Information processing apparatus, information processing method, and recording medium

Abstract

To provide an information processor, an information processing method and a program for accurately guiding facilities or services available to a user who is scheduled to get on a vehicle.SOLUTION: The information processing device includes a registration unit configured to register a status related to boarding of a user scheduled to board a vehicle acquired through a boarding procedure and biological information of the user acquired during the boarding procedure in association with each other, and a generation unit configured to generate guidance information related to a facility or a service available for the user to be guided in the information processing terminal in accordance with the status of the user specified by collating target biological information that is biological information acquired by the information processing terminal for one user with registered biological information that is biological information registered by the registration unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes an information display system that generates an individual guide screen based on information about a user's upcoming plans, such as flight information booked by the user, and information about personal preferences. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-17924 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the system described in Patent Document 1, since the guidance is generated based on the user's upcoming plans, it is difficult to provide accurate guidance on facilities or services that the user can use.

[0005] In view of the above-mentioned problems, an object of the present invention is to provide an information processing device, an information processing method, and a recording medium that can accurately guide users who are planning to board a vehicle to facilities or services that can be used. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing device having a registration unit that registers the boarding status of a user scheduled to board a vehicle, obtained through boarding procedures, and the user's biometric information obtained during the boarding procedures, in association with each other, and a generation unit that generates guidance information regarding facilities or services available to the user, which is provided on the information processing terminal, in accordance with the status of the user identified by comparing target biometric information, which is biometric information obtained by an information processing terminal for one of the users, with registered biometric information, which is the biometric information registered by the registration unit.

[0007] According to another aspect of the present invention, an information processing method is provided which registers the boarding status of a user scheduled to board a vehicle, obtained through boarding procedures, and the user's biometric information obtained during the boarding procedures in association with each other, and generates guidance information on facilities or services available to the user on the information processing terminal in accordance with the user's status identified by comparing target biometric information, which is the biometric information obtained by an information processing terminal for one of the users, with registered biometric information, which is the biometric information registered by the registration unit.

[0008] According to yet another aspect of the present invention, a recording medium having recorded thereon a program is provided that causes a computer to register the boarding status of a user scheduled to board a vehicle, obtained through boarding procedures, and the user's biometric information obtained during the boarding procedures in association with each other, and to generate guidance information regarding facilities or services available to the user, which is provided on the information processing terminal, in accordance with the status of the user identified by comparing target biometric information, which is the biometric information obtained by an information processing terminal for one of the users, with registered biometric information, which is the biometric information registered by the registration unit. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide accurate guidance on facilities or services available to users who plan to board a vehicle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of an information processing system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the check-in terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a signage terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a mobile terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a facility terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the check-in terminal and the management server in the information processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a user database of the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a flight database of the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a member database of the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a travel history database of the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the signage terminal and the management server in the information processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a reception screen displayed on the signage terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a facility database of the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on the signage terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on the signage terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on the signage terminal according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the facility terminal and the management server according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the signage terminal and the management server in the information processing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the management server according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on a signage terminal according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on a signage terminal according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on a signage terminal according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on a signage terminal according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a guide screen displayed on a signage terminal according to the second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device according to another embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] [First embodiment] An information processing system, an information processing device, and an information processing method according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0012] First, the configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the overall configuration of the information processing system according to this embodiment.

[0013] As shown in Fig. 1, an information processing system 1 according to this embodiment includes a management server 10, a check-in terminal 20, a signage terminal 30, a mobile terminal 40, and a facility terminal 50. The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment is, for example, a guidance management system that manages information to be provided to a user U, who is a passenger scheduled to board an aircraft, which is a form of transportation, at an airport A, which is a transportation facility, on a signage terminal 30, which is a guidance terminal. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which guidance is provided regarding facilities or services that can be used by the user U at airport A. Note that a second embodiment will be described in which guidance is provided regarding the flight of the aircraft that the user U is scheduled to board at airport A.

[0014] The information processing system 1 does not need to provide both types of guidance described in the present embodiment and the second embodiment, but may provide at least one of the two types of guidance.

[0015] Furthermore, the information processing system 1 may be one that manages information to be provided on the signage terminal 30 to users U who plan to board an airplane at airport A, as well as users who plan to board a vehicle at a transportation facility for boarding a vehicle as a means of transportation. For example, the information processing system 1 may be one that manages information to be provided to users who plan to board a ship, which is a vehicle, at a seaport. Also, for example, the information processing system 1 may be one that manages information to be provided to users who plan to board a train, which is a vehicle, at a station.

[0016] The management server 10 is installed, for example, in the facilities of an airline or the like. The check-in terminal 20 is installed, for example, in the check-in lobby of airport A. The signage terminal 30 is installed, for example, in various locations within airport A, such as the check-in lobby, baggage counter, security checkpoint, immigration control area, boarding gate, lounge, waiting room, waiting area, and corridor, regardless of whether it is in the area before or after departure procedures. The mobile terminal 40 is carried by the user U. The facility terminal 50 is installed in a facility F, such as a lounge, that is available to the user U.

[0017] After arriving at airport A, user U, who is scheduled to board an international flight, performs check-in procedures at check-in terminal 20. The check-in procedures are procedures for user U to board the aircraft. After the check-in procedures, user U can receive various kinds of guidance at signage terminals 30 installed in various locations within airport A. Specifically, at signage terminal 30, user U can receive guidance regarding facilities, services, etc. that are available to user U at airport A, as well as guidance regarding actions that user U should take at airport A in connection with the flight of the aircraft that user U is scheduled to board.

[0018] In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user U is planning to board an international flight, but the user U may also be planning to board a domestic flight. In the case of a user U planning to board a domestic flight, the procedures or processes related to boarding an international flight are omitted.

[0019] The management server 10, check-in terminal 20, signage terminal 30, and facility terminal 50 are connected to a network NW. The network NW is composed of a LAN (Local Area Network) including the in-house communication network of airport A, a WAN (Wide Area Network), a mobile communication network, etc. The mobile terminal 40 can be connected to the network NW wirelessly.

[0020] Next, each component of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be further described with reference to FIGS.

[0021] First, the configuration of management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 2. Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of management server 10. Management server 10 is an information processing device that manages information to be displayed on signage terminal 30. Note that the functions of management server 10 may be realized by a single server or by multiple servers.

[0022] 2, the management server 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 104, a storage device 106, and a communication unit 108. The CPU 102, RAM 104, storage device 106, and communication unit 108 are connected to a bus line 110.

[0023] The CPU 102 operates by executing programs stored in the storage device 106, and functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of the management server 10. The CPU 102 also executes application programs stored in the storage device 106 to perform various processes as the management server 10. The RAM 104 provides a memory area necessary for the operation of the CPU 102.

[0024] The storage device 106 is configured with storage media such as a nonvolatile memory, a hard disk drive, etc., and functions as a storage unit. The storage device 106 stores programs executed by the CPU 102, data referenced by the CPU 102 when executing the programs, a database (DB), etc.

[0025] The storage device 106 stores a user DB 106a, a flight DB 106b, a member DB 106c, a travel history DB 106d, and a facility DB 106e. Details of each DB will be described later. Note that the management server 10 does not necessarily need to have these DBs stored in the storage device 106. The management server 10 may be configured to be able to reference all or part of the user DB 106a, flight DB 106b, member DB 106c, travel history DB 106d, and facility DB 106e stored in an external server.

[0026] The communication unit 108 is connected to the network NW and transmits and receives data via the network NW. The communication unit 108 communicates with the check-in terminal 20, the signage terminal 30, the mobile terminal 40, the facility terminal 50, etc. under the control of the CPU 102.

[0027] In this way, the management server 10 is configured.

[0028] Next, the configuration of the check-in terminal 20 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the check-in terminal 20. The check-in terminal 20 is an automated check-in terminal that is operated by the user U himself / herself to carry out the check-in procedure (boarding procedure). Note that the check-in terminal 20 may also be a check-in terminal installed at a manned counter operated by an airline employee. The check-in procedure (boarding procedure) is a procedure in which at least information for identifying the user U who is scheduled to board an aircraft flight is entered to register it.

[0029] 3, the check-in terminal 20 has a CPU 202, a RAM 204, a storage device 206, an input device 208, and a display 210. The check-in terminal 20 further has a medium reading device 212, a biometric information acquisition device 214, and a communication unit 216. The CPU 202, RAM 204, storage device 206, input device 208, display 210, medium reading device 212, biometric information acquisition device 214, and communication unit 216 are connected to a bus line 218.

[0030] CPU 202 operates by executing programs stored in storage device 206, and functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of check-in terminal 20. CPU 202 also executes application programs stored in storage device 206 to perform various processes as check-in terminal 20. RAM 204 provides a memory area necessary for the operation of CPU 202.

[0031] The storage device 206 is configured with a storage medium such as a nonvolatile memory, a hard disk drive, etc., and functions as a storage unit. The storage device 206 stores programs executed by the CPU 202, data referenced by the CPU 202 when executing the programs, etc.

[0032] The input device 208 is, for example, a touch panel incorporated in the display 210. The input device 208 functions as an input unit that accepts input of instructions from the user U. The user U can input various information and instructions to execute processing to the check-in terminal 20 via the input device 208.

[0033] The display 210 functions as a display unit that displays and outputs various screens to the user U who uses the check-in terminal 20. For example, the display 210 displays a guidance screen that provides guidance on how to use the check-in terminal 20 and a notification screen for the user U.

[0034] The medium reading device 212 functions as an information acquisition unit that reads the passport or airline ticket medium of the user U and acquires information recorded on the passport or airline ticket. The airline ticket medium is, for example, a paper airline ticket or a mobile terminal that displays an e-ticket receipt. The medium reading device 212 is composed of, for example, a code reader, an image scanner, a contactless IC (Integrated Circuit) reader, an OCR (Optical Character Reader) device, etc., and acquires information from various media held over the reading unit.

[0035] The biometric information acquisition device 214 functions as a biometric information acquisition unit that acquires a facial image of the user U as biometric information of the user U performing the check-in procedure. The biometric information acquisition device 214 is, for example, a digital camera that captures an image of the face of the user U standing in front of the check-in terminal 20, and acquires the facial image by capturing the image of the face of the user U. Note that the biometric information acquisition device 214 is not limited to acquiring a facial image of the user U as biometric information of the user U, but may also acquire a fingerprint image, an iris image, a finger vein image, a palm print image, a palm vein image, etc.

[0036] The communication unit 216 is connected to the network NW and transmits and receives data via the network NW. The communication unit 216 communicates with the management server 10 and the like under the control of the CPU 202.

[0037] In this way, check-in terminal 20 is configured.

[0038] Next, the configuration of the signage terminal 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the signage terminal 30. The signage terminal 30 is an information processing terminal that displays and provides guidance to the user U regarding facilities, services, etc. that the user U can use, and information regarding the flight of the aircraft that the user U is scheduled to board. The guidance regarding the flight includes guidance regarding actions that the user U should take in relation to the flight. The display executed on the signage terminal 30 is managed by the management server 10.

[0039] 4, signage terminal 30 has CPU 302, RAM 304, storage device 306, input device 308, display 310, printer 312, biometric information acquisition device 314, and communication unit 316. CPU 302, RAM 304, storage device 306, input device 308, display 310, printer 312, biometric information acquisition device 314, and communication unit 316 are connected to bus line 318.

[0040] CPU 302 operates by executing programs stored in storage device 306, and functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of signage terminal 30. CPU 302 also executes application programs stored in storage device 306 to perform various processes as signage terminal 30. RAM 304 provides a memory area necessary for the operation of CPU 302.

[0041] The storage device 306 is configured with a storage medium such as a nonvolatile memory, a hard disk drive, etc., and functions as a storage unit. The storage device 306 stores programs executed by the CPU 302, data referenced by the CPU 302 when executing the programs, etc.

[0042] The input device 308 is, for example, a touch panel incorporated in the display 310. The input device 308 functions as an input unit that accepts input of instructions from the user U. The user U can input various information and instructions to execute processing to the signage terminal 30 via the input device 308.

[0043] The display 310 functions as a display unit that displays and outputs various screens to the user U who uses the signage terminal 30. For example, the display 310 displays information about facilities, services, etc. that the user U can use, information about a flight that the user U is scheduled to board, etc.

[0044] The printer 312 functions as a printing unit that prints and outputs information to be provided to the user U on a medium such as paper. For example, the printer 312 can print information similar to that displayed on the display 310, various tickets, and the like, on a medium such as paper.

[0045] The biometric information acquisition device 314 functions as a biometric information acquisition unit that acquires a facial image of the user U as biometric information of the user U in front of the signage terminal 30. The biometric information acquisition device 314 is, for example, a digital camera that takes an image in front of the signage terminal 30, and captures the face of the user U to acquire the facial image. Note that the biometric information acquisition device 314 is not limited to acquiring a facial image of the user U as the biometric information of the user U, but may also acquire a fingerprint image, an iris image, a finger vein image, a palm print image, a palm vein image, etc.

[0046] The communication unit 316 is connected to the network NW and transmits and receives data via the network NW. The communication unit 316 communicates with the management server 10 and the like under the control of the CPU 302.

[0047] In this way, signage terminal 30 is configured.

[0048] Next, the configuration of the mobile terminal 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the mobile terminal 40. The mobile terminal 40 is an information processing terminal that is carried and used by the user U, and is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a mobile phone, or the like.

[0049] 5, the mobile terminal 40 has a CPU 402, a RAM 404, a storage device 406, an input device 408, a display 410, a camera 412, and a communication unit 414. The CPU 402, RAM 404, storage device 406, input device 408, display 410, and communication unit 414 are connected to a bus line 416.

[0050] The CPU 402 operates by executing a program stored in the storage device 406, and functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of the mobile terminal 40. The CPU 402 also executes an application program stored in the storage device 406 to perform various processes as the mobile terminal 40. The RAM 404 provides a memory area necessary for the operation of the CPU 402.

[0051] The storage device 406 is configured with a storage medium such as a nonvolatile memory, a hard disk drive, etc., and functions as a storage unit. The storage device 406 stores programs executed by the CPU 402, data referenced by the CPU 402 when executing the programs, etc.

[0052] The input device 408 is, for example, a touch panel incorporated in the display 410. The input device 408 functions as an input unit that accepts input of instructions from the user U. The user U can input various information and instructions to execute processing to the mobile terminal 40 via the input device 408.

[0053] The display 410 functions as a display unit that displays and outputs various screens to the user U.

[0054] The camera 412 is a digital camera that functions as a photographing unit that captures images or videos. The camera 412, together with the CPU 402 that executes a process of reading a code symbol such as a QR code (registered trademark) photographed by the camera 412, constitutes a code scanner that reads the code symbol.

[0055] The communication unit 414 connects to the network NW via a mobile communication network under the control of the CPU 402. The communication method of the communication unit 414 is not particularly limited, but examples thereof include a third generation mobile communication method, an LTE (Long Term Evolution) method, a fourth generation mobile communication method, and a fifth generation mobile communication method.

[0056] In this way, the mobile terminal 40 is configured.

[0057] Next, facility terminal 50 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of facility terminal 50. Facility terminal 50 is installed, for example, at the entrance of facility F, such as a lounge in airport A, and is an information processing terminal that displays to user U whether or not the facility is available for use.

[0058] 6, the facility terminal 50 has a CPU 502, a RAM 504, a storage device 506, an input device 508, a display 510, a biometric information acquisition device 512, and a communication unit 514. The CPU 502, RAM 504, storage device 506, input device 508, display 510, biometric information acquisition device 512, and communication unit 514 are connected to a bus line 516.

[0059] CPU 502 operates by executing programs stored in storage device 506, and functions as a control unit that controls the overall operation of facility terminal 50. CPU 502 also executes application programs stored in storage device 506 to perform various processes as facility terminal 50. RAM 504 provides a memory area necessary for the operation of CPU 502.

[0060] The storage device 506 is configured with a storage medium such as a nonvolatile memory, a hard disk drive, etc., and functions as a storage unit. The storage device 506 stores programs executed by the CPU 502, data referenced by the CPU 502 when executing the programs, etc.

[0061] The input device 508 is, for example, a touch panel incorporated in the display 510. The input device 508 functions as an input unit that accepts input of instructions from the user U. The user U can input various information and instructions to execute processing to the facility terminal 50 via the input device 508.

[0062] The display 510 functions as a display unit that displays and outputs various screens to the user U.

[0063] The biometric information acquisition device 512 functions as a biometric information acquisition unit that acquires a facial image of the user U as biometric information of the user U in front of the facility terminal 50. The biometric information acquisition device 512 is, for example, a digital camera that takes an image in front of the facility terminal 50, and captures the face of the user U to acquire the facial image. Note that the biometric information acquisition device 512 is not limited to acquiring a facial image of the user U as the biometric information of the user U, but may also acquire a fingerprint image, an iris image, a finger vein image, a palm print image, a palm vein image, etc.

[0064] The communication unit 514 is connected to the network NW and transmits and receives data via the network NW. The communication unit 514 communicates with the management server 10 and the like under the control of the CPU 502.

[0065] Thus, facility terminal 50 is configured.

[0066] The information processing system 1 according to this embodiment guides a user U who is scheduled to board an aircraft at airport A about facilities or services that the user U can use within airport A according to the user U's status. Here, the user U's status refers to a position or qualification that is ranked and classified based on the user U's past flight history on aircraft, such as the flight distance or segment distance of aircraft that the user U has boarded in the past, and the fare paid for aircraft use. The facilities or services that the user U can use differ depending on the status. For example, a user U with a higher status can use more valuable facilities or services.

[0067] The operation of each component in the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment will be further described below with reference to FIGS.

[0068] First, the operation of the check-in terminal 20 and management server 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 7 to 10. Fig. 7 is a sequence diagram showing the operation of the check-in terminal 20 and management server 10. Fig. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the user DB 106a. Fig. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the flight DB 106b. Fig. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the member DB 106c. Fig. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the travel history DB 106d.

[0069] A user U who has arrived at airport A performs check-in procedures at the check-in terminal 20. The check-in terminal 20 and the management server 10 execute the process shown in FIG. 7 each time each of the multiple users U performs check-in procedures.

[0070] Instead of checking in at the check-in terminal 20, the user U can also perform the check-in procedure by web check-in or online check-in. In this case, the user U can access the web page of the airline or its affiliated company using an information processing terminal that the user U uses, such as a home computer or mobile terminal 40, and perform the check-in procedure via the web page. The server that provides the web page or another server that can communicate with it can accept various information input by the user U from the information processing terminal via the web page and perform the same processing as that of the check-in terminal 20 described below.

[0071] As shown in FIG. 7, the medium reader 212 of the check-in terminal 20 determines whether or not the passport of the user U is held over its reading section (step S102), and waits until the passport is held over (step S102, NO).

[0072] When the medium reading device 212 determines that a passport has been held up (step S102, YES), it acquires user U's identity information, including passport information, from the held up passport (step S104). The identity information is information about user U personally, such as user U's name, nationality, gender, and date of birth. The identity information can also be acquired from user U's airline ticket medium. Furthermore, the passport information included in the identity information includes the passport number, the passport issuing country, and a passport face image, which is a facial image of user U. Note that the CPU 202 of the check-in terminal 20 can change the display language on the display 210 to a language such as the official language of the country, depending on the nationality of user U identified by the identity information.

[0073] Next, the medium reading device 212 determines whether or not the airline ticket medium of the user U is held over its reading section (step S106), and waits until the airline ticket medium is held over (step S106, NO).

[0074] When the medium reading device 212 determines that the airline ticket medium has been held up (step S106, YES), it acquires user U's scheduled flight information from the held up airline ticket medium (step S108). User U's scheduled flight information includes information about the flight that user U is planning to board, and is boarding information related to user U's boarding. The scheduled flight information includes, for example, the airline, flight number, departure point, arrival point, departure date and time, arrival date and time, seat class, etc. of the aircraft that user U is planning to board. The CPU 202 of the check-in terminal 20 can query the airline server for airline ticket reservation and purchase information based on user U's passport information, and acquire user U's scheduled flight information from the airline server.

[0075] The medium reading device 212 can also acquire user U's identity information from the airline ticket medium. For example, the medium reading device 212 can acquire user U's membership number in a points program operated by an airline or its affiliated company as user U's identity information. In points programs, user U's status is ranked and classified into multiple levels according to the number of points awarded to user U based on his or her flight record on aircraft operated by the airline or an airline affiliated with the airline. For example, the more flights or flight segments the user has flown, the higher the fare paid for the aircraft, the higher the seat class, etc., the more points the user U is awarded. Furthermore, the more points user U has accumulated over a certain period of time, the higher the status of the multiple statuses he or she has. The names of points in points programs are not particularly limited, but include, for example, miles, frequent flyer miles, etc. The names of the multiple statuses are also not particularly limited, and any names that are distinct from one another can be used. The medium reading device 212 can also obtain the user U's status from the airline ticket medium as the user U's identity information.

[0076] The higher the status of user U, the more valuable facilities and services he or she can use. For example, at airport A, a user U with a higher status can use a dedicated facility F, such as a lounge. Also, for example, a user U with a specific higher status can receive preferential services, such as discounts, at stores such as duty-free shops. Also, for example, a user U with a specific higher status can use a priority lane at the security checkpoint, where he or she can undergo security screening procedures first. Also, for example, a user U with a specific higher status can use a priority lane at the departure immigration checkpoint, where he or she can undergo immigration screening procedures first. Also, for example, a user U with a specific higher status can board an aircraft with priority at the boarding gate.

[0077] The check-in terminal 20 can acquire the identity information and scheduled flight information not only from the passport and airline ticket medium but also by other methods. For example, the CPU 202 can inquire about airline ticket reservation and purchase information based on the user U's credit card number, reservation number, confirmation number, etc., to the airline server, and acquire the user U's identity information and scheduled flight information from the airline server.

[0078] Next, the biometric information acquisition device 214 of the check-in terminal 20 photographs the face of the user U standing in front of the check-in terminal 20, and acquires a photographed face image that is a facial image of the user U (step S110).

[0079] The order of step S104 of acquiring identity information, step S108 of acquiring boarding information, and step S110 of acquiring a facial image is not limited to the above case. Any of steps S104, S108, and S110 may be executed in the order listed first, or all or some of steps S104, S108, and S110 may be executed simultaneously.

[0080] Next, the CPU 202 of the check-in terminal 20 functions as a matching unit and performs a one-to-one comparison between the photographed face image captured by the biometric information acquisition device 214 and the passport face image acquired by the medium reading device 212 (step S112). When comparing the photographed face image with the passport face image, the CPU 202 can match both face images by comparing facial feature amounts extracted from the photographed face image with facial feature amounts extracted from the passport face image. The CPU 202 functions as a determination unit and can determine that the two face images match when, for example, the similarity between the two face images indicates a similarity level that is higher than a standard.

[0081] Instead of functioning as a matching unit, the CPU 202 can be configured to request an external server such as the management server 10 to match the face image of the user U and obtain the matching result from the external server. In this case, the CPU 202 can transmit the passport face image and captured face image of the user U or feature amounts extracted from each to the external server and request matching of the face image.

[0082] As a result of the comparison, if the CPU 202 determines that the comparison between the captured facial image and the passport facial image matches and identity verification has been successful (step S114, YES), it functions as a transmission unit and transmits the user information of user U to the management server 10 via the network NW (step S116). The user information includes the user U's identity information, facial information, and scheduled flight information, which are associated with each other. The facial information is the captured facial image or passport facial image of user U that has been compared by the CPU 202. Furthermore, the facial information may be either the captured facial image or the passport facial image, or may be both images. Furthermore, the facial information does not have to be the captured facial image or the passport facial image itself, but may be facial feature amounts extracted from the captured facial image or the passport facial image.

[0083] When the CPU 102 of the management server 10 receives the user information from the check-in terminal 20, it functions as a registration unit and registers the received user information in the user DB 106a (step S118). The CPU 102 registers the photographed face image or passport face image included in the user information as a registered face image in the user DB 106a. The CPU 102 associates the identity information, registered face image as face information, scheduled flight information, and status information included in the user information of user U with each other and registers them in the user DB 106a. In this way, the check-in terminal 20 completes the check-in procedure for user U.

[0084] FIG. 8 shows an example of the user DB 106a of the management server 10. The user DB 106a stores user information, which is information about multiple users U who have completed check-in procedures at the check-in terminal 20. As shown in the figure, the user DB 106a stores the identity information, facial information, and scheduled flight information of each user U for each user ID (Identification), which is an identifier for identifying multiple users U. The identity information includes, for example, a name, a passport number, a membership number, etc. The facial information is a registered facial image. The scheduled flight information is boarding information related to the user U's boarding, and includes, for example, a flight number, a departure point, an arrival point, a departure time, a boarding gate, a seat class, etc. Note that the identity information and the scheduled flight information may each include information other than that shown in FIG. 8. Furthermore, as will be described later, the user DB 106a additionally stores status information indicating the status of the user U as part of the user information. The identity information, facial information, scheduled flight information, and status information included in the user information of the user U are registered in association with each other.

[0085] The CPU 102 also functions as an acquisition unit, and can refer to the flight DB 106b to acquire scheduled flight information of the user U that should be registered in the user DB 106a. The flight DB 106b stores the latest flight information. The latest flight information is the latest information regarding flights of aircraft operating at airport A.

[0086] FIG. 9 shows an example of the flight DB 106b of the management server 10. The flight DB 106b stores the latest flight information related to multiple flights operated at airport A. As shown in the figure, the flight DB 106b stores the latest flight information for each flight ID that identifies multiple flights operated at airport A. The latest flight information includes, for example, the flight number, departure airport, arrival airport, departure time, arrival time, boarding gate, boarding start time, and flight status. Note that the latest flight information may include information other than that shown in FIG. 9. If there is a change in the flight status, such as a cancellation or delay, the change is reflected in the latest flight information registered in the flight DB 106b in real time or as needed. Note that the term "cancellation" may include the meaning of the term "cancellation" or may be read as the term "cancellation."

[0087] By referring to flight DB 106b, CPU 102 can obtain more detailed information, such as the boarding gate and boarding start time, as user U's scheduled flight information to be registered in user DB 106a based on the flight number, etc. of the flight that user U is scheduled to board.

[0088] 7, the CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit and acquires the status information of the user U (step S120). The CPU 102 can acquire the status information of the user by referring to the member DB 106c.

[0089] FIG. 10 shows an example of the member DB 106c of the management server 10. The member DB 106c stores member information, which is information about multiple members of the point program operated by the airline or its affiliates. As shown in the figure, the member DB 106c stores member information for each member number, which is an ID that identifies multiple members who join the point program. The member information includes, for example, name, status, number of points, etc. The status is set for user U by ranking them based on the number of points awarded to user U in accordance with their flight boarding record. The number of points is the accumulated number of points awarded over a certain period of time in the past.

[0090] The CPU 102 can refer to the member DB 106c based on the member number of the user U included in the user information registered in the user DB 106a and acquire status information indicating the status of the user U from the member DB 106c.

[0091] Furthermore, instead of acquiring the status information of the user U from the member DB 106c, the CPU 102 can also determine the status of the user U based on the travel history of the user U registered in the travel history DB 106d.

[0092] FIG. 11 shows an example of the travel history DB 106d of the management server 10. The travel history DB 106d may be stored in, for example, an external server separate from the management server 10, which is operated by an organization that manages immigration. The travel history DB 106d stores travel history information, which is information related to the travel histories of multiple people who have entered and exited the country in the past. As shown in the figure, the travel history DB 106d stores travel history information for each personal ID that identifies multiple people. The travel history information includes, for example, name, passport number, facial information, travel history, etc. The travel history is a record of the person's entry and exit into and exit from the country, and includes, for example, the place of departure, place of arrival, date of entry and exit, flight number of the aircraft boarded, etc. The travel history information may include information other than that shown in FIG. 11.

[0093] Based on the name, passport number, facial information, etc. of user U included in the user information registered in user DB 106a, CPU 102 can refer to travel history DB 106d and acquire user U's travel history for a certain period of time from travel history DB 106d. Furthermore, CPU 102 can evaluate user U's airline boarding record based on the acquired travel history for user U for a certain period of time in the past, and determine a status for user U that is similar to the status acquired from membership DB 106c, for example. Specifically, CPU 102 can assign a higher status to user U the longer the flight distance or segment distance of the aircraft that user U boarded during the certain period of time in the past.

[0094] 7, the CPU 102 additionally registers status information indicating the status of the user U in the user DB 106a (step S122). The CPU 102 additionally registers the status information as part of the user information in association with the identity information, face information, and scheduled flight information included in the user information of the user U.

[0095] In this way, the CPU 102 registers the identity information, face information, scheduled flight information, and status information of the user U who has completed the check-in procedure in the user DB 106a.

[0096] On the other hand, if the CPU 202 determines that the comparison between the captured face image and the passport face image does not match and identity verification has failed (step S114, NO), it functions as a notification unit and notifies the user U that identity verification has failed (step S124). At this time, the CPU 202 causes a notification screen notifying the user U that identity verification has failed to be displayed on the display 210. Note that, in addition to or instead of displaying the notification screen, the CPU 202 can also notify the user U that identity verification has failed by, for example, audio.

[0097] In this way, the check-in procedure for user U is carried out at check-in terminal 20.

[0098] Instead of using the check-in terminal 20, the user U can also check in at a manned check-in counter. In this case, a terminal operated by a staff member at the check-in counter can execute the same process as the check-in terminal 20 described above. Also, instead of using the check-in terminal 20, the user U can use online check-in via the airline's website. In this case, for example, the user U can separately register a facial image as a registered facial image in the user DB 106a of the management server 10 using a dedicated terminal installed at the airport A.

[0099] Next, the operations of the signage terminal 30 and management server 10 will be described with reference to Figs. 12 to 17. Fig. 12 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the signage terminal 30 and management server 10. Fig. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a reception screen displayed on the signage terminal 30. Fig. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the facility DB 106e of the management server 10. Figs. 15 to 17 are schematic diagrams showing examples of guide screens displayed on the signage terminal 30.

[0100] After completing the check-in procedures, user U performs baggage check-in procedures at the baggage counter if necessary, then undergoes security at the security checkpoint and immigration at the departure inspection area, before heading to the boarding gate. Until boarding the aircraft at the boarding gate, user U can receive various types of guidance on the signage terminal 30. That is, on the signage terminal 30, user U can receive guidance on facilities or services available to user U, guidance on the flight that user U is scheduled to board, etc. Guidance on the flight includes guidance on actions that user U should take in relation to the flight.

[0101] 12, the biometric information acquisition device 314 of the signage terminal 30 constantly or periodically captures an image of the area in front of the signage terminal 30, and determines whether the face of the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is detected in the captured image (step S202). The biometric information acquisition device 314 waits until the face of the user U is detected in the image (step S202, NO).

[0102] When the CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 determines that the face of the user U has been detected in the image by the biometric information acquisition device 314 (step S202, YES), the CPU 302 causes the display 310 to display a reception screen for receiving input of the guidance request from the user U (step S204). As a result, the CPU 302 receives the input of the guidance request from the user U.

[0103] 13 illustrates a reception screen G10 displayed on the display 310. As illustrated, buttons G12 and G14 for inputting desired guidance are displayed on the reception screen G10 in a touch-inputable manner. The user U can touch button G12 to input into the signage terminal 30 the desired guidance regarding facilities or services that the user U can use. The user U can also touch button G14 to input into the signage terminal 30 the desired guidance regarding the flight that the user U is scheduled to board.

[0104] In the present embodiment, a case will be described in which a user U inputs a request for guidance regarding facilities or services available to the user U into the signage terminal 30, and the user U receives guidance regarding the facilities or services available to the user U. A case will be described in a second embodiment in which a user U inputs a request for guidance regarding a flight that the user U is scheduled to board into the signage terminal 30, and the user U receives guidance regarding the flight that the user U is scheduled to board.

[0105] When user U inputs a request for guidance regarding facilities or services available to him / her, as shown in FIG. 12, biometric information acquisition device 314 photographs the face of user U and acquires the facial image of user U as a target facial image (step S206).

[0106] Note that the signage terminal 30 can skip the process of accepting the guide request in step S204 and proceed to step S206 of acquiring a target face image. In this case, when the biometric information acquisition device 314 determines that the face of the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 has been detected in the captured image, it can capture the face of the user U and acquire the facial image of the user U as the target face image.

[0107] Next, the CPU 302 functions as a transmission unit and transmits the target face image of the user U captured by the biometric information acquisition device 314 to the management server 10 via the network NW (step S208).

[0108] When the CPU 102 of the management server 10 receives a target face image from the signage terminal 30, it functions as a matching unit and matches the face image of user U (step S210). The CPU 102 matches the target face image received from the signage terminal 30 with multiple registered face images registered in the user DB 106a in a 1:N ratio. When matching the target face image with the passport face image, the CPU 102 can match both face images by matching facial features extracted from the target face image with facial features extracted from the registered face image. The CPU 102 functions as a determination unit and can determine that the matching of both face images matches when, for example, the similarity between the two face images indicates a similarity level that is higher than a standard. When a registered face image that matches the target face image is found through matching, the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is identified.

[0109] The CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 can be configured to stream the video in front of the signage terminal 30 to the management server 10. In this case, instead of receiving the target face image from the signage terminal 30, the CPU 102 of the management server 10 can detect and acquire the target face image of the user U from the video streamed from the signage terminal 30.

[0110] If the result of the matching is that the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is identified (step S212, YES), the CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit and acquires status information of the user U from the user DB 106a (step S214). The CPU 102 refers to the user DB 106a and acquires status information associated with the registered face image that matches the target face image as the status information of the user U. In addition to the status information, the CPU 102 can also acquire the seat class included in the scheduled flight information associated with the registered face image that matches the target face image.

[0111] Next, CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit and refers to facility DB 106e to acquire availability information based on the status information of user U (step S216). Availability information is information indicating facilities or services available to user U within airport A. CPU 102 can also acquire availability information based on user U's seat class. CPU 102 can identify services available to user U based on user U's status or seat class, and acquire availability information for the identified facilities or services. Availability information is not limited to facilities or services available to user U within airport A, and may also indicate facilities or services available to user U outside airport A. Availability information may also indicate at least one of facilities and services available to user U.

[0112] FIG. 14 shows an example of the facility DB 106e of the management server 10. The facility DB 106e stores facility information, which is information about multiple facilities within airport A. The facilities within airport A include, for example, lounges, duty-free shops, and restaurants. The facilities within airport A also include, for example, security checkpoints and immigration checkpoints. As shown in the figure, facility information is registered for each facility ID that identifies multiple facilities within airport A. The facility information includes, for example, the facility name, availability conditions, services, and location. The availability conditions indicate the status of user U who can use the facility or the services at the facility. The availability conditions may include, for example, multiple statuses or only a specific status, such as the highest status. The availability conditions may also indicate the seat class of user U who can use the facility or the services at the facility. The services are services provided to user U at the facility, and include, for example, the food and beverage menu provided, the available services, and priority treatment. The available meals, drinks, facilities, and other items at the facility may differ depending on the status of user U. In this case, for a user U with a higher status, more food, drinks, facilities, etc. are displayed on the guidance screen of the signage terminal 30, and for a user with a lower status, fewer food, drinks, facilities, etc. are displayed on the guidance screen of the signage terminal 30. The location is the location of the facility within airport A. Note that the facility information can include information other than that shown in FIG. 14. Furthermore, the facility DB 106e may also have similar facility information registered for facilities outside airport A.

[0113] Within airport A, specific facilities or services are available to user U depending on the user U's status, etc. For example, some lounges operated by airlines or the like are available only to users U with a specific status. Also, some stores, such as duty-free shops, offer preferential services, such as discounts, to users U with a specific status. Also, for example, at security checkpoints, priority lanes may be installed so that users U with a specific status can undergo security check procedures on a priority basis. Also, for example, at departure immigration checkpoints, priority lanes may be installed so that users U with a specific status can undergo immigration check procedures on a priority basis. Also, at boarding gates, for example, users U with a specific status may be given priority to board an aircraft. Facility DB 106e stores facility information including availability conditions for facilities or services available depending on such status, etc.

[0114] The CPU 102 can identify and extract from the facility DB 106e facility information whose availability conditions indicate a status indicated in the status information of the user U, and acquire the extracted one or more pieces of facility information as availability information. The CPU 102 can also extract from the facility DB 106e facility information whose availability conditions indicate a seat class included in the user information of the user U, and acquire the extracted one or more pieces of facility information as availability information.

[0115] In this way, the CPU 102 can identify facilities or services available to the user U based on the status based on the scheduled flight information ranked based on the user U's boarding history.

[0116] 12, the CPU 102 functions as a generating unit and generates usage guide information including the acquired available use information (step S218). The usage guide information is individual guidance information directed to a specific user U receiving guidance on the signage terminal 30, and relates to facilities or services available within airport A depending on the status, seat class, etc. of the user U. When generating the usage guide information, the CPU 102 can include other information, such as required time information, route information, available stay information, required point information, etc., in addition to the available use information.

[0117] The required time information is information indicating the required time from the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U, to a facility available to the user U, and the required time from the facility available to the boarding gate where the user U will board. The CPU 102 can calculate the required time using the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U, the locations of the facilities included in the facility information, the location of the boarding gate, and the like. The CPU 102 can identify the boarding gate where the user U will board by referring to the user DB 106a or the flight DB 106b. The CPU 102 can acquire the location of the signage terminal 30 by referring to a DB (not shown) in which information indicating the location of the signage terminal 30 is registered. The CPU 102 can also acquire the location of the boarding gate by referring to a DB (not shown) in which information indicating the location of the boarding gate is registered.

[0118] The route information is information that indicates the route from the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U, to a facility available to the user U, the route from the facility available to the user U to the boarding gate where the user U will board, the distance of the route, etc. The CPU 102 can determine the route using the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U, the locations of the facilities included in the facility information, the location of the boarding gate, etc.

[0119] The available stay information is information indicating the time or duration that user U can stay at a facility that is available to the user. CPU 102 refers to flight DB 106b to obtain the boarding start time of user U's flight, and can determine the available time or duration of stay based on the boarding start time, the time required to get from the facility to the boarding gate, etc.

[0120] The required point information is information that indicates the number of points required for user U to be set as a status that enables use of a facility when the user U's points are insufficient to reach the reference point number required for that status to be set. The required point information may also include, as additional information, product information that indicates products such as airline tickets and travel packages for which the required number of points will be awarded. CPU 102 can obtain the number of points for user U by referring to member DB 106c, and determine the required number of points using the user U's points and the reference point number required for setting the status.

[0121] On the other hand, if the result of the matching is that the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is not identified (step S212, NO), the CPU 102 functions as a generation unit and generates mismatch information indicating that the user U was not identified due to a mismatch in the matching (step S220).

[0122] Next, CPU 102 functions as a transmitting unit and transmits the usage guidance information or discrepancy information generated as described above to signage terminal 30 via network NW (step S222). Note that CPU 102 can also acquire the nationality of user U from user DB 106a and transmit nationality information indicating the nationality of user U along with the usage guidance information or discrepancy information to signage terminal 30 in order to set the display language on signage terminal 30. CPU 102 functions as a control unit that controls and manages the display on signage terminal 30 by transmitting the usage guidance information or discrepancy information and causing signage terminal 30 to execute a display according to the usage guidance information or discrepancy information.

[0123] Note that signage terminal 30 can also execute the above-described processing from step S210 to step S220 in place of management server 10. In this case, CPU 302 of signage terminal 30 can execute processing by referring to user DB 106a, flight DB 106b, member DB 106c, and facility DB 106e of management server 10 via network NW. CPU 302 can also execute processing by referring to various DBs stored in its own storage device 306 and synchronized with user DB 106a, flight DB 106b, member DB 106c, and facility DB 106e.

[0124] When the CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 receives the usage guide information from the management server 10 (step S224, YES), it causes the display 310 to display a guide screen for the user U based on the received usage guide information (step S226). The CPU 302 causes the display 310 to display a guide screen including information such as available use information, required time information, route information, available stay information, and required points information, which are included in the usage guide information. Depending on the nationality of the user U indicated in the nationality information received from the management server 10, the CPU 302 can change the display language on the display 310 to a language such as the official language of the country.

[0125] 15 illustrates an example of a guide screen G20 displayed on the display 310. As illustrated, the guide screen G20 includes a details area G22 that displays details of available facilities or services, and a map area G24 that displays a map of the airport A premises.

[0126] The CPU 302 can use the availability information to display, in the details area G22, one or more detailed guides G2202, G2204 related to facilities or services available to the user U. The detailed guide G2202, for example, displays information about a lounge or other facility available to the user U. The detailed guide G2204, for example, displays that the user U is a person eligible for priority security inspection, who can use a priority lane to undergo security inspection procedures preferentially at the security checkpoint. The detailed guide G2204, for example, displays that the user U is a person eligible for priority boarding, who can board the aircraft preferentially at the boarding gate.

[0127] In the detailed guidance G2202 about facilities available to user U, the CPU 302 can use the required time information to display the required time from user U's current location to the facility and the required time from the facility to user U's boarding gate. Similarly, in the detailed guidance G2202 about facilities, the CPU 302 can use the stay availability information to display the time or duration that user U can stay at the facility. Similarly, in the detailed guidance G2202 about facilities, the CPU 302 can display the required number of points, which is the number of points required to use the facility, the status, and other availability conditions. Note that the CPU 302 can also display information about facilities that user U cannot use because the number of points he or she has is insufficient to reach the required number of points, along with the number of points that is lacking to reach the required number of points, in the same way as the available facilities.

[0128] Additionally, the CPU 302 can use the required point information to display in the details area G22 the number of points required for the user U to set a status that makes a facility available to the user U, for a facility that is unavailable to the user U. Furthermore, the CPU 302 can use additional information included in the required point information to display in the details area G22 the number of required points as well as information about products such as airline tickets and travel packages that will earn the required number of points.

[0129] The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G24, a current location icon G2402 indicating the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G24, one or more location icons G2404 indicating the locations of one or more facilities available to the user U, using facility information included in the availability information. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G24, a route line G2406 indicating the route from the current location of the user U to a facility available to the user U, using route information. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detail area G22 or the map area G24, the distance of the route indicated by the route line G2406, using the route information.

[0130] 16, the CPU 302 can also display a location icon G2408 indicating the location of the boarding gate of user U in the map area G24 using scheduled flight information of user U included in the user information. Furthermore, the CPU 302 can also display a route line G2410 indicating the route from facilities available to user U to the boarding gate of user U in the map area G24 using route information. The CPU 302 can also display the distance of the route indicated by the route line G2410 in the detailed area G22 or the map area G24 using route information.

[0131] For example, the detailed information G2202 is displayed so that it can be touched. The user U can touch the detailed information G2202 relating to the facility or service for which further information is desired, and input the individual information request relating to that facility or service into the signage terminal 30. When the individual information request is input, the CPU 302 causes the display 310 to display an individual information screen relating to that facility or service.

[0132] 17 shows an example of an individual guide screen G30 displayed on the display 310. As shown in the figure, the guide screen G30 is displayed when a detailed guide G2202 relating to a specific lounge, which is a specific facility, is touched, and includes a details area G32 that displays details of the specific facility and a map area G34 that displays a map of the airport A premises.

[0133] The CPU 302 can display, in the detailed area G32, a menu guide G3202 showing the menu of food and drink offered in the lounge, using the facility information included in the availability information. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detailed area G32, a facility guide G3204 showing the facilities available in the lounge, such as wireless LAN and showers, using the facility information included in the availability information. In this way, the CPU 302 can display, on the display 310, detailed information about the facilities or services available to the user U. The CPU 302 can change the information about the food, drinks, facilities, etc. available in the facility, depending on the user U's status, and display it on the display 310.

[0134] Furthermore, the CPU 302 can display, in the map area G34, a location icon G3402 indicating the location of a lounge available to user U, using facility information included in the availability information. Furthermore, the CPU 302 can display, in the map area G34, a location icon G3404 indicating the location of user U's boarding gate, using user U's scheduled flight information included in the user information. Furthermore, the CPU 302 can display, in the map area G34, a route line G3406 indicating the route from the lounge to user U's boarding gate, using route information. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detail area G32 or the map area G34, the distance of the route indicated by the route line G3406, using the route information.

[0135] In this way, the CPU 302 can display a guidance screen for the user U on the display 310 based on the usage guidance information. The CPU 302 can print all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen on the printer 312 and provide the printed copy to the user U. The CPU 302 can also display a code symbol, such as a QR code (registered trademark), indicating all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen in a readable manner on the display 310. The code symbol may indicate a uniform resource locator (URL) of a web page that displays all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen. The user U can, for example, read the code symbol using the camera 412 of the mobile terminal 40 and display all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen on the display 410 of the mobile terminal 40 to confirm it. The CPU 302 can also output, by voice, information displayed on the guidance screen that can be output as voice from an audio output unit such as a speaker (not shown).

[0136] In addition, the CPU 302 can cause the printer 312 to print tickets such as an admission ticket required to enter a facility that the user U can use, or a usage ticket that proves that the facility can be used, and provide the tickets to the user U.

[0137] In addition, for facilities that are not available to user U because they are not in an available status, CPU 302 can cause printer 312 to print a ticket such as a trial ticket that allows user U to try out the facility, and provide the ticket to user U.

[0138] The CPU 302 can readably display a code symbol such as a QR code (registered trademark) indicating an electronic ticket that functions as an admission ticket, a use ticket, a trial ticket, or other ticket on the display 310. The code symbol may indicate the URL of a web page that displays the electronic ticket. The user U can read the code symbol using the camera 412 of the mobile terminal 40, for example, and display the electronic ticket on the display 410 of the mobile terminal 40 to use it as a ticket.

[0139] Furthermore, the user U can set up the mobile terminal 40 that he or she uses to be able to communicate with the management server 10 via the network NW using an application program or the like. In this case, the CPU 102 of the management server 10 can transmit usage guidance information similar to the usage guidance information transmitted to the signage terminal 30 to the mobile terminal 40 via the network NW. Upon receiving the usage guidance information from the management server 10, the CPU 402 of the mobile terminal 40 can display a guidance screen for the user U on the display 410 based on the usage guidance information, similar to the signage terminal 30. In this case, the user U can move to a desired location to use a facility or service that is available to the user U, while appropriately checking the guidance screen on the mobile terminal 40.

[0140] Furthermore, user U can register his / her communication destination, such as an email address, in the DB of management server 10. In this case, CPU 102 of management server 10 can send a guidance message, such as an email, containing the same content as the usage guidance information sent to signage terminal 30 to the communication destination, such as the email address, of user U. In this case, user U can move to a desired location to use a facility or service available to user U while appropriately checking the guidance message on mobile terminal 40.

[0141] After providing the user U with information about facilities or services available to the user U as described above, the information processing system 1 can provide the user U with information about the flight he or she is scheduled to board, similar to the second embodiment described below.

[0142] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 12, when the CPU 302 receives the mismatch information from the management server 10 (step S224, NO), it causes the display 310 to display, for example, a notice urging the user U to check in (step S228). As a notice urging the user U to check in, the CPU 302 can cause the display 310 to display a notice including a map showing locations where the check-in procedure can be performed, such as the check-in terminal 20 or a check-in counter. In this case, the CPU 302 can also cause the display 310 to display, for example, general usage guides, advertisements, etc. regarding airport A to the user U. The CPU 302 can also output these notices, usage guides, advertisements, etc. as audio from an audio output unit such as a speaker (not shown).

[0143] In this way, in the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, the signage terminal 30 provides information about facilities or services available to the user U, depending on the status of the user U who is scheduled to board a flight. This allows the user U to accurately grasp the facilities or services available to the user U at airport A, even if airport A is an unfamiliar airport that the user U is using for the first time.

[0144] As described above, according to this embodiment, it is possible to provide accurate information about facilities or services that are available to a user U who is scheduled to board a flight.

[0145] Next, the operations of facility terminal 50 and management server 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 18. Fig. 18 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of facility terminal 50 and management server 10.

[0146] A user U who receives information about available facilities on the signage terminal 30 can head to the facility displayed on the information and use the facility before boarding the aircraft. In a facility F such as a lounge, for example, the facility terminal 50 confirms whether the user U can use the facility. The facility terminal 50 is installed, for example, at the entrance or reception of the facility F.

[0147] 18, biometric information acquisition device 512 of facility terminal 50 constantly or periodically captures an image in front of facility terminal 50, and determines whether the face of user U in front of facility terminal 50 is detected in the captured image (step S302). Biometric information acquisition device 512 waits until the face of user U is detected in the image (step S302, NO).

[0148] When the biometric information acquisition device 512 determines that the face of the user U has been detected (step S302, YES), it photographs the face of the user U and acquires the facial image of the user U as a target facial image (step S304).

[0149] Next, CPU 502 of facility terminal 50 functions as a transmission unit and transmits the target face image of user U captured by biometric information acquisition device 512 to management server 10 via network NW (step S306).

[0150] When the CPU 102 of the management server 10 receives the target face image from the facility terminal 50, it functions as a matching unit and performs matching of the face image of user U (step S308). The CPU 102 performs a 1:N comparison between the target face image received from the facility terminal 50 and a plurality of registered face images registered in the user DB 106a. When matching the target face image with the passport face image, the CPU 102 can match both face images by matching facial feature amounts extracted from the target face image with facial feature amounts extracted from the registered face image. The CPU 102 functions as a determination unit and can determine that the matching of both face images matches when, for example, the similarity between both face images indicates a similarity level higher than a standard. When a registered face image matching the target face image is found through matching, the user U in front of the facility terminal 50 is identified.

[0151] Note that CPU 502 of facility terminal 50 can be configured to stream video in front of facility terminal 50 to management server 10. In this case, CPU 102 of management server 10 can detect and acquire the target face image of user U from the video streamed from facility terminal 50, instead of receiving the target face image from facility terminal 50.

[0152] If the result of the matching is that the user U in front of the facility terminal 50 is identified (step S310, YES), the CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit and acquires the status information of the user U from the user DB 106a (step S312). The CPU 102 refers to the user DB 106a and acquires the status information associated with the registered face image that matches the target face image as the status information of the user U. In addition, the CPU 102 can also acquire, along with the status information, the seat class included in the scheduled flight information associated with the registered face image that matches the target face image.

[0153] Next, CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit, and refers to facility DB 106e to acquire the availability conditions for facility F where facility terminal 50 is installed (step S314).

[0154] Next, CPU 102 functions as a determination unit, comparing the status indicated in the status information of user U with the availability conditions of facility F to determine whether user U is able to use facility F (step S316). CPU 102 can also compare user U's seat class with the availability conditions of facility F to determine whether user U is able to use facility F. CPU 102 determines that user U is able to use facility F if user U's status or seat class is included in the availability conditions of facility F. On the other hand, CPU 102 determines that user U is not able to use facility F if user U's status or seat class is not included in the availability conditions of facility F.

[0155] When CPU 102 determines that user U can use facility F (step S316, YES), it functions as a generation unit and generates success information (step S318). The success information is information indicating that it has been successfully confirmed that user U can use facility F.

[0156] On the other hand, if the result of the check is that the user U in front of the facility terminal 50 is not identified (step S310, NO), the CPU 102 functions as a generation unit and generates failure information (step S320). The failure information is information indicating that confirmation that the user U can use the facility F has failed.

[0157] Furthermore, even if the user U in front of the facility terminal 50 is identified (step S310, YES), if the CPU 102 determines that the user U cannot use the facility F (step S316, NO), it similarly generates failure information (step S320).

[0158] Next, CPU 102 functions as a transmitting unit and transmits the success information or failure information generated as described above to facility terminal 50 via network NW (step S322).

[0159] Facility terminal 50 can also execute the above-described processes from step S308 to step S320 in place of management server 10. In this case, CPU 502 of facility terminal 50 can execute processes by referring to user DB 106a and facility DB 106e of management server 10 via network NW. CPU 502 can also execute processes by referring to various DBs stored in its own storage device 306 in synchronization with user DB 106a and facility DB 106e.

[0160] When the CPU 502 of the facility terminal 50 receives the success information from the management server 10 (step S324, YES), it causes, for example, the display 510 to display a guidance screen that guides the user U to enter facility F (step S326). The CPU 502 can also guide the user U to enter facility F by, for example, outputting audio from an audio output unit such as a speaker (not shown), opening a door or gate installed at the entrance of facility F, etc. In this case, for example, the CPU 502 opens a closed door or gate installed at the entrance of facility F.

[0161] On the other hand, when the CPU 502 receives failure information from the management server 10 (step S324, NO), it causes the display 510 to display a notification to the user U requesting confirmation of the conditions for using facility F, such as, for example, confirmation of the status (step S328). In this case, for example, the CPU 502 does not open the closed door or gate installed at the entrance to facility F, but keeps it closed. In this case, the CPU 502 can also display, for example, information on alternative means for using facility F, such as the presentation of a boarding pass for a seat class of a specific grade or higher, payment of a usage fee, advertisements, etc. on the display 510. The CPU 502 can also output these notifications, information on alternative means, advertisements, etc. as audio from an audio output unit such as a speaker (not shown).

[0162] In this way, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment determines whether or not the user U is allowed to use the facility F, which is a facility that the user U can use, by identifying the user U through matching a facial image, which is biometric information. Therefore, according to this embodiment, it is possible to easily determine whether or not the user U is allowed to use the facility F without requiring any manpower.

[0163] [Second embodiment] An information processing system, an information processing device, and an information processing method according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to Figures 19 to 25. Note that components similar to those of the information processing system, the information processing device, and the information processing method according to the first embodiment will be given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof will be omitted or simplified.

[0164] The configuration of the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment is as described in the first embodiment. On the signage terminal 30, the user U can receive guidance regarding facilities or services available to the user U as described in the first embodiment, and can also receive guidance regarding the flight of the aircraft that the user U is scheduled to board. In this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user U receives guidance regarding the flight of the aircraft that the user U is scheduled to board. The guidance regarding the flight includes guidance regarding the actions that the user U should take in relation to the flight.

[0165] 19 to 25, the operations of the signage terminal 30 and the management server 10 when the user U receives guidance regarding the flight of the aircraft that the user U is scheduled to board will be described below. FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram showing the operations of the signage terminal 30 and the management server 10. FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the operations of the management server 10 when generating action guidance information. FIGS. 21 to 25 are schematic diagrams each showing an example of a guidance screen displayed on the signage terminal 30.

[0166] As in the first embodiment, user U completes the check-in procedure at check-in terminal 20, and if necessary, performs baggage check-in at the baggage counter, then undergoes security at the security checkpoint and immigration at the immigration checkpoint, before heading to the boarding gate. Until boarding the aircraft at the boarding gate, user U can receive information on facilities or services available to user U, information on the flight that user U is scheduled to board, and the like, on signage terminal 30, similar to that in the first embodiment. The information on the flight includes information on actions user U should take in relation to the flight.

[0167] 19, the biometric information acquisition device 314 of the signage terminal 30 constantly or periodically captures an image of the area in front of the signage terminal 30, and determines whether the face of the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is detected in the captured image (step S402). The biometric information acquisition device 314 waits until the face of the user U is detected in the image (step S402, NO).

[0168] When CPU 302 of signage terminal 30 determines that biometric information acquisition device 314 has detected the face of user U in the image (step S402, YES), CPU 302 causes display 310 to display a reception screen for receiving input of guidance requests from user U (step S404). As a result, CPU 302 receives input of guidance requests from user U.

[0169] As described in the first embodiment, the CPU 302 displays, for example, the reception screen G10 shown in Fig. 13 on the display 310 to receive input of guidance requests from the user U. In the following, in this embodiment, a case will be described in which the user U inputs a guidance request regarding a flight that the user is planning to board into the signage terminal 30, and the user U receives guidance regarding the flight that the user is planning to board.

[0170] When user U inputs his / her desired information regarding the flight he / she is scheduled to board, as shown in FIG. 19, the biometric information acquisition device 314 photographs the face of user U and acquires the facial image of user U as a target facial image (step S406).

[0171] Note that the signage terminal 30 can skip the process of accepting the guide request in step S404 and proceed to step S406 of acquiring a target face image. In this case, when the biometric information acquisition device 314 determines that the face of the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 has been detected in the captured image, it can capture the face of the user U and acquire the facial image of the user U as the target face image.

[0172] Next, the CPU 302 functions as a transmission unit and transmits the target face image of the user U captured by the biometric information acquisition device 314 to the management server 10 via the network NW (step S408).

[0173] When the CPU 102 of the management server 10 receives a target face image from the signage terminal 30, it functions as a matching unit and matches the face image of user U (step S410). The CPU 102 matches the target face image received from the signage terminal 30 with multiple registered face images registered in the user DB 106a in a 1:N ratio. When matching the target face image with the passport face image, the CPU 102 can match both face images by matching facial features extracted from the target face image with facial features extracted from the registered face image. The CPU 102 functions as a determination unit and can determine that the two face images match if, for example, the similarity between the two face images is high enough to meet a standard or higher. When a registered face image matching the target face image is found through matching, the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is identified.

[0174] The CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 can be configured to stream the video in front of the signage terminal 30 to the management server 10. In this case, instead of receiving the target face image from the signage terminal 30, the CPU 102 of the management server 10 can detect and acquire the target face image of the user U from the video streamed from the signage terminal 30.

[0175] If the result of the comparison is that the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is identified (step S412, YES), the CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit and acquires the scheduled flight information of the user U from the user DB 106a (step S414). Note that the CPU 102 does not need to acquire all the information contained in the scheduled flight information, and can acquire information from the scheduled flight information, such as the flight number, that can identify the flight that the user U is scheduled to board.

[0176] Next, the CPU 102 functions as an acquisition unit and acquires the latest flight information of the flight identified by the scheduled flight information of the user U from the flight DB 106b (step S416).

[0177] Next, the CPU 102 functions as a generating unit and generates action guidance information based on the acquired latest flight information (step S418). The action guidance information is individual guidance information that indicates actions that the user U should take depending on the flight operation status.

[0178] When generating the action guidance information, the CPU 102 determines whether the flight that the user U is scheduled to board is delayed or canceled based on the operational status included in the latest flight information (step S502), as shown in Fig. 20. The operational status indicates whether the flight is on time, delayed, or canceled, and in the case of a delay or cancellation, it also indicates the cause such as bad weather or equipment trouble, and in the case of a delay, it also indicates the length of the delay.

[0179] In this way, the CPU 102 acquires the latest flight information for the flight that the user U is scheduled to board based on the scheduled flight information, which is boarding information, and identifies the operational status of the flight.

[0180] When the CPU 102 determines that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is neither delayed nor canceled, i.e., is on schedule (step S502, NO), it generates action guidance information for the scheduled time based on the latest flight information (step S504). The action guidance information for the scheduled time is information including the flight status indicating that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is on schedule, the boarding gate that user U should proceed to, the latest time that user U should proceed to the boarding gate, etc. The action guidance information for the scheduled time also includes the latest flight information of the flight that user U is scheduled to board.

[0181] When CPU 102 determines that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is delayed or canceled (step S502, YES), it further determines whether the flight that user U is scheduled to board is delayed based on the flight status included in the latest flight information (step S506). Note that if the flight is significantly delayed for a predetermined period of time or longer, CPU 102 can also treat the significant delay as equivalent to a cancellation by performing the same processing as in the case where the flight is canceled, which will be described later.

[0182] When CPU 102 determines that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is delayed (step S506, YES), CPU 102 acquires delay information (step S508). The delay information is information that indicates the delay time of the flight that user U is scheduled to board. CPU 102 can acquire the delay information from the latest flight information of user U's flight.

[0183] Next, CPU 102 generates action guidance information for when there is a delay (step S510). The action guidance information for when there is a delay includes delay information, as well as information including an operational status indicating that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is delayed, the boarding gate that user U should proceed to, the latest time that user U should proceed to the boarding gate, etc. The action guidance information for when there is a delay also includes the latest flight information for the flight that user U is scheduled to board.

[0184] On the other hand, if the CPU 102 determines that the flight that user U is scheduled to board has been canceled (step S506, NO), it acquires alternative information (step S512). The alternative information is information regarding subsequent flights that may arrive at the destination in place of user U's canceled flight, including the latest flight information for one or more alternative flights, and information including information on whether or not a reservation or check-in procedure is required for the alternative flight. The CPU 102 can acquire the alternative information by referring to the flight DB 106b. The CPU 102 can also acquire the alternative information from the airline server. For example, the CPU 102 can acquire the alternative information by selecting one or more alternative flights from subsequent flights that depart within a predetermined time from the scheduled departure time of the canceled flight.

[0185] In addition to or instead of the information about the alternative flight, CPU 102 can also acquire, as alternative information, information about the operation of a means of transportation other than an airplane, such as a train or bus, that can be used as an alternative to the flight that user U is scheduled to board. In this case, CPU 102 can acquire, for example, information about the operation of the other means of transportation from an external server that manages the operation of the other means of transportation.

[0186] Next, CPU 102 generates action guidance information for when a flight is canceled (step S514). The action guidance information for when a flight is canceled includes alternative information and information on flight status indicating that the flight that user U is scheduled to board has been canceled. The action guidance information for when a flight is canceled also includes information such as where to collect baggage that was checked in during the baggage check-in procedure for the canceled flight, where to reserve an alternative flight, and information regarding fare refunds for the canceled flight. CPU 102 can obtain information such as where to collect baggage, where to reserve an alternative flight, and information regarding fare refunds from the airline server. The action guidance information for when a flight is canceled also includes the latest flight information for the flight that user U is scheduled to board.

[0187] In this way, the CPU 102 generates action guidance information for on-time flights, delays, or cancellations, depending on the operational status of the flight that the user U is scheduled to board.

[0188] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, if the result of the matching is that the user U in front of the signage terminal 30 is not identified (step S412, NO), the CPU 102 generates mismatch information indicating that the user U was not identified due to a mismatch in the matching (step S420).

[0189] Next, the CPU 102 functions as a transmitting unit and transmits the action guidance information or discrepancy information for on-time, delay, or cancellation generated as described above to the signage terminal 30 via the network NW (step S422). Note that the CPU 102 can also acquire the nationality of user U from the user DB 106a to set the display language on the signage terminal 30, and transmit nationality information indicating the nationality of user U together with the action guidance information or discrepancy information to the signage terminal 30. The CPU 102 functions as a control unit that controls and manages the display of the signage terminal 30 by transmitting the action guidance information or discrepancy information and causing the signage terminal 30 to execute a display according to the action guidance information or discrepancy information.

[0190] Note that signage terminal 30 can also execute the above-described processes from step S410 to step S420 in place of management server 10. In this case, CPU 302 of signage terminal 30 can execute the processes by referring to user DB 106a and flight DB 106b of management server 10 via network NW. CPU 302 can also execute the processes by referring to DBs stored in its own storage device 306 that are synchronized with user DB 106a and flight DB 106b.

[0191] When the CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 receives the action guidance information from the management server 10 (step S424, YES), it causes the display 310 to display a guidance screen for the user U based on the received action guidance information (step S426). The CPU 302 causes the display 310 to display a guidance screen according to the action guidance information for on-time, delayed, or canceled flights as follows. Note that the CPU 302 can change the display language on the display 310 to a language such as the official language of the country, depending on the nationality of the user U indicated in the nationality information received from the management server 10.

[0192] When CPU 302 receives action guidance information for the scheduled time, it causes display 310 to display a guidance screen for the scheduled time based on the received action guidance information for the scheduled time. In this case, CPU 302 causes display 310 to display a guidance screen for the scheduled time including the content of the information included in the action guidance information for the scheduled time. The guidance screen for the scheduled time includes the latest information on the flight that user U is scheduled to board, which is included in the action guidance information for the scheduled time, the flight status indicating that the flight is on time, the boarding gate that user U should proceed to, the latest time that user U should proceed to the boarding gate, etc. By displaying the guidance screen for the scheduled time, CPU 302 can provide guidance on the action that user U should take when the flight that user U is scheduled to board is on time.

[0193] 21 illustrates an example of a scheduled time guidance screen G40 displayed on the display 310. As illustrated, the scheduled time guidance screen G40 includes a details area G42 that displays details of the flight that user U is scheduled to board and action guidance, and a map area G44 that displays a map of the airport A premises.

[0194] The CPU 302 can display, in the detail area G42, the latest information G4202 about the flight that user U is scheduled to board, using the latest information about the flight that user U is scheduled to board, which is included in the action guidance information for the scheduled time. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detail area G42, an operational status G4204 indicating that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is on time, using the operational status included in the action guidance information for the scheduled time. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detail area G42, an action guide G4206 indicating the boarding gate that user U should proceed to and the latest time by which user U should proceed to the boarding gate, using the boarding gate information and the latest time by which user U should proceed to the boarding gate, which are included in the action guidance information for the scheduled time. In this case, the CPU 302 can also visually display the remaining time until the latest time, using, for example, a progress bar whose length changes depending on the time remaining until the latest time.

[0195] The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G44, a current location icon G4402 indicating the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G44, a location icon G4404 indicating the location of the boarding gate to which the user U should proceed. Furthermore, the CPU 302 can display, in the map area G44, a route line G4406 indicating the route from the current location of the user U to the boarding gate to which the user U should proceed. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detail area G42 or the map area G44, the required time and distance of the route indicated by the route line G4406.

[0196] Furthermore, when CPU 302 receives action guidance information for when there is a delay, CPU 302 displays a guidance screen for when there is a delay on display 310 based on the received action guidance information for when there is a delay. In this case, CPU 302 displays a guidance screen for when there is a delay, including the content of the information included in the action guidance information for when there is a delay, on display 310. The guidance screen for when there is a delay includes the latest information on the flight that user U is scheduled to board, which is included in the action guidance information for when there is a delay, the flight status indicating that the flight is delayed, the delay information, the boarding gate that user U should proceed to, the latest time that user U should proceed to the boarding gate, etc. By displaying the guidance screen for when there is a delay, CPU 302 can guide user U on what to do if the flight that user U is scheduled to board is delayed.

[0197] 22 illustrates an example of a guidance screen G50 for use in the event of a delay that is displayed on the display 310. As illustrated, the guidance screen G50 for use in the event of a delay includes a detail area G52 that displays details of the flight that the user U is scheduled to board and action instructions, and a map area G54 that displays a map of the airport A premises.

[0198] The CPU 302 can display, in the details area G52, the latest information G5202 about the flight that user U is scheduled to board, using the latest information about the flight that user U is scheduled to board, which is included in the action guidance information for delays. The CPU 302 can also display, in the details area G52, an operational status G5204 indicating that the flight that user U is scheduled to board is delayed, using the operational status included in the action guidance information for delays. The CPU 302 can highlight the operational status G5204 during the delay by changing the representation method, such as color, font, size, or shape, from the operational status G4204 at the scheduled time. The CPU 302 can also display the delay time by using the delay information in the operational status G5204. The CPU 302 can also display the waiting time until boarding based on the delay time in the operational status G5204. The CPU 302 can display the waiting time that matches the delay time, or can display the waiting time by adding a margin to the delay time. Furthermore, the CPU 302 can display in the detailed area G52 an action guide G5206 indicating the boarding gate to which the user U should proceed and the latest time by which the user U should proceed to the boarding gate, which are included in the action guide information for when the user U is delayed. In this case, the CPU 302 can also visually display the remaining time until the latest time using, for example, a progress bar whose length changes depending on the time remaining until the latest time.

[0199] The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G54, a current location icon G5402 indicating the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G54, a location icon G5404 indicating the location of the boarding gate to which the user U should proceed. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G54, a route line G5406 indicating the route from the current location of the user U to the boarding gate to which the user U should proceed. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detail area G52 or the map area G54, the required time and distance of the route indicated by the route line G5406.

[0200] The CPU 302 can display information about facilities such as lounges where the user U can wait until boarding on the delay guidance screen G50, thereby providing guidance about the facilities. In this case, in addition to the guidance shown in FIG. 22 , the CPU 302 can display one or more detailed guidance G5208 about facilities such as lounges where the user U can wait in the details area G52, as shown in FIG. 23 . The CPU 302 can display detailed guidance G5208 about facilities available to the user U depending on the status of the user U, as in the first embodiment. The contents of the meals, drinks, facilities, etc. available at the facility may differ depending on the status of the user U. In this case, a user U with a higher status will have more meals, drinks, facilities, etc. displayed in the detailed guidance G5208, and a user U with a lower status will have fewer meals, drinks, facilities, etc. displayed in the detailed guidance G5208. In addition, if a user U's scheduled flight is determined to be delayed through facial information matching, the CPU 302 can display detailed information G5208 about the facility, such as a designated lounge, stating that the user U can use the facility regardless of the user's status.

[0201] As in the first embodiment, the CPU 302 can display, in the detailed guidance G5208, the time required to travel from the user U's current location to the facility and the time required from the facility to the user U's boarding gate. Similarly, in the detailed guidance G5208, the CPU 302 can display, based on the delay time, the time or duration that the user U can stay at the facility. Similarly, in the detailed guidance G5208 for the facility, the CPU 302 can display the number of points required to use the facility, the facility's status, and other availability conditions. Furthermore, in the map area G54, the CPU 302 can display a route line G5408 that indicates the route from the user U's current location to the facility to which the detailed guidance G5208 refers. The CPU 302 can also display, in the detailed area G52 or the map area G54, the time and distance required for the route indicated by the route line G5408. In addition, the CPU 302 can also display information about facilities such as lounges where the user U will spend time waiting until boarding on the scheduled time guidance screen G40, and guide the user U to the facilities such as lounges.

[0202] Furthermore, when the CPU 302 receives action guidance information for when a flight is canceled, it causes the display 310 to display a guidance screen for when a flight is canceled based on the received action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. In this case, the CPU 302 causes the display 310 to display a guidance screen for when a flight is canceled, including the content of the information included in the action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. The guidance screen for when a flight is canceled includes content such as the latest information on the flight that user U is scheduled to board, an operational status indicating that the flight has been canceled, and alternative information, which are included in the action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. The guidance screen for when a flight is canceled also includes content such as the location to collect baggage that was checked in during the baggage check-in procedure for the canceled flight and information regarding fare refunds for the canceled flight. By displaying the guidance screen for when a flight is canceled, the CPU 302 can provide guidance on what user U should do if the flight that user U is scheduled to board is canceled.

[0203] 24 illustrates an example of a guidance screen G60 for use in the event of a flight cancellation that is displayed on the display 310. As illustrated, the guidance screen G60 for use in the event of a flight cancellation includes a details area G62 that displays details of the flight that the user U is scheduled to board and action guidance, and a map area G64 that displays a map of the airport A premises.

[0204] The CPU 302 can display, in the details area G62, the latest information G6202 about the flight that user U is scheduled to board, using the latest information about the flight that user U is scheduled to board, which is included in the action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. The CPU 302 can also display, in the details area G62, an operational status G6204 indicating that the flight that user U is scheduled to board has been canceled, using the operational status included in the action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. The CPU 302 can further emphasize the operational status G6204 in the event of a cancellation by changing the presentation method, such as color, font, size, or shape, from the operational statuses G4204 and G5204 for on-time and delayed flights. The CPU 302 can also display, in the details area G6206, an action guide G6206 indicating that an alternative flight (replacement flight) can be booked or a fare refund can be obtained.

[0205] The CPU 302 can display, together with the action guidance G6206, location guidance G6208 that identifies the baggage claim area where baggage should be collected, using the location for collecting baggage that was deposited in the baggage check-in procedure for the canceled flight that is included in the action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. The CPU 302 can also display, together with the action guidance G6206, location guidance G6210 that identifies a counter using guidance regarding the location for reserving an alternative flight and the refund of the fare for the canceled flight that is included in the action guidance information for when a flight is canceled. At the counter identified by the location guidance G6210, procedures such as reserving an alternative flight and refunding the fare for the canceled flight can be carried out.

[0206] Furthermore, the CPU 302 can display a touch-inputtable button G6212 in the details area G62, which accepts input of a desire to display information about an alternative flight. The user U can touch the button G6212 to input a desire to display information about the alternative flight to the signage terminal 30. The CPU 302 can also display information about the alternative flight in the details area G62.

[0207] The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G64, a current location icon G6402 indicating the location of the signage terminal 30, which is the current location of the user U. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G64, a location icon G6404 indicating the location of the baggage claim area specified by the location guide G6208. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G64, a location icon G6406 indicating the location of the counter specified by the location guide G6210. The CPU 302 can also display, in the map area G64, a route line G6408 indicating the route from the current location of the user U to the baggage claim area and the counter.

[0208] When the user U touches the button G6212 displayed in the details area G62, the CPU 302 can use the alternative information to display information about one or more alternative flights on the display 310. Note that the CPU 302 can also display information about the alternative flights on the guidance screen G60 without displaying the button G6212.

[0209] 25 illustrates an example of an alternative flight guidance screen G70 displayed on the display 310. As shown, the guidance screen G70 includes an alternative flight display area G72 that displays information about the alternative flight. The guidance screen G70 also includes a desired conditions input area G74 in which the user U inputs desired conditions regarding the alternative flight, and an accommodations display area G76 that displays information about accommodations for the user U who is switching to a flight at a later date.

[0210] The CPU 302 can use the alternative information to display information about one or more alternative flights in the alternative flight display area G72. The CPU 302 can display, as information about the alternative flight, the departure date, departure time, arrival time, etc., including whether the flight is the same day or tomorrow or later.

[0211] The CPU 302 can also accept input of desired conditions for the alternative flight by the user U. In this case, the CPU 302 can selectably display condition specification fields G7402, G7404, G7406, and G7408 in the desired condition input area G74 for specifying and inputting various desired conditions. The condition specification field G7402, for example, accepts a specification of the desired earliest possible arrival. The condition specification field G7404, for example, accepts a specification of the desired excluding nighttime arrivals. The condition specification field G7406, for example, accepts a specification of a time zone for the desired departure time by input or selection. The condition specification field G7408, for example, accepts a specification of a time zone for the desired arrival time by input or selection. The user U can input desired conditions for the alternative flight into the signage terminal 30 by appropriately selecting from the condition specification fields G7402, G7404, G7406, and G7408. This allows user U to easily find an alternative flight that meets his or her preferences.

[0212] The CPU 302 can also accept input of multiple desired conditions as the user U's desired conditions for the alternative flight. In this case, the CPU 302 can accept input of multiple desired conditions so that the user U can set priorities for the multiple desired conditions. When multiple desired conditions are input along with priorities, the CPU 102 can display information about alternative flights that match the desired conditions with higher priorities on the guidance screen with higher priority.

[0213] 19, when the CPU 302 has displayed the guidance screen for flight cancellation in step S426, if the user U has not input desired conditions for an alternative flight (step S428, NO), the CPU 302 terminates the process. The CPU 302 also terminates the process after displaying the guidance screen for on-time or delayed flights in step S426.

[0214] On the other hand, when user U inputs desired conditions regarding an alternative flight (step S428, YES), CPU 302 functions as a transmitting unit and transmits desired condition information indicating the input desired conditions to management server 10 via network NW (step S430).

[0215] When the CPU 102 of the management server 10 receives the desired condition information from the signage terminal 30, it functions as an acquisition unit and acquires alternative information regarding one or more alternative flights that meet the desired conditions indicated in the received desired condition information (step S432). The CPU 102 can acquire alternative information that meets the desired conditions by referring to the flight DB 106b. The CPU 102 can also acquire alternative information that meets the desired conditions from the airline server. If the alternative information includes information regarding an alternative flight at a later date, the CPU 102 can acquire accommodation information regarding accommodations where user U who will board the later flight can stay by referring to the facility DB 106e, an accommodation DB (not shown), etc.

[0216] Next, CPU 102 functions as a transmitting unit and transmits the alternative information that meets the desired conditions to signage terminal 30 via network NW (step S434). Furthermore, if CPU 102 has acquired accommodation facility information, it can transmit the accommodation facility information to signage terminal 30 together with the alternative information.

[0217] When the CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 receives alternative information that matches the desired conditions from the management server 10, it uses the received alternative information to display guidance including information about an alternative flight that matches the desired conditions on the display 310 (step S436). Furthermore, when accommodation information is received along with the alternative information, the CPU 302 displays guidance including information about the accommodation facility indicated in the accommodation facility information on the display 310. Since not only information about the alternative flight but also information about the accommodation facility is provided, the user U can rest assured that he or she will be able to use a flight at a later date as an alternative flight.

[0218] 25, the CPU 302 can display information about alternative flights that meet the desired conditions in the alternative flight display area G72. The CPU 302 can also display information about accommodation facilities indicated in the accommodation facility information in the accommodation facility display area G76.

[0219] Instead of executing steps S430 to S434, the signage terminal 30 itself can acquire alternative information that matches the desired conditions. In this case, the CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 can narrow down the alternative information included in the action guidance information for flight cancellations received from the management server 10 by the desired conditions, and acquire alternative information that matches the desired conditions.

[0220] Furthermore, in the information processing system 1, biometric information, such as facial information, registered for user U during the check-in procedure for the canceled flight can continue to be used in the check-in procedure for the alternative flight and other procedures related to the alternative flight. In this case, the CPU 302 of the signage terminal 30 can display on the display 310, for example, an operation element, such as a button or checkbox, for user U to select whether to continue using the check-in procedure using biometric information on the guidance screen G70. For example, the CPU 302 can display a touch-inputable button G78 on the guidance screen G70 as an operation element for selecting whether to continue using the check-in procedure using biometric information. By operating the operation element, user U can select to continue using biometric information in the check-in procedure and other procedures related to the alternative flight. When user U operates the operation element, such as by checking a checkbox or touching a button, biometric information continues to be used in the procedures related to the alternative flight. On the other hand, if the operation element is not operated, user U's biometric information is reacquired and registered during the check-in procedure for the alternative flight, for example by capturing a facial image of user U.

[0221] In this way, the CPU 302 can display a guidance screen for on-time, delay, or cancellation on the display 310 for the user U based on the action guidance information for on-time, delay, or cancellation. The CPU 302 can print all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen using the printer 312 and provide the printed copy to the user U. The CPU 302 can also display a code symbol, such as a QR code (registered trademark), indicating all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen in a readable manner on the display 310. The code symbol may indicate the URL of a webpage that displays all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen. The user U can, for example, read the code symbol using the camera 412 of the mobile terminal 40 and display all or part of the information displayed on the guidance screen on the display 410 of the mobile terminal 40 to confirm it. The CPU 302 can also output information displayed on the guidance screen that can be output as audio from an audio output unit, such as a speaker (not shown).

[0222] In addition, when displaying a guidance screen for scheduled times, delays, or cancellations, the CPU 302 can guide a user U of a specific status to facilities such as lounges that the user U can use as waiting areas, in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

[0223] Furthermore, when a flight scheduled for user U is canceled and user U wishes to change to a later flight, CPU 302 can cause printer 312 to print a ticket such as an accommodation voucher that allows the user U to stay at an accommodation facility, and provide the ticket to user U. CPU 302 can also cause display 310 to readably display a code symbol such as a QR code (registered trademark) indicating an electronic ticket that functions as a ticket such as an accommodation voucher. The code symbol may indicate the URL of a webpage that displays the electronic ticket. User U can, for example, read the code symbol with camera 412 of mobile terminal 40, display the electronic ticket on display 410 of mobile terminal 40, and use it as a ticket.

[0224] Furthermore, the user U can set up the mobile terminal 40 that he or she uses to be able to communicate with the management server 10 via the network NW using an application program or the like. In this case, the CPU 102 of the management server 10 can transmit, via the network NW, action guidance information similar to the action guidance information transmitted to the signage terminal 30 to the mobile terminal 40. When the CPU 402 of the mobile terminal 40 receives the action guidance information from the management server 10, it can display a guidance screen for the user U on the display 410 based on the action guidance information, similar to the signage terminal 30. In this case, the user U can take appropriate action while appropriately checking the guidance screen on the mobile terminal 40.

[0225] Furthermore, user U can register his / her own communication destination, such as an email address, in the DB of management server 10. In this case, CPU 102 of management server 10 can send a guidance message, such as an email, containing the same content as the action guidance information sent to signage terminal 30 to the communication destination, such as the email address, of user U. In this case, user U can take appropriate action while appropriately checking the guidance message on mobile terminal 40.

[0226] After providing the user U with information about the flight he or she is scheduled to board as described above, the information processing system 1 can provide the user U with information about facilities or services that are available to the user U, similar to the first embodiment.

[0227] On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 19, when the CPU 302 receives the mismatch information from the management server 10 (step S424, NO), it causes the display 310 to display, for example, a notice urging the user U to check in (step S438). As a notice urging the user U to check in, the CPU 302 can cause the display 310 to display a notice including a map showing locations where the check-in procedure can be performed, such as the check-in terminal 20 or a check-in counter. In this case, the CPU 302 can also cause the display 310 to display, for example, general usage guides, advertisements, etc. regarding airport A to the user U. The CPU 302 can also output these notices, usage guides, advertisements, etc. as audio from an audio output unit such as a speaker (not shown).

[0228] In this way, the information processing system 1 according to this embodiment guides the user U on the actions that he / she should take on the signage terminal 30 according to the operational status of the flight that the user U is scheduled to board. As a result, even if the operational status of the flight that the user U is scheduled to board changes, such as a delay or cancellation, the user U can take appropriate actions according to the operational status that has caused the change.

[0229] As described above, according to this embodiment, even if there is a change in the operational status of the flight that user U is scheduled to board, such as a delay or cancellation, user U can be accurately guided on the actions he or she should take.

[0230] [Other embodiments] According to yet another embodiment, the information processing device described in the above embodiment can also be configured as shown in Fig. 26. Fig. 26 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing device according to another embodiment.

[0231] As shown in Fig. 26, an information processing device 1000 according to another embodiment includes a registration unit 1002 and a generation unit 1004. The registration unit 1002 registers the boarding status of a user scheduled to board a vehicle, which is acquired through check-in procedures, and the user's biometric information, which is acquired at the time of check-in procedures, in association with each other. The generation unit 1004 generates guidance information on facilities or services available to the user, which is guided on the information processing terminal, according to the user's status. The user is identified by comparing target biometric information, which is biometric information acquired on the information processing terminal for a single user, with registered biometric information, which is biometric information registered by the registration unit.

[0232] According to another embodiment, guidance information regarding facilities or services available to the user is generated on the information processing terminal in accordance with the user's status. Therefore, according to another embodiment, it is possible to provide accurate guidance to facilities or services available to the user who is planning to board the vehicle.

[0233] [Modified embodiment] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications are possible.

[0234] For example, in the above embodiment, the biometric information acquisition devices 214, 314, and 512 capture and acquire a facial image as biometric information of the user U. However, this is not limiting. The biometric information acquisition device 214 of the check-in terminal 20 may acquire, in addition to a facial image, a fingerprint image, an iris image, a finger vein image, a palm print image, a palm vein image, and the like as biometric information to be registered as registered biometric information in the user DB 106a. The biometric information acquisition device 314 of the signage terminal 30 may acquire, in addition to a facial image, a fingerprint image, an iris image, a finger vein image, a palm print image, a palm vein image, and the like as target biometric information in accordance with the registered biometric information. The biometric information acquisition device 512 of the facility terminal 50 may acquire, in addition to a facial image, a fingerprint image, an iris image, a finger vein image, a palm print image, a palm vein image, and the like as target biometric information in accordance with the registered biometric information. The biometric information does not have to be an image of a living body, but may be a feature extracted from an image of a living body.

[0235] Furthermore, the management server 10 according to the above embodiment can be configured as a system consisting of one or more devices. Furthermore, the check-in terminal 20 according to the above embodiment can be configured as a system consisting of one or more devices. Furthermore, the signage terminal 30 according to the above embodiment can be configured as a system consisting of one or more devices. Furthermore, the facility terminal 50 according to the above embodiment can be configured as a system consisting of one or more devices.

[0236] Furthermore, the scope of each embodiment also includes a processing method in which a program that operates the configuration of each embodiment to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded on a recording medium, the program recorded on the recording medium is read as code, and the program is executed on a computer. In other words, a computer-readable recording medium is also included in the scope of each embodiment. Furthermore, each embodiment includes not only a recording medium on which the above-described computer program is recorded, but also the computer program itself.

[0237] Examples of the recording medium that can be used include a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read Only Memory), a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, and a ROM. In addition, the scope of each embodiment is not limited to programs that execute processing by themselves recorded on the recording medium, but also includes programs that execute processing by operating on an OS (Operating System) in cooperation with other software and functions of an expansion board.

[0238] Some or all of the above-described embodiments can be described as, but are not limited to, the following supplementary notes.

[0239] (Appendix 1) a registration unit that registers the boarding status of a user who is scheduled to board a vehicle, which is acquired through a check-in procedure, and the biometric information of the user, which is acquired during the check-in procedure, in association with each other; a generation unit that generates guidance information on the information processing terminal regarding facilities or services that can be used by the user, in accordance with the status of the user identified by matching target biometric information, which is biometric information acquired by the information processing terminal for one of the users, with registered biometric information, which is the biometric information registered by the registration unit; An information processing device having the above.

[0240] (Appendix 2) 2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit generates the guidance information according to the status ranked based on the user's boarding record.

[0241] (Appendix 3) 3. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the generation unit identifies the facility or the service available to the user based on the status.

[0242] (Appendix 4) 4. The information processing device according to claim 1, further comprising: a control unit that transmits the guidance information to the information processing terminal and causes the information processing terminal to execute a display according to the guidance information.

[0243] (Appendix 5) 5. The information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a map including the user's current location and the location of the facility.

[0244] (Appendix 6) 6. The information processing device according to claim 5, wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display the required time from the user's current location to the location of the facility.

[0245] (Appendix 7) 5. The information processing device according to claim 4, wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a map including the location of the facility and the location of the user's boarding location.

[0246] (Appendix 8) 8. The information processing device according to claim 7, wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display the required time from the location of the facility to the boarding location of the user.

[0247] (Appendix 9) 9. The information processing device according to any one of appendices 4 to 8, wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a time or duration during which the user can stay at the facility.

[0248] (Appendix 10) 10. The information processing device according to any one of Supplementary Note 4 to 9, wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display details of the facility or the service.

[0249] (Appendix 11) 11. The information processing device according to any one of Supplementary Notes 1 to 10, wherein the biometric information is face information.

[0250] (Appendix 12) registering the boarding status of a user who is scheduled to board a vehicle, which is acquired through a check-in procedure, and the biometric information of the user, which is acquired during the check-in procedure, in association with each other; An information processing method that generates guidance information on the information processing terminal regarding facilities or services available to a user, based on the status of the user identified by comparing target biometric information, which is biometric information acquired by an information processing terminal for one of the users, with registered biometric information, which is the biometric information registered by the registration unit.

[0251] (Appendix 13) On the computer, registering the boarding status of a user who is scheduled to board a vehicle, which is acquired through a check-in procedure, and the biometric information of the user, which is acquired during the check-in procedure, in association with each other; Generate guidance information on facilities or services available to the user, which is guided by the information processing terminal, according to the status of the user identified by matching target biometric information, which is biometric information acquired by the information processing terminal for one of the users, with registered biometric information, which is the biometric information registered by the registration unit. A recording medium on which a program to perform the following is recorded.

[0252] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to the embodiments, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. Various modifications that can be understood by those skilled in the art can be made to the configuration and details of the present invention within the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0253] 1. Information processing system 10...Administration server 20...Check-in terminal 30...Signage terminal 40...Mobile device 50...Facility terminal NW...Network

Claims

1. an acquisition unit that acquires user information identified by matching target biometric information, which is biometric information of a user who is scheduled to board a vehicle, with registered biometric information; a generating unit that generates guidance information regarding facilities or services available to the user in accordance with status information regarding the user's boarding identified based on the user information; An information processing device having the above.

2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1 , wherein the generating unit identifies the facility or the service available to the user based on the status information.

3. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a control unit that transmits the guidance information to an information processing terminal and causes the information processing terminal to execute a display corresponding to the guidance information.

4. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a map including the user's current location and the location of the facility.

5. The information processing device according to claim 4 , wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a required time from the current location of the user to the location of the facility.

6. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a map including the location of the facility and the location of the boarding location of the user.

7. The information processing device according to claim 6 , wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display the required time from the location of the facility to the boarding location of the user.

8. The information processing device according to claim 3 , wherein the control unit causes the information processing terminal to display a time or duration during which the user can stay at the facility.

9. The computer acquires user information identified by comparing target biometric information, which is biometric information of a user who is scheduled to board the vehicle, with registered biometric information; The computer generates guidance information for the user regarding facilities or services available to the user according to status information regarding the user's boarding identified based on the user information and ranked based on the user's boarding record. Information processing methods.

10. On the computer, Acquire target biometric information, which is biometric information of a user who is planning to board the vehicle; Displaying guidance information for the user regarding facilities or services available to the user according to status information regarding the user's boarding identified by matching the acquired target biometric information with registered biometric information and ranked based on the user's boarding record. A program that makes it happen.

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