Information processing device, information processing method, and program

Abstract

Improve convenience in using and managing services that temporarily store items. [Solution] The server 1 includes a reservation unit 114. The reservation unit 114 includes a reservation management unit 121 and an electronic key generation unit 122. The reservation unit 114 receives information related to reservations for using a locker terminal 3 that can store an item C. The reservation management unit 121 stores and manages the information related to reservations received by the reservation unit 114 in a reservation DB 403. The electronic key generation unit 122 generates an electronic key for detecting whether the entrance to the locker terminal 3 used to store the item C is locked based on the reservation, or for unlocking the locked entrance to the locker terminal 3, and stores the generated electronic key in a location that can be managed by an app on the user terminal 2 (such as a smartphone).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, lockers that can be used by paying a certain amount of money, i.e. coin lockers, have been around for a long time. Coin lockers are installed in train stations and other locations. To improve the convenience of coin lockers, technologies have been proposed for checking the location of coin lockers, checking their usage status, reserving their use, and making payments using mobile communication terminals (see, for example, Patent Document 1). [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2002-259545 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, it cannot be said that the conventional techniques including Patent Document 1 have been able to fully meet the needs of users.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and aims to improve the convenience in using and managing a service that temporarily stores items. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above object, an information processing device according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a reservation means for accepting a reservation for use of a closed space capable of storing items during a predetermined time period for a predetermined usage fee; an electronic key generating means for generating an electronic key for unlocking an entrance to the closed space to be used during the time period based on the reservation; Equipped with. As a result, it is possible to unlock the door at the entrance and exit of the enclosed space reserved with the electronic key and to take in and out articles from the enclosed space without carrying a physical key. As a result, it is possible to improve the convenience in using and managing the service for temporarily storing articles. Further, the reservation means is provided with: varying the usage fee of the reserved enclosed space according to preset conditions. By varying the usage fee of the enclosed space according to the conditions at the time of use at the time of reservation in this way, the user can choose a convenient timing to make a reservation, so that the convenience in using the enclosed space can be improved.

Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, it is possible to improve the convenience in using and managing the service for temporarily storing articles.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0008] [Figure 1] It is a diagram showing features of a service provided by an information processing system including a server according to an embodiment of an information processing apparatus of the present invention. [Figure 2] It is a block diagram showing a configuration of an information processing system including a server according to an embodiment of an information processing apparatus of the present invention. [Figure 3] It is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of a server among the information processing systems shown in FIG. 2. [Figure 4] It is an image diagram showing an outline of a temporary storage service using the information processing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 5] It is a functional block diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of a server of the information processing system of FIG. 2. [Figure 6] It is a flowchart showing the operation of a server of an information processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] It is an image diagram showing an increase in profit due to reservation needs of a temporary storage service. <H [Figure 8]FIG. 11 is a transition diagram of a map screen for searching for a locker device in the app. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a transition diagram of a locker device location selection screen of the app. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a transition diagram of the locker device reservation screen of the app. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a transition diagram of the payment screen of the app. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, with reference to FIG. 1, features of the services provided by an information processing system including an information processing device of the present invention will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing features of a service provided by an information processing system including an information processing device of the present invention. This service has four features, S1 to S4, shown in Figure 1. The first feature S1 is that it can be completed on a smartphone. This service allows full control of locker processing using an application program (hereafter referred to as the "app") installed on an information processing device such as a smartphone. Because no physical keys are used, there is no risk of physical keys being duplicated, and there is no need to replace keys if they are lost. Furthermore, because the lockers are controlled by the app, new functions can be added and updated at any time, and once a locker is installed, there is no need to continue using the same functions forever.

[0010] The second feature S2 is that lockers can be reserved. Since the service provider keeps track of all locker usage, reservations can be made based on availability. Reservations are available for a specified time, for example, up to 48 hours in advance. This can meet the needs of those who want to reserve large lockers that can fit suitcases near tourist spots or event venues.

[0011] The third feature S3 is that the locker key can be handed over by issuing an electronic key. This service issues electronic keys to unlock lockers. The electronic key is information in the form of a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), for example, and anyone who receives the electronic key from the user can use the locker, even if they are not the user. This makes it possible to apply it to a wide range of services, including shopping agents, person-to-person deliveries in flea market apps, and logistics start and end points, such as shipping lockers and delivery lockers. The URL, which serves as the electronic key, is a one-use key that can only be used once, so once it is used, it becomes invalid. This prevents fraudulent activities such as copying and reusing the URL.

[0012] The fourth feature S4 is dynamic pricing. Dynamic pricing allows you to increase profitability by varying prices based on time-based charges and congestion conditions such as location, day of the week, and time of day. Dynamic pricing also allows users to pay for locker usage fees by a variety of payment methods, including cash, credit card payments, mobile carrier payments, and electronic payments using contactless transportation IC cards. The service also supports cashless payments using two-dimensional codes such as barcodes and QR codes, reducing the cost of collecting cash. QR Code is a registered trademark. In this way, dynamic pricing allows for flexible price setting and a variety of payment methods. Furthermore, dynamic pricing can be applied to the reservation fees described below. In other words, the usage fee for a reserved locker box can be changed according to pre-set conditions.

[0013] Next, an information processing system including a server according to an embodiment of the information processing device of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system including a server according to an embodiment of the information processing device of the present invention.

[0014] The information processing system shown in Figure 2 is configured to include a server 1 managed by a service provider M, user terminals 2-1 to 2-n operated by users U1 to Un (n is any integer value greater than or equal to 1), and locker devices 3-1 to 3-m (m is any integer value greater than or equal to 1) that lock and unlock one or more locker boxes 31 for storing items. The server 1, user terminals 2-1 to 2-n, and locker devices 3-1 to 3-m are connected to one another via a network N such as the Internet. In the following, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the users U1 to Un individually, they will be collectively referred to as "user U." Furthermore, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the user terminals 2-1 to 2-n individually, they will be collectively referred to as "user terminal 2." Furthermore, when it is not necessary to distinguish between the locker devices 3-1 to 3-m individually, they will be collectively referred to as "locker device 3."

[0015] The server 1 manages the operations of the user terminal 2 and the locker device 3. The server 1 executes various processes to provide a service of temporarily storing luggage and the like of a user U in a locker box 31 (hereinafter referred to as the "temporary storage service"). Hereinafter, the process executed by the server 1 in relation to the provision of the temporary storage service will be referred to as the "primary storage process." Furthermore, as part of the temporary storage process, the server 1 executes a process related to reserving the locker box 31 (hereinafter referred to as "reservation process") as necessary, and then executes a process related to issuing an electronic key (hereinafter referred to as "electronic key process"). The specific contents of the functions that the server 1 has to execute these processes will be described later with reference to FIG. 5.

[0016] The user terminal 2 is configured, for example, as a smartphone, tablet, or the like, and is operated by the user U. A dedicated application program (hereinafter referred to as a "dedicated app") is installed on the user terminal 2, which the user U uses when putting items in and taking items out of the locker box 31. Unless otherwise specified, hereinafter, when we say "user U operates user terminal 2," it means that user U launches a dedicated app installed on user terminal 2 and performs various operations.

[0017] The locker device 3 has one or more locker boxes 31 that can be locked with items stored inside. The locker device 3 locks and unlocks the doors that serve as the entrances and exits to each of the one or more locker boxes 31 based on the authentication results of an electronic key, which will be described later.

[0018] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the server 1 in the information processing system shown in FIG.

[0019] The server 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a bus 14, an input / output interface 15, an output unit 16, an input unit 17, a memory unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20.

[0020] The CPU 11 executes various processes according to a program recorded in the ROM 12 or a program loaded from the storage unit 18 into the RAM 13 . The RAM 13 also stores data and the like necessary for the CPU 11 to execute various processes.

[0021] The CPU 11, ROM 12, and RAM 13 are interconnected via a bus 14. An input / output interface 15 is also connected to this bus 14. An output unit 16, an input unit 17, a memory unit 18, a communication unit 19, and a drive 20 are connected to the input / output interface 15.

[0022] The output unit 16 is configured with a display such as a liquid crystal display, and displays various images. The input unit 17 is made up of various hardware buttons and the like, and inputs various information in response to instructions and operations from the operator.

[0023] The storage unit 18 is configured with a DRAM (Dynamic Random Access Memory) or the like, and stores various data. The communication unit 19 controls communication with other devices (user terminal 2, locker device 3) via a network N including the Internet.

[0024] The drive 20 is provided as needed. A removable medium 30, such as a magnetic disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, or a semiconductor memory, is appropriately loaded into the drive 20. The program read from the removable medium 30 by the drive 20 is The RAM is installed in the storage unit 18 as needed. The removable media 30 can also store various data stored in the storage unit 18 in the same way as the storage unit 18.

[0025] Although not shown, the user terminal 2 and locker device 3 in the information processing system of FIG. 2 can also have the same hardware configuration as the server 1 of FIG. 2, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted. However, when the user terminal 2 is configured as a smartphone or a tablet, the output unit 16 and the input unit 17 have a touch panel.

[0026] 2, various hardware and software components of the server 1 can execute various processes described below on the server 1. As a result, the service provider M can provide the user U with various services described below.

[0027] FIG. 4 is a conceptual diagram showing an overview of a new temporary storage service (hereinafter referred to as "this service") that uses the information processing system of FIG.

[0028] FIG. 4(A) is an image diagram showing a mechanism for reservation and unlocking with an electronic key when using the locker device 3 of FIG. As shown in FIG. 4(A), a user U1 is a person who stores an item C in a locker box 31 in order to temporarily store the item C in the locker device 3.

[0029] When using the locker device 3, the user U1 operates the user terminal 2-1 to select an available locker box 31 that can be reserved from among the locker boxes 31 of the locker device 3 on the screen of the app and make a reservation, and information (reservation information) regarding the reservation of the locker box 31 is registered in the server 1. The server 1 registers reservation information for the locker box 31, generates an electronic key for unlocking the door of the locker box 31, stores the generated electronic key in a predetermined storage area (such as the electronic key DB 405 in FIG. 5) of the storage unit 18 in FIG. 3, and also stores the electronic key in the user terminal 2-1.

[0030] After making a reservation, as shown in Figure 4(B), user U1 will go to the location where the locker device 3 is installed on the date and time when he or she wishes to use the reserved locker box 31, and store, i.e., deposit, the item C in the reserved locker box 31.

[0031] At this time, when the user launches the app on the user terminal 2-1 near the reserved locker device 3 and taps the "Open Locker" button on the app screen (My Locker screen) displayed on the user terminal 2-1, the app will execute communication via Bluetooth (registered trademark) (hereinafter referred to as "BT communication") between the user terminal 2-1 and the locker device 3, and the electronic key stored in the user terminal 2-1 will be sent to the locker device 3. The locker device 3 transmits the received electronic key to the server 1 via the network N.

[0032] The server 1 compares the received electronic key with the electronic key of user U1 that has been stored in advance in the server 1, and if the electronic keys match, it sends an unlock command to the locker device 3 for the locker box 31 to be unlocked. When the locker device 3 receives the unlock command, it unlocks the locker box 31 that is the target of unlocking.

[0033] This allows the user U1 to open the door of the locker box 31 and store the item C in the locker box 31. When user U1 stores item C in locker box 31 and closes the door of locker box 31, a door opening / closing sensor (not shown) in locker device 3 detects that the door has been closed, locks the door of locker box 31, and sends information to server 1 indicating that locking has been completed.

[0034] When the server 1 receives the information indicating that the locking has been completed, it generates an electronic key for unlocking the locked locker box 31 and transmits it to the user terminal 2-1. As a result, the electronic key is stored in the user terminal 2-1.

[0035] Here, an expiration date may be set in advance for the electronic key. Specifically, for example, user U1 or another user U2 (described later) can, in principle, unlock the locker box 31 before the expiration date has passed, and if the expiration date has passed, the locker box 31 can be unlocked on the condition that a predetermined additional fee is paid.

[0036] There is no particular limitation on the purpose for which user U1 temporarily stores item C in locker device 3. For example, if user U1 is a seller of item C, user U1 may temporarily store item C in locker device 3 with the purpose of handing over item C to another user U who has purchased item C.

[0037] A user U1 who has stored an item C in the locker box 31 operates the user terminal 2-1 to transmit information for unlocking the locker box 31 (hereinafter referred to as "unlock information") to a user U2. Here, the unlocking information includes, for example, a URL for accessing the electronic key stored in the server 1, location information of the locker device 3 where the item C is temporarily stored (including the locker number of the locker box 31), etc.

[0038] The person who can collect the item C stored in the locker device 3 is not limited to the user U1. By sending the electronic key stored in the user terminal 2-1 of user U1 to the user terminal 2-2 of another user U2 using the sending function of the app, the other user U2 can pick up the item C stored in the locker device 3.

[0039] Specifically, the user U2 obtains the unlocking information sent from the user terminal 2-1 to the user terminal 2-2. Here, the user U2 can use the location information included in the unlocking information to be navigated to the location of the locker box 31 on the map screen of the app on the user terminal 2-2.

[0040] As a result, when user U2 brings his / her user terminal 2-2 close to the locker device 3, the locker device 3 detects the presence of the user terminal 2-2 and begins user authentication of user U2 and authentication (matching) of the electronic key stored in the user terminal 2-2. In this case, BT communication is performed between the user terminal 2-2 and the locker device 3. Alternatively, communication based on a short-range wireless communication standard such as NFC (Near Field Communication) (registered trademark) may be used, or other communication via the network N may be used. Specifically, the locker device 3 authenticates the electronic key by comparing the electronic key downloaded from the server 1 to the user terminal 2-2 with the electronic key stored in the locker device 3. If the locker device 3 successfully authenticates the electronic key, the locker box 31 storing the item C is unlocked. This allows the user U2 to retrieve the item C stored in the locker device 3.

[0041] Here, the server 1 can perform user authentication of the user U2. Specifically, for example, the server 1 acquires various information (such as name, type of terminal, ID, and biometric information) about the user U2 who has previously registered as a user. Then, the server 1 performs user authentication of the user U2 based on this information. In this way, the server 1 performs user authentication for the user U2, and the service provider can subsequently check the log to identify who unlocked the locker box 31. Therefore, even if, for example, an item C is stolen, the service provider can easily check the situation and take subsequent action. It should be noted that this user authentication does not necessarily have to be performed by the server 1, but may be performed by the locker device 3, for example.

[0042] On the other hand, the server 1 may be configured not to perform user authentication of the user U2. In this case, essentially anyone who possesses an electronic key can unlock the locker box 31, which allows for efficient operation of this service. Countermeasures against theft and the like in this case will be described later with reference to, for example, FIGS.

[0043] There is no particular limitation on the purpose for which user U2 collects item C from locker device 3. For example, if user U2 is a person who has purchased item C from user U1 who sells item C, user U2 may collect the purchased item C via locker device 3.

[0044] Users U who receive this service are classified into two types: a person (user U1) who stores an item C in the locker box 31, and a person (user U2) who collects the item C from the locker box 31. If the location of user U1 and the location of user U2 are close to each other, the item C can be easily handed over from user U1 to user U2 via the locker device 3 without using a courier service.

[0045] The functional configuration of the server in the information processing system of FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the server in the information processing system of FIG.

[0046] 5, in the CPU 11 of the server 1, when temporary storage processing in a locker device, locker device usage reservation processing, etc. are executed, a main control unit 101 functions. When a usage fee calculation processing is executed, a lock detection unit 102, a key detection unit 103, a first determination unit 104, an instruction detection unit 105, a second determination unit 107, a timing unit 108, and a calculation unit 109 function. In one area of ​​the storage unit 18 of the server 1, a user DB 401, a locker DB 402, a transaction DB 404, and an electronic key DB 405 are provided.

[0047] The main control unit 101 includes a user authentication unit 111 , a user management unit 112 , a locker management unit 113 , a reservation unit 114 , and a transaction management unit 115 . The user authentication unit 111 performs user authentication for user U based on various information about registered users (hereinafter referred to as "registered user information") stored in the user DB 401 described below and various information about the user to be authenticated (hereinafter referred to as "authenticated user information") transmitted from each of the user terminals 2. Here, a registered user specifically means a user who wishes to use this service and has transmitted predetermined information to the server 1. The user management unit 112 executes processes related to the management and deletion of registered users. The locker management unit 113 registers the locker devices 3 and manages the usage status of the locker devices 3. When the locker device 3 is registered, information about the locker device 3 (hereinafter referred to as "locker information") is stored in the locker DB 402. The usage status of the locker device 3 is also stored in the locker DB 402 as needed.

[0048] The reservation unit 114 accepts a reservation for the use of one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker terminal 3 capable of storing an item C during a predetermined time period for a predetermined usage fee. Specifically, the reservation unit 114 accepts information regarding reservations from the user terminal 2, stores the accepted information regarding reservations as reservation information in the reservation DB 403, and manages reservations for use of the locker device 3 from each of one or more users U.

[0049] The reservation unit 114 includes a reservation management unit 121 and an electronic key generation unit 122 . The reservation management unit 121 varies the usage fee for one or more locker boxes 31 of the reserved locker terminal 3 according to preset conditions (for example, seasonal conditions such as off-season or busy season, or time conditions such as late night or daytime). Specifically, during off-peak periods such as winter and late at night, the usage fee is set lower than the normal usage fee, and during peak periods such as spring and daytime, the usage fee is set higher than the normal usage fee.

[0050] The electronic key generation unit 122 generates an electronic key for unlocking the door of the target locker box 31 based on the reservation. Specifically, when a user U reserves a specific locker box 31, an electronic key for unlocking the door is generated and stored in the electronic key DB 405 (specific storage area) of the server 1 and in the user terminal 2. Furthermore, when the locker terminal 3 is used without a reservation, the electronic key generation unit 122 generates an electronic key for unlocking when the item C is taken out.

[0051] The transaction management unit 115 manages the usage history of the locker device 3 and the billing status of the usage fee calculated by the calculation unit 109, which will be described later. The usage history of the locker device 3 and the billing status of the usage fee are stored in the transaction DB 404. When user U unlocks the locker box 31 of the reserved locker device 3, the transaction management unit 115 records user U's user ID along with the unlocking time in the transaction DB 404 as part of the usage history of the transaction, and immediately performs processing to invalidate the electronic key used to unlock the locker box.

[0052] The lock detection unit 102 detects whether an entrance to a closed space capable of storing an item is locked. Specifically, the lock detection unit 102 detects when a locker box 31 capable of storing an item C is locked. There are no particular limitations on the specific method by which the lock detection unit 102 detects the locking of the locker box 31. For example, the detection may be performed using various sensors such as a vibration sensor or an infrared sensor.

[0053] When an electronic key for unlocking the entrance of a locked locker box 31 is generated, the key detection unit 103 detects it. Specifically, when the electronic key for unlocking the door of the locked locker box 31 is generated by the electronic key generation unit 122, the key detection unit 103 detects this.

[0054] The first determination unit 104 determines whether a first condition is satisfied by an action or the like of the user U1. Here, the first condition is, for example, that the user U1 "opens and closes the locker box 31." In this case, specifically, when the lock detection unit 102 detects that the locker box 31 is locked, the first determination unit 104 determines that the first condition is satisfied.

[0055] The instruction detection unit 105 detects an explicit instruction from a user who uses the locker box 31. Here, after storing item C in the locker, user U1 operates user terminal 2-1 to press a button indicating an explicit instruction from the user (for example, an input button to start a countdown, hereinafter referred to as the "input button"). That is, the instruction detection unit 105 detects explicit instructions from a user using the closed space by acquiring information that "the input button has been pressed" (hereinafter referred to as "input information") sent from the user terminal 2-1.

[0056] The second determination unit 107 determines whether a second condition different from the first condition is satisfied. Here, the second condition is, for example, “the input button has been pressed by the user U2.” In this case, specifically, when the instruction detection unit 105 acquires input information, the second determination unit 107 determines that the second condition is satisfied.

[0057] Here, the first and second conditions will be briefly explained. As mentioned above, the first condition is a condition set in relation to the action of the user U1 who deposits the item C, for example, "opening and closing the locker box 31." That is, the deposit of the item C by the user U1 triggers the start of measurement of the usage time of the locker device 3. However, if only this first condition is adopted as a condition, it is possible that user U2 receiving item C may use the locker device 3 at a time that he or she does not intend, resulting in the locker device 3 being used for a longer period of time and the user having to pay a large fee. The second condition described above is adopted to avoid such a situation. In other words, in addition to the first condition described above, an explicit action by user U2 when starting to use the locker device 3 is adopted as the second condition, which is used as a trigger for measuring the usage time of the locker device 3, thereby making it possible to prevent user U2 from using the locker device 3 during times that are not intended by user U2. In other words, in this embodiment, the measurement of usage time is triggered when both the first and second conditions are met, which has the advantage that the fee calculation described below is performed only after the locker can actually be unlocked, and that the fee is not calculated if there is an error in sending the electronic key. However, the server 1 may not adopt this second condition as a required condition but may make it an optional condition. In this case, even if the user U2 forgets to press the input button, the service can be provided and the fee can be calculated without delay.

[0058] The timing unit 108 measures the usage time of the locker device 3 . Specifically, for example, the timing unit 108 starts timing the usage time of the locker device 3 when the first condition is met and the second condition is met.

[0059] The calculation unit 109 calculates the usage fee for the locker device 3 of the user U2 based on the time measured by the timing means. Here, the usage fee calculated by calculation unit 109 does not necessarily have to be paid, and use may ultimately be permitted free of charge. Specifically, for example, calculation unit 109 may adopt a usage time calculation method in which the usage fee is calculated as 0 yen for the first two hours of use of locker device 3, and a fee is added only for usage after two hours according to the usage time. In this case, the user U2 can use the locker device 3 as long as he or she receives the item C within two hours, so that the user U2 can use the locker device 3 easily. However, the fee calculation method employed here is merely an example and is not limited thereto. That is, the calculation unit 109 may calculate the fee using any calculation method while referring to the time measured by the timing means.

[0060] The user DB 401 stores and manages various types of information (hereinafter referred to as "user information") related to the user U. Specifically, the information includes information that uniquely identifies the user U (hereinafter referred to as "user ID"), the name, address, contact information (telephone number, email address), account information, etc. of the user U. In addition, information that uniquely identifies the user terminal 2-2 used by the user U2, etc. is also stored and managed in the user DB 401.

[0061] Locker information is stored in the locker DB 402. Specifically, information that uniquely identifies the locker device 3 (hereinafter referred to as a "locker ID"), location information indicating the installation location of the locker device 3, information on the usage status of the locker device 3, etc. is stored in the locker DB 402. Additionally, each locker ID is associated with and managed by information relating to one or more locker boxes 31. Specifically, information such as information that uniquely identifies the locker box 31 (hereinafter referred to as "box ID"), the locking status, the user ID of the user U who issued the locking instruction, and the electronic key for unlocking is managed.

[0062] In the reservation DB 403, information relating to reservations for use of the locker device 3 is stored and managed as reservation information for each user. The reservation information specifically includes, for example, a user ID, a box ID of the locker box 31, the reservation date, the date on which the locker box 31 will actually be used, and a time period.

[0063] The transaction DB 404 stores and manages the usage history of the locker device 3, the usage fee billing status, and the like for each locker box 31.

[0064] The electronic key DB 405 stores information about electronic keys. Specifically, the electronic key is, for example, a URL, etc. The electronic key DB 405 manages information such as a locker ID and a box ID associated with each electronic key. The server 1 having the above functional configuration executes the above-mentioned usage fee calculation process, thereby making it possible to properly calculate the usage fee for each locker box 31 in this service.

[0065] Next, the operation of the server of the information processing system of the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the server of the information processing system of the embodiment. In the server 1, the reservation unit 114 accepts a reservation for the locker device 3 from the user U in step S11. In step S12, the electronic key generation unit 122 generates an electronic key for unlocking the locker device 3 that is the subject of the reservation accepted by the reservation unit 114 when the locker device 3 is used. In step S13, the electronic key generation unit 122 saves the generated electronic key in the user terminal 2 that made the reservation, and also stores and manages it in the electronic key DB 405.

[0066] After making a reservation, when the user U goes to the location of the locker device 3 to actually use the locker device 3, BT communication is performed between the user terminal 2 and the locker device 3. Then, in step S14, if the locker box 31 to be reserved is unlocked using the electronic key, in step S15, the transaction management unit 115 invalidates the electronic key used this time and stores the usage history in the transaction DB 404.

[0067] After the user U stores the item C in the unlocked locker box 31, when the user closes the door of the locker box 31, the locker box 31 is automatically locked. When the locker device 3 detects that it has been locked, in step S16, the electronic key generation unit 122 generates a new electronic key for unlocking the lock the next time the item C is taken out, and The key is saved in the user terminal 2 and also stored in the electronic key DB 405 for management. By issuing an electronic key that can be used only once in this way, it is possible to provide a temporary storage service that is convenient for the user U while preventing unauthorized use of the locker device 3.

[0068] Here, we will explain the concept of revenue expansion through this service with reference to Figure 7. Figure 7 shows an image of revenue expansion due to reservation needs for this service. For example, when an event is held, there is a high demand for reserving lockers near the event venue, but currently there are almost no coin lockers that offer long-term reservation functions. Therefore, as shown in Figure 7, this service allows reservations to be made up to 48 hours in advance of the start of use, and increases profitability by charging a usage fee of 100 yen (100 yen higher) than usual from the start of use. Furthermore, with this service, if a reserved locker device 3 is not actually used, the reservation is automatically canceled after 48 hours and the fee for the 48 hours is charged. This reduces risk and allows for increased profits.

[0069] Hereinafter, the operation of the server will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 11, following the transition of the application screen when the user terminal is a smartphone. FIG. 8 is a transition diagram of the map screen for locker device search of the app. FIG. 9 is a transition diagram of the locker device location selection screen of the app. FIG. 10 is a transition diagram of the locker device reservation screen of the app. FIG. 11 shows the transition of the payment screen of the app.

[0070] After user U has completed user registration to use this service, he / she operates the user terminal 2 to display a map screen for searching for lockers in the app, as shown in FIG. 8(A). The map screen has a mark 181 indicating the current location of the user terminal 2, icons 182 to 184 indicating the locations of the locker devices 3 found within the map display area, and an operation button 185 for "Find nearby lockers." The icons 182 to 184 each have a meaning when displayed in a different form (circle, triangle, cross, etc.).

[0071] In this example, icon 182 is a circle, indicating that the locker device 3 is available and in operation. Icon 183 is a triangle, indicating that the locker device 3 can be reserved but is unavailable due to its non-operating hours. Icon 184 is an X, indicating that the locker device 3 cannot be reserved or used.

[0072] When the user U taps the button 185 (or clicks the mouse in the case of a personal computer or the like), the map screen shown in FIG. 8(B) is displayed. The map screen in Figure 8 (B) displays an enlarged map, narrowing down the display to icons 182 and 183 indicating the locations of locker devices 3 closest to the current location of the user terminal 2, and also displays summary information (index information) of the locker devices 3 at the respective locations of the icons 182 and 183.

[0073] Here, when user U views the summary information (index information) of each locker device 3 and taps the "Details" button 186 of the desired locker device 3 (for example, the locker device 3 of icon 182), the map screen shown in Figure 8 (C) is displayed. The map screen in FIG. 8(C) displays detailed information 1 of the locker device 3 of the icon 182 together with the map. 87 is displayed. In the detailed information 187, a link button 188 linked to more detailed information, the address of the locker device 3 of the icon 182, and an image of the locker device 3 are displayed.

[0074] Furthermore, if the user U wants to know more details about the locker device 3, he or she taps on the link button 188, and the selection screen shown in FIG. 9(A) is displayed. The selection screen in Figure 9(A) displays the address of the location of the locker device 3 of icon 182, an image of the locker device 3, as well as the size of one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker device 3, the usage fee, the reservation fee, a "Use now" button 191, and a "Reserve in advance" button 192. In addition, a route link button is provided in the address field of the locker device 3, and by tapping on it, a navigation screen will be launched and directions and routes to the locker device 3 will be displayed.

[0075] On the map screen of FIG. 8(A), when a triangular icon 183 is tapped and the screen transitions, the selection screen shown in FIG. 9(B) is displayed. Furthermore, when the cross-shaped icon 184 is tapped on the map screen of FIG. 8(A) and the screen transitions, the selection screen shown in FIG. 9(C) is displayed.

[0076] On the selection screen of FIG. 9(A), when the locker device 3 of the icon 182 is to be reserved in advance, the "reserve in advance" button 192 is tapped. When the user U taps the "reserve in advance" button 192, a reservation screen shown in FIG. 10(A) is displayed.

[0077] The reservation screen of FIG. 10(A) displays a locker selection diagram simulating one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker device 3, a "Back" button 201, and a "Reservation and Payment" button 202. The locker selection diagram shows multiple lockers, each with a locker number. Unoccupied locker numbers are marked with a circle. Locker numbers that are already in use or reserved are marked with an X.

[0078] Here, when the user U taps on the locker 203 with the locker number "304", for example, the frame of the locker 203 on the reservation screen is highlighted, that is, the locker is placed in a selected state, as shown in FIG. 10(B).

[0079] Next, when the user U taps the "reserve / pay" button 202, a dialog box 204 is displayed to warn the user, as shown in Fig. 10(C). The dialog box 204 is provided with an "OK" button 205. When the user U reads the warning contents in the dialog box 204 and taps the "OK" button 205, the payment screen shown in FIG. 11(A) is displayed.

[0080] The payment screen in FIG. 11(A) displays the locker number to be reserved, the reservation time, the reservation fee, the payment method, etc., and the user U can confirm the reservation details on the payment screen. This payment screen has a "Pay" button 211, a "Back" button 212, and a link 213 for changing the payment method. Here, when the user U taps on the link 213 for changing the payment method, a payment method change screen shown in FIG. 11(B) is displayed.

[0081] The payment method change screen in Figure 11 (B) has a group of multiple selection buttons 214 for changing the payment method, and user U can change the payment method by tapping the selection button for the desired payment method from the group of selection buttons 214.

[0082] Furthermore, when user U taps the "Make Payment" button 211 on the payment screen in Figure 11(A) or the payment method change screen in Figure 11(B), the payment process is executed using the displayed reservation details and payment method, and an electronic key for unlocking the locker when using the reserved locker is generated and stored in both the user terminal 2 and the electronic key DB 405.

[0083] As a result, the payment result confirmation screen shown in FIG. 11(C) is displayed. The payment result confirmation screen of FIG. 11(C) displays a message indicating that the reservation has been completed and a "Go to My Locker" button 215. Here, when the user U taps on the "Go to My Locker" button 215, a My Locker screen (not shown) is displayed.

[0084] The My Locker screen is what is known as User U's My Page, and displays information about the locker device 3 that User U is currently using and the locker device 3 that he or she has reserved, as well as a "Share Key" button and an "Open Locker" button. The "Share Key" button is a button for sharing the electronic key stored in the user terminal 2 with others, and includes selection buttons for, for example, copying the electronic key or sending the electronic key by message. By tapping the desired button from among these selection buttons, the electronic key can be copied to another destination or sent to the person with whom the electronic key is to be shared.

[0085] When user U approaches the reserved locker device 3 to actually use it, he or she taps the "Open Locker" button, which causes BT communication to be performed between the locker device 3 and the user terminal 2. If the electronic keys match as a result of the electronic key verification process, the door of the locker box 31 is unlocked and the locker box 31 can be used.

[0086] Furthermore, the information processing device to which the present invention is applied is not limited to the first embodiment described above, but can take on various other embodiments having the following configurations.

[0087] In the above-described embodiment, the electronic key for unlocking the door of the locker box 31 is copied and handed over from the user U1 who deposits the item C to the user U2 who receives the item C. Therefore, when the item C is stored in the locker box 31, both the user U1 and the user U2 have the electronic key, and the locker box 31 can be unlocked. In this way, by ensuring that both the sender and receiver of the electronic key can unlock the locker box 31, it becomes easy for user U2 to ask a family member or other person to receive item C even if he or she has difficulty receiving it himself or herself.

[0088] On the other hand, in a situation where multiple users can unlock the locker box 31, a problem may arise in that it becomes unclear which user unlocked the locker box 31. Specifically, for example, if item C is stolen, user U1 is likely to claim that "I definitely stored item C in locker box 31, so user U2 has already received item C," while user U2 is likely to claim that "user U1 may have taken item C." These circumstances are not necessarily limited to user U1, but also apply to any user who has an electronic key (for example, a third party who receives the electronic key from user U2).

[0089] Therefore, anticipating such a situation, the information processing system of this embodiment employs a one-use electronic key revocation function that, once a locker box 31 has been unlocked using an electronic key, restricts subsequent unlocking of the same locker box 31. With this, the one-use electronic key revocation function records the user ID as history when the locker box 31 is unlocked, making it easy to identify the user who unlocked the locker box 31. As a result, even when user authentication is not performed and only electronic key authentication is performed and there are multiple people who have the same electronic key, the risk of theft of item C can be reduced. That is, users U1 and U2 can unlock the locker box 31 with the electronic key at any time before the expiration date.

[0090] However, the electronic key can be held by multiple people at the same time. Therefore, when the locker device 3 performs authentication for unlocking, it does not perform user authentication, but only authenticates the electronic key. If this is the case, the following problems will arise: That is, before the person who is supposed to pick up item C (for example, user U1 in FIG. 2) unlocks the locker box 31, another person who has the same electronic key (for example, user U2 in FIG. 2) can unlock the locker box 31 and pick up item C stored there without permission. Normally, the person who picks up item C is not recorded in the log, whether it is the first or second time. Therefore, it is not possible to identify the person who picked up item C after the fact.

[0091] Therefore, in the information processing system of this embodiment, the number of times that the same electronic key can be used to unlock the locker box 31 is limited to one. Specifically, for example, if user U1 in FIG. 4(B) unlocks the locker box 31 using an electronic key at 3:00 PM, the transaction management unit 115 immediately records the user ID of user U1 together with the unlocking time as a transaction history in the transaction DB 404, and performs processing to invalidate the electronic key used. Once the electronic key is invalidated, even if another user U2 subsequently attempts to unlock the locker box 31 using the same electronic key at, for example, 3:30 PM, the locker box 31 cannot be unlocked. In other words, after the person who is supposed to collect item C unlocks the locker box 31, another person who possesses the same electronic key cannot unlock it by impersonating the other person.

[0092] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and modifications and improvements within the scope of achieving the object of the present invention are included in the present invention. Furthermore, the effects described in the above-described embodiment are merely a list of the most preferable effects resulting from the present invention, and the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described in the above-described embodiment.

[0093] For example, in the above embodiment, the locker box 31 is used as the closed space capable of storing each of the items C, but this is merely an example, and the closed space is not limited to the locker box 31. For example, it may be a room, a car, or any other space that can form a closed space with items stored therein and has a lockable entrance door.

[0094] Also, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the item C is stored in the locker device 3 installed at each station, but this is merely an example. The installation location of the locker device 3 is not limited to stations, and it can be installed anywhere. For example, it can be installed in hotels, airports, shopping districts, commercial facilities such as department stores, event venues such as exhibition halls, etc.

[0095] In the above embodiment, the electronic key is downloaded by accessing the server 1 from the URL included in the unlocking information, but this is merely an example. The unlocking information can include any information that can be used to obtain the electronic key. Furthermore, in the above embodiment, the electronic key stored in the server 1 is described as a so-called copy, which is different from the actual key being handed over. That is, the electronic key stored in the server 1 can be used by both the user U1 who deposits the item and the user U2 who collects the item. However, for example, the service provider may restrict the use of the electronic key to user U2 once user U1 has stored an item in the locker device 3. In this case, the risk of the electronic key being misused can be reduced.

[0096] Furthermore, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the examples of the first condition and the second condition are merely examples. Specifically, for example, the server 1 may adopt as the first condition that "the generated electronic key has been sent to the user U2." Furthermore, the first condition may be "when user U1 stores item C in the locker" or "when user U2 is able to receive item C." Furthermore, for example, the server 1 may adopt "a predetermined time (for example, 10:00 AM)" or "the user U1 has pressed an input button" as the second condition.

[0097] Also, for example, in the above embodiment, the explicit instruction by user U1 was described as storing item C in the locker, and then operating the user terminal 2-1 and pressing the user input button, but this is not limited to this. In other words, the explicit instruction by user U1 may be user U1 putting item C inside and pressing a send button to send instructions to user U2 to receive item C by email, etc., or the instruction detection unit 105 may be able to recognize the explicit instruction. The explicit instruction may also be given by pressing an input button on a device other than the user terminal 2-1 (for example, the user terminal 2-2 or the locker device 3).The explicit instruction may also be given by the user U2 operating the user terminal 2-2 or the locker device 3.

[0098] For example, in the above embodiment, the usage fee for the locker device 3 is free within a specified time period (from the start of the first condition until the second condition is met), and a fee is charged thereafter, but this is not particularly limited to this. That is, for example, the provider of this service may set various fees depending on the time from when the first condition begins to when the second condition is met, such as a usage fee that increases with each hour.

[0099] Furthermore, the usage fee in the above-described embodiment is not necessarily limited to monetary payments, but may be a substitute for monetary payments. For example, it may be electronic money, various points, paid tickets, or other payments that are already commonly used. Therefore, from the user U's perspective, they can use the balance of prepaid electronic money (e.g., Suica (registered trademark) or nanaco (registered trademark)) or points from various point services accumulated at gas stations, etc., to pay the fee. This allows the user U to use the locker device 3 more easily and without feeling burdened, compared to paying with tangible money. Furthermore, from the service provider M's perspective, the service they provide can be added to the already commonly used options for electronic money, various points, etc., thereby increasing the number of users.

[0100] Furthermore, for example, the above-described series of processes can be executed by hardware or software. Furthermore, the functional block diagram shown in Figure 5 is merely an example and is not particularly limited. In other words, it is sufficient that the server has the functionality to execute the above-described series of processes as a whole, and the functional blocks and databases used to realize these functions are not particularly limited to the example of Figure 5. Furthermore, the locations of the functional blocks and databases are not particularly limited to those shown in Figure 5 and may be arbitrary. For example, the functional blocks and databases of the server may be transferred to a user terminal or the like. Conversely, the functional blocks and databases of the user terminal may be transferred to the server or the like. Furthermore, one functional block and database may be configured as a single piece of hardware, a single piece of software, or a combination thereof.

[0101] When a series of processes is executed by software, the programs that make up the software are installed into a computer or the like from a network or a recording medium. The computer may be a computer built on dedicated hardware. The computer may also be a computer capable of executing various functions by installing various programs, such as a server, a general-purpose smartphone, or a personal computer.

[0102] The recording medium containing such a program may be composed of not only a removable medium (not shown) that is distributed separately from the device main body in order to provide the program to users, etc., but also a recording medium that is provided to users, etc. in a state where it is pre-installed in the device main body.

[0103] In this specification, the steps describing the program to be recorded on the recording medium include not only processes that are performed in chronological order, but also processes that are not necessarily performed in chronological order but are performed in parallel or individually. In addition, in this specification, the term "system" refers to an overall device that is made up of a plurality of devices, a plurality of means, etc.

[0104] In other words, the management device to which the present invention is applied is sufficient as long as it has the following configuration, and can take on a variety of different embodiments.

[0105] That is, an information processing device to which the present invention is applied (for example, the server 1 in FIG. 5) a reservation means (such as the reservation unit 114 in FIG. 5) that accepts a reservation for the use of a closed space (such as one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker terminal 3) capable of storing an item (such as item C) during a predetermined time period at a predetermined usage fee; an electronic key generating means (such as the electronic key generating unit 122) for detecting locking of the door at the entrance of the closed space (such as the specific locker box 31 reserved by the locker terminal 3) used (to store the item (such as the item C)) based on the reservation, or for generating an electronic key for unlocking the door at the entrance of the closed space (such as the specific locker box 31 reserved by the locker terminal 3); Equipped with. This allows you to unlock the door at the entrance to the reserved closed space (for example, one locker box 31 of the locker terminal 3) using the electronic key, and put items in and take items out of the closed space (for example, one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker terminal 3), without having to carry a physical key. This prevents situations where you are unable to deposit or retrieve items due to misplacing or dropping the key, as in the past. As a result, in a service for temporarily storing items, it is possible to improve the convenience in using and managing a closed space (for example, one or more locker boxes 31 of a locker terminal 3, etc.).

[0106] The reservation means (for example, the reservation unit 114 in FIG. 5) The usage fee for the reserved closed space (for example, one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker terminal 3) is changed according to preset conditions (for example, the season such as the off-season (winter, late at night, etc.) or the busy season (spring, daytime, etc.) or the time period of late at night). Specifically, the usage fee is lower during the off-season than the normal usage fee, and higher during the busy season than the normal usage fee. In this way, by varying the usage fee depending on the conditions (timing) for using the closed space (for example, one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker terminal 3) at the time of reservation, the user can select a convenient timing for making a reservation, thereby improving the convenience of using the closed space (for example, one or more locker boxes 31 of the locker terminal 3). [Explanation of symbols]

[0107] 1···Server, 2, 2-1, 2-2, 2-3, 2-n··User terminal, 3, 3-1, 3-2, 3-m··Locker device, 11···CPU, 18··Memory unit, 19···Communication unit, 20···Drive, 30··Removable media, 31···Locker box, 101···Main control unit, 111···User authentication unit, 112···User management unit , 113···Locker management unit, 114···Reservation unit, 115···Transaction management unit, 121···Reservation management unit, 122···Electronic key generation unit, 401···User DB, 402···Locker DB, 403···Reservation DB, 404···Transaction DB, 405···Electronic key DB, C···Item, M···Service provider, N···Network, U, T···User

Claims

1. a reservation means for accepting a reservation for use of a closed space capable of storing items during a predetermined time period for a predetermined usage fee; an electronic key generating means for generating an electronic key for unlocking an entrance to the closed space to be used during the time period based on the reservation; An information processing device comprising:

2. The reservation means fluctuating the usage fee for the reserved closed space according to preset conditions; The information processing device according to claim 1 .

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