Program, information processing method, and selling device

Abstract

To suppress an unauthorized acquisition of change charges by a third party in the case where a change can be charged as electronic money when a commodity is purchased from a selling device.SOLUTION: In a program executed by a computer of a selling device, the computer executes: (1) establishing a communication connection with a terminal device of a user; (2) accepting a selection of a commodity while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting inserted cash while the communication connection is maintained, at least in this order, and further, if a first amount equal to a cash amount inserted is greater than a second amount equal to an amount of a selected commodity, the program has an instruction to execute commodity discharge processing relating to discharging the selected commodity from the selling device, and display processing relating to enabling the display, on the terminal device and / or the selling device, information that electronic money corresponding to a change, which is a balance amount between the first amount and the second amount, has been granted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, an information processing method, and a sales device. [Background technology]

[0002] A payment system, a payment device, and a payment processing method are known that can improve the efficiency of the process of providing change when accepting currency for payment (for example, Patent Document 1). When the accepted amount, which is the amount of accepted currency, exceeds the payment amount, the payment device described in Patent Document 1 calculates the difference between the accepted amount and the payment amount as the change amount, generates information necessary to charge the change amount as electronic money as a two-dimensional code, and outputs it by display or printing. The user then reads the two-dimensional code with a terminal device to charge the change amount with electronic money. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2020-57342 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 does not sufficiently improve convenience for users. Specifically, there is room for further study regarding the method for charging electronic money.

[0005] In view of the above, the present disclosure aims to improve convenience for users. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A program according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is a program executed by a computer of a sales device that allows a user to purchase products by inserting cash, wherein the computer performs at least the following in this order: (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device; (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting the insertion of cash while the communication connection is maintained; and if a first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted exceeds a second amount corresponding to the value of the selected product, the computer further has instructions to execute a product ejection process for ejecting the selected product from the sales device and a display process for displaying on the terminal device and / or the sales device information that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been granted.

[0007] Another aspect of the information processing method of the present disclosure is to cause a computer of a sales device that allows a user to purchase products by inserting cash to perform at least the following in this order: (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device; (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting the insertion of cash while the communication connection is maintained; and if a first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted exceeds a second amount corresponding to the value of the selected product, the computer further performs processing related to ejecting the selected product from the sales device and processing related to displaying on the terminal device and / or the sales device information indicating that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been granted.

[0008] Another aspect of the present disclosure is a vending device that allows a user to purchase products by inserting cash, the vending device having a computer that performs at least the following in this order: (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device; (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting cash insertion while the communication connection is maintained. If a first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted exceeds a second amount corresponding to the value of the selected product, the computer further performs a product ejection process for ejecting the selected product from the vending device and a display process for displaying on the terminal device and / or vending device information indicating that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been granted. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present disclosure, convenience for users can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 2 is an example of an information display unit of the vending device of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 2 is an example of a display screen of the terminal device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 10 is another example of the display screen of the terminal device of FIG. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an example of the operation (change charging) of the system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6] 3 is a diagram for explaining an example of the order of purchasing products in the sales device according to the first embodiment. FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of the operation of the system according to the second embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a vending device and a terminal device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Preferred embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] In this disclosure, "unit," "means," "device," and "system" do not simply mean physical means, but also include cases where the functions of the "unit," "means," "device," and "system" are realized by software. Furthermore, the functions of one "unit," "means," "device," and "system" may be realized by two or more physical means, devices, and software, and the functions of two or more "units," "means," "device," and "system" may be realized by one physical means, device, and software.

[0013] <1. Overview> In this embodiment, a user can purchase products from the sales device 2 of the system 1 according to this embodiment using either cash or electronic money.

[0014] (Purchase of goods with cash) Specifically, a user can purchase a product sold by the vending machine 2 by inserting cash into a cash slot of the vending machine 2 and pressing a product selection button. At that time, if the amount of cash inserted exceeds the price of the product, change equivalent to the difference will be dispensed from the change dispenser of the vending machine 2.

[0015] (Purchasing goods using electronic money linked to a card-type device, etc.) Furthermore, a user can purchase goods using electronic money associated with a device (such as a card-type device, for example) by contacting the device with which the electronic money is associated with a reading device (such as an IC card reader, for example) provided in the vending machine 2. In this case, the electronic money equivalent to the amount of the goods is used, and no change is given. A user can charge the electronic money associated with the device by, for example, having a dedicated device read the device and inserting cash into the dedicated device.

[0016] (Purchasing products using electronic money associated with a user's account) Furthermore, if the electronic money is associated with a user's account, the user can have the vending device 2 acquire information about the account and purchase products using the electronic money associated with the account. For example, the user can connect their own terminal device 3 to the vending device 2 for communication and have the vending device 2 acquire information about their own account. When the product selection button is pressed, the vending device 2 subtracts the electronic money equivalent to the amount of the product from the electronic money associated with the user's account. In this case, too, the electronic money equivalent to the amount of the product is used, so no change is dispensed. The user can use, for example, dedicated application software (hereinafter referred to as an "app") to charge the electronic money associated with the account, for example, by credit card payment or the like.

[0017] In this embodiment, it is assumed that the user purchases a product from the sales device 2 by the above-mentioned method of "purchasing a product with cash" or "purchasing a product with electronic money associated with the user's account."

[0018] This embodiment relates to charging electronic money equivalent to change (hereinafter referred to as "change charging") when a user purchases a product from a vending machine 2 using cash, instead of receiving change as cash. Change charging eliminates the need for the user to take the trouble of collecting coins from the vending machine 2, thereby improving the purchasing experience. Furthermore, change charging reduces the effort required to replenish the vending machine 2 with cash for change, thereby enabling more efficient operation by the person managing the vending machine 2.

[0019] In this embodiment, a user can use an app on the terminal device 3. The app has a function for using and charging electronic money assigned to the user's account. More specifically, the app establishes a communication connection between the terminal device 3 and the vending device 2 and transmits information about the user's account to the vending device 2 via the communication connection. When a product is purchased, the vending device 2 subtracts electronic money equivalent to the product amount from the electronic money associated with the user's account. Furthermore, when a product is purchased with cash and there is change, the vending device 2 adds electronic money equivalent to the change to the electronic money associated with the user's account. That is, in this embodiment, whether a product is purchased from the vending device 2 using electronic money or a product is purchased from the vending device 2 using cash and change is charged, it is necessary to establish a communication connection between the terminal device 3 and the vending device 2 as a prerequisite.

[0020] The vending device 2 according to this embodiment is (1) establishing a communication connection with a user's terminal device 3; (2) Accepting product selection while maintaining communication connectivity; (3) Accepting cash deposits while maintaining communication connectivity; The change charging is performed on the condition that the above steps are performed in this order. Hereinafter, the conditions for the change charging are referred to as the "change charging condition." In other words, the change charging condition includes the condition that "the above processes (1) to (3) are performed in this order." Note that "the above processes (1) to (3) are performed in this order" may include, for example, other processes being performed between the above processes (1) to (3). Furthermore, as will be described later, the change charging condition may include other conditions.

[0021] The vending device 2 executes change charging when the change charging condition is satisfied. On the other hand, when the change charging condition is not satisfied, the vending device 2 restricts the change charging process and executes a process of dispensing cash corresponding to the change instead (hereinafter, this process is referred to as the "change dispensing process").

[0022] The vending device 2 can prevent unauthorized acquisition of change charges by a third party by executing change charge based on the change charge conditions. Unauthorized acquisition of change charges by a third party can occur, for example, in a scenario in which the following steps a to d are performed in order. (Step a) A third party establishes a communication connection between his / her own terminal device 3 and the vending device 2. (Step b) The third party moves away from the vending device 2 as long as the communication connection is not interrupted. If the communication connection is via Bluetooth (registered trademark), for example, the third party may be able to move away from the vending device 2 by approximately 10 to 20 meters. (Step c) The user, unaware of the presence of a third party, inserts cash into the vending machine 2 to purchase a product. (Step d) Since the third party's terminal device 3 and the sales device 2 are already connected in step a above, if there is change when the user purchases a product, the change is charged to the third party's account (not to the user who should receive the change).

[0023] Here, the following patterns a to d are assumed as product purchase patterns of users. By setting the change charging conditions as in this embodiment, it is possible to prevent fraudulent acquisition of change charges in any product purchase pattern. This will be explained below.

[0024] (Pattern a) When the terminal device 3 is connected to the sales device 2 via communication and the purchase is made with cash (Pattern b) When the terminal device 3 is connected to the sales device 2 via communication and a purchase is made using electronic money (Pattern c) When purchasing with cash without connecting the terminal device 3 to the sales device 2 (Pattern d) When purchasing with electronic money without connecting the terminal device 3 to the sales device 2 via communication

[0025] In the case of pattern a, when a user establishes a communication connection between their own terminal device 3 and the vending device 2, the user can notice, for example from a display on the input / output unit 16 (described later), that the vending device 2 is already in a communication connection state with a third party's terminal device. The user is expected to then abandon the purchase or operate the vending device 2 (for example, by operating the return lever (described later)) to cut off the communication connection. In other words, in pattern a, the vending device 2 does not perform the above-described process (1) with the user's terminal device 3. Therefore, the change charging condition is not met, and fraudulent acquisition of change charges by third parties is inhibited.

[0026] In the cases of patterns b and d, the user does not insert cash into the vending machine 2. In other words, the vending machine 2 does not perform the process (3) above. Therefore, the change charging condition is not met, and fraudulent acquisition of change by a third party does not occur.

[0027] Here, commonly used vending machines (for example, beverage vending machines) are configured to first accept the insertion of cash and then accept the selection of a product. Based on such business practices, it is expected that a user according to pattern c will select a product after inserting cash into vending machine 2. In this case, vending machine 2 will execute process (2) after process (3) above. Therefore, the change charging condition is not satisfied in pattern c either, and fraudulent acquisition of change charges by a third party is prevented.

[0028] As described above, the vending device 2 prevents a third party from fraudulently obtaining change charges, regardless of the user's purchasing pattern.

[0029] <2. Functional configuration> The configuration of system 1 will be described with reference to Figure 1. System 1 includes a vending device 2, a terminal device 3, a server device 4, and a communication network 5. Vending device 2, terminal device 3, and server device 4 are capable of communicating with each other via communication network 5.

[0030] [Sales Device 2] The vending machine 2 is a machine that allows a user to purchase products by inserting cash. The vending machine 2 is typically, but not limited to, a vending machine for beverages or food. The vending machine 2 includes a control unit 10, a memory unit 14, an input / output unit 16, and a network interface unit 18. The control unit 10, the memory unit 14, the input / output unit 16, and the network interface unit 18 are electrically connected to one another via a bus 19.

[0031] (Storage unit 14) The storage unit 14 stores various information necessary for the operation of the vending device 2. In one embodiment, the information stored in the storage unit 14 includes information that is temporarily stored. In one embodiment, the storage unit 14 temporarily stores information such as setting information 140 and user information 142.

[0032] The setting information 140 includes information regarding the handling of change by the user. The setting information 140 is acquired by communicating with the user's terminal device 3. In one embodiment, the setting information 140 includes information set based on the user's operation on the terminal device 3. For example, such set information is information regarding a change charge mode in which change is not received in cash (received as electronic money through change charge), or information regarding a cash receipt mode in which change is received in cash. In one embodiment, the above-mentioned change charge condition includes being set to the change charge mode.

[0033] The user information 142 is information about the user. The user information 142 includes, for example, information about the user's product purchase history, the user's birthday, age, gender, address, preferences, etc. The user information 142 may also include the number of times electronic money has been provided and the period of time that has elapsed since the change charge mode was set. The user information 142 stored in the storage unit 14 is typically stored in an encrypted state or is stored only temporarily and deleted as appropriate.

[0034] (Control unit 10) The control unit 10 executes various programs stored in the memory unit 14 to function as a communication connection means 100, an acquisition means 102, a reception means 104, a determination means 106, a calculation means 108, an execution means 110, an output means 112, a change means 114, and a decision means 116.

[0035] -Communication connection means 100- The communication connection means 100 establishes a communication connection with the terminal device 3. That is, the communication connection means 100 is responsible for processing the change charging condition (1). In one embodiment, the communication connection means 100 establishes a communication connection with the terminal device 3 via short-range wireless communication (for example, NFC (Near Field Communication), Bluetooth (registered trademark), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), etc.). In another embodiment, the communication connection means 100 establishes a communication connection with the terminal device 3 via a mobile communication system (for example, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) network and a 5G (fifth generation mobile communication system) network, etc.).

[0036] In another embodiment, the communication connection means 100 may, for example, acquire authorization information regarding the communication connection from the terminal device 3, and establish a communication connection with the server device 4 based on the authorization information.

[0037] Note that, when a communication connection is established with one terminal device, the communication connection means 100 restricts the establishment of a communication connection with another terminal device. In one embodiment, restricting the communication connection means 100 from establishing a communication connection with another terminal device may mean not establishing a communication connection with the communication connection means of the other terminal device, or not accepting wireless communication (e.g., a communication connection request) from the communication connection means of the other terminal device. In another embodiment, when a communication connection is established with the terminal device 3, the communication connection means 100 may not accept wireless communication from the communication connection means of another server device.

[0038] -Acquisition method 102- The acquisition means 102 acquires the setting information 140. In one embodiment, the acquisition means 102 acquires the setting information 140 via a communication connection with the terminal device 3 established by the communication connection means 100. In another embodiment, the acquisition means 102 acquires the setting information 140 via short-range wireless communication with the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the acquisition means 102 acquires the setting information 140 from the terminal device 3 via a mobile communication system. In another implementation, the acquisition means 102 may acquire authorization information regarding the acquisition of the setting information 140 from the terminal device 3, and acquire the setting information 140 from the server device 4 based on the authorization information.

[0039] In one embodiment, the acquisition means 102 acquires the setting information 140 at least one of the timing before the user deposits cash into the vending machine 2 and the timing before the user selects a product to purchase. In the sequence described below with reference to Figures 5 and 8, the acquisition means 102 acquires the setting information 140 before both the cash deposit and the product selection. This is because, as will be described later, in the change charging process in this embodiment, first, a communication connection request is made from the terminal device 3 to the vending machine 2, and once the communication connection is established, the setting information 140 is acquired, and then the product is selected and cash is deposited, in that order.

[0040] In one embodiment, the acquiring means 102 further acquires the user information 142. In one embodiment, the acquiring means 102 acquires the user information 142 via a communication connection with the terminal device 3 established by the communication connection means 100. In another embodiment, the acquiring means 102 acquires the user information 142 via short-range wireless communication with the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the acquiring means 102 acquires the user information 142 from the terminal device 3 via a mobile communication system. In another implementation, the acquiring means 102 may acquire authorization information regarding the acquisition of the user information 142 from the terminal device 3, and acquire the user information 142 from the server device 4 based on the authorization information.

[0041] In one embodiment, the acquisition unit 102 acquires the setting information 140 and the user information 142 in a lump. Acquiring a plurality of pieces of information in a lump may mean, for example, receiving the plurality of pieces of information without disconnecting a communication connection that has been established once, receiving the plurality of pieces of information substantially simultaneously (for example, within 1 to 3 seconds), receiving the plurality of pieces of information based on a single operation by the user, receiving the plurality of pieces of information consecutively or in parallel, or the like.

[0042] In the present disclosure, acquiring information includes making the information processable by the control unit 10. Acquiring information means, for example, receiving the information from another device and reading the information from a storage device.

[0043] -Method of reception 104- The accepting means 104 is associated with a cash insertion unit provided in the vending device 2. The accepting means 104 acquires the amount of cash inserted into this cash insertion unit. In other words, the accepting means 104 is responsible for processing the change charging condition (3). The inserted amount can also be referred to as the first amount. The cash insertion unit is physically provided in the vending device 2. The cash insertion unit can include a coin insertion unit that accepts inserted coins and a bill insertion unit that accepts inserted bills.

[0044] In one embodiment, the accepting means 104 is associated with a return lever that accepts a cash refund request from a user. The return lever is physically provided on the vending device 2. When cash is inserted into the cash insertion section and before the product purchase button is pressed, the vending device 2 detects the operation of the return lever and dispenses cash in an amount equal to the inserted cash.

[0045] In one embodiment, the return lever can function as an interface for disconnecting the communication connection between the terminal device 3 and the vending device 2. Specifically, when the vending device 2 maintains a communication connection with the terminal device 3, the vending device 2 disconnects the communication connection based on the user's operation of the return lever. The cash dispensing process and the communication disconnection process may be performed substantially simultaneously (for example, within 1 to 3 seconds), consecutively, or in parallel.

[0046] The accepting means 104 is further associated with a product selection unit that accepts a product selection from the user, and acquires the purchase amount (product price) corresponding to the product selected in the product selection unit. That is, the accepting means 104 is also responsible for processing (2) of the change charging condition. The purchase amount can also be referred to as the second amount. The product selection unit is physically provided on the vending device 2, and typically refers to, but is not limited to, a mechanical or electronic button that accepts the product selection. For example, the product selection unit may be displayed on the terminal device 3, or may be a product selection screen that accepts the product selection. The processing of (2) of the change charging condition includes sensing the pressing of the button.

[0047] -Judgment means 106- The determination means 106 includes a change charge determination means 106a and a bonus charge determination means 106b.

[0048] (Change charge determination means 106a) The change charging determination means 106a determines whether the change charging conditions are satisfied. That is, the change charging determination means 106a determines whether at least the following have been executed in this order: (1) the communication connection means 100 establishes a communication connection with the user's terminal device 3, (2) the reception means 104 receives a product selection while the communication connection is maintained, and (3) the reception means 104 receives cash insertion while the communication connection is maintained.

[0049] In one embodiment, the change charging determination means 106a determines whether the change charging condition is satisfied based on whether the user who caused the vending device 2 to acquire the setting information 140 is present near the vending device 2, in addition to the sequential execution of the above processes (1) to (3). That is, the change charging condition may include a condition related to the distance between the user and the vending device 2. In one example, the change charging determination means 106a determines whether the change charging condition is satisfied based on whether the user is present near the vending device 2, in addition to the sequential execution of the above processes (1) to (3). In this case, the vending device 2 may acquire information regarding the distance to the user based on an image from a camera provided in the vending device 2, measurements from a human presence sensor provided in the vending device 2, location information of the terminal device 3, received power in communication with the terminal device 3, etc., and the change charging determination means 106a may determine whether the user is present near the vending device 2 based on such information.

[0050] In one embodiment, the change charging determination means 106a determines whether the change charging condition is satisfied based on the setting information 140, in addition to the above processes (1) to (3) being executed in order. In one example, the change charging determination means 106a determines that the change charging condition is satisfied when the above processes (1) to (3) are executed in order and the change charging mode is set. Therefore, when the cash receiving mode is set, the change charging determination means 106a determines that the change charging condition is not satisfied, regardless of whether the above processes (1) to (3) are executed in order.

[0051] (Bonus charge determination means 106b) The bonus charge determination means 106b determines whether or not the conditions (hereinafter referred to as "bonus charge conditions") for granting an additional electronic benefit (hereinafter referred to as "bonus") to the user when executing change charging are met. Hereinafter, the process for controlling the display of information that an additional electronic benefit has been granted on the terminal device 3 and / or vending device 2 will be referred to as the "bonus charge process." Details of the bonus charge process will be described later.

[0052] In one embodiment, the bonus charge determination means 106b determines whether the bonus charge condition is satisfied based on at least one of the following bonus charge information A to D. The following bonus charge information A to D can be stored in the storage unit 14 or acquired by the acquisition means 102.

[0053] Bonus charge information A: Identification information that identifies the vending device 2 itself among information related to the vending device 2 (hereinafter referred to as "vending information"). Bonus charge information B: Location information that identifies the installation location of the vending device 2 among the sales information Bonus charge information C: Product information about the product purchased by the user Bonus charge information D: Information included in user information 142

[0054] In one example, if the bonus charge condition includes a condition related to purchasing a product at a specific sales device 2, the bonus charge determination means 106b may determine whether the bonus condition is met by comparing the identification information associated with its own device (an example of bonus charge information A) with the identification information associated with that specific sales device 2.

[0055] In another example, if the bonus charge condition includes a condition related to purchasing a product from a sales device 2 located in a specific area, the bonus charge determination means 106b may obtain location information of the device itself (an example of bonus charge information B) using GPS or the like, and determine whether the device itself is located in that specific area based on that information.

[0056] In another example, when the bonus charge condition includes a condition related to the user purchasing a specific product a predetermined number of times or more, the bonus charge determination means 106b may make a determination based on information related to the purchase history (an example of bonus charge information D) and information related to the type of product purchased by the user (an example of bonus charge information C) included in the user information 142. Note that this predetermined number of times may be two or more.

[0057] -Calculation method 108- The calculation means 108 calculates the difference between the amount deposited and the amount purchased.

[0058] -Means of Execution 110- (Execution of change charging and change dispensing process) If the deposited amount exceeds the purchase amount, the execution means 110 executes a product discharge process for discharging the selected product from the vending device 2. If the change charge determination means 106a determines that the change charge conditions are met, the execution means 110 executes change charging following the product discharge process. If the change charge determination means 106a determines that the change charge conditions are not met, the execution means 110 restricts change charging so that electronic money is not provided, and executes the change discharge process.

[0059] The change charging includes a process (hereinafter referred to as a "display process") of controlling the terminal device 3 and / or the vending device 2 so that information indicating that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the deposited amount and the purchase amount, has been provided, can be displayed. The change charging may also include a process of controlling the terminal device 3 to emit sound, emit light, and / or vibrate to notify the user that electronic money has been provided, and this process may be performed approximately simultaneously (for example, within 1 to 3 seconds), continuously, or in parallel with the display process. In this embodiment, the information indicating that electronic money has been provided is described as being displayed on the terminal device 3.

[0060] In order for the information that electronic money has been provided to be able to be displayed on the terminal device 3, it is necessary that the electronic money has actually been provided and that the provision of the electronic money has been notified to the terminal device 3. In other words, the change charging includes at least one of a process of actually providing the electronic money (hereinafter referred to as the "electronic money provision process") and a process of controlling so that information that electronic money has been provided is sent to the terminal device 3 (hereinafter referred to as the "electronic money provision completion notification").

[0061] The electronic money granting process includes the vending device 2 actually granting electronic money to the user. In another embodiment, the electronic money granting process may include causing the server device 4 or the like to grant the electronic money to the user. The vending device 2 can cause the server device 4 or the like to grant the electronic money to the user by, for example, transmitting to the server device 4 information such as identification information of the user to whom the electronic money is to be granted and information regarding the amount of change (i.e., the amount of electronic money to be granted).

[0062] The vending device 2 and the server device 4 may grant electronic money by updating the databases related to electronic money that they manage. For example, the server device 4 may grant electronic money to a specific user by increasing the amount of electronic money associated with the specific user in the database related to electronic money that it manages.

[0063] The electronic money grant completion notification includes transmitting information indicating that the electronic money has been granted from the vending device 2 to the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the electronic money grant completion notification may include causing the server device 4 or the like to transmit information indicating that the electronic money has been granted to the terminal device 3. For example, the vending device 2 can cause the server device 4 or the like to transmit information indicating that the electronic money has been granted to the terminal device 3 by transmitting identification information of the terminal device 3 to the server device 4.

[0064] Restriction of change charging is performed when it is determined that the change charging conditions are not met. When change charging is restricted, change charging is not permitted and electronic money is not provided. Restricting change charging includes restricting the execution of the above-mentioned display process, and also includes not executing at least part of the display process. For example, when change charging is performed, information indicating that electronic money has been provided is displayed on the terminal device 3 and / or the sales device 2, but such display is not performed.

[0065] The change dispensing process includes a process of dispensing change from the change dispensing unit of the vending device 2.

[0066] (Bonus charge processing execution) When executing change charging, the execution means 110 may execute the bonus charging process if the bonus charge determination means 106b determines that the bonus charge condition is satisfied. The user may use the bonus granted to the user to purchase a product from the vending machine 2. For example, the user may be able to use a bonus of 100 points as electronic money worth 100 yen. In this embodiment, the information indicating that electronic money has been granted is described as being displayed on the terminal device 3.

[0067] The bonus charge process includes at least a part of one or more processes for enabling information that a bonus has been awarded to be displayed on the terminal device 3. In order for the information that a bonus has been awarded to be displayed on the terminal device 3, it is necessary that the bonus has actually been awarded and that the terminal device 3 has been notified of the fact that the bonus has been awarded. In other words, the bonus charge process includes at least one of a process related to the awarding of a bonus (hereinafter referred to as the "bonus awarding process") and a process for controlling the transmission of information that the bonus has been awarded to the terminal device 3 (hereinafter referred to as the "bonus awarding completion notification").

[0068] The bonus granting process includes the vending device 2 actually granting a bonus to the user. In another embodiment, the bonus granting process may include causing the server device 4 or the like to grant the bonus to the user. The vending device 2 can cause the server device 4 or the like to grant the bonus to the user by, for example, transmitting to the server device 4 the identification information of the user to whom the bonus is to be granted and information regarding the content of the bonus.

[0069] The vending device 2 and the server device 4 may grant a bonus by updating the databases related to bonuses that they manage. For example, the server device 4 may grant a bonus to a specific user by associating a new bonus with the specific user in the database related to bonuses that it manages.

[0070] The bonus award completion notification includes sending information indicating that the bonus has been awarded from the vending device 2 to the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the electronic money award completion notification may include causing the server device 4 or the like to send information indicating that the electronic money has been awarded to the terminal device 3. For example, the vending device 2 can cause the server device 4 or the like to send information indicating that the electronic money has been awarded to the terminal device 3 by sending identification information of the terminal device 3 to the server device 4.

[0071] -Output means 112- The output means 112 is associated with a product dispensing unit or a voucher dispensing unit. The product dispensing unit dispenses the product selected by the user when the amount inserted exceeds the purchase amount. The voucher dispensing unit outputs a voucher for the product instead of dispensing the product.

[0072] The product discharge unit is physically provided in the vending device 2. The product discharge unit discharges products from the vending device 2 so that the user can pick them up. For example, if the vending device 2 is a beverage vending machine, the output means 112 outputs a beverage as a product via the product discharge unit.

[0073] The voucher ejection unit is physically provided in the vending device 2. The voucher ejection unit ejects vouchers from the vending device 2 so that the user can pick them up. For example, if the vending device 2 is a beef bowl ticket vending machine, the output means 112 outputs a voucher that can be exchanged for a beef bowl via the voucher ejection unit. In another embodiment, the voucher ejection unit may not be physically provided, but may transmit information about the product voucher to the terminal device 3. For example, the voucher ejection unit may be configured to display information about the product voucher on the terminal device 3, and may typically display the product voucher as electronic information. The product voucher information transmitted to the terminal device 3 (e.g., information about the product corresponding to the voucher, the expiration date of the voucher, the number of vouchers, etc.) may be stored in the memory unit of the server device 4 or the memory unit 14 of the vending device 2. The output means 112 may also be referred to as an ejection unit that ejects products, an issuing unit that issues product vouchers, etc.

[0074] -Change method 114- The change means 114 changes the display on the product display unit 160 of the selling device 2 based on the user information 142 acquired by communicating with the terminal device 3. For example, the change means 114 highlights and displays a product that matches the preferences of the user identified based on the user information 142. Changing the display on the product display unit 160 includes, for example, blinking a button associated with a specific product and displaying the specific product on the LCD screen.

[0075] -Decision-making method 116- The determination means 116 determines the content of the bonus to be given to the user in the bonus charge process. The determination means 116 may determine the content of the bonus depending on the bonus charge condition that is satisfied.

[0076] In one embodiment, when there is a first bonus charge condition and a second bonus charge condition different from the first bonus charge condition, the determination means 116 may decide to grant a first bonus to the user based on the first bonus charge condition being satisfied, and may decide to grant a second bonus different from the first bonus to the user based on the second bonus charge condition being satisfied.

[0077] In another embodiment, when there are multiple bonus charge conditions, the determination means 116 determines the content of the bonus according to the combination of bonus charge conditions that are determined to be satisfied among the multiple bonus charge conditions. For example, when there are first to fourth bonus charge conditions, the determination means 116 may determine to grant a first bonus to the user based on the first bonus charge condition and the second bonus charge condition being satisfied, and may determine to grant a second bonus different from the first bonus to the user based on the third bonus charge condition and the fourth bonus charge condition being satisfied. In this example, one of the first and second bonus charge conditions may be common to one of the third and fourth bonus charge conditions.

[0078] (Input / output section 16) The input / output unit 16 accepts input from the user (for example, inserting cash and selecting a product, etc.) and outputs various information to the user (for example, the types of products on sale, product prices, products that have sold out, the amount of cash inserted, the communication connection status with the terminal device, etc.). The input / output unit 16 is equipped with an information display unit 162 for outputting various information, and further includes the above-mentioned product display unit 160, a cash insert unit, a product selection unit, a return lever unit, etc.

[0079] FIG. 2 shows an overall view of the vending device 2 and an example output from the information display unit 162. The information display unit 162 displays the communication connection status d30 with the terminal device and the amount display d50. The communication connection status d30 outputs the communication connection status with the terminal device, for example, using color or text. For example, when expressed using color, the communication connection status d30 glows blue when a communication connection is active and yellow when no connection is established. The amount display d50 displays the amount inserted and the amount of change due. In the display example of FIG. 2, the amount display d50 displays "200."

[0080] The information display unit 162 may also display information about the awarding of electronic money and / or a bonus. For example, when a user purchases a product by satisfying the change charging conditions, the amount display d50 may display the amount of electronic money to be awarded. Furthermore, when the execution means 110 executes a change charging, change dispensing process, or bonus charging process, the communication connection status d30 may indicate, using a color or text, which process has been executed.

[0081] (Network Interface Unit 18) The network interface unit 18 realizes communication with the server device 4 and the terminal device 3 via the communication network 5 .

[0082] [Terminal device 3] The terminal device 3 is a device used by a user. The terminal device 3 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a smartwatch, or a personal computer. Typically, the terminal device 3 is a mobile terminal on which a dedicated app is installed. The terminal device 3 includes a control unit 20, a storage unit (not shown), an input / output unit (not shown), and a network interface unit (not shown).

[0083] (control unit 20) The control unit 20 executes various programs stored in the storage unit of the terminal device 3, thereby functioning as a receiving means 200, a transmitting means 202, a receiving means 204, and a display means 206. The control unit 20 may function as the above-mentioned various means by executing a dedicated app installed on the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the control unit 20 may function as the above-mentioned various means by executing a web application that can be used from a browser installed on the terminal device 3.

[0084] - Reception method 200 - The accepting unit 200 accepts input from the user regarding the setting information 140. Fig. 3 shows an example of a display screen of the terminal device 3 that accepts input from the user regarding the setting information 140. The display screen example of Fig. 3 displays a title d100, a function description d102, current settings d104, a switch button d106, and a connect button d107.

[0085] The title d100 is the title of the page being displayed. In this example, it says "Settings Information."

[0086] The function description d102 is an explanation of the change charge function. Here, it says, "Change charge is a function that charges change as electronic money."

[0087] The current setting d104 is an indication of the mode set in the setting information 140. Here, it displays "Current setting: Change charge mode." In other words, if a user of the terminal device 3 uses the vending device 2 to purchase a product in this state, the vending device 2 will perform change charging.

[0088] The switch button d106 is a button for changing the mode set in the setting information 140. Here, "Switch to cash receiving mode" is displayed on the button. The user can switch from the change charge mode to the cash receiving mode by touching or pressing the switch button d106.

[0089] The connection button d107 is a button for operating the communication connection means 201, which will be described later.

[0090] -Communication connection means 201- The communication connection means 201 establishes a communication connection with the vending device 2. In one embodiment, the communication connection means 201 establishes a communication connection with the vending device 2 when the connection button d107 shown in the example screen of FIG. 3 is pressed within a predetermined distance from the vending device 2.

[0091] In one embodiment, the communication connection means 201 transmits a communication connection request to the vending device 2 based on pressing the connection button d107. The communication connection means 201 then receives a response to the communication connection request from the vending device 2. In one example, the communication connection is established based on such an operation. In addition, at this time, the communication connection request and the response thereto may be transmitted and received via short-range wireless communication.

[0092] -Transmission means 202- The transmission means 202 transmits the setting information 140 to the vending device 2 via the communication connection made by the communication connection means 201. As described above, the acquisition means 102 of the vending device 2 acquires the setting information 140 transmitted by the transmission means 202.

[0093] - Receiving means 204 - The receiving means 204 receives the electronic money provision completion notification and the bonus provision completion notification.

[0094] -Display means 206- The display means 206 displays the grant information based on the electronic money grant completion notification and the bonus grant completion notification. The grant information includes information that electronic money and a bonus have been granted. Fig. 4 shows an example of a display screen of the terminal device 3 that displays the grant information. In the example display screen of Fig. 4, a title d108, a balance d110, and electronic money grant information d112 are displayed.

[0095] The title d108 is the title of the page being displayed. In this example, it says "Electronic Money Balance."

[0096] The balance d110 is the amount of electronic money and bonuses held by the user. Here, it is displayed as "Balance 3,085 yen (including 85 yen bonus)."

[0097] The electronic money grant information d112 is information indicating that electronic money has been granted. Here, it displays "New notification: 850 yen worth of electronic money has been charged for the purchase on April 17, 2024." In other words, of the 3,085 yen worth of electronic money displayed in the balance d110, at least 850 yen is electronic money granted by the electronic money granting process for the change charge.

[0098] The bonus granting information d114 is information indicating that a bonus has been granted. Here, it displays "A bonus of 85 yen has been granted for the purchase of the new notification on April 17, 2024." In other words, of the 3,085 yen worth of electronic money displayed in the balance d110, 85 yen is a bonus granted by the bonus granting process.

[0099] The electronic money grant information d112 does not have to be displayed (for example, by push notification) immediately after the change charge is performed by the vending device 2. The electronic money grant information d112 may be displayed, for example, in response to a user operation for displaying the change charge history after information that electronic money has been granted through the change charge becomes displayable on the terminal device 3.

[0100] Similarly, the bonus granting information d114 does not have to be displayed (for example, by push notification) immediately after the bonus charge process is performed by the vending device 2. The bonus granting information d114 may be displayed in response to a user operation to display the history of the bonus charge process, for example, after information that a bonus has been granted by the bonus charge process becomes displayable on the terminal device 3.

[0101] [Server device 4] The server device 4 is a device that provides services to at least one of the vending device 2 and the terminal device 3 as a client device. In one embodiment, the server device 4 stores the user's identification information in association with electronic money, electronic benefits, etc., granted to the user.

[0102] [Communication Network 5] The communication network 5 enables communication between the devices included in the system 1.

[0103] <3.Operation> [First embodiment] The operation of the system 1 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0104] First, the terminal device 3 establishes a communication connection with the vending device 2 (S10). Establishing the communication connection enables the terminal device 3 and the vending device 2 to send and receive information to and from each other, typically without going through the server device 4. The communication connection is established, for example, when the user presses the connection button d107 on the terminal device 3. In another embodiment, the communication connection may be established automatically when the terminal device 3 approaches the vending device 2. In another embodiment, the communication connection may be established by, for example, bringing the terminal device 3 close to a communication unit (e.g., an NFC antenna) of the vending device 2 while dedicated application software is running. It is assumed that the user has input the setting information 140 to the terminal device 3 before step S10 (see FIG. 3).

[0105] Next, the terminal device 3 transmits the setting information 140 to the vending device 2 (S12), which is done automatically when a communication connection is established.

[0106] Next, the vending machine 2 accepts the selection of a product from the user (S14), and then accepts the insertion of cash from the user (S16), thereby determining the purchase amount and the inserted amount.

[0107] Next, the vending machine 2 calculates the change based on the difference between the amount deposited and the purchase amount (S18). In this example, it is assumed that the change is 1 yen or more (i.e., the amount deposited exceeds the purchase amount).

[0108] Next, the vending device 2 outputs, ie, dispenses, the product selected by the user in step S14 (S20).

[0109] Next, the vending device 2 determines the processing content to be performed by the execution means 110 (S22). Specifically, if the change charge determination means 106a determines that the change charge condition is satisfied, the vending device 2 executes the change charge process following the product discharge process. In this example, the above-described change charge conditions (1) to (3) are executed at least in this order. That is, step S10 corresponds to (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device 3, step S14 corresponds to (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained, and step S16 corresponds to (3) accepting cash insertion while the communication connection is maintained, and the above-described (1) to (3) are executed at least in this order. Furthermore, the setting information 140 acquired by the vending device 2 in step S12 is information related to the change charge mode. As a result, the vending device 2 determines to execute the change charge.

[0110] Next, the vending device 2 executes the electronic money providing process for the change (S24). The vending device 2 may execute the electronic money providing process in cooperation with the server device 4.

[0111] Next, the vending device 2 and the server device 4 transmit an electronic money provision completion notification to the terminal device 3 (S26). The vending device 2 may cooperate with the server device 4 to transmit the electronic money provision completion notification.

[0112] Next, the terminal device 3 displays the grant information regarding the change (S28). The display screen in step S28 may display, for example, the electronic money grant information d112 shown in Fig. 4. By looking at this display, the user can know that 850 yen worth of electronic money has been granted by the electronic money granting process in the change charging.

[0113] Finally, based on the completion of step S26, the vending device 2 disconnects the communication connection with the terminal device 3 (S29).

[0114] Next, an example of the product purchasing order in the sales device 2 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

[0115] First, the user establishes a communication connection between the terminal device 3 and the vending device 2 (hereinafter referred to as the "communication step"). By establishing the communication connection, the vending device 2 changes the light color of the communication connection status d30 on the information display unit 162 ((a) of FIG. 6). Note that the setting information 140 acquired by the vending device 2 through the communication connection is information related to the change charging mode.

[0116] Next, the user selects a product on the vending device 2 (hereinafter referred to as the "selection step"). In this example, the user can select a product by pressing a button provided on the vending device 2 at least once ((b) of FIG. 6). Also, in this example, the purchase price of the product selected by the user is assumed to be "150 yen."

[0117] Next, the vending machine 2 accepts cash from the user (hereinafter referred to as the "insertion step"). In this example, the amount inserted is assumed to be "200 yen" ((c) of FIG. 6). As a result, the inserted amount is determined following the purchase amount, and the amount equivalent to change is "50 yen."

[0118] Next, the vending machine 2 outputs the product selected by the user (FIG. 6(d)).

[0119] In this example, the vending device 2 sequentially executes the processes (1) to (3) related to the change charging condition. That is, the communication step corresponds to (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device 3, the selection step corresponds to (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained, and the deposit step corresponds to (3) accepting cash deposit while the communication connection is maintained, and the above (1) to (3) are executed in at least this order. As a result, the vending device 2 determines that the change charging condition is met and executes the change charging. More specifically, the vending device 2 executes the electronic money charging process for "50 yen," displays "50" (yen) corresponding to the change amount on the amount display d50 of the information display unit 162, and changes the luminous color of the communication connection status d30 ((e) of FIG. 6).

[0120] Finally, the vending device 2 disconnects the communication connection with the terminal device 3. At this time, the color of the light emitted by the communication connection status d30 on the information display unit 162 is changed to the color of the state before the communication connection was established.

[0121] [Second embodiment] The operation of the system 1 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 7. Compared to the system 1 according to the first embodiment, the system 1 according to the second embodiment additionally includes steps of transmitting user information 142 (S30), determining a bonus (S32), processing a bonus award (S34), and notifying completion of the bonus award (S36). Note that the other steps are the same as those in the first embodiment, and therefore description thereof will be omitted.

[0122] The terminal device 3 transmits the setting information 140 in step S12, and also transmits the user information 142 to the vending device 2 (S30).

[0123] After determining to execute change charging in step S22, the vending device 2 determines a bonus to be given to the user (S32). Determining the bonus includes determining whether or not a bonus charging condition is satisfied, and, if it is determined that the bonus charging condition is satisfied, determining the content of the bonus to be given in the bonus charging process.

[0124] Next, the vending device 2 executes an electronic money granting process and a bonus granting process (S34). The vending device 2 may execute the electronic money granting process and the bonus granting process in cooperation with the server device 4. In the bonus granting process, the bonus determined in step S32 is granted to the user.

[0125] Next, the vending device 2 and the server device 4 transmit an electronic money provision completion notice and a bonus provision completion notice to the terminal device 3 (S36). The vending device 2 may cooperate with the server device 4 to transmit the electronic money provision completion notice and the bonus provision completion notice.

[0126] <4. System 1 Effects> According to the system 1, it is possible to improve security while maintaining user convenience. The change charging function improves the purchasing experience by eliminating the need for the user to take out coins from the vending device 2. Furthermore, according to the vending device 2, change charging is performed only when the above change charging conditions (1) to (3) are met in order, which also prevents unauthorized acquisition of change charges by third parties.

[0127] The change charging conditions according to one embodiment are set so as not to add any additional steps to the procedure (such as the above pattern (a)) when the user purchases a product from the vending device 2. This allows the user to receive change as electronic money without any extra effort, improving user convenience.

[0128] The vending device 2 according to one embodiment acquires the setting information 140 and the user information 142 all at once. This configuration allows the vending device 2 to acquire all the information necessary to determine its own operation. In other words, communication opportunities between the vending device 2 and the terminal device 3 are reduced, allowing products to be provided to users efficiently.

[0129] A vending device 2 according to one embodiment acquires setting information 140 through short-range wireless communication with a terminal device 3. This configuration allows communication between the vending device 2 and the terminal device 3 regardless of the communication status of a wide-area wireless communication network. Furthermore, since the vending device 2 can acquire setting information 140 without going through another server device, communication efficiency is improved.

[0130] When executing change charging, the vending machine 2 according to one embodiment also executes a bonus charging process. With this configuration, the user is prompted to purchase products using electronic money or the bonus when the bonus is awarded, thereby reducing the amount of cash that needs to be handled within the vending machine 2 and enabling efficient operation.

[0131] <4. Hardware Configuration> An example of the hardware configuration of the computer 70 of the above-mentioned vending device 2 and terminal device 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. The functions of each device can also be realized by dividing them into multiple devices.

[0132] As shown in FIG. 8, a computer 70 includes a processor 700 , a storage device 702 , an input I / F 704 , a data I / F 706 , a communication I / F 708 , and a display device 710 .

[0133] The processor 700 controls various processes in the computer 70 by executing programs stored in the storage device 702. For example, each functional unit included in the control unit 10 of the vending device 2 can be realized by the processor 700 executing the programs stored in the storage device 702.

[0134] The storage device 702 is a storage medium such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), etc. The RAM temporarily stores the program code of the program executed by the processor 700 and data required when the program is executed.

[0135] The storage device 702 may also be a non-volatile storage medium such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or flash memory. The storage device 702 stores an operating system and various programs for implementing the above-described configurations. The storage medium storing the various programs may be a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The storage device 702 may also store tables for registering various pieces of information and a database for managing the tables. Such programs and data are loaded into the storage device 702 as needed and referenced by the processor 700.

[0136] The input I / F 704 is a device for receiving input from a user. Specific examples of the input I / F 704 include a camera, a button, a microphone, a keyboard, a mouse, a touch panel, various sensors, and a wearable device. The input I / F 704 may be connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus).

[0137] The data I / F 706 is a device for inputting data from outside the computer 70. A specific example of the data I / F 706 is a drive device for reading data stored in various storage media. The data I / F 706 may be provided outside the computer 70. In this case, the data I / F 706 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB.

[0138] The communication I / F 708 is a device for performing wired or wireless data communication with devices external to the computer 70 via the communication network 5. The communication I / F 708 may be provided external to the computer 70. In this case, the communication I / F 708 is connected to the computer 70 via an interface such as a USB.

[0139] The display device 710 is a device for displaying various types of information. Specific examples of the display device 710 include a liquid crystal display, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display, and a display of a wearable device. The display device 710 may be provided outside the computer 70. In this case, the display device 710 is connected to the computer 70 via, for example, a display cable. Furthermore, when a touch panel is used as the input I / F 704, the display device 710 can be configured as an integral part of the input I / F 704.

[0140] Furthermore, the components of the vending machine 2 and terminal device 3 described in the above embodiment are assumed to be implemented in cooperation with other hardware by the processor 700 executing a program stored in the storage device 702. In other words, these components are assumed to be software or firmware, as well as corresponding hardware, and in both of these concepts, they are also referred to as "functions," "means," "parts," "processing circuits," "units," or "modules," and can be interpreted as such.

[0141] <5. Other configurations> At least a part of the configuration of the vending device 2 in the above embodiment may be provided in the server device 4. Furthermore, the vending device 2 may cooperate with the server device 4 to execute the various operations described in the above embodiment.

[0142] In the above embodiment, the "processing of controlling so that specific information can be displayed on the terminal device 3" includes processing in which the specific information cannot be displayed on the terminal device 3 at a first point in time before the processing is performed, and the specific information can be displayed on the terminal device 3 at a second point in time after the processing is performed. In other words, if the specific information cannot be displayed on the terminal device 3 at the first point in time, but the specific information can be displayed on the terminal device 3 at the second point in time, it can be said that the "processing of controlling so that specific information can be displayed on the terminal device 3" is performed between the first point in time and the second point in time.

[0143] In the above embodiment, the change charging executed by the vending device 2 is described as at least part of one or more processes for enabling the terminal device 3 to display information indicating that electronic money has been provided, but this is not limited to this. Specifically, the change charging may include displaying information indicating that electronic money has been provided on the vending device 2. In this case, the vending device 2 displays information indicating that electronic money has been provided upon completion of the electronic money providing process (see S24), for example. In other embodiments, the vending device 2 displays information indicating that electronic money has been provided based on an instruction from the server device 4.

[0144] Similarly, the bonus charge process executed by the vending device 2 has been described as at least part of one or more processes for enabling information indicating that a bonus has been awarded to be displayed on the terminal device 3, but is not limited to this. Specifically, the bonus charge process may include displaying information indicating that a bonus has been awarded on the vending device 2. In this case, the vending device 2 displays information indicating that a bonus has been awarded upon completion of the bonus awarding process (see S38), for example. In other embodiments, the vending device 2 displays information indicating that a bonus has been awarded based on an instruction from the server device 4.

[0145] 6. Aspects of the Present Disclosure The following aspects are also included within the scope of the present disclosure.

[0146] [Appendix 1] A program executed by a computer 70 of a sales device 2 in which a user can purchase a commodity by inserting cash, The computer 70 (1) establishing a communication connection with a user's terminal device 3; (2) Accepting product selection while maintaining communication connectivity; (3) Accepting cash deposits while maintaining communication connectivity; are executed at least in this order, and if the first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted is greater than the second amount corresponding to the amount of the selected product, The computer 70 further a product discharge process for discharging the selected product from the vending device 2; A program having instructions for executing a display process that enables the terminal device 3 and / or the sales device 2 to display information that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been given.

[0147] [Appendix 2] A program as described in Appendix 1, having instructions for restricting the execution of the display process so that electronic money is not granted when the computer 70 executes at least the process (3) and the process (2) in this order while the communication connection is maintained.

[0148] [Appendix 3] A program as described in Appendix 2 or 3, having instructions for the computer 70 to further execute a change dispensing process to dispense cash equivalent to change from the vending device 2 when the computer 70 executes at least the process (3) and the process (2) in this order while the communication connection is maintained.

[0149] [Appendix 4] The computer 70 A program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 3, having instructions for restricting the establishment of another communication connection with another terminal device 3 different from the terminal device 3 when a communication connection is established.

[0150] [Appendix 5] The computer 70 5. The program of claim 1, further comprising instructions for establishing a communication connection with a terminal device 3 by short-range wireless communication.

[0151] [Appendix 6] The vending device 2 has a button for accepting the selection of a product, The program according to any one of appendices 1 to 5, wherein the processing (2) includes detecting a press on a button.

[0152] [Appendix 7] 7. The program of any one of appendices 1 to 6, comprising instructions for the computer 70 to perform the display process following the product discharge process.

[0153] [Appendix 8] The computer 70 Acquire setting information 140 relating to a change receiving method from the terminal device 3 via a communication connection; Based on the setting information 140, (1) executing a display process; (2) restricting the execution of the display process and executing a change dispensing process for dispensing cash equivalent to the change from the vending device 2; and 8. The program of claim 1, further comprising instructions for:

[0154] [Appendix 9] The computer 70 A program described in any one of Appendices 1 to 8, having instructions for performing the processes (1), (2), and (3) at least in this order, and for performing an additional display process for displaying information on the terminal device 3 and / or the sales device 2 that an additional electronic benefit has been granted when a first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted exceeds a second amount corresponding to the value of the selected product.

[0155] [Appendix 10] The computer 70 The program of claim 9, having instructions for determining the content of the electronic reward based on at least one of sales information about the sales device 2, product information about the selected product, and user information 142 about the user.

[0156] [Appendix 11] The program according to claim 10, wherein the sales information includes at least one of information identifying the vending device 2 and information identifying the installation location of the vending device 2.

[0157] [Appendix 12] A computer 70 of a sales device 2 in which a user can purchase a commodity by inserting cash is (1) establishing a communication connection with a user's terminal device 3; (2) Accepting product selection while maintaining communication connectivity; (3) Accepting cash deposits while maintaining communication connectivity; are executed at least in this order, and if the first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted is greater than the second amount corresponding to the amount of the selected product, The computer 70 further comprises: A process for discharging the selected product from the vending device 2; An information processing method that executes a process for displaying on the terminal device 3 and / or the sales device 2 information that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been granted.

[0158] [Appendix 13] A vending machine 2 in which a user can purchase a commodity by inserting cash, The vending device 2 includes a computer 70, which (1) establishing a communication connection with a user's terminal device 3; (2) Accepting product selection while maintaining communication connectivity; (3) Accepting cash deposits while maintaining communication connectivity; are executed at least in this order, and if the first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted is greater than the second amount corresponding to the amount of the selected product, The computer 70 further a product discharge process for discharging the selected product from the vending device 2; The sales device 2 executes a display process for displaying on the terminal device 3 and / or the sales device 2 information that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been given. [Explanation of symbols]

[0159] 1...system, 2...sales device, 3...terminal device, 4...communication network, 6...server device, 10...control unit, 14...storage unit, 16...input / output unit, 18...network interface unit, 19...bus, 20...control unit, 70...computer, 100...communication connection means, 102...acquisition means, 104...acceptance means, 106...determination means, 106a...change charge determination means, 106b...bonus charge determination means, 108...calculation means, 11 0...execution means, 112...output means, 114...change means, 116...decision means, 140...setting information, 142...user information, 160...product display unit, 162...information display unit, 200...reception means, 201...communication connection means, 202...transmission means, 204...reception means, 206...display means, 700...processor, 702...storage device, 704...input I / F, 706...data I / F, 708...communication I / F, 710...display device

Claims

1. A program executed by a computer of a sales device that allows a user to purchase a commodity by inserting cash, The computer (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device; (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting cash insertion while the communication connection is maintained; and are executed at least in this order, and when the first amount corresponding to the amount of the inserted cash is greater than the second amount corresponding to the amount of the selected commodity, The computer further comprises: a product discharge process for discharging the selected product from the vending device; A program having instructions for executing a display process that enables the terminal device and / or the sales device to display information that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been given.

2. The program of claim 1, further comprising instructions for restricting the execution of the display process so that the electronic money is not granted when the computer executes the process (3) and the process (2) at least in this order while the communication connection is maintained.

3. The program of claim 2, further comprising instructions for the computer to, when the computer executes the process (3) and the process (2) at least in this order while the communication connection is maintained, further execute a change dispensing process for dispensing cash equivalent to the change from the vending device.

4. The computer 2. The program according to claim 1, further comprising instructions for restricting establishment of another communication connection with another terminal device different from the terminal device when the communication connection has been established.

5. The computer The program of claim 1 , further comprising instructions for establishing the communication connection with the terminal device by short-range wireless communication.

6. the sales device has a button for accepting the selection of the product; The program according to claim 1 , wherein the process (2) includes detecting a press on the button.

7. The program according to claim 1 , further comprising instructions for causing the computer to perform the display process subsequent to the product discharge process.

8. The computer acquiring setting information regarding a change receiving method from the terminal device via the communication connection; Based on the setting information, (1) executing the display process; (2) restricting the execution of the display process and executing a change dispensing process for dispensing cash equivalent to the change from the vending device; 2. The program of claim 1, further comprising instructions for executing one of:

9. The computer The program of claim 1, further comprising instructions for executing the processes (1), (2), and (3) at least in this order, and for executing an additional display process for displaying information on the terminal device and / or the sales device that an additional electronic benefit has been granted when a first amount corresponding to the amount of cash inserted exceeds a second amount corresponding to the value of the selected product.

10. The computer 10. The program of claim 9, further comprising instructions for determining the content of the electronic bonus based on at least one of sales information about the sales device, product information about the selected product, and user information about the user.

11. The program according to claim 10 , wherein the sales information includes at least one of information identifying the vending device and information identifying an installation location of the vending device.

12. A computer of a sales device in which a user can purchase goods by inserting cash is (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device; (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting cash insertion while the communication connection is maintained; and are executed at least in this order, and when the first amount corresponding to the amount of the inserted cash is greater than the second amount corresponding to the amount of the selected commodity, The computer further comprises: a process for discharging the selected product from the vending device; and executing a process for displaying on the terminal device and / or the sales device information that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been granted.

13. A vending machine in which a user can purchase a commodity by inserting cash, a computer, the computer comprising: (1) establishing a communication connection with the user's terminal device; (2) accepting a product selection while the communication connection is maintained; and (3) accepting cash insertion while the communication connection is maintained; and are executed at least in this order, and when the first amount corresponding to the amount of the inserted cash is greater than the second amount corresponding to the amount of the selected commodity, The computer further comprises: a product discharge process for discharging the selected product from the vending device; A sales device that executes a display process for displaying information on the terminal device and / or the sales device that electronic money corresponding to the change, which is the difference between the first amount and the second amount, has been given.

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