Remittance service system and method

Abstract

To transfer money from a sender having no bank account to a receiver.SOLUTION: The remittance service system includes a bank information management section 10 for managing information relating to a specific bank account 30 for remittance service and information relating to a plurality of automatic transaction apparatus 4 with which cash transfer can be performed using the specific bank account, a user information management section 11 for managing information of a remitter and a recipient who transfer cash utilizing the remittance service, and a transaction information management section 12 for managing transaction information relating to cash transfer performed between the remitter and the recipient. And an allocation part 13 for allocating a second automatic transaction device selected from among the plurality of automatic transaction devices to the recipient, and when the remitter pays a predetermined amount of cash to a specific bank account by using the first automatic transaction device, the recipient is controlled to pay the predetermined amount of cash from the specific bank account by using the second automatic transaction device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a money transfer service system and method. [Background technology]

[0002] In order for a remitter to transfer money to a recipient, both the remitter and the recipient must have a bank account, and the remitter must apply for the remitter and receive the cash during bank counter business hours. Therefore, technology has been proposed for transferring money using an automatic teller machine installed in a bank or other facility (Patent Documents 1 and 2). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] US Patent Application Publication No. 2007 / 0045395 [Patent Document 2] US Patent Application Publication No. 2011 / 0029428 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In the prior art, at least the sender and the recipient must have a bank account, which is time-consuming.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a remittance service system and method that enables a remittance from a remitter to a recipient even when neither the remitter nor the recipient has a bank account. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to solve the above problem, the remittance service system according to the present invention is a remittance service system for remittances via an automated teller machine, and comprises: a bank information management unit that manages information about a specific bank account for the remittance service and information about a plurality of automated teller machines that can send and receive cash using the specific bank account; a user information management unit that manages information about the remitter and recipient who use the remittance service to send and receive cash; a transaction information management unit that manages transaction information related to the cash transfer between the remitter and recipient; and an allocation unit that assigns a first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the remitter and assigns a second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the recipient, and controls the system so that when the remitter deposits a predetermined amount of cash into the specific bank account using the first automated teller machine, the recipient withdraws the predetermined amount of cash from the specific bank account using the second automated teller machine. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to the present invention, a remitter can transfer money from a first automated teller machine to a recipient via a specific bank account. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] 1 is an overall view of an information processing system including a remittance service system. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a functional configuration diagram of an information processing system including a remittance service system. [Figure 3] 1 is an example of a user information database. [Figure 4] This is an example of a bank information database. [Figure 5] 10 is an example of a table showing the relationship between ATMs introduced to users and fees. [Figure 6] 10 is an example of a transaction information database for remittance. [Figure 7] 10 is an example of a data table showing transaction details. [Figure 8] 10 is an example of a transaction information database at the time of receipt. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a user registration process. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a remittance process. [Figure 11] This is a sequence diagram continuing from FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram showing a cash receiving process. [Figure 13] This is a sequence diagram continuing from FIG. [Figure 14] 10 is a flowchart of a process for calculating an introducing ATM and a usage fee. [Figure 15] 10 is a flowchart of a process for monitoring whether cash has been received according to the second embodiment. [Figure 16] 13 is an example of a table showing the relationship between ATMs introduced to a user and fees according to the third embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. A remittance service system according to this embodiment is operated by a remittance service provider. The remittance service provider uses the ATM network of a banking system to realize low-cost cash transfers between remittance senders and recipients. The remittance service provider opens specific bank accounts in one or more banking systems. The remittance service provider may open bank accounts with banks in one country, or with banks in multiple countries. In other words, the remittance service provider can provide remittance services via ATMs only within one country, or can provide remittance services via ATMs across multiple countries.

[0010] The remittance service provider enables cash transfers (remittances) between users who do not have bank accounts via a remittance service server 1 and a user terminal 2 held by the user. The remittance service provider provides users with time-limited access to their bank accounts. The remittance service system according to this embodiment will now be described. [Example]

[0011] Example 1 will be described using Figures 1 to 14. Figure 1 is an overall diagram of an information processing system including a remittance service server 1 as a "remittance service system." This information processing system can also be called, for example, a remittance service providing system. This information processing system includes, for example, one remittance service server 1, multiple user terminals 2, at least one bank system 3, and at least one ATM 4 as an automated teller machine.

[0012] Hereinafter, sending cash to a recipient will be referred to as remittance, and receiving the sent cash will be referred to as receipt or cash receipt. Remittance and receipt will be collectively referred to as cash transfer. The remittance service server 1 may be abbreviated as server 1.

[0013] In the diagram, the configuration of the remittance side and the configuration of the cash receiving side will be explained separately, but the same reference numerals will be used where there is no need to distinguish between them. For example, when there is no need to distinguish between the user terminal 2-1 used by the remitter U1 and the user terminal 2-2 used by the recipient U2, they will be called user terminal 2. When there is no need to distinguish between the banking system 3-1 used for remittance and the banking system 3-2 used for receipt, they will be called banking system 3. When there is no need to distinguish between the ATM 4-1 used for remittance and the ATM 4-2 used for receipt, they will be called ATM 4. When there is no need to distinguish between the cash 5-1 to be remitted and the cash 5-2 to be received, they will be called cash 5. Note that the reference numeral "5" for cash may be omitted.

[0014] The remittance service server 1 is configured as a computer equipped with hardware such as a processor 101, a memory 102, and an interface unit 103. The remittance service server 1 uses these hardware resources and software resources (not shown) stored in the memory 102 to realize each of the functions 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, and 15. More specifically, the processor 101 realizes each of the functions 10-15 by executing a predetermined computer program stored in the memory 102. The memory 102 in this embodiment includes a main storage device and an auxiliary storage device.

[0015] The server 1 can be connected to a storage medium MM. The storage medium MM is configured as, for example, a memory device, a hard disk device, an optical disk device, a magneto-optical disk device, or a magnetic tape device, and non-temporarily stores computer programs and data. The storage medium MM can transfer and store computer programs and data to the memory 102 of the server 1. Computer programs and data can also be transferred and stored from the memory 102 to the storage medium MM. A computer program that realizes the functions of the server 1 can be stored in the storage medium MM, and by connecting the storage medium MM to another computer and installing the computer program stored in the storage medium MM on the other computer, the other computer can function as the server 1. The processor 101 is not limited to a central processing unit (CPU), but may also include a graphics processing unit (GPU) or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

[0016] In this embodiment, multiple banking systems 3-1 and 3-2 are used. One banking system 3-1 is a computer system of Bank B1 used by remitter U1 to deposit cash 5-1 from ATM 4-1 and transfer it to recipient U2. Bank B1 system 3-1 can also be called the sending bank system 3-1. The other banking system 3-2 is a computer system of Bank B2 used by recipient U2 to withdraw and receive cash 5-2 from ATM 4-2. Bank B2 system 3-2 can also be called the receiving bank system 3-2.

[0017] The remittance service provider that operates the remittance service server 1 has bank accounts 30-1 and 30-2 at Bank B1 and Bank B2, respectively. More specifically, the remittance service provider has a specified account 30-1 at Bank B1. Similarly, the remittance service provider has a specified account 30-2 at Bank B2. When no distinction is made between the specified accounts 30-1 and 30-2, they are referred to as specified accounts 30.

[0018] Bank B1 3-1 is connected to a plurality of ATMs 4-1 via a first network CN1. Bank B1 3-1 is also connected to a remittance service server 1 via the first network CN1. Similarly, Bank B2 3-2 is connected to a plurality of ATMs 4-2 and the remittance service server 1 via a second network CN2. The remittance service server 1 is then connected to a plurality of user terminals 2 via a third communication network CN3.

[0019] In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, three communication networks CN1, CN2, and CN3 are illustrated, but the remittance service server 1 may be connected to each bank system 3 and user terminal 2 via a single network (e.g., an IP (Internet Protocol) network).

[0020] When remitter U1 wishes to send money to recipient U2, remitter U1 installs the remittance service application program 20-1, which has been distributed in advance by the remittance service server 1, into the user terminal 2-1. The remittance service application program 20-1 may be abbreviated as application 20-1. When there is no need to distinguish between the application 20-2 installed in the user terminal 2-2 of recipient U2 and the application 20-1 installed in the user terminal 20-1 of remitter U1, they may be referred to as application 20.

[0021] Bank B1 3-1 used for sending money and Bank B2 3-2 used for receiving money may be located in the same country or in different countries. In this embodiment, Bank B1 3-1 and Bank B2 3-2 are used as examples of at least one bank, but this is not limited to this. For example, only one of Bank B1 3-1 or Bank B2 3-2 may be used, or the system may be applied to three or more banks. Remitter U1 can use the ATM network of a single bank to send money to recipient U2, either domestically or overseas, or can use the ATM networks of multiple banks to send money to recipient U2, either domestically or overseas. In this embodiment, an example of overseas remittance using the ATM networks of multiple banks will be described.

[0022] The remitter U1 operates the application 20-1 on the user terminal 2-1, goes to the ATM 4-1 selected from the ATMs 4-1 suggested by the remittance service server 1, and deposits cash 5-1. The remittance service server 1 notifies the recipient U2 via the application 20-2 on the user terminal 2-2 that the money has been deposited. Cash 5-2 of the same amount as the cash 5-1 deposited at the ATM 4-1 is withdrawn from the ATM 4-2 selected by the recipient U2.

[0023] As will be described later, in this embodiment, the remitter U1 is guided to select the ATM 4-1 so as to reduce the operational costs of managing the cash balance in the ATM network used for remittance. Similarly, in this embodiment, the receiver U2 is guided to select the ATM 4-2 so as to reduce the operational costs of managing the cash balance in the ATM network used for receipt. That is, in this embodiment, the remittance fee is set so that the remitter U1 selects the ATM 4-1 with a low cash balance. This prevents the decrease in cash in the ATM 4-1 with a low cash balance, thereby reducing the operational costs of managing the cash balance. Similarly, the receipt fee is set so that the receiver U2 selects the ATM 4-2 with a high cash balance. This prevents the increase in cash in the ATM 4-2 with a high cash balance, thereby reducing the operational costs of managing the cash balance.

[0024] In this embodiment, a case is described in which both the operational costs of managing the cash balance in the ATM network used for remittance and the operational costs of managing the cash balance in the ATM network used for receipt are reduced. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the operational costs of managing the cash balance in only one of the ATM network used for remittance or the ATM network used for receipt may be reduced.

[0025] 2 shows the functional configuration of an information processing system including a remittance service server 1. The remittance service server 1 includes, for example, a bank information management unit 10, a user information management unit 11, a transaction information management unit 12, an ATM allocation unit 13, a personal identification unit 14, and a code issuing unit 15.

[0026] As shown in Figure 4, the bank information management unit 10 manages a database 101 of information on branches managed by each bank system 3. Because at least one ATM 4 is installed in each branch of each bank, the bank information database 101 can also be called ATM 4 installation location information. As shown in Figure 4, a bank information database 101 is provided for each of Bank B1 and Bank B2, and manages, for example, bank names, branch names, ATM numbers, branch addresses, branch locations, and branch contact telephone numbers. The remittance service server 1 periodically or irregularly obtains bank information from each bank system 3 and updates the bank information database 101.

[0027] Returning to Figure 2, the user information management unit 11 manages a user information database 111 required when the remitter U1 and the recipient U2 as users use the remittance service. As shown in Figure 3, the user information database 111 manages, for example, a user number, a user name, a contact phone number, a contact email address, and the type of document used for identity verification. Identity verification documents include documents created by public institutions, such as a passport or a driver's license, that contain identity authentication information such as a facial photograph of the user. Instead of or in addition to a facial photograph, the user's palm vein pattern, iris, walking pattern, etc. may be used.

[0028] Returning to Figure 2, the transaction information management unit 12 manages a transaction information database 121 related to cash transfer transactions (remittance transactions and receipt transactions) using the remittance service server 1. As shown in Figure 6, the transaction information database 121 includes, for example, a serial number 1211, an account number 1212, a personal identification number 1213, a transaction number 1214, a validity period 1215, a transaction type 1216, an amount 1217, an account balance 1218, and a transaction status 1219.

[0029] The remittance service server 1 has multiple bank accounts (two in this embodiment) for the remittance service at Bank B1. Each bank account is assigned a user transaction with a set validity period. Until a transaction previously registered for a certain bank account is completed, the remitter U1 and recipient U2 of a later registered transaction cannot use that bank account. In other words, multiple transactions cannot be carried out simultaneously using the same bank account, and a later transaction cannot be executed until the earlier transaction is completed. Hereinafter, bank account may be abbreviated to account.

[0030] The remittance service server 1 changes the personal identification number 1213 for each transaction number 1214 to allow exclusive use of one bank account 1212. The personal identification number 1213 is notified only to the user involved in the transaction.

[0031] The validity period 1215 is a time period during which a certain transaction can be executed. The validity period 1215 is set, for example, as "March 1, 2024 to March 31, 2024." However, the validity period 1215 may also be set, for example, as "within 48 hours from March 1, 2024." In the embodiment described below, the length of the validity period 1215 can be changed for each transaction.

[0032] The transaction type 1216 indicates whether the cash transfer is a remittance transaction or a receipt transaction. In the case of a remittance transaction, the remitter U1 deposits a predetermined amount 1217 of cash into the ATM 4. In the case of a receipt transaction, the recipient U2 withdraws a predetermined amount of cash from the ATM 4. The type of currency at the time of deposit and the type of currency at the time of withdrawal may be different. In that case, the amount is determined based on a predetermined exchange rate. The account balance 1218 is the balance of the bank account 1212 used for the remittance service. The transaction status 1219 is information indicating whether the cash transfer transaction has been completed. If the transaction has been completed, the transaction status 1219 is set to "Completed," and if the transaction has not been completed, the transaction status 1219 is set to "Not yet."

[0033] 7 shows a transaction content data table 122 that manages transaction content identified by a transaction number 1214 in the transaction information database 121. This transaction content data table 122 shows an example of a remittance transaction.

[0034] The transaction details data table 122 includes, for example, a transaction number 1221, a user number 1222, a user name 1223, a telephone number 1224, an email address 1225, personal identification documents 1226, a recipient's user number 1227, a recipient's name 1228, a recipient's telephone number 1229, a recipient's email address 12210, a remittance amount 12211, a remittance date and time 12212, an ATM used for remittance 12213, a handling fee 12214, a receipt amount 12215, a receipt date and time 12216, and an ATM used for receipt 12217. In other words, the transaction details data table 122 manages, for each transaction, information identifying the transaction (item 1221), information about the remitter (items 1222-1226), information about the recipient (items 1227-12210), and information showing transaction details (items 12211-12217).

[0035] The transaction number 1221 is set to the same value as the value stored in the transaction number 1214 of the transaction information database 121. The user number 1222, user name 1223, telephone number 1224, email address 1225, and personal identification document 1226 are set to the same values ​​as the user number, user name, telephone number, email address, and personal identification document stored in the user information database 111. The recipient's user number 1227, recipient name 1228, recipient's telephone number 1229, and recipient's email address 12210 are set to the same values ​​as the user number, recipient name (user name), recipient's telephone number (user's telephone number) 1229, and recipient's email address (user's email address) of the user information database 111.

[0036] The remittance date and time 12212 is set to the date and time of the remittance. The date and time of the remittance is the date and time when the remitter U1 deposits a predetermined amount of cash 12211 into the ATM 4. An ATM number identifying the ATM 4 selected by the remitter U1 is set to the ATM 12213 to be used for the remittance. The set ATM number is set to the same value as the ATM number stored in the bank information database 101. The fee 12214 is set to a fee for the remittance service. As described below, the fee is dynamically set based on predetermined indicators. Examples of predetermined indicators include the amount of cash on hand at the ATM 4, the distance between the ATM 4 and the remitter U1, and the validity period (described later in FIG. 16 ). In addition to these, the predetermined indicators may also include, for example, the operating hours of the ATM 4, the business hours of the facility where the ATM 4 is installed, the convenience of the route for the remitter U1 to travel to the ATM 4 (such as the departure times of buses and trains), and whether or not there are any events to attract customers at the facility where the ATM 4 is installed.

[0037] The receipt amount 12215 is the amount of cash that the recipient U2 receives from the ATM 4 (the amount withdrawn from the ATM). The receipt date and time 12216 is the date and time that the recipient U2 received the cash from the ATM 4. The ATM used for receipt 12217 is the number of the ATM at which the recipient U2 received the cash. If the remittance service server 1 requests a receipt fee from the recipient U2, the transaction content data table 122 can include an item for the receipt fee. The receipt fee is also dynamically calculated based on an index that is the same as the predetermined index described above or a different index.

[0038] Returning to Figure 2, the ATM allocation unit 13 allocates an ATM 4 to each user (remitter U1, receiver U2) to be used by that user. The ATM allocation unit 13 extracts one or more ATMs 4 based on predetermined indicators and presents the extracted ATMs 4 to the user as introduced ATMs. The ATM allocation unit 13 presents the user with, for example, the distance from the user to the ATM 4 and the handling fee for selecting that ATM 4. The user selects one ATM 4 from among the ATMs introduced by the remittance service server 1. If necessary, and if legal systems permit, the user can select multiple ATMs 4 and deposit or withdraw money from those selected ATMs 4.

[0039] 5 shows a table 131 for setting ATM introductions and fees, which is used by the ATM allocation unit 13. The ATM allocation unit 13 determines fees based on the location and balance of ATMs 4 obtained from each bank system 3, and stores the fees in the table 131.

[0040] Table 131 manages, for example, a serial number 1311, an introduced ATM 1312, a distance to the user 1313, a balance 1314, and a fee 1315 in association with each other. The introduced ATM 1312 is information that identifies the ATM 4 to be introduced to the user. The distance to the user 1313 is the distance between the user and the introduced ATM. The balance 1314 is the amount of cash held by the introduced ATM. The balance 1314 does not need to be shown to the user, but may be shown to the user if necessary. The fee 1315 is a fee that is charged when the user uses the introduced ATM.

[0041] The fee 1315 is calculated based on multiple indicators. These indicators are the distance from the user 1313 and the cash balance 1314. Since an ATM is considered to be more convenient for the user as it is closer to the user, the usage fee for that ATM can be set higher than the standard fee. On the other hand, if the ATM has a low cash balance, the ATM will need to be refilled with cash in the near future. If the user uses an ATM with a low cash balance, the cash balance will increase by the amount of the user's remittance (the amount deposited into the ATM), and the work of refilling the ATM with cash can be reduced. In other words, the user can be responsible for part of the work of refilling the ATM with cash. Therefore, the usage fee for an ATM with a low cash balance is set lower than the standard fee. The standard fee is set when the distance from the user to the ATM is within a predetermined range and the cash balance at the ATM is within a predetermined amount.

[0042] Returning to Figure 2, the identity verification unit 14 cooperates with the code issuing unit 15 to verify that the user is the identity of the user.

[0043] For example, a user accesses the remittance service server 1 from the user terminal 2 and requests identity verification. Upon receiving this request, the identity verification unit 14 causes the code issuing unit 15 to issue an authentication code and transmits it to the user terminal 2 of the applicant. At the same time, the identity verification unit 14 instructs the ATM, which has confirmed the presence of the user terminal 2 via short-distance communication, to wait for input of the authentication code from the user terminal 2. When the authentication code is input from the user terminal 2 to the ATM 4 via short-distance communication, the ATM 4 transmits the authentication code received from the user terminal 2 to the remittance service server 1 and requests identity verification. The identity verification unit 14 compares the authentication code received from the ATM 4 with the authentication code issued by the code issuing unit 15, and determines that identity verification has been successful if both authentication codes match.

[0044] The identity of the user can also be confirmed by other methods. For example, the remittance service server 1 transmits the authentication code issued by the code issuing unit 15 to the ATM 4. The ATM 4 converts the received authentication code into a two-dimensional code, displays it on a display (not shown) of the ATM 4, and prompts the user to obtain the two-dimensional code. The user photographs the two-dimensional code displayed on the display of the ATM 4 with a camera (not shown) of the user terminal 2 and transmits the photographed two-dimensional code to the remittance service server 1. The identity verification unit 14 compares the two-dimensional code received from the user terminal 2 with the authentication code issued by the code issuing unit 15, and determines that identity verification has been successful if both codes match.

[0045] The user terminal 2 is a computer device used by a user, and is configured as, for example, a mobile phone (including a so-called smartphone), a mobile information terminal, or a personal computer. The mobile information terminal may be in any form, such as glasses, a wristwatch, or a tablet.

[0046] The user terminal 2 includes a remittance application 20, a short-range communication unit 21, and a code photographing unit 22. In addition to computer resources such as a processor, memory, and communication unit, the user terminal 2 can also include sensors such as a touch panel that also serves as a display, a position sensor, a gyro sensor, a camera, and a ranging camera (all not shown).

[0047] The remittance application 20 is an application program for using the ATM-based remittance service provided by the remittance service server 1. The remittance application 20 is downloaded and installed on the user terminal 2 from the remittance service server 1 or a sales site that sells the application program. The remittance application 20 includes, for example, a personal information registration unit 201 for registering personal information, and a transaction information input unit 202 for inputting transaction information. In the figure, the personal information registration unit is abbreviated as "personal information registration" and the transaction information input unit is abbreviated as "transaction information input."

[0048] The short-distance communication unit 21 has a function of communicating with the ATM 4. The code photographing unit 22 has a function of photographing a two-dimensional code displayed on the display of the ATM 4 using the built-in camera of the user terminal 2.

[0049] The banking system 3 is configured as a computer system having computer resources (not shown) such as a processor and a memory, etc. The banking system 3 includes, for example, an online banking unit 31 and an ATM operation management unit 32.

[0050] The online banking unit 31 has the function of providing users with banking transactions via the Internet. The online banking unit 31 manages specific accounts 30-1, which are "specific bank accounts." The ATM operations management unit 32 manages the locations and balances of ATMs 4 located in various locations. Furthermore, the ATM operations management unit 32 determines the need for tasks such as replenishing cash at each ATM.

[0051] The ATM 4 includes, for example, a control unit 40 and a short-distance communication unit 41. The ATM 4 includes a lower device located below and an upper device located above, with the upper device housing the control unit 40, short-distance communication unit 41, a display, a camera, a touch panel, a card slot, a deposit / withdrawal unit (none of which are shown), etc. The lower device includes a safe, etc. The safe includes a banknote cassette for storing banknotes, a collection box for collecting soiled banknotes, etc.

[0052] Figure 8 shows a transaction information database 121 that manages transaction information at Bank B2. The contents are almost the same as those explained in Figure 6, so explanation will be omitted.

[0053] The operation of the remittance service will be described with reference to Figures 9 to 14. Figure 9 is a sequence diagram showing the user registration process. In the figure, a plurality of bank systems 3-1 and 3-2 are displayed together as one.

[0054] A user operates the user terminal 2 to request the remittance service server 1 or an application store (not shown) to acquire the remittance application 20 (S101). Here, an example will be described in which the remittance service server 1 distributes the remittance application 20 to the user terminal 2 (S102).

[0055] When the remittance application 20 is installed in the user terminal 2 (S103), user registration is performed according to the user's operation (S104). The user registers themselves with the remittance service server 1 using image data of their personal identification documents, etc. When user registration is complete, the remittance service server 1 registers the user information in the user information database 111 and notifies the user terminal 2 that registration is complete (S105). The user terminal 2 displays the fact that user registration is complete on its display (S106).

[0056] 10 is a sequence diagram showing the remittance process. The remittance service server 1 periodically or irregularly acquires the latest information about each ATM 4 from each bank system 3 and updates the bank information database 101 (S201).

[0057] When the user operates the user terminal 2, selects a remittance transaction from the menu of the remittance application 20, and enters the required information, remittance information is sent from the user terminal 2 to the remittance service server 1 (S202). This remittance information includes the remittance amount, the remittance destination (information identifying the recipient U2), the user's current location, etc.

[0058] The remittance service server 1 inquires of the bank system 3 about the latest information (balance, whether or not it is in operation, etc.) of each ATM 4 (S203). The bank system 3 transmits the latest ATM information to the remittance service server 1 (S204).

[0059] The remittance service server 1 calculates the fee for using each ATM 4 as shown in Figure 5 based on the distance between the user's current location and each ATM 4 and the balance at each ATM, and transmits the calculated fee to the user terminal 2 (S205). The information presented to the user includes the introduced ATMs 1312, the distance from the user 1314, and the fee 1315 shown in Figure 5. The balance 1314 does not need to be notified to the user, but may be notified if necessary.

[0060] The user terminal 2 displays the information provided by the remittance service server 1 on the display and waits for the user to select an ATM 4 (S206). The user selects one ATM 4 based on the distance to the introduced ATM 4 and the handling fee, and inputs this information into the user terminal 2 (S207).

[0061] The user moves to the selected ATM 4 and operates the user terminal 2 to communicate with the ATM 4 over short distances (S208). When the ATM 4 becomes aware of the presence of the user terminal 2, it requests the bank system 3 to issue an authentication code (S209). Upon receiving the notification from the ATM 4, the bank system 3 requests the remittance service server 1 to issue an authentication code (S210). The remittance service server 1 issues the authentication code to the remittance application 20 of the user terminal 2 and notifies the bank system 3 that the authentication code has been issued (S211).

[0062] The user inputs the authentication code into the ATM 4 using the user terminal 2 (S212). For example, the authentication code is displayed as a two-dimensional code on the display of the user terminal 2, and the ATM 4 camera reads it. Furthermore, the user transmits information for verifying their identity to the bank system 3 through the ATM 4. The user transmits, for example, a facial photograph printed on an official document such as a driver's license, My Number card, or passport, and a current facial photograph of the user taken by the ATM 4 camera, from the ATM 4 to the bank system 3 (S213). In the figure, the information for verifying their identity is abbreviated as "identity information."

[0063] The bank system 3 transmits the authentication code and personal identification information (personal information) received from the ATM 4 to the remittance service server 1 (S214).

[0064] The remittance service server 1 compares the authentication code received from the bank system 3 with the authentication code issued in step S211, and determines whether the two codes match (S215).

[0065] Turning now to Figure 11, the remittance service server 1 verifies the identity of the user (S216), and if the identity verification is successful, notifies the bank system 3 of the fact that the identity verification was successful and the account number of the specified account to be used for the remittance service (S217).

[0066] When the bank system 3 receives the notification from the remittance service server 1, it instructs the ATM 4 to permit the deposit (S218). When the ATM 4 receives the instruction from the bank system 3, it outputs a message such as "Please insert the amount to be transferred" and waits for the user to insert cash (S219). When the user inserts cash, the ATM 4 notifies the bank system 3 to that effect (S220).

[0067] The bank system 3 deposits the amount inserted into the ATM 4 into the specified account (S221) and notifies the remittance service server 1 of the completion of the deposit (S222). When the remittance service server 1 receives the deposit completion notification from the bank system 3, it updates the transaction information database 121 (S223). The remittance service server 1 notifies both the remitter U1 and the recipient U2 that the remittance process is complete (S224). The remittance completion notification from the remittance service server 1 is displayed on the user terminal 2 of the remitter U1 and the user terminal 2 of the recipient U2 (S225).

[0068] 12 is a sequence diagram showing the cash receiving process. The user as the recipient U2 can receive cash by going to an ATM 4 of his / her choice from among the ATMs 4 suggested by the remittance service server 1.

[0069] As described in the remittance process, the remittance service server 1 periodically or irregularly acquires the latest information about each ATM 4 from each bank system 3 and updates the bank information database 101 (S301).

[0070] When the user operates the user terminal 2, selects a cash receipt transaction from the menu of the remittance application 20, and inputs predetermined information, cash receipt information is sent from the user terminal 2 to the remittance service server 1 (S302). This cash receipt information includes the transaction number, information identifying the recipient U2, the user's current location, etc.

[0071] The remittance service server 1 inquires of the bank system 3 about the latest information on each ATM 4 (S303). The bank system 3 transmits the latest ATM information to the remittance service server 1 (S304).

[0072] The remittance service server 1 calculates the fee for using each ATM 4 based on the distance between the user's current location and each ATM 4 and the balance in each ATM, and transmits the calculated fee to the user terminal 2 (S305).

[0073] The user terminal 2 displays the information provided by the remittance service server 1 on the display and waits for the user to select an ATM 4 (S306). The user selects one ATM 4 based on the distance to the introduced ATM 4 and the handling fee, and inputs this information into the user terminal 2 (S307).

[0074] The user moves to the selected ATM 4 and operates the user terminal 2 to communicate with the ATM 4 over short distances (S308). When the ATM 4 becomes aware of the presence of the user terminal 2, it requests the bank system 3 to issue an authentication code (S309). Upon receiving the notification from the ATM 4, the bank system 3 requests the remittance service server 1 to issue an authentication code (S310). The remittance service server 1 issues the authentication code to the remittance application 20 of the user terminal 2 and notifies the bank system 3 that the authentication code has been issued (S311).

[0075] The user inputs the authentication code into the ATM 4 using the user terminal 2 (S312). Furthermore, the user causes information for verifying the user's identity to be transmitted to the bank system 3 via the ATM 4 (S313).

[0076] The bank system 3 transmits the authentication code and personal identification information received from the ATM 4 to the remittance service server 1 (S314). The remittance service server 1 compares the authentication code received from the bank system 3 with the authentication code issued in step S311 and determines whether the two codes match (S315).

[0077] Turning now to Figure 13, the remittance service server 1 verifies the identity of the user (S316), and if the identity verification is successful, notifies the bank system 3 of the fact that the identity verification was successful and the account number of the specified account to be used for the remittance service (S317).

[0078] When the bank system 3 receives the notification from the remittance service server 1, it instructs the ATM 4 to permit withdrawal (S318). When the ATM 4 receives the instruction from the bank system 3, it outputs a message such as "We will withdraw the money, so please accept it" and waits for the user to withdraw the cash (S319). When the user withdraws the cash, the ATM 4 notifies the bank system 3 to that effect (S320).

[0079] The bank system 3 withdraws the amount taken out from the ATM 4 from the specified account (S321) and notifies the remittance service server 1 of the completion of the withdrawal (S322). When the remittance service server 1 receives the withdrawal completion notification from the bank system 3, it updates the transaction information database 121 (S323). The remittance service server 1 notifies both the remitter U1 and the recipient U2 that the receipt process is complete (S324). The receipt completion notification from the remittance service server 1 is displayed on the user terminal 2 of the remitter U1 and the user terminal 2 of the recipient U2 (S325).

[0080] 14 is a flowchart of the process for calculating the introduced ATM and the usage fee. This flow is a detailed example of step S205 and step S305 described above.

[0081] The remittance service server 1 acquires the location of the user terminal 2 (S401), and acquires the locations and balances of ATMs 4 within a predetermined range from the location of the user terminal 2 (S401). The remittance service server 1 calculates a fee based on the distance between the user terminal 2 and the ATM 4, i.e., the distance from the user to the ATM 4, and the balances at the ATM 4 (S403). As mentioned above, the remittance service server 1 may also take into consideration the operating hours of the ATM 4, weather, traffic conditions, whether or not there are any events to attract customers at the facility where the ATM 4 is installed, etc. The remittance service server 1 creates a list of the locations of ATMs to be introduced to the user, their distances from the user, and fees (S404). The created list is sent to the user terminal 2.

[0082] According to this embodiment configured as described above, the remitter U1 and the recipient U2 can temporarily use the specified account of the remittance service server 1 via the ATM 4, and the recipient U2 can withdraw a predetermined amount that the remitter U1 has deposited into the specified account from another ATM 4. In other words, according to the remittance service of this embodiment, even if neither the remitter U1 nor the recipient U2 has a bank account, the remitter U1 can send cash to the recipient U2 by temporarily using the specified account of the remittance service server 1.

[0083] Therefore, remitter U1 and recipient U2 do not need to open a bank account or visit a store (bank branch) that provides remittance services during business hours, and can exchange cash at any time and place they like, improving user convenience.

[0084] For banks, this allows them to provide remittance services by effectively utilizing their existing ATMs 4, thereby increasing the utility value of the ATMs 4. Furthermore, banks can receive fees from the remittance service server 1 according to the transaction results of the remittance service.

[0085] Furthermore, although banks are required to check the balance of ATMs 4 and perform management tasks such as replenishing cash, by the remittance service server 1 dynamically setting fees, it is possible to offload part of this management task to the user, thereby reducing the cost of the management task. In other words, by setting low fees for ATMs 4 with low balances among ATMs within a predetermined range that the user can travel to, the bank can guide the user (remitter) to the ATM 4 with low balances, thereby offloading part of the cash replenishment task. Similarly, by setting low fees for ATMs 4 with high balances among ATMs within a predetermined range that the user can travel to, the bank can guide the user (recipient) to the ATM 4 with high balances, thereby offloading part of the cash collection task. [Example]

[0086] Example 2 will be described using Figure 15. In the following examples including this example, differences from Example 1 will be mainly described. In this example, an example of monitoring whether or not recipient U2 has received cash will be described.

[0087] Figure 15 is a flowchart of the process for monitoring whether cash has been received. For each transaction using the remittance service, the remittance service server 1 monitors whether the warning period before the validity period determined when the remittance transaction was accepted has expired (S501). The length of the warning period may be a fixed value or a variable value depending on the validity period.

[0088] When the remittance service server 1 determines that the warning period has begun (S501: YES), it notifies the recipient U2 and the remitter U1 that the warning period has begun without the cash being received (S502, S503).

[0089] The remittance service server 1 collects information to determine whether predetermined conditions for extending the validity period are met (S504). Examples of predetermined conditions include whether there is a reply from the recipient U2, whether the remitter U1 has approved the extension of the validity period and / or the addition of a handling fee, and whether the recipient has approved the addition of a handling fee. The combination of conditions to be used can be determined in advance or can be changed depending on the situation. For example, predetermined conditions for extending the validity period can be set taking into account the season, weather, traffic conditions, public safety, natural disasters, etc.

[0090] If the remittance service server 1 determines that the predetermined conditions are met (S505: YES), it will extend the validity period or cancel the remittance transaction and refund the money to the remitter (S506).

[0091] This embodiment configured as described above also achieves the same effects as those of embodiment 1. Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the recipient does not receive the cash from the ATM 4 when the validity period is about to expire, it is possible to automatically determine whether to extend the validity period or cancel the transaction, thereby further improving convenience.

[0092] In this embodiment, the validity period can be extended if the sender gives permission, so the sender does not have to go through the trouble of canceling the remittance transaction and then instructing a new remittance transaction at a later date, which improves convenience for the sender.

[0093] In this embodiment, if the recipient replies to the warning from the remittance service server 1 (S502), the validity period can be extended, which improves convenience for the recipient.

[0094] In this embodiment, if the recipient returns the reply and the remitter gives permission, the validity period can be extended, improving convenience for both the remitter and the recipient.

[0095] In this embodiment, the sender or the recipient, or both, may be required to pay an additional fee when extending the validity period, but alternatively, no additional fee may be required, but the handling fee for the next use of the remittance service may be increased. [Example]

[0096] A third embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 16. In this embodiment, the fee is dynamically set taking into consideration not only the distance between the ATM 4 and the user and the balance in the ATM 4, but also the length of the validity period. Fig. 16 is an example of table 131A showing the relationship between ATMs introduced to a user and fees.

[0097] Table 131A of this embodiment includes an item for validity period 1316 in addition to the items 1311 to 1315 of table 131 described in FIG.

[0098] The validity period 1316 may be set to three levels, for example, standard, longer than standard, and shorter than standard, or may be set more finely. If the validity period 1316 is shorter than standard, the fee can be set lower, and if the validity period 1316 is longer than standard, the fee can be set higher. The shorter the validity period 1316, the shorter the period during which a specified account in the remittance service server 1 is temporarily and exclusively used, thereby increasing the throughput of remittance transactions using that specified account. Furthermore, the shorter the validity period 1316, the more likely it is that unauthorized access to the amount in the specified account will be reduced, thereby improving reliability.

[0099] In this embodiment configured as described above, the remittance service server 1 dynamically calculates the fee taking into account three indicators: distance from the user, amount in hand, and validity period, thereby improving convenience for the user, the remittance service server 1, and the bank.

[0100] Note that the present embodiment is not limited to the above-described embodiment and includes various modifications. For example, the above-described embodiment has been described in detail to clearly explain the present embodiment, and is not necessarily limited to having all of the described configurations. Furthermore, it is possible to replace part of the configuration of one embodiment with the configuration of another embodiment, or to add the configuration of another embodiment to the configuration of one embodiment. Furthermore, it is possible to add, delete, or replace part of the configuration of each embodiment with another configuration. Furthermore, information such as programs, tables, and files that realize each configuration can be stored in a memory, a recording device such as a hard disk or SSD (Solid State Drive), or a recording medium such as an IC card, SD card, or DVD.

[0101] The above-described embodiment discloses the invention as expressed below.

[0102] (Supplementary Note 1) A remittance service system for remittance via an automated teller machine, comprising: a bank information management unit that manages information about a specific bank account for the remittance service and information about a plurality of automated teller machines that can send and receive cash using the specific bank account; a user information management unit that manages information about the remitter and recipient who will send and receive cash using the remittance service; a transaction information management unit that manages transaction information about the cash transfer between the remitter and the recipient; and an allocation unit that assigns a first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the remitter and assigns a second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the recipient, wherein when the remitter deposits a predetermined amount of cash into the specific bank account using the first automated teller machine, the recipient uses the second automated teller machine to withdraw the predetermined amount of cash from the specific bank account.

[0103] (Appendix 2) A remittance service system as described in Appendix 1, in which the specific bank account is opened independently of either the remitter or the recipient and is used by multiple remitter and multiple recipient.

[0104] (Appendix 3) A remittance service system as described in Appendix 1 or 2, which controls the initiation of cash transfers using the specified bank account by one transaction pair between a remitter and a recipient until the completion of cash transfers using the specified bank account by another transaction pair.

[0105] (Supplementary Note 4) The remittance service system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 3, wherein the allocation unit selects the first automated teller machine and the second automated teller machine depending on the states of the plurality of automated teller machines.

[0106] (Supplementary Note 5) A remittance service system as described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 4, wherein the allocation unit extracts candidates for the first automated teller machine according to the states of the plurality of automated teller machines, presents the extracted candidates for the first automated teller machine to the remitter, and sets the first automated teller machine selected by the remitter as the first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines.

[0107] (Supplementary Note 6) A remittance service system as described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 5, wherein the allocation unit extracts candidates for the first automated transaction device based on the cash balance at the plurality of automated transaction devices and the distance from the remitter, calculates a fee for using the extracted first automated transaction device to remit money to the recipient in accordance with predetermined conditions, presents the distance and the fee for the extracted candidate first automated transaction device to the remitter, and designates the first automated transaction device selected by the remitter as the first automated transaction device selected from the plurality of automated transaction devices.

[0108] (Supplementary Note 7) The remittance service system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 6, wherein the predetermined condition is set so that the fee varies depending on the amount of cash on hand.

[0109] (Appendix 8) A remittance service system as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 7, wherein the predetermined condition is to set the fee when a predetermined first automatic transaction device that can reduce the cash inventory management work is selected from among the candidate first automatic transaction devices, lower than the fee when a first automatic transaction device other than the predetermined first automatic transaction device is selected.

[0110] (Appendix 9) A remittance service system according to any one of Appendices 1 to 8, wherein the allocation unit extracts candidates for the second automatic transaction device according to the status of the plurality of automatic transaction devices, presents the extracted candidates for the second automatic transaction device to the recipient, and sets the second automatic transaction device selected by the recipient as the second automatic transaction device selected from the plurality of automatic transaction devices.

[0111] (Supplementary Note 10) A remittance service system as described in any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 9, wherein the allocation unit extracts candidates for the second automated teller machine based on the cash balance at the plurality of automated teller machines and the distance from the recipient, calculates a fee when the recipient withdraws money using the extracted second automated teller machine in accordance with predetermined conditions, presents the distance and the fee for the extracted candidate second automated teller machine to the recipient, and designates the second automated teller machine selected by the recipient as the second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines.

[0112] (Supplementary Note 11) The remittance service system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, wherein the predetermined condition is set so that the fee varies depending on the cash amount.

[0113] (Appendix 12) A remittance service system as described in any one of Appendices 1 to 11, wherein the transaction information includes information indicating a validity period for cash transfers, and when the validity period has expired, the recipient is prohibited from withdrawing money from the second automated teller machine.

[0114] (Supplementary Note 13) The remittance service system according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 12, wherein the validity period is variable with the permission of the remitter.

[0115] (Supplementary Note 14) A remittance service method executed by a computer to remit money via an automated teller machine, the computer comprising: a processor that executes arithmetic processing; a memory used by the processor; and an interface unit that communicates with an external system outside the computer, the interface unit being communicatively connected via a communication network to a bank system that manages a plurality of automated teller machines; the processor executing a predetermined computer program stored in the memory causes a specific bank account for the remittance service to be used for a transaction pair of a remitter and a recipient; assigns a first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the remitter; assigns a second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the recipient; and, when the remitter deposits a predetermined amount of cash into the specific bank account using the first automated teller machine, causes the recipient to withdraw the predetermined amount of cash from the specific bank account using the second automated teller machine. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1: Remittance service server, 2: User terminal, 3: Bank system, 4: ATM, 5: Cash, 10: Bank information management unit, 11: User information management unit, 12: Transaction information management unit, 13: ATM allocation unit, 14: Personal identification unit, 15: Code issuing unit, 20: Remittance application, 30: Specific account

Claims

1. A remittance service system for remittance via an automated teller machine, a bank information management unit that manages information about a specific bank account for remittance services and information about a plurality of automated teller machines that can use the specific bank account to send and receive cash; a user information management unit that manages information on remittance users and recipients who use the remittance service to send and receive cash; a transaction information management unit that manages transaction information relating to cash transfers between the remitter and the recipient; an allocation unit that allocates a first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the remitter and allocates a second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the recipient; Equipped with When the remitter deposits a predetermined amount of cash into the specific bank account using the first automated teller machine, the receiver uses the second automated teller machine to withdraw the predetermined amount of cash from the specific bank account. Money transfer service system.

2. The specific bank account is opened independently of the remitter and the recipient, and is used by multiple remitter and multiple recipient. The remittance service system according to claim 1 .

3. Until a cash transfer using the specific bank account by one transaction pair between a remitter and a recipient is completed, control is performed so that a cash transfer using the specific bank account by another transaction pair cannot be started. The remittance service system according to claim 2 .

4. The allocation unit selects the first automated teller machine and the second automated teller machine according to the states of the plurality of automated teller machines. The remittance service system according to claim 3.

5. The allocation unit extracts candidates for the first automated teller machine according to the states of the plurality of automated teller machines, presents the extracted candidates for the first automated teller machine to the remitter, and sets the first automated teller machine selected by the remitter as the first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines. The remittance service system according to claim 3.

6. The allocation unit extracts candidates for the first automated teller machine based on the cash balances of the plurality of automated teller machines and the distances to the remitter, calculates a fee for remitting money to the recipient using the extracted first automated teller machine in accordance with predetermined conditions, presents the distances and the fees for the extracted first automated teller machine candidates to the remitter, and designates the first automated teller machine selected by the remitter as the first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines. The remittance service system according to claim 3.

7. The predetermined condition is set so that the fee varies depending on the amount of cash on hand. The remittance service system according to claim 6.

8. The predetermined condition is to set the fee when a predetermined first automated transaction apparatus that can reduce the cash inventory management work is selected from among the candidates for the first automated transaction apparatus to be lower than the fee when a first automated transaction apparatus other than the predetermined first automated transaction apparatus is selected. The remittance service system according to claim 7.

9. The allocation unit extracts candidates for the second automated teller machine according to the states of the plurality of automated teller machines, presents the extracted candidates for the second automated teller machine to the recipient, and sets the second automated teller machine selected by the recipient as the second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines. The remittance service system according to claim 3.

10. The allocation unit extracts candidates for the second automated teller machine based on the cash amounts in the plurality of automated teller machines and the distances from the recipient, calculates a fee when the recipient withdraws money using the extracted second automated teller machine in accordance with predetermined conditions, presents the distances and the fees for the extracted candidate second automated teller machine to the recipient, and sets the second automated teller machine selected by the recipient as the second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines. The remittance service system according to claim 3.

11. The predetermined condition is set so that the fee varies depending on the amount of cash on hand. The remittance service system according to claim 10.

12. The transaction information includes information indicating a validity period for cash transfers, If the validity period has expired, the recipient is prohibited from withdrawing money from the second automated transaction machine. The remittance service system according to claim 3.

13. The validity period can be changed with the sender's permission. The remittance service system according to claim 12.

14. A remittance service method executed by a computer to remit money via an automated teller machine, comprising: the computer includes a processor that executes arithmetic processing, a memory used by the processor, and an interface unit that communicates with an external system outside the computer; the interface unit is communicably connected to a bank system that manages a plurality of automated teller machines via a communication network; The processor executes a predetermined computer program stored in the memory, A specific bank account for the remittance service is used for the transaction pair between the sender and the recipient, assigning a first automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the remitter; assigning a second automated teller machine selected from the plurality of automated teller machines to the recipient; When the remitter deposits a predetermined amount of cash into the specific bank account using the first automated teller machine, the recipient withdraws the predetermined amount of cash from the specific bank account using the second automated teller machine. Money transfer service method.

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