Event assistance apparatus, event assistance method, and event assistance program

Abstract

To provide an event support device, an event support method and an event support program, capable of improving a feeling of exaltation obtained by event participation and motivation to participate in the event.SOLUTION: An event assistance apparatus according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a stay detecting section configured to detect that an event participant is staying at an event venue via a terminal of the event participant, and a privilege providing section configured to provide, when it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, a privilege with restrictions based on a first restriction that the event participant is staying at the event venue and a second restriction that the event participant specializes in the event, via the terminal of the event participant.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an event assistance device, an event assistance method, and an event assistance program. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, Patent Document 1 describes a sports team donation reward system that rewards users who donate to a sports team. The sports team donation reward system includes a setting unit, a donation unit, a primary reward granting unit, a total amount calculation unit, and a secondary reward granting unit.

[0003] The setting unit sets the sports team to which a donation will be made, the amount to be donated, and the electronic money to be used for payment. The donation unit donates the set amount to the set sports team each time the set electronic money is used for payment. The primary benefit granting unit randomly grants a primary benefit from multiple patterns prepared for each player belonging to the sports team each time the set electronic money is used for payment. The total amount calculation unit calculates the total amount of the donations. After all patterns of primary benefits have been granted, the secondary benefit granting unit grants a secondary benefit related to the entire sports team each time the calculated total amount meets a predetermined condition. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2022-155539 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the prior art including Patent Document 1 leaves room for improvement in terms of increasing the sense of elation gained from participating in an event and thus the motivation to participate in the event.

[0006] Therefore, one of the objects of the present disclosure is to provide an event support device, an event support method, and an event support program that can increase the sense of exhilaration gained from participating in an event and thereby increase motivation to participate in the event. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] An event support device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is characterized by having a stay detection unit that detects, via the event participant's terminal, that the event participant is staying at an event venue, and a benefit provision unit that, when it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, provides, via the event participant's terminal, a restricted benefit based on a first constraint that the benefit is for the duration of the event participant's stay at the event venue and a second constraint that the benefit is specific to the event. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an event support device, an event support method, and an event support program that can increase the sense of exhilaration gained from participating in an event and thereby increase motivation to participate in the event. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of an event assistance system. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a schematic configuration of a stay detection unit. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the event assistance system. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functional configuration of an NFT management server. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of authentication and identification information assigned to a group of products to be managed. [Figure 6] This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of the relationship between authentication / identification information consisting of a serial number and an NFT and user identification information. [Figure 7]This is a conceptual diagram showing an example of security functions (theft detection function, resale prevention function) provided by an NFT management server. [Figure 8] This is a diagram showing the flow from when a user arrives at a stadium as an event venue to when they purchase limited-edition goods on a limited-edition EC site. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of a terminal and an event support server. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of a terminal and an event support server. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] <Definitions of terms, etc.> In this specification, "event" may refer to any entertainment event in which people can watch sports, entertainment, etc., for which an admission fee (ticket price) is charged. In this specification, "event participant" refers to a person watching (spectating) the event, and does not necessarily refer to the organizer of the event (promoters, athletes, or performers). In this specification, "event venue" refers in a broad sense to a place where an event is held (for example, a stadium, arena, or hall), and in a narrow sense to seats individually assigned to event participants at a place where an event is held.

[0011] More specifically, "event" may refer to all sports matches, whether major or minor, professional or amateur, including baseball (e.g., Nippon Professional Baseball Organization (NPB)), soccer (e.g., Japan Professional Football League (J.League), Japan Women's Professional Football League (WE.League)), basketball (e.g., B.League), volleyball (e.g., V.League), rugby (e.g., Japan Rugby League One), American football (e.g., X.League), table tennis (e.g., Japan Table Tennis League, T.League), badminton (e.g., Badminton S / J.League), horse racing (central horse racing, local horse racing), boat racing, etc. Furthermore, "event" may refer to all performing arts, such as rakugo, manzai, circus, live shows, and concerts.

[0012] In this specification, an "event" may be a sports match between different players and / or different teams. In this case, "event participant" may be read as "sports match spectator," and "event venue" may be read as "sports match venue."

[0013] In this specification, a "restricted benefit" may be based on a first constraint that the benefit is available while an event participant (e.g., a sports game spectator) is staying at an event venue (e.g., a sports game venue), and a second constraint that the benefit is specific to the event (e.g., a sports game). In this specification, a "restricted benefit" may mean "the right to acquire limited goods and / or limited services that can only be obtained here and now (whether for a fee or free of charge)" when participating in an event (e.g., when watching a sports game). In this sense, a "restricted benefit" may be interpreted as the right to acquire premium goods / premium services that are set for each event (e.g., a sports game).

[0014] In this specification, the "first constraint of the event participant staying at the event venue" refers to a location / time constraint on the provision of the benefit, and may be a constraint corresponding to "only available here and now." In this specification, the "second constraint of being specific to the event" refers to a content constraint on the provision of the benefit, and may be a constraint corresponding to "limited goods and / or limited services related to the event," excluding the provision of benefits unrelated to the event.

[0015] In this specification, "restricted benefits based on the first and second constraints" may include, for example, purchasing (obtaining the right to purchase) limited-edition goods and / or services related to the event on an EC (Electronic Commerce) site that is accessible only at the event venue during the event period.

[0016] For example, if the main character of an event is a sports player or a performer, "limited goods and / or limited services" may be goods signed by the main character (e.g., a ball or winning ball for a ball game, or a musical instrument, clothing, or part of a costume for a live performance or concert, or a limited card featuring the main character), or a service to spend time with the main character after the event (taking commemorative photos or sharing a meal). Furthermore, "limited goods and / or limited services" may include obtaining a matching outfit with the main character's casual clothing after the event or taking a commemorative photo in the matching outfit (both for a fee or free of charge). If a fee is charged, the service may include a so-called "Super Chat" feature, in which at least a portion of the proceeds goes to the main character of the event. Furthermore, "limited goods and / or limited services" may be goods and / or services available at a store somehow related to the event (e.g., a sponsoring store near the event venue). In this case, coupons or points may be issued in accordance with the results of the event (for example, if an event participant's favorite player performs well or if their team wins). The "limited goods and / or limited services" may also be invitation tickets or priority purchase rights for a subsequent event (for example, a fan appreciation event) held after the event.

[0017] <Technical Concept of the Invention> The present invention was developed with the aim of increasing the sense of excitement gained from participating in an event and thus the motivation to participate in the event for potential event participants (including, for example, those who are undecided as to whether to go to the event in person to enjoy it, watch it on television or other streaming services, or think it will be sufficient to check the results later on the Internet, etc.) in the midst of the large number of entertainment events such as sports and performing arts (held almost every day in various places).

[0018] In the event support device, event support method, and event support program of this embodiment, the stay detection unit detects that an event participant is staying at an event venue via the event participant's terminal. When the event participant's stay at the event venue is detected, the benefit provision unit provides, via the event participant's terminal, a benefit with restrictions based on a first restriction that the benefit is valid only while the event participant is staying at the event venue and a second restriction that the benefit is specific to the event. For example, as an incentive for actually attending the event venue and watching the event live, the event participant is provided with a restricted benefit based on the first and second restrictions, i.e., "the right to acquire limited goods and / or limited services that can only be obtained here and now (whether for a fee or free of charge)." More specifically, the event participant is allowed to purchase limited goods and / or limited services on an e-commerce (EC) site that can only be accessed under certain conditions, or limited goods and / or limited services that are only offered under certain conditions even if the e-commerce site itself is accessible.

[0019] <Specific embodiment> Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiments, an example will be given in which an "event" is a sports match between different players and / or different teams, an "event participant" is a sports match spectator, and an "event venue" is a sports match venue.

[0020] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an event assistance system 1. The "event assistance system" may be read as an "event assistance device" (the two may be synonymous). The event assistance method and the event assistance program are realized by causing components (including a computer (CPU: Central Processing Unit)) of the event assistance system (event assistance device) 1 to execute various processing steps.

[0021] 1, the event assistance system 1 includes a terminal (user terminal) 10 and an event assistance server (event assistance device) 20. The terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 are connected via a network 30 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0022] In Fig. 1, the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 are depicted as a simplified single configuration for the sake of convenience in drawing. In reality, the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 may have more complex configurations than those depicted in Fig. 1, both in terms of hardware and software. For example, the event assistance server 20 may be configured to include multiple servers, databases, etc.

[0023] For example, the event assistance server 20 may operate an online site for providing information related to various events (sports matches), or may sell online tickets for various events (sports matches). Furthermore, the event assistance server 20 may execute various processes for delivering appropriate and convenient information (content) specialized for the event (sports match) to the event participant (sports match spectator), who is the owner of the terminal 10, when the event participant (sports match spectator) stays (arrives) at the event venue (sports match venue).

[0024] The event assistance server 20 may execute various processes for providing a restricted benefit based on first and second constraints (location, time, and content constraints) when an event participant (sports game spectator) who is the owner of the terminal 10 stays (arrives) at the event venue (sports game venue). For example, the event assistance server 20 may direct the event participant (sports game spectator) via the terminal 10 to an e-commerce site that can be accessed only when a specific condition (e.g., the game spectator is sitting in his / her seat in the stadium) is satisfied, and enable the event participant (sports game spectator) to purchase limited-edition goods and / or limited-edition services on the e-commerce site. Alternatively, the event assistance server 20 may list limited-edition goods and / or limited-edition services that are only available when a specific condition (e.g., the game spectator is sitting in his / her seat in the stadium) is satisfied on the e-commerce site to which the event participant (sports game spectator) is directed via the terminal 10, and enable the event participant (sports game spectator) to purchase these goods and / or limited-edition services.

[0025] In addition to the event support server 20, additional servers that contribute to the operation and management of the event and the associated information distribution (content distribution) and bonus granting (operation and control of the EC site) may be provided so as to be able to communicate with the terminal 10 and the event support server 20 via the network 30.

[0026] The event assistance system 1 may be understood as a configuration including the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20, or as a configuration including only the event assistance server 20 without the terminal 10. In other words, the terminal 10 is not an essential component of the event assistance system 1. Furthermore, as will be described later, the event assistance system 1 includes a stay detection unit 40 (a first detection unit 41 and a second detection unit 42) as a component.

[0027] The terminal 10 is, for example, a mobile terminal (mobile communication terminal) such as a mobile phone, a smartphone, or a tablet terminal. In other words, the terminal 10 in this specification is a communication device that can perform various types of communication with the event assistance server 20. The terminal 10 may be, for example, a wired and / or wireless (e.g., Long Term Evolution (LTE), 5 thThe terminal 10 may communicate with a network (such as the Internet) via Generation New Radio (5G NR), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), Bluetooth (registered trademark), etc. The communication method used by the terminal 10 is flexible and various design changes are possible, and may be acoustic communication, visible light communication, etc. The terminal 10 executes a browser and various other applications in response to user operations.

[0028] In this embodiment, the terminal 10 is used to collect information about an event (sports match) and to purchase online tickets by communicating with the event assistance server 20. The terminal 10 also communicates with the event assistance server 20 to receive appropriate and convenient information (content) specialized for the event (sports match) that is delivered in response to the stay (arrival) of an event participant (sports match spectator) who is the owner of the terminal 10 at the event venue (sports match venue), and is used to purchase various products and services based on the received information (content), receive benefits related to the purchasing activities, and provide or collect other information.

[0029] An "event venue specialized application (match venue specialized application)" for improving user convenience in "event venue communication (match venue communication)" and therefore "event venue purchasing activities (match venue purchasing activities)" is downloaded (installed) into the terminal 10. This "event venue specialized application (match venue specialized application)" may be realized, for example, as a specific application under the management of the event assistance server 20. The "event venue specialized application (match venue specialized application)" may be related to electronic commerce (EC) that is limited to stay (entrance) and can only be participated in if the user is "at the venue," and is classified based on various information such as information (e.g., identification information) related to event participants (sports match spectators).

[0030] The event assistance server 20 may be, for example, a communication device capable of performing various types of communication with the terminal 10, and may be interpreted as a device, circuit, or the like. The event assistance server 20 controls and executes various processes via communication with the terminal 10, such as causing the terminal 10 to collect information about the event (sports match) and causing the terminal 10 to perform online ticket purchasing processing. Furthermore, the event assistance server 20 controls and executes various processes via communication with the terminal 10, such as delivering appropriate and convenient information (content) specialized for the event (sports match) when triggered by the stay (arrival) of an event participant (sports match spectator) who is the owner of the terminal 10 at the event venue (sports match venue), causing the event participant to purchase various products and services based on the information (content), providing benefits related to the purchasing activities, and providing and collecting other information.

[0031] 2A, 2B, and 2C are diagrams showing an example of a schematic configuration of the stay detection unit 40 (first detection unit 41, second detection unit 42). Fig. 2A is a block diagram simply illustrating the configuration of the stay detection unit 40 (first detection unit 41, second detection unit 42), Fig. 2B is a simplified diagram illustratively illustrating the configuration of the first detection unit 41, and Fig. 2C is a simplified diagram illustratively illustrating the configuration of the second detection unit 42.

[0032] The stay detection unit 40 detects that an event participant (sports match spectator) is staying at (arriving at) the event venue (sports match venue) via the event participant's (sports match spectator's) terminal 10. The stay detection unit 40 has a first detection unit 41 and a second detection unit 42, and performs two-stage detection (authentication) by the first detection unit 41 and the second detection unit 42.

[0033] The first detection unit 41 detects the presence of an event participant (sports game spectator) at or near the event venue (sports game venue) by performing at least one of Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication, Global Positioning System (GPS) communication, beacon communication, and acoustic communication via the terminal 10 of the event participant (sports game spectator). The detection by the first detection unit 41 may be coarser (rougher) than the detection by the second detection unit 42.

[0034] The second detection unit 42 detects that the event participant (sports game spectator) has arrived at (taken a seat at) their assigned seat at the event venue (sports game venue) by bringing the terminal 10 of the event participant (sports game spectator) close to the event venue and performing near field communication (NFC). The detection by the second detection unit 42 may be more granular (more detailed) than the detection by the first detection unit 41. Note that the second detection unit 42 may read a QR code (registered trademark) instead of NFC touch as the second detection process.

[0035] As shown in Fig. 2C, each seat at an event venue (sports match venue) is provided with an NFC tag 42X (the NFC tag 42X may be considered a component of the second detection unit 42). Fig. 2C illustrates a case where the NFC tag 42X is provided on the back of the seat, but the NFC tag 42X may also be provided on other parts of the seat, such as the armrest.

[0036] The NFC tag 42X functions as a "reception unit" that accepts an active action via the terminal 10 of an event participant (sports game spectator) who has arrived at his / her seat at the event venue (sports game venue). For example, when the terminal 10 of the event participant (sports game spectator) is brought close to the NFC tag 42X to perform near-field wireless communication (NFC communication), radio waves are transmitted from the terminal 10 to the NFC tag 42X, radio waves are returned from the NFC tag 42X to the terminal 10, and the result is transmitted from the terminal 10 to the event support server 20. At this time, information about the event participant (sports game spectator) who is the owner of the terminal 10 (for example, identification information of the terminal 10, information such as the user's age, gender, and occupation, history information about the user's participation in the event and purchase of related goods, etc.) may be transmitted from the terminal 10 to the event support server 20.

[0037] In this way, the NFC tag 42X (reception unit) is made up of a short-range wireless communication unit, and receives active actions via the terminal 10 of event participants (sports game spectators) who have arrived at their seats at the event venue (sports game venue) by short-range wireless communication with the terminal 10. The series of processes described above corresponds to the "reception process." This "reception process" can be executed simply by bringing the terminal 10 close to the NFC tag 42X and performing short-range wireless communication (this can be a path to the event venue-specific application (game venue-specific application)), regardless of whether the terminal 10 has registered (installed, downloaded) an event venue-specific application (game venue-specific application) or whether the event venue-specific application (game venue-specific application) is running (even if it is not registered or running).

[0038] 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the event assistance system 1. As described above, the event assistance system 1 has a stay detection unit 40 that performs two-stage detection (authentication) by a first detection unit 41 and a second detection unit 42, and the detection result (authentication result) by the stay detection unit 40 is transmitted to the event assistance server 20 as appropriate (in real time).

[0039] As shown in FIG. 3, the event assistance server 20 includes a first information acquisition unit 21, a second information acquisition unit 22, and a benefit provision unit .

[0040] The first information acquisition unit 21 acquires "first information" related to event participants (sports match spectators). As the first information, the first information acquisition unit 21 may acquire, for example, information transmitted in conjunction with an NFC touch (proximity to the NFC tag 42X) of the terminal 10, or information input / transmitted from the terminal 10 or other devices via an application specialized for an event venue (application specialized for a match venue) or other applications.

[0041] The first information may include, for example, identification information of terminal 10, attribute information (e.g., age, gender, occupation, etc.) of the event participant (sports game spectator) who is the owner of terminal 10, behavioral history information of the event participant (sports game spectator) who is the owner of terminal 10 (e.g., history information on watching sports games and purchasing related goods (especially related to a particularly favorite team or player)), information on a favorite sport (e.g., professional baseball, professional soccer, professional basketball, etc.), and information on a favorite team or player (e.g., a specific professional baseball team or a specific player on that team). Note that the first information is not limited to the examples given here, and may include various types of information related to the event participant (sports game spectator).

[0042] The second information acquisition unit 22 acquires "second information" related to details of the event (sports match). As the second information, the second information acquisition unit 22 may acquire, for example, information transmitted from an organization managing the event (sports match), or information input / transmitted from the terminal 10 or other devices via an application specialized for an event venue (application specialized for a match venue) or other applications.

[0043] The second information may include, for example, the type of sporting event (e.g., professional baseball, professional soccer, professional basketball, etc.), the venue where the sporting event is being held (e.g., XX Stadium, etc.), the date and time of the sporting event, the position of the sporting event (e.g., a professional baseball Central League official game, the 15th game between the Giants and the Hanshin Tigers, etc.), broadcast information for the sporting event (e.g., on XX Channel from XX o'clock to XX o'clock), and information on memorable records expected to be achieved in the sporting event (e.g., professional baseball player XX of team XX is two hits away from 2,000 hits, or scheduled starting pitcher XX player is one win away from 200 wins (reach), etc.). Note that the second information is not limited to the examples given here, and may include various information related to the details of the event (sporting event).

[0044] The benefit provision unit 23 performs the following operation when the stay detection unit 40 (first detection unit 41, second detection unit 42) detects that an event participant (sports match spectator) is staying (arriving) at the event venue (sports match venue). The benefit provision unit 23 provides a restricted benefit via the terminal 10 of the event participant (sports match spectator) based on a first constraint (location and time constraint) that the benefit is only available while the event participant (sports match spectator) is staying (arriving) at the event venue (sports match venue) and a second constraint (content constraint) that the benefit is specific to the event (sports match).

[0045] The benefit provision unit 23 provides event participants (sports match spectators) with a benefit with restrictions based on the first and second restrictions, i.e., "the right to acquire limited goods and / or limited services that can only be obtained here and now (whether for a fee or free of charge)" as an incentive for actually going to the event venue (sports match venue) and watching the event (sports match) live. More specifically, it allows the event participants (sports match spectators) to purchase limited goods and / or limited services on an EC (Electronic Commerce) site that can only be accessed under certain conditions, or to purchase limited goods and / or limited services that are only offered under certain conditions even if the EC site itself is accessible.

[0046] As a second restriction, the privilege provision unit 23 may provide the right to acquire limited goods and / or limited services related to a specific player and / or a specific team in a sports game as a restricted privilege (for example, by listing them on an e-commerce site).

[0047] Examples of "limited goods and / or services related to a specific player and / or a specific team in a sports game" include merchandise signed by the specific player (e.g., in the case of a ball game, a ball, a winning ball, a photograph, a limited edition card, etc.). Alternatively, a service that allows you to spend time with the specific player after the game (taking commemorative photos and sharing meals and drinks) may be envisioned. Alternatively, a service that allows you to obtain a matching outfit with the specific player's casual wear after the game and take a commemorative photo wearing the matching outfit may be envisioned. Alternatively, a limited commemorative item celebrating a memorial victory of the specific team (e.g., the team's 300th win since its founding). Alternatively, an invitation ticket or priority purchase rights for a subsequent event held after the game (e.g., a fan appreciation event) may be envisioned. Furthermore, "limited goods and / or services related to a specific player and / or a specific team in a sports game" may be upgraded or downgraded depending on the performance and win / loss of the specific player and / or the specific team in the game. It should be noted that the "limited goods and / or limited services related to a specific player and / or a specific team in a sports game" are not limited to the examples given here, and various design modifications are possible.

[0048] The privilege provision unit 23 may modify the privilege with restrictions based on the first constraint and the second constraint based on at least one of the first information (information related to event participants (sports game spectators)) acquired by the first information acquisition unit 21 and the second information (information related to details of the event (sports game)) acquired by the second information acquisition unit 22.

[0049] For example, the benefit provision unit 23 may estimate the favorite team or player of the event participant (sports game spectator) from the first information, and provide limited goods and / or limited services related to the favorite team or player as a modified, restricted benefit (for example, by listing them on an e-commerce site).Furthermore, the benefit provision unit 23 may provide, from the first information, limited goods and / or limited services related to a team or player that is popular (highly interested in) with the same attributes (for example, same sex, same generation) as the event participant (sports game spectator), as a modified, restricted benefit (for example, by listing them on an e-commerce site).

[0050] For example, the reward provider 23 may provide, as a modified restricted reward (for example, by listing it on an e-commerce site), limited goods and / or limited services related to a team or player participating in an event (sports game) that is televised or heavily advertised, based on the second information. Also, the reward provider 23 may provide, as a modified restricted reward (for example, by listing it on an e-commerce site), limited goods and / or limited services related to a well-known matter that is well known even by people who are not interested in the event (sports game) (for example, that player △△ of professional baseball team XX is two hits away from 2,000 hits, that player □□, the scheduled starting pitcher, is one win away from 200 wins (reach), or that the retirement race of a nationally popular racehorse), based on the second information.

[0051] As a second constraint, the benefit provision unit 23 may provide (for example, list on an e-commerce site) a restricted benefit in which an event participant (a sports game spectator) can acquire different types of goods and / or services depending on the seat assigned to the event participant (sports game spectator) at the event venue (sports game venue). More specifically, the benefit provision unit 23 may provide a restricted benefit in which an event participant (a sports game spectator) who purchases a higher-ranked (high-priced) seat can acquire an upgraded product and / or service, while providing a restricted benefit in which an event participant (a sports game spectator) who purchases a lower-ranked (low-priced) seat can acquire a downgraded product and / or service. For example, autographed goods of a specific player may be listed as a product and / or service corresponding to a certain seat (low-priced seat), while a service in which an event participant can spend time with a specific player after the game (taking commemorative photos or sharing a meal) may be listed as a product and / or service corresponding to another seat (high-priced seat).

[0052] The benefit provision unit 23 may provide restricted benefits (for example, by listing them on an e-commerce site) in the form of the right to acquire different types of goods and / or services depending on at least one of the frequency with which an event participant (a sports match spectator) watches an event (sports match) during a specified period, whether the event venue (sports match venue) is a home or away venue, the performance of a favorite player, and / or the win or loss of a favorite team.

[0053] Regarding the frequency of watching events (sports matches) in a predetermined period, for example, upgraded products and / or services may be offered for sale only if a specific team or player's matches are watched a predetermined number of times or more in a predetermined period (for example, two or more times per month, five or more times per two months, etc.). Also, upgraded products and / or services may be offered for sale only if a specific number of consecutive matches are watched (for example, if all three professional baseball games are attended).

[0054] When allocating whether an event venue (sports match venue) is home or away, for example, visits to an away stadium may be given more importance than visits to a home stadium, and upgraded products and / or services may be offered only when the away stadium is visited. Conversely, visits to a home stadium may be given more importance than visits to an away stadium, and upgraded products and / or services may be offered only when the home stadium is visited. Furthermore, by setting a predetermined period, restricted benefits may be offered according to the total points of visits to the home stadium and the away stadium, and the visit points may be weighted according to whether the match is home or away (for example, visits to the home stadium may be given one point, and visits to the away stadium may be given two points). Furthermore, in addition to or instead of home or away, restricted benefits may be offered according to the travel distance to the stadium where the match is held.

[0055] With regard to the performance of a favorite player and / or the outcome of a favorite team, for example, when a favorite player performs well or the favorite team wins a sports game, an upgraded product and / or service may be offered for sale, whereas when a favorite player does not perform well (is unable to play) or the favorite team loses a sports game, a downgraded product and / or service may be offered for sale.

[0056] The restricted benefits may be differentiated based on all of the following (a comprehensive assessment of the three factors): the frequency with which an event participant (a sports game spectator) watches an event (sports game) during a specified period, whether the event venue (sports game venue) is a home or away venue, the performance of a favorite player, and / or the wins and losses of a favorite team.

[0057] When providing (selling on an e-commerce site) a restricted benefit (the right to acquire goods and / or services), the benefit provider 23 may decide to purchase the benefit itself before the event (before the match starts), determine the basic fee before the event (before the match starts), and add an additional fee (remaining fee) that varies depending on the event result (match result), for example, the performance of a favorite player and / or the win / loss of a favorite team, to determine the final price. This can be expected to have the effect of increasing the enthusiasm of event participants (spectators of a sports match).

[0058] In some sports, a Most Valuable Player (MVP) is selected or determined for each game, and a system may be introduced in which the purchase of restricted benefits (goods and / or services) related to a player leads to voting for the MVP (for example, purchasing merchandise of a certain player is equivalent to one vote for that player in the MVP voting). Also, a system may be introduced in which player or team commemorative goods are linked to restricted benefits (goods and / or services) to increase the value of the benefits, or in which the value of the benefits is increased by linking them with the first and second information described above (increasing the likelihood of them being listed on an e-commerce site).

[0059] Benefit provision unit 23 may operate as follows, under the assumption that stay detection unit 40 (first detection unit 41, second detection unit 42) has detected that an event participant (sports game spectator) is staying (arriving) at the event venue (sports game venue). For example, as a first constraint, benefit provision unit 23 may provide a restricted benefit (or list the benefit on an e-commerce site) for a predetermined time based on the timing when it is detected that the event participant (sports game spectator) is staying (arriving) at the event venue (sports game venue), a predetermined time based on the start timing of the event (sports game), a predetermined time based on the end timing of the event (sports game), and a predetermined time based on the break timing of the event (sports game).

[0060] For example, before the start of a sports match, a spectator may be offered a special privilege of purchasing limited edition merchandise on an e-commerce site before the start of the match (the merchandise may be listed on the e-commerce site) for a specified period of time (for example, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, or the remaining time until the start of the match) from the time when the spectator performs near-field wireless communication (for example, NFC touch by bringing the terminal 10 close to the NFC tag 42X) with an NFC tag attached to his or her seat.

[0061] In addition, a special privilege may be offered, limited to a certain period (for example, 15 or 30 minutes) before the start of a sports game, in which the player in the game (for example, the starting members in the case of a team sport) can purchase limited edition goods on an e-commerce site (the goods may be listed on the e-commerce site).

[0062] In addition, for a limited time (for example, 15 or 30 minutes) after the end of a sports game, a special privilege may be offered, such as the right to purchase limited edition goods on an e-commerce site, of players who played well in the game (for example, pitchers or batters who played well on the winning team in baseball, players who scored points for the winning team in soccer, or other winning players or MVP players).

[0063] In addition, during breaks in sports (for example, when the field is being prepared at the end of the fifth inning in baseball, during halftime between the first and second halves in soccer, or during halftime between the second and third quarters in basketball), a special privilege may be offered, in the form of the right to purchase limited edition goods of players who performed well in the first half of the game or limited edition goods of players who played in the second half of the game on an e-commerce site (the goods may be listed on the e-commerce site).

[0064] The "event support device" consisting of the event support system 1 or event support server 20 of this embodiment sells limited edition goods (limited items) that use (or are linked to) non-fungible tokens (NFTs), thereby providing limited quantities of items (for example, cards limited to only 10 copies) linked to serial numbers, and can also provide original ancillary goods and / or services for each limited quantity item (for example, a video of a player spanning 10 seconds before and after (20 seconds in total) the image of the card limited to only 10 copies).

[0065] This can motivate potential game spectators to come to a game in order to receive exclusive merchandise that is only available to those who attend. It also allows the brand to verify the discovery of lost or stolen limited edition merchandise (allowing the development of crime prevention services that can be offered as a follow-up service rather than simply selling the merchandise). NFT management can also reduce the circulation of fake (fake brand) merchandise (reducing the circulation of cheap counterfeits and reducing reputational damage caused by inferior products can increase brand value). Furthermore, limiting the number of merchandise (for example, limited quantities) can create a sense of premium quality and increase value. For example, offering limited merchandise as a gift to only 10 members of the winning team can create a sense of premium quality, creating a system in which the value of limited edition merchandise increases over time.

[0066] More specifically, the benefit provider 23 can link a serial number and an NFT (non-fungible token) corresponding to a restricted benefit (limited goods and / or limited services) to a specific player and / or a specific team. Then, based on the correspondence between the serial number and the NFT (non-fungible token) corresponding to the restricted benefit (limited goods and / or limited services) linked to the specific player and / or specific team, and the identification information of the event participant (match spectator), it is guaranteed that the event participant (match spectator) is the right holder of the restricted benefit (limited goods and / or limited services).

[0067] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the NFT management server 50. The NFT management server 50 may be the same (common) component (one function) as the event assistance server 20, or may be a separate component (separate function) from the event assistance server 20. The NFT management server 50 may be any communication device capable of various communications with the terminal 10, and may be interpreted as a device, circuit, or the like. The NFT management server 50 controls and executes various processes related to the handling (operation) of products (product groups) related to restricted benefits via communications with the terminal 10. Hereinafter, restricted benefits (limited products and / or limited services) may be referred to as products (product groups) as one aspect of the restricted benefits.

[0068] As shown in Figure 4, the NFT management server 50 has a product group registration unit 51, an authentication / identification information assignment unit 52, a user group registration unit 53, a user identification information assignment unit 54, a correspondence information storage unit 55, an NFT update unit 56, and an operation control unit 57.

[0069] The product group registration unit 51 registers product groups to be managed. The product groups registered by the product group registration unit 51 are related to restricted benefits (limited products and / or limited services), and the following description will use as an example a limited card of a specific pitcher belonging to a specific professional baseball team. As illustrated in Figures 5 and 6 described below, the limited card related to the restricted benefit (limited product and / or limited service) commemorates the achievement of an AAAAA pitcher belonging to professional baseball team BBBBB, who achieved the first ever 14 consecutive strikeouts in a game against FFFFF held at GGGGG Stadium on DD / EE / CC, and features a still image (photograph) of the 14th strikeout.

[0070] The authentication and identification information assigning unit 52 assigns authentication and identification information to each of the managed product groups registered by the product group registration unit 51. The timing of assigning authentication and identification information (especially NFTs (brand tokens)) can be, for example, when a product (limited edition card) that is a restricted benefit is acquired (purchased), transferred (sold), or appraised. The authentication and identification information assigned by the authentication and identification information assigning unit 52 may include a serial number corresponding to each of the product groups (limited edition card groups) and an NFT (non-fungible token) corresponding to the brand of the product group (limited edition card group) (or a combination or hybrid of the two). An NFT (non-fungible token), also known as a brand token, is a unique, non-fungible data unit recorded on a blockchain, and each managed product group (limited edition card group) is associated with a unique item. Unlike various cryptocurrencies, NFTs (non-fungible tokens) are non-fungible and are uniquely associated with each managed product group (limited edition card group). In this way, this embodiment makes it possible to realize non-fungible transactions, proof-issued transactions, and proof-certified transactions based on authentication and identification information consisting of a serial number and an NFT (non-fungible token).

[0071] FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of authentication and identification information assigned to a group of products (a group of limited cards) to be managed. FIG. 5 illustrates an example in which a limited number of 10 limited cards of a specific pitcher belonging to a specific professional baseball team are issued and sold. Each of the 10 limited cards is assigned a unique serial number, from "202401101-01" to "202401101-10." The first half of the serial number may indicate a combination of the issue date and category of the product (limited card), and the second half of the serial number may indicate the product's identification information (one of the 10 limited cards). The specific form of the serial number assigned to the group of products is flexible, and various design modifications are possible (not limited to the example shown in FIG. 5). For example, certain items may be deleted from the serial number, or other items may be added to the serial number. The serial numbers are managed as a unique ID for each product, for example, using RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) tags, so that each of the 10 limited cards can be authenticated as a unique product.

[0072] In Figure 5, the above serial number is further combined (multiplied) with a brand token as an NFT, making the authentication and identification information assigned to the product group (limited edition card group) under management even more unique. In this way, a brand certification mechanism based on the new concept of serial number NFT (brand token) is realized (making it possible to realize non-fungible transactions, certified issuance transactions, and certified transactions).

[0073] The user group registration unit 53 registers a user group that is the target of operations related to product management. For example, a user who wishes to perform an operation on a product group (limited card group) that is a restricted benefit uses the terminal 10 to access the NFT management server 50 and then performs user registration. When registering as a user, the user is required to enter personal information (for example, name, gender, age, date of birth, address, information required for payment, etc.).

[0074] The user identification information assigning unit 54 assigns user identification information to each of the user groups registered by the user group registration unit 53. This user identification information may be linked, via the NFT management server 50, to the right to perform operations on a group of products (a group of limited cards) that are restricted benefits.

[0075] The correspondence information storage unit 55 stores the authentication / identification information (registered by the product group registration unit 51 and assigned by the authentication / identification information assignment unit 52) ​​assigned to each of the product groups (limited card groups) to be managed, and the user identification information (registered by the user group registration unit 53 and assigned by the user identification information assignment unit 54) assigned to each of the user groups that are the targets of product management operations, in association with each other. Note that the authentication / identification information may be read as "product ID," and the user identification information may be read as "customer ID." Furthermore, the user identification information (registered by the user group registration unit 53 and assigned by the user identification information assignment unit 54) may be read as "identification information of event participants (match spectators)."

[0076] 5 illustrates an example of correspondence information (customer data) stored in the correspondence information storage unit 55. For a limited edition card with the serial number "202401101-01" attached as a product ID, a combination (multiplication) of an NFT (specific brand token) is stored, and in association with this, the customer registration date (here, June 3, 2024) and the customer ID (user identification information) "10001" of a specific user are stored.

[0077] FIG. 6 is a conceptual diagram illustrating an example of the relationship between authentication and identification information consisting of a serial number and an NFT (brand token) and user identification information. According to this embodiment, products are uniquely managed using brand-name NFTs (brand tokens) based on a brand-issued serial number, which can be used to verify ownership, authenticate the product, prevent theft, and confirm resale. When a product is sold, the brand links the owner (member) and responsibly issues an NFT (brand token) issued by the brand as proof of the product and owner. The purchaser of the product can check the history, such as the acquisition date and retailer, just like a certified copy of a real estate registry. When issuing an NFT (brand token), a rule can be established that allows the transfer (sale and purchase) of the product only on the brand's dedicated platform (a platform provided by the NFT management server 50) and prohibits the transfer (sale and purchase) of the product on other platforms (e.g., auction sites or flea market sites). In the unlikely event that it is discovered that a product has been transferred (sold) on a platform other than the brand's dedicated platform (for example, an auction site or flea market site platform), penalties can be imposed to revoke the NFT (brand token) and its associated rights and prevent it from being reissued. NFTs (brand tokens) can be reissued not only at the time of purchase or transfer (sale), but also when the existing owner has it authenticated, provided that they have the purchase receipt and membership information (user identification information) and have these data matched.

[0078] When a specific user transfers (sells) a specific product (limited card) to another user, the NFT update unit 56 updates (switches) the non-fungible token, i.e., NFT (brand token), corresponding to the brand of the product group (limited card group) among the authentication and identification information.

[0079] The operation control unit 57 controls operations related to the product group (limited card group) based on the correspondence between the authentication and identification information (registered by the product group registration unit 51 and assigned by the authentication and identification information assignment unit 52) ​​assigned to each of the product group (limited card group) to be managed, and the user identification information (registered by the user group registration unit 53 and assigned by the user identification information assignment unit 54) assigned to each of the user group that is the subject of product management operations.

[0080] The operation control unit 57 certifies that a specific user is the owner of a specific product (limited card) based on the correspondence between the authentication and identification information (serial number and NFT (brand token)) and the user identification information stored in the correspondence information storage unit 55 (brand ownership certificate / pedigree). In this case, the operation control unit 57 can make it possible to refer to historical information about a specific product (limited card) owned by a specific user. Here, the historical information about the product (limited card) may include, for example, at least one of the issue date and event information (sports game information). Furthermore, the historical information about the product (limited card) may also include, for example, the past owners of the product (the brand power of the product may be dramatically increased if the product was previously owned by a celebrity, influencer, famous collector, etc.). Here, whether or not to include the past owners in the historical information about the product (limited card) can be left to the discretion of the past owners. In other words, when a user owns a certain product (limited edition card) (when the serial number and authentication / identification information related to the NFT (brand token) are assigned), it is possible to set whether or not that user will be disclosed as a past owner (a functional requirement for disclosing / not disclosing past ownership history can be added).

[0081] The operation control unit 57 may permit a specific user to transfer (buy or sell) a specific product (limited card) owned by the specific user to another user if a predetermined condition is satisfied, and may prohibit a specific user from transferring (buying or selling) a specific product (limited card) owned by the specific user to another user if the predetermined condition is not satisfied. Here, the "predetermined condition" that serves as the criterion for determining whether to permit or prohibit the transfer (buying or selling) of a product (limited card) may be, for example, at least one of the following (1) to (6): (1) Uses a dedicated platform provided by the NFT management server 50. (2) The product history information (issue date, event information (sports match information), etc.) that can be accessed by a specific user has been disclosed (shared) with another user (the other party) and the consent of both parties has been obtained. (3) Price negotiations have been concluded between a specific user and another user (the other party). (4) At least one of the following functions was legitimately exercised between a specific user and another user (the other party): offer function, auction function, payment confirmation / receipt confirmation, and dealer function, via a trading platform (Brand Exchange) where only certified products with NFTs (Brand Tokens) can be listed. (5) The NFT (brand token) that constitutes the authentication and identification information is updated (switched) appropriately. (6) There is a low probability that the transfer (sale) is for the purpose of inappropriate resale (the person is not a reseller).

[0082] FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing an example of theft prevention functions (theft detection function, resale prevention function) provided by the NFT management server 50. If a customer has not registered as a member (user registration), the user registration system can be explained to the customer at the time of (or before) purchasing a product, and the purchased product can then be registered as a user. In other words, user registration is completed by associating the serial number NFT (brand token) as authentication and identification information with user identification information. In the example of FIG. 7, limited card 1 with product ID "202401101-01," limited card 2 with product ID "202804002," and limited card 3 with product ID "202703015" are depicted in a manner corresponding to (linked to, and owned by) customer ID "10001," which is user identification information. In the example of Figure 7, Limited Card 1 commemorates "X player's strikeout record," Limited Card 2 commemorates "Y player's final appearance in Japanese baseball," and Limited Card 3 commemorates "Y player's oldest triple crown winner." In this way, by registering as a user linked to the product (Limited Cards 1-3), there is the advantage that if the product is stolen, it can be reported and later found after it has been resold on a resale site.

[0083] For example, consider a case where a specific product (limited card) for which customer data is managed by the NFT management server 50 is stolen. The owner of the specific product (limited card) registers the theft via the NFT management server 50. If the NFT management server 50 is linked to a resale site, when the specific product (limited card) is about to be resold on the resale site (while it is being listed), it may be determined that the specific product (limited card) is stolen, and the specific product (limited card) may be recovered and those involved in the theft may be identified. Even if the specific product (limited card) is unfortunately resold, when the specific product (limited card) is operated by the NFT management server 50 after the resale (for example, when an offer for transfer is made), it may be determined that the specific product (limited card) is stolen, and the specific product (limited card) may be recovered.

[0084] In this way, managing a group of products (limited edition cards) that are restricted benefits using (involving) NFTs and serial codes enables the following applications and developments. For example, as an event benefit, it can be used as a right to participate in an event in the Metaverse world or as a right to participate in a real-life fan appreciation event (they can be used in different ways). Furthermore, as a content benefit, for example, a one-minute video including 30 seconds before and after the image scene of the limited edition card can be enjoyed as a bonus video (from multiple angles) exclusively available to official team purchasers. Note that the method of managing the serial numbers of the 10 "limited edition player cards" on an e-commerce site that can only be purchased at an event venue (e.g., a stadium) does not necessarily have to use NFTs, but can also use (involve) other methods such as membership registration.

[0085] 8A and 8B are diagrams showing the flow from when a user arrives at the stadium as an event venue to when they purchase limited-edition merchandise on a limited-edition EC site. Fig. 8A corresponds to the first visit to the stadium, and Fig. 8B corresponds to the second or subsequent visits to the stadium.

[0086] Referring to FIG. 8A, the first visit to the stadium will be described. In step ST1, the user (event participant) enters the stadium. In step ST2, primary detection is performed within the stadium. Specifically, the presence of the user (event participant) in the stadium or its vicinity is detected by performing at least one of Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication, Global Positioning System (GPS) communication, beacon communication, and acoustic communication.

[0087] If the team app (for example, a stadium-specific application) has not been downloaded to the user (event participant) device, the process proceeds to step ST3, where a notification (visual and audio) is sent via the user (event participant) device to prompt the user to download the team app (for example, a stadium-specific application) for the first time and register as a member. If the team app (for example, a stadium-specific application) has been downloaded to the user (event participant) device, the process skips step ST3 and proceeds to step ST4.

[0088] In step ST4, the user (event participant) logs in to the team's app (for example, a stadium-specific application) using their terminal. At this time, unless the primary detection in step ST2 is performed, the system (specifications) may be configured such that the user cannot log in to the team's app (for example, a stadium-specific application).

[0089] In step ST5, secondary detection is performed by bringing the terminal close to an NFC tag installed on a seat (own seat) in the stadium. This recognizes that the user (event participant) is staying (arriving) at the stadium, which is the event venue, and identifies the seat location. Note that during secondary detection, a QR code (registered trademark) may be read instead of an NFC touch.

[0090] In step ST6, the user (event participant) accesses the exclusive EC site via their terminal, and purchases exclusive merchandise on the exclusive EC site. In this case, the series of processes from logging in to the team's app (e.g., a stadium-specific application) to purchasing exclusive merchandise on the exclusive EC site may be configured such that the user (event participant) consents to various uses, such as automatic Wi-Fi (registered trademark) connection settings and utilization of purchase data.

[0091] The second and subsequent visits to the stadium will be described with reference to Figure 8B. The process from the second visit onwards (Figure 8B) is almost the same as the process for the first visit (Figure 8A), but on the assumption that the team's app (for example, an application specific to the stadium) has been downloaded to the user's (event participant's) device, step ST3 is omitted and the process proceeds from step ST2 to step ST4.

[0092] In this way, in the event support device, event support method, and event support program of this embodiment, the stay detection unit detects that an event participant is staying at the event venue via the event participant's terminal, and when it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, the benefit provision unit provides, via the event participant's terminal, a benefit with restrictions based on the first constraint that the benefit is valid for the duration of the event participant's stay at the event venue, and the second constraint that the benefit is specific to the event.

[0093] This will increase the sense of excitement that comes from participating in an event, and ultimately the motivation to attend the event. For example, by creating an "electronic commerce (EC) system that handles products and services that can only be purchased at a stadium," it will be possible to create an incentive for people to visit the stadium. Furthermore, for the event organizers, if a system is created in which a portion of the EC sales is made into profits, it will be possible to achieve a synergistic effect (for example, strengthening a sports team) by piggybacking on the success of the event.

[0094] The event support device, event support method, and event support program of this embodiment can, for example, establish an e-commerce system that blocks participation by users who only buy tickets and resell them (so-called scalpers). It can also establish a determination logic that blocks participation by users who wanted tickets but were unable to obtain them and instead cheered outside the stadium. To prevent scalpers, rules may be introduced, such as limiting the purchase of limited-edition merchandise to one per person, or mechanisms may be introduced that increase the probability of winning limited-edition merchandise based on fan level (favoritism, support level), such as past event participation and merchandise purchase history, frequency of stadium visits, etc., or that facilitate the release of upgrades to limited-edition merchandise. Furthermore, in baseball, for example, a system may be introduced in which a password, code, or QR code is displayed on the scoreboard (scoreboard) during the on-field changeovers, and by entering this code, limited-edition merchandise can be purchased on a newly established limited-edition e-commerce website. In addition to these, mechanisms may be introduced that further enhance the event's appeal and security by combining analog methods such as in-stadium announcements.

[0095] To address the issue of "security," the use of (involving) NFTs (non-fungible tokens) makes it possible to assign serial numbers to each registered owner using a so-called "proof of ownership," thereby preventing theft. Furthermore, the issue of "transfer of digital and real-world event rights when resold" can be addressed by opening an official resale website and exchanging limited edition goods with mutually verified identities. Furthermore, with NFTs (non-fungible tokens), the only requirement is to download an application, so no particular issues arise (or are not expected). Physical products (such as signed baseballs) can simply be sent to the address or residence registered on the application.

[0096] Fig. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20. As shown in Fig. 9, the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 each have a control unit 110, a storage unit 120, a communication unit 130, an input unit 140, and an output unit 150. Note that Fig. 9 shows an example of the functional blocks of the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20, and the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 may have other functional blocks not shown in Fig. 9. Furthermore, the configuration may not include some of the functional blocks.

[0097] The control unit 110 controls the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20. The control unit 110 can be configured by a controller, a control circuit, or a control device that is described based on common understanding in the technical field related to the present invention.

[0098] The storage unit 120 stores information used by the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20. The storage unit 120 can be configured, for example, by a memory, storage, storage device, or the like that is described based on common understanding in the technical field related to the present invention.

[0099] The communication unit 130 performs communication between the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 (for example, mutual communication with an external device). The communication unit 130 can be configured by a transmitter / receiver, a transmission / reception circuit, or a transmission / reception device, which are described based on common understanding in the technical field related to the present invention. The communication unit 130 may be configured by a transmission unit and a reception unit.

[0100] The input unit 140 accepts inputs from the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20. The input unit 140 may also be connected to a predetermined device, storage medium, etc., and accept data input. The input unit 140 may output the input results to, for example, the control unit 110. The input unit 140 may be configured with input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, and buttons, input / output terminals, input / output circuits, etc., which are explained based on common understanding in the technical field related to the present invention. The input unit 140 may also be configured as an integrated unit with a display unit (for example, a touch panel).

[0101] The output unit 150 performs output on the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20. For example, the output unit 150 may be configured to include a display unit that displays images, an audio output unit that outputs audio, and the like. The display unit may be configured, for example, by a display device such as a monitor or the like that is described based on common understanding in the technical field related to the present invention. Furthermore, the audio output unit may be configured by an output device such as a speaker that is described based on common understanding in the technical field related to the present invention.

[0102] The block diagrams used to explain the above embodiments show functional blocks. These functional blocks (components) are realized by any combination of hardware and / or software. Furthermore, the means for realizing each functional block is not particularly limited. That is, each functional block may be realized by a single physically coupled device, or may be realized by two or more physically separate devices connected by wire or wirelessly.

[0103] For example, the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 in an embodiment of the present disclosure may function as a computer that performs the event processing (event assistance processing) of the present disclosure. Fig. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20. The terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 described above may be physically configured as a computer device including a processor 1001, a memory 1002, a storage 1003, a communication device 1004, an input device 1005, an output device 1006, a bus 1007, etc.

[0104] In this disclosure, the terms apparatus, circuit, device, unit, server, etc. may be interchangeable. The hardware configuration of the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 may be configured to include one or more of the devices shown in the drawings, or may be configured to exclude some of the devices.

[0105] For example, although only one processor 1001 is shown, there may be multiple processors. Furthermore, processing may be performed by one processor, or processing may be performed by two or more processors simultaneously, serially, or in other ways. Furthermore, processor 1001 may be implemented by one or more chips.

[0106] Each function of the terminal 10 and the event support server 20 is realized by loading specified software (programs) onto hardware such as the processor 1001, memory 1002, etc., so that the processor 1001 performs calculations and controls communication via the communication device 1004, reading and / or writing of data in the memory 1002 and storage 1003, etc.

[0107] The processor 1001 controls the entire computer by running, for example, an operating system. The processor 1001 may be configured as a central processing unit (CPU) including an interface with peripheral devices, a control device, an arithmetic unit, a register, etc. Note that each unit such as the control unit 110 described above may be realized by the processor 1001.

[0108] The processor 1001 also reads programs (program codes), software modules, data, etc. from at least one of the storage 1003 and the communication device 1004 into the memory 1002, and executes various processes in accordance with these. The programs used are those that cause a computer to execute at least some of the operations described in the above-described embodiments. For example, the control unit 110 may be realized by a control program stored in the memory 1002 and running on the processor 1001, and similar implementations may be made for other functional blocks.

[0109] The memory 1002 is a computer-readable recording medium and may be configured by at least one of, for example, a read-only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), an electrically EEPROM (EEPROM), a random access memory (RAM), or other suitable storage medium. The memory 1002 may also be referred to as a register, a cache, a main memory, or the like. The memory 1002 may store executable programs (program codes), software modules, and the like for implementing a method according to one embodiment.

[0110] Storage 1003 is a computer-readable recording medium, and may be configured by at least one of, for example, a flexible disk, a floppy disk, a magneto-optical disk (e.g., a compact disk (CD-ROM (Compact Disc ROM)), a digital versatile disk, a Blu-ray (registered trademark) disk), a removable disk, a hard disk drive, a smart card, a flash memory device (e.g., a card, a stick, a key drive), a magnetic stripe, a database, a server, or other suitable storage medium. Storage 1003 may also be called an auxiliary storage device. Note that the above-mentioned storage unit 120 may be realized by memory 1002 and / or storage 1003.

[0111] The communication device 1004 is hardware (transmission / reception device) for communicating between computers via at least one of a wired network and a wireless network, and is also referred to as a network device, a network controller, a network card, a communication module, etc. The communication device 1004 may include a SIM card. Note that the above-mentioned communication unit 130 may be realized by the communication device 1004.

[0112] The input device 1005 is an input device (for example, a keyboard, a mouse, etc.) that receives input from the outside. The output device 1006 is an output device (for example, a display, a speaker, etc.) that performs output to the outside. The input device 1005 and the output device 1006 may be integrated into one unit (for example, a touch panel). The above-mentioned input unit 140 and output unit 150 may be realized by the input device 1005 and the output device 1006, respectively.

[0113] Furthermore, each device such as the processor 1001 and the memory 1002 is connected by a bus 1008 for communicating information. The bus 1008 may be configured as a single bus, or may be configured as different buses between the devices.

[0114] Furthermore, the terminal 10 and the event assistance server 20 may be configured to include hardware such as a microprocessor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a programmable logic device (PLD), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA), and some or all of the functional blocks may be realized by the hardware. For example, the processor 1001 may be implemented by at least one of these pieces of hardware.

[0115] (Variation) In addition, terms explained in this disclosure and / or terms necessary for understanding this disclosure may be replaced with terms having the same or similar meanings.

[0116] The information, parameters, etc. described in this disclosure may be expressed using absolute values, relative values ​​from a predetermined value, or other corresponding information. Furthermore, the names used for parameters, etc. in this disclosure are not limiting in any way.

[0117] The information, signals, etc. described in this disclosure may be represented using any of a variety of different technologies. For example, data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc. that may be referred to throughout the above description may be represented by voltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, optical fields or photons, or any combination thereof.

[0118] Information, signals, etc. may be input / output via multiple network nodes. The input / output information, signals, etc. may be stored in a specific location (e.g., memory) or may be managed using a table. The input / output information, signals, etc. may be overwritten, updated, or added. Output information, signals, etc. may be deleted. Input information, signals, etc. may be transmitted to another device.

[0119] Furthermore, notification of specified information (e.g., notification that "it is X") is not limited to explicit notification, but may be made implicitly (e.g., by not notifying the specified information or by notifying other information).

[0120] Software shall be construed broadly to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, threads of execution, procedures, functions, etc., whether referred to as software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description language, or otherwise.

[0121] Software, instructions, information, etc. may also be transmitted and received via a transmission medium and / or signal waveform. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using wired technologies (such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)), and / or wireless technologies (such as infrared, microwave), then these wired and / or wireless technologies are included within the definition of transmission media.

[0122] As used in this disclosure, the terms "system" and "network" may be used interchangeably.

[0123] Each aspect / embodiment described in this disclosure may be used alone, in combination, or switched depending on the implementation. Furthermore, the order of the processing procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc. of each aspect / embodiment described in this disclosure may be changed unless inconsistent. For example, the methods described in this disclosure present elements of various steps using an example order, and are not limited to the specific order presented.

[0124] As used in this disclosure, the phrase "based on" does not mean "based only on," unless expressly stated otherwise. In other words, the phrase "based on" means both "based only on" and "based at least on."

[0125] As used in this disclosure, any reference to an element using a designation such as "first," "second," etc. does not generally limit the quantity or order of those elements. These designations may be used in this disclosure as a convenient method of distinguishing between two or more elements. Thus, a reference to a first and a second element does not imply that only two elements may be employed or that the first element must in some way precede the second element.

[0126] When used in this disclosure, the terms "include," "including," and variations thereof are intended to be inclusive, similar to the term "comprising." Furthermore, when used in this disclosure, the term "or" is not intended to be an exclusive or.

[0127] In this disclosure, where articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, the disclosure may include that the nouns following these articles are in the plural form.

[0128] Although the invention according to the present disclosure has been described in detail above, it is clear to those skilled in the art that the invention according to the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described in the present disclosure. The invention according to the present disclosure can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined by the description of the claims. Therefore, the description of the present disclosure is intended to be illustrative and does not impose any limiting meaning on the invention according to the present disclosure. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 1 Event support system (event support equipment) 10 Terminals (user terminals) 20 Event support server (event support device) 21 First information acquisition unit 22 Second information acquisition unit 23 Special Offer Department 30 Network 40 Stay detection unit 41 First detection unit 42 Second detection unit 42X NFC (Near Field Communication) tag (reception area) 50 NFT management servers 51 Product Group Registration Department 52 Authentication and identification information assignment unit 53 User Group Registration Section 54 User identification information assignment section 55 Correspondence information storage unit 56 NFT update section 57 Operation Control Section

Claims

1. a stay detection unit that detects, via the terminal of the event participant, that the event participant is staying at the event venue; a benefit provision unit that, when it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, provides, via the terminal of the event participant, a benefit with restrictions based on a first restriction that the benefit be provided to the event participant while the event participant is staying at the event venue and a second restriction that the benefit be specific to the event; An event support device comprising:

2. The stay detection unit a first detection unit that detects the presence of the event participant at or near the event venue by performing at least one of Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication, Global Positioning System (GPS) communication, beacon communication, and acoustic communication via the terminal of the event participant; a second detection unit that detects the arrival of the event participant at the assigned seat at the event venue by bringing the terminal of the event participant close to the terminal and performing near field communication (NFC); having 2. The event support device according to claim 1.

3. a first information acquisition unit that acquires first information related to the event participants; a second information acquisition unit that acquires second information related to details of the event; and the reward provision unit modifies the restricted reward based on the first restriction and the second restriction, based on at least one of the first information and the second information; 2. The event support device according to claim 1.

4. the benefit provision unit provides the restricted benefit for the first restriction over a predetermined time based on a timing when it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, a predetermined time based on a timing when the event starts, a predetermined time based on a timing when the event ends, and a predetermined time based on a timing when a break occurs at the event.

2. The event support device according to claim 1.

5. the event is a sports match between different players and / or different teams; The event participants are spectators of a sports game, The event venue is a sports venue.

2. The event support device according to claim 1.

6. the benefit provision unit provides, as the second constraint, a right to acquire a limited product and / or a limited service related to a specific player and / or a specific team in the sports game, as the restricted benefit; 6. The event support device according to claim 5.

7. The benefit providing unit links the serial number and the non-fungible token corresponding to the limited product and / or the limited service to the specific player and / or the specific team.

7. The event support device according to claim 6.

8. The event participant is guaranteed to be a right holder of the limited goods and / or the limited services based on the correspondence between the serial number and the non-fungible token corresponding to the limited goods and / or the limited services linked to the specific player and / or the specific team, and the identification information of the event participant.

8. The event support device according to claim 7.

9. the benefit provision unit provides, as the second constraint, the right to acquire goods and / or services of different types according to the seat assigned to the sports game spectator at the sports game venue, as the restricted benefit; 6. The event support device according to claim 5.

10. the benefit provision unit provides, as the restricted benefit, the right to acquire goods and / or services of different types according to at least one of the frequency with which the sports match spectator watches the sports match in a predetermined period, whether the sports match venue is a home or away venue, and the performance of a favorite player and / or the win or loss of a favorite team; 6. The event support device according to claim 5.

11. detecting, by a stay detection unit, that the event participant is staying at the event venue via the event participant's terminal; When it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, a benefit providing unit provides, via the terminal of the event participant, a benefit with restrictions based on a first restriction that the benefit is provided while the event participant is staying at the event venue and a second restriction that the benefit is specific to the event; An event support method characterized by being executed by a computer.

12. detecting, by a stay detection unit, that the event participant is staying at the event venue via the event participant's terminal; When it is detected that the event participant is staying at the event venue, a benefit providing unit provides, via the terminal of the event participant, a benefit with restrictions based on a first restriction that the benefit is provided while the event participant is staying at the event venue and a second restriction that the benefit is specific to the event; An event support program that causes a computer to execute the above.

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