  • Payment support system, payment support device, payment terminal, ticket issuing machine, and payment method

    JP6868877B2