Information processing device, control method for information processing device, and program

Abstract

We provide server equipment that contributes to improving convenience for inbound tourists and other travelers. [Solution] The server device comprises a request means, a generation means, and a provision means. The request means requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to perform the user's check-in procedure in response to a request from the user. The generation means generates, upon successful completion of the check-in procedure by the hotel server, first presentation information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second presentation information to be presented to the hotel booked by the user. The provision means provides the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user.

Description

Technical Field

[0005] , , ,

[0001] The present invention relates to a server device, a terminal, a control method for the server device, and a storage medium.

Background Art

[0002] There are technologies related to sending and receiving packages.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 describes that the time required per user at the package delivery window of a parcel delivery service is shortened without increasing labor costs. When the server of Patent Document 1 receives a hotel reservation based on the hotel facility information input on the user terminal on the hotel reservation screen, it transmits a reservation acceptance screen for the parcel delivery service to the user terminal. When the server receives a reservation for the parcel delivery service based on the transportation hub information input on the reservation acceptance screen for the parcel delivery service, it assigns a unique acceptance number and transmits a reservation confirmation screen including this acceptance number to the user terminal. The server stores the reservation acceptance information for the parcel delivery service based on the hotel facility information input on the hotel reservation screen and the transportation hub information input on the reservation acceptance screen. As the reservation acceptance information for the parcel delivery service, the server stores the user's information, the identification code of the package delivery window where the package is deposited, and the identification code of the package delivery window where the package is received, separately for each acceptance number.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] Furthermore, inbound tourists often stay in hotels. In such cases, hotels request that inbound tourists provide their name, address, nationality, passport number, etc. However, providing such information, like luggage delivery, can be a significant burden for foreigners such as inbound tourists.

[0007] Furthermore, the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 relates to the receipt of packages. Therefore, applying the technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 will not solve the above problem.

[0008] The primary objective of this invention is to provide a server device, a terminal, a control method for the server device, and a storage medium that contribute to improving convenience for inbound tourists and the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] According to a first aspect of the present invention, a server device is provided that includes: a request means for requesting a hotel server of a hotel booked by a user to perform the user's check-in procedure in response to a request from the user; a generation means for generating first presentation information to be presented to a delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel and second presentation information to be presented to the hotel booked by the user, once the hotel server has successfully completed the check-in procedure; and a provision means for providing the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user.

[0010] A terminal is provided that includes a request means for requesting a server device to check in to a hotel booked by a user, and an acquisition means for acquiring from the server device first presentation information to be presented to a delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second presentation information to be presented to the hotel booked by the user.

[0011] A third aspect of the present invention provides a control method for a server device, comprising: a request step of requesting a hotel server of a hotel booked by a user to perform the user's check-in procedure in response to a request from the user; a generation step of generating first presentation information to be presented to a delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel and second presentation information to be presented to the hotel booked by the user, once the hotel server has successfully completed the check-in procedure; and a provision step of providing the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user.

[0012] A fourth aspect of the present invention is provided, a computer-readable storage medium is provided which stores a program for a computer mounted on a server device to execute the following: a request process that, in response to a request from a user, requests the hotel server of the hotel reserved by the user to perform the user's check-in procedure; a generation process that, when the hotel server successfully performs the check-in procedure, generates first presentation information to be presented to a delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second presentation information to be presented to the hotel reserved by the user; and a provision process that provides the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] From each perspective of the present invention, a server device, a terminal, a control method for the server device, and a storage medium are provided that contribute to improving the convenience of inbound tourists and the like. However, the effects of the present invention are not limited to those described above. The present invention may also produce other effects in place of or in conjunction with the effects described above. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a diagram for explaining an overview of an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a flowchart for explaining an overview of operations of an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a diagram for explaining the operations of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a diagram for explaining the operations of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a diagram showing an example of a delivery slip according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining the operations of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a diagram showing an example of a display of a hotel terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a processing configuration of a terminal according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a diagram showing an example of a processing configuration of a hotel server according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a diagram showing an example of a reservation management database for hotel guests according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operations of a check-in control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [[ID=3S]] [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of a processing configuration of a server device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a diagram showing an example of a user management database according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operations of a check-in control unit according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of an information processing system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a server device according to the present disclosure. MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0015] First, an overview of an embodiment will be described. Note that the reference numerals in the drawings appended to this overview are for convenience of each element as an example to assist understanding, and the description of this overview is not intended to be limiting in any way. Further, unless otherwise specified, the blocks described in each drawing represent a configuration in terms of functional units, not hardware units. The connection lines between blocks in each figure include both bidirectional and unidirectional ones. The one-way arrow schematically shows the flow of the main signal (data) and does not exclude bidirectionality. In the present specification and drawings, elements that can be similarly described may be denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant description may be omitted.

[0016] A server device 100 according to an embodiment includes a request means 101, a generation means 102, and a provision means 103 (see FIG. 1). The request means 101 requests the hotel server of the hotel reserved by the user to execute the check-in procedure of the user in response to a request from the user (step S1 in FIG. 2). The generation means 102 generates first presentation information presented to a delivery carrier that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel and second presentation information presented to the hotel reserved by the user when the hotel server succeeds in the check-in procedure (step S2). The provision means 103 provides the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user (step S3).

[0017] The server device 100 generates a first set of information to be presented by the user to the delivery company and a second set of information to be presented to the hotel, and provides the generated information to the user. The user visits the delivery company with their luggage and presents the first set of information to the delivery company. The delivery company creates a shipping slip to transport the luggage to the hotel from the presented information. Upon arriving at the hotel, the user presents the second set of information to the hotel. Since the user's check-in procedure has already been completed, the hotel hands over the user's luggage and room key. In this way, by utilizing the information provided by the server device 100, the user does not need to handwrite their name, nationality, etc. on the shipping slip or the hotel's guest register, thus improving the user's convenience.

[0018] Specific embodiments will be described in more detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0019] [First Embodiment] The first embodiment will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

[0020] [System Configuration] Figure 3 is a diagram showing an example of the schematic configuration of an information processing system according to the embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in Figure 3, the information processing system includes at least one accommodation provider and one delivery provider.

[0021] The information processing system according to the first embodiment provides a service (luggage delivery service) for delivering passengers' (for example, inbound tourists from abroad) luggage to their hotel.

[0022] Furthermore, users can complete hotel check-in at the airport upon arrival. Users can also complete hotel check-in procedures at a location separate from the hotel. In the following explanation, check-in procedures performed at a location other than the hotel will be referred to as "remote check-in."

[0023] By completing remote check-in, guests no longer need to fill out their name or present identification at the hotel front desk. Guests who have completed remote check-in (those with reservations) receive their room key at the front desk and enter their assigned room. Guests who have completed remote check-in can enter their hotel room smoothly without having to go through complicated procedures.

[0024] Each accommodation provider (hotel) is equipped with a hotel server 10 and a hotel terminal 20.

[0025] The hotel server 10 is the server that performs the hotel's main operations. Specifically, the hotel server 10 controls and manages information related to hotel reservations and guests. For example, the hotel server 10 stores information about hotel reservations (e.g., name, gender, address, date of birth, telephone number, email address, etc.) and reservation information (e.g., length of stay, room type, etc.). The hotel server 10 uses the reservation information to perform check-in procedures for hotel reservations and check-out procedures for guests.

[0026] The hotel server 10 may be installed within each hotel, or it may be installed on a network (on the cloud).

[0027] The hotel terminal 20 is a terminal installed at the hotel's front desk or other designated locations. Hotel staff stationed at the front desk operate the hotel terminal 20. The hotel terminal 20 and the hotel server 10 are connected.

[0028] The delivery company has business partnerships with each accommodation provider. The delivery company sets up reception counters inside and outside the airport to receive luggage from users (passengers). The delivery company installs a delivery terminal 30 at the reception counter. The delivery terminal 30 is a terminal (device, equipment) used when the user's luggage is delivered to their hotel.

[0029] Server device 40 is a server for realizing luggage delivery services and remote check-in. Server device 40 is managed and operated by an association or similar organization whose members are multiple accommodation providers. Alternatively, server device 40 may be managed and operated by a private company or similar organization commissioned by accommodation providers or similar organizations. Server device 40 may be installed in the building of the association or on a network (on the cloud).

[0030] Users possess a device such as a smartphone.

[0031] The devices shown in Figure 3 (hotel server 10, delivery terminal 30, server device 40, etc.) are connected by wired or wireless communication means and are configured to communicate with each other.

[0032] The configuration of the information processing system shown in Figure 3 is illustrative and not intended to limit its configuration. For example, the information processing system may include multiple server devices 40. Load balancing and redundancy may be achieved by the multiple server devices 40. Similarly, each accommodation provider may have multiple hotel servers 10 and hotel terminals 20.

[0033] Figure 3 illustrates three accommodation providers (Hotel A, Hotel B, and Hotel C), but this is not intended to limit the number of accommodation providers included in the system. The information processing system only needs to include at least one accommodation provider. Note that the hotel servers 10 and hotel terminals 20 of Hotel B and Hotel C are not shown in Figure 3.

[0034] [General operation] Next, we will describe the general operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment.

[0035] <Create an account> Users who wish to use the luggage delivery service and remote check-in service access the server device 40 to create an account. Users operate the terminal 50 to access the user registration page and other information provided by the server device 40.

[0036] The server device 40 obtains the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, login information (ID, password), and contact information (telephone number, email address, etc.) from the user registration page.

[0037] The server device 40 stores the acquired names and other information in the user management database, associating them with the user's information. Details of the user management database will be described later.

[0038] <Application Installation> Users install a dedicated application on terminal 50 to enjoy services such as parcel delivery and remote check-in. Users obtain the dedicated application by any means and install it on terminal 50. Unless otherwise specified in the following explanation, "application" refers to the dedicated application for parcel delivery services, etc.

[0039] <Storage of identification document information> Users who install the application store information related to their identification documents in terminal 50. For example, terminal 50 acquires and stores information related to passports, driver's licenses, My Number cards, etc. In the first embodiment, we will describe the case in which passport information related to a passport is acquired as identification document information.

[0040] Terminal 50 acquires passport information related to the passport held by the user in response to the user's actions.

[0041] For example, terminal 50 obtains the name, gender, date of birth, address, nationality, passport number, biometric information (facial image), etc., as written on the passport. For example, terminal 50 may obtain passport information from image data obtained by photographing the passport, or it may obtain passport information from the IC (Integrated Circuit) chip embedded in the passport. Alternatively, terminal 50 may obtain passport information from an electronic passport (digital passport) issued by a public institution such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, or it may store the said digital passport as passport information.

[0042] Examples of biometric information include data (feature quantities) calculated from individual physical characteristics such as face, fingerprints, voiceprints, veins, retina, and iris patterns. Alternatively, biometric information may be image data such as face images or fingerprint images. Biometric information only needs to include information about the user's physical characteristics. The embodiments disclosed here describe a case in which biometric information (face image or feature quantities generated from a face image) relating to a person's "face" is used.

[0043] Terminal 50 stores the acquired passport information (identity document information) internally.

[0044] <Hotel Reservation> A user (for example, an inbound tourist) makes a hotel reservation before departure. The user operates terminal 50 and launches the application. The user accesses the hotel server 10 of the hotel they wish to reserve through the application. More specifically, terminal 50 accesses the room reservation site provided by the hotel server 10.

[0045] Users make room reservations through the room reservation website. When doing so, users enter their name, gender, date of birth, address, telephone number, email address, etc., into the room reservation website.

[0046] Upon completing a guest's room reservation, the hotel server 10 stores the reservation information (e.g., name, gender, date of birth, address, email address, etc.) in the guest reservation management database. The reservation information includes a reservation number to identify the reservation, the length of stay (scheduled check-in date, scheduled check-out date), and the type of room. Details of the guest reservation management database will be described later.

[0047] <Remote check-in> The user boards an aircraft and arrives at the destination airport. Upon arrival at the airport, the user completes the procedures for using the baggage delivery service and for remote check-in. In this disclosure, the term "remote check-in" refers to the opposite of "check-in," which is performed by the user at the hotel's reception desk or other location after arriving at the accommodation. In other words, "remote check-in" includes the act of the user completing the check-in procedure at a different location before arriving at the accommodation, the act of completing part of the check-in procedure in advance, and a series of actions associated with the check-in procedure, such as enabling the guest to lock and unlock the room door using their mobile device.

[0048] First, terminal 50 verifies the user's identity. The user launches the application. The application (terminal 50) acquires the user's biometric information in response to a predetermined action by the user (for example, pressing the "remote check-in" button). For example, terminal 50 acquires the user's facial image through a so-called selfie.

[0049] Terminal 50 performs identity verification using facial images included in passport information obtained in advance and facial images obtained through selfies. If identity verification is successful, the user can enjoy delivery services and remote check-in services.

[0050] If identity verification is successful, terminal 50 transmits the previously obtained identification information (passport information) to server device 40. Specifically, terminal 50 transmits a "check-in request" containing the passport information to server device 40 (see Figure 4).

[0051] Upon receiving a check-in request, the server device 40 requests each accommodation provider (hotel server 10) to perform remote check-in. Specifically, the server device 40 forwards the check-in request received from the terminal 50 to each hotel server 10 included in the information processing system.

[0052] Upon receiving a check-in request, each hotel server 10 searches the guest reservation management database using information that identifies the guest from their passport (for example, their name or a combination of name and date of birth) as a key. The hotel server 10 searches the guest reservation management database using the name and other information as keys to identify the user who wishes to perform remote check-in from among multiple guests.

[0053] The hotel server 10 assigns a room to the identified user (the person who made the reservation) and stores the room number of the assigned room in the reservation management database. Furthermore, the hotel server 10 also stores the user's identification information (passport information).

[0054] By assigning a room to the user and storing their passport information in the hotel reservation management database, the hotel server 10 completes the user's check-in (remote check-in).

[0055] Once remote check-in is complete, the hotel server 10 notifies the server device 40 of the room number, reservation number, and hotel information assigned to the user. Specifically, the hotel server 10 sends an acknowledgment to the server device 40 indicating successful check-in. At that time, the hotel server 10 sends an acknowledgment to the server device 40 that includes the room number, reservation number, and hotel information.

[0056] The hotel information includes the name, address, phone number, and website URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of the hotel where remote check-in was completed.

[0057] If the hotel server 10 fails to search the reservation management database using the guest's name, etc., it sends a negative response to the server device 40 indicating that remote check-in failed (remote check-in not performed). The hotel server 10 then discards the passport information received from the server device 40.

[0058] For example, in Figure 4, if a user has made a reservation at Hotel A, Hotel A's hotel server 10 sends an affirmative response to the server device 40 that includes the user's reservation number, the assigned room number, and hotel information. The hotel servers 10 of Hotels B and C send negative responses to the server device 40.

[0059] Upon receiving a response (affirmative or negative) to a check-in request, the server device 40 generates information necessary for the user to request luggage delivery from a delivery company and information necessary for the user to receive their luggage and room key. Specifically, the server device 40 generates first information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second information to be presented to the hotel with which the user made a reservation.

[0060] Specifically, the server device 40 generates "information to be presented at the time of request" to be shown to the delivery company (such as staff waiting at the airport reception counter) when the user requests delivery of luggage from the delivery company. Furthermore, the server device 40 generates "information to be presented at the time of pickup" to be shown to the hotel (such as hotel staff) when the user picks up their luggage and room key at the hotel.

[0061] First, the server device 40 generates a package ID to identify each user's package. For example, the server device 40 generates package IDs such as "A001" or "B015".

[0062] Subsequently, the server device 40 generates information to be presented at the time of the request, including hotel information for the hotel where the remote check-in was performed and the luggage ID generated above. More specifically, the server device 40 converts the hotel information and luggage ID into a two-dimensional barcode.

[0063] Furthermore, the server device 40 generates information to be presented upon receipt, including the room number, luggage ID, and user identification information received from the hotel server 10 of the hotel where the remote check-in was performed. More specifically, the server device 40 converts the room number, luggage ID, and user identification information into a two-dimensional barcode.

[0064] User identification information is information that identifies a user (hotel reservation holder) who has completed remote check-in. For example, the reservation number received from the hotel server 10 is exemplified as user identification information. Alternatively, the name or a combination of name and date of birth is exemplified as user identification information. In the first embodiment, the case in which the reservation number is used as user identification information will be described.

[0065] Furthermore, in the following explanation, the 2D barcode corresponding to the information presented at the time of request will be referred to as the "2D code at the time of request," and the 2D barcode corresponding to the information presented at the time of receipt will be referred to as the "2D code at the time of receipt."

[0066] In the example above, the server device 40 generates a two-dimensional code for the time of request (information presented at the time of request) in which the hotel information and luggage ID of Hotel A have been converted, and a two-dimensional code for the time of pickup (information presented at the time of pickup) in which the room number, luggage ID, and reservation number have been converted.

[0067] Once two pieces of information (information to be presented at the time of request and information to be presented at the time of receipt) are generated, the server device 40 provides the two generated pieces of information to the user. Specifically, the server device 40 transmits the two generated 2D barcodes to the terminal 50.

[0068] Specifically, the server device 40 sends an affirmative response containing the two 2D barcodes to the terminal 50 as a response to the check-in response received from the terminal 50.

[0069] Upon receiving an acknowledgment, terminal 50 stores the two received 2D barcodes (a 2D code for the request and a 2D code for the receipt). Terminal 50 also notifies the user that remote check-in is complete and that the delivery service is available.

[0070] Furthermore, if the server device 40 does not receive an affirmative response from any of the hotel servers 10 (i.e., the remote check-in is unsuccessful), it sends a negative response as a response to the check-in request received from the terminal 50.

[0071] <Use of delivery service> Users who have completed remote check-in visit the reception counter with their luggage (see Figure 5). Upon arriving at the reception counter, users launch the application and perform the required actions (for example, pressing the "Delivery Service" button).

[0072] Terminal 50 provides the delivery company with the information to be displayed at the time of the request, in response to the user's operation. Specifically, terminal 50 displays a 2D code at the time of the request. The user presents terminal 50, which displays the 2D code at the time of the request, to the staff waiting at the reception counter.

[0073] The staff member operates the delivery terminal 30 to read the request 2D code displayed on terminal 50. The delivery terminal 30 uses the hotel information and package ID obtained from the request 2D code to create a delivery slip for the package. The delivery terminal 30 then prints the created delivery slip.

[0074] Specifically, the delivery terminal 30 prints a delivery slip containing the hotel name, address, telephone number, package ID, etc. (see Figure 6).

[0075] Staff at the reception counter attach printed shipping labels to the luggage. The user's luggage is then delivered to their hotel by a delivery company.

[0076] <Arrived at the hotel> Users who have finished sightseeing (users who have completed remote check-in) arrive at the hotel (see Figure 7). These users then proceed to the front desk to enter their rooms. Specifically, the user launches the application and performs a predetermined action (for example, pressing the "Arrived at Hotel" button).

[0077] Terminal 50 provides the hotel with information to be presented upon pickup, in response to the user's actions. Specifically, terminal 50 displays a 2D code upon pickup. The user presents terminal 50, which displays the 2D code upon pickup, to the staff waiting at the front desk.

[0078] The staff member operates the hotel terminal 20 to read the QR code displayed on terminal 50. The hotel terminal 20 notifies the staff member of the room number and luggage ID obtained from the QR code. For example, the hotel terminal 20 displays the room number and luggage ID on its display (see Figure 8).

[0079] Hotel staff hand guests the keys corresponding to the room number displayed on the screen. They also hand guests their luggage, which has a shipping label attached that has the same luggage ID as the luggage ID displayed on the screen.

[0080] The hotel terminal 20 transmits user identification information (reservation number) contained in the 2D code received at the time of pickup to the hotel server 10, before or after displaying the room number and luggage ID. The hotel server 10 searches the hotel reservation management database using the acquired reservation number as a key and identifies the user (the user who has completed remote check-in). The hotel server 10 updates the status of the identified user to "checked in".

[0081] Guests enter their rooms carrying their luggage.

[0082] Next, we will describe the details of each device included in the information processing system according to the first embodiment.

[0083] [Terminal] Figure 9 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of a terminal 50 according to the embodiment disclosed herein. Referring to Figure 9, the terminal 50 comprises a communication control unit 201, a user registration unit 202, an identity document information acquisition unit 203, a hotel reservation unit 204, an identity verification unit 205, a remote check-in control unit 206, a presentation information control unit 207, and a storage unit 208.

[0084] The communication control unit 201 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 201 receives data (packets) from the server device 40. The communication control unit 201 also transmits data to the server device 40. The communication control unit 201 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 201 transmits the data obtained from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules send and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 201. The communication control unit 201 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0085] The identity document information acquisition unit 203, the hotel reservation unit 204, the identity verification unit 205, the remote check-in control unit 206, and the presentation information control unit 207 implement the application installed on the terminal 50. A detailed explanation of the application installation is omitted because the application installation is obvious to those skilled in the art and is outside the scope of this disclosure.

[0086] The user registration unit 202 is a means for registering users with the server device 40. The user registration unit 202 accesses the server device 40 in response to user operations. In response to user operations, the user registration unit 202 sends the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, login information (ID, password), and contact information (telephone number, email address, etc.) to the server device 40.

[0087] The identity document information acquisition unit 203 is a means of acquiring identity document information from an identity document (for example, a passport) held by the user. For example, the identity document information acquisition unit 203 uses a GUI (Graphical User Interface) or the like to acquire passport information from the passport held by the user.

[0088] For example, the identity information acquisition unit 203 instructs the user to take a photograph of the passport. The identity information acquisition unit 203 extracts the face region from the image data obtained when the passport is photographed and acquires a face image (passport face image). The identity information acquisition unit 203 also uses OCR (Optical Character Recognition) technology to acquire the name and other information written on the passport.

[0089] Alternatively, the identity information acquisition unit 203 may read passport information from the IC (Integrated Circuit) chip embedded in the passport. When reading information from the IC chip, the identity information acquisition unit 203 reads the MRZ information written in the machine-readable zone (MRZ) on the face of the passport. The MRZ information includes name, gender, date of birth, nationality, etc. The identity information acquisition unit 203 uses the acquired MRZ information as a password to read passport information such as facial image and name from the IC chip.

[0090] The identity document information acquisition unit 203 stores the acquired passport information in the storage unit 208.

[0091] The hotel reservation unit 204 is a means for controlling hotel reservations. Depending on the user's actions, the hotel reservation unit 204 accesses the hotel room reservation site of the hotel where the user wishes to make a reservation. Specifically, the hotel reservation unit 204 accesses the room reservation site provided by the hotel server 10.

[0092] The hotel reservation unit 204 transmits the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, telephone number, email address, etc., to the hotel server 10 in response to the user's actions. Furthermore, the hotel reservation unit 204 makes a room reservation by inputting information such as the length of stay (scheduled check-in date, scheduled check-out date) and room type into the hotel server 10 in accordance with the user's actions.

[0093] The identity verification unit 205 is a means of verifying the identity of users who wish to use the luggage delivery service and remote check-in service. The identity verification unit 205 obtains the user's biometric information by photographing the user and performs identity verification using the biometric information obtained from the passport and the biometric information obtained from the photograph.

[0094] Specifically, the identity verification unit 205 acquires the user's biometric information (facial image) in response to a predetermined action by the user (for example, pressing the "remote check-in" button). For example, the identity verification unit 205 acquires the user's facial image through a so-called selfie.

[0095] Furthermore, when acquiring a captured facial image, the identity verification unit 205 may utilize technologies for acquiring facial images suitable for biometric authentication. For example, the identity verification unit 205 may use frontal facial imaging technology to acquire a frontal facial image, or liveness imaging technology to prevent fraud using photographs, etc.

[0096] When the user is instructed to take a selfie and a facial image of the user (photographed facial image) is obtained, the identity verification unit 205 performs identity verification using the facial image obtained by photographing the user (photographed facial image) and the facial image read from the passport (passport facial image).

[0097] The identity verification unit 205 performs one-to-one authentication using two facial images. The identity verification unit 205 determines whether the two facial images are substantially identical and verifies the identity of the user.

[0098] The identity verification unit 205 generates feature quantities from both the captured facial image and the passport facial image.

[0099] Regarding the feature generation process, existing technologies can be used, so a detailed explanation will be omitted. For example, the identity verification unit 205 extracts the eyes, nose, mouth, etc., from the face image as feature points. Then, the identity verification unit 205 calculates the position of each feature point and the distance between each feature point as feature quantities (generating a feature vector consisting of multiple feature quantities).

[0100] Next, the identity verification unit 205 performs a matching process (one-to-one matching) using the two generated feature quantities. Specifically, the identity verification unit 205 calculates the similarity between corresponding face images using the two feature quantities. Based on the result of thresholding the calculated similarity, the identity verification unit 205 determines whether the two images are face images of the same person. The similarity can be calculated using methods such as the chi-squared distance or the Euclidean distance. The greater the distance, the lower the similarity, and the closer the distance, the higher the similarity.

[0101] If the similarity is greater than a predetermined value (if the distance is shorter than a predetermined value), the identity verification unit 205 determines that identity verification was successful. If the similarity is less than or equal to the predetermined value, the identity verification unit 205 determines that identity verification failed.

[0102] If identity verification is successful, the identity verification unit 205 notifies the remote check-in control unit 206 of this fact.

[0103] The remote check-in control unit 206 is a means for performing control related to remote check-in.

[0104] The remote check-in control unit 206 includes functions as a requesting means and functions as an acquisition means.

[0105] The remote check-in control unit 206, acting as a requesting means, requests the server device 40 to check in to the hotel booked by the user. The remote check-in control unit 206, acting as an acquisition means, acquires from the server device 40 the first presentation information presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and the second presentation information presented to the hotel booked by the user.

[0106] If identity verification is successful, the remote check-in control unit 206 sends a check-in request to the server device 40, which includes the passport information (identity document information) stored in the memory unit 208.

[0107] The remote check-in control unit 206 receives a response (affirmative response, negative response) to the check-in request from the server device 40.

[0108] When an acknowledgment (remote check-in successful) is received, the remote check-in control unit 206 notifies the user that the remote check-in is complete and that the luggage delivery service is available. The remote check-in control unit 206 also stores the two 2D barcodes included in the acknowledgment (2D code at the time of request and 2D code at the time of receipt) in the storage unit 208.

[0109] If a negative response (remote check-in failed) is received, the remote check-in control unit 206 notifies the user that the remote check-in failed. Alternatively, the remote check-in control unit 206 may suggest that the user contact the hotel where they are staying.

[0110] The information display control unit 207 is a means for performing control over information displayed at the time of request and information displayed at the time of receipt. The information display control unit 207 displays first information (information displayed at the time of request; 2D code at the time of request) in response to a first operation by the user, and displays second information (information displayed at the time of receipt; 2D code at the time of receipt) in response to a second operation by the user.

[0111] When the user performs a predetermined action (for example, pressing the "Delivery Service" button), the information display control unit 207 displays the request information (request 2D code) stored in the storage unit 208 on the display.

[0112] When the user performs a predetermined action (for example, pressing the "Arrived at Hotel" button), the information display control unit 207 displays the information to be presented upon receipt (a 2D code for receipt) stored in the memory unit 208 on the display.

[0113] The memory unit 208 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the terminal 50.

[0114] [Hotel Server] Figure 10 shows an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of the hotel server 10 according to the embodiment disclosed herein. Referring to Figure 10, the hotel server 10 comprises a communication control unit 301, a reservation management unit 302, a check-in control unit 303, and a storage unit 304.

[0115] The communication control unit 301 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 301 receives data (packets) from terminal 50. The communication control unit 301 also transmits data to terminal 50. The communication control unit 301 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 301 transmits the data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules send and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 301. The communication control unit 301 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0116] The reservation management unit 302 is a means of managing hotel (room) reservations made by users. The reservation management unit 302 obtains the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, telephone number, email address, etc. from terminal 50 that accesses the room reservation site. Furthermore, the reservation management unit 302 obtains the user's desired length of stay, room type, etc.

[0117] The reservation management unit 302 obtains the user's name, length of stay, etc., by displaying a GUI, etc., on the terminal 50.

[0118] The reservation management unit 302 determines whether to accept the reservation once the user has finished selecting a room. The reservation management unit 302 makes this determination by referring to a database that manages room availability and other information.

[0119] Detailed explanations regarding room reservations are omitted. The reservation management department 302 will present information such as room availability and prices to users on the room reservation website. Users will decide which room to reserve, taking into account the purpose of their stay, the type of room, etc.

[0120] The reservation management unit 302 stores the name, gender, date of birth, address, telephone number, email address, and reservation information of the guest in the guest reservation management database. Specifically, the reservation management unit 302 adds a new entry to the guest reservation management database and stores the name, email address, and reservation information in that entry (see Figure 11).

[0121] Note that the hotel reservation management database shown in Figure 11 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored. Also, at the stage when a user's reservation is accepted, the hotel server 10 does not obtain the user's identification information (passport information).

[0122] When a guest checks out, the reservation management unit 302 deletes the entry corresponding to that guest (the entry in the guest reservation management database).

[0123] The check-in control unit 303 is a means for controlling the check-in process for guests with hotel reservations. The check-in control unit 303 processes the "check-in request" received from the hotel server 10.

[0124] Figure 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the check-in control unit 303 according to the embodiment disclosed herein. The operation of the check-in control unit 303 will be explained with reference to Figure 12.

[0125] Upon receiving a check-in request, the check-in control unit 303 searches the hotel reservation management database using the name or combination of name and date of birth obtained from the passport information included in the request as a key (search database; step S101).

[0126] If no corresponding entry exists, the check-in control unit 303 sets the result of the check-in process to "check-in failed".

[0127] If a corresponding entry exists, the check-in control unit 303 performs the check-in process for the hotel reservation holder identified by the search (step S102).

[0128] Specifically, if the processing date of the check-in request is not the scheduled check-in date of the guest identified by the above search, the check-in control unit 303 sets the check-in processing result to "check-in failed".

[0129] If the processing date of the check-in request is the scheduled check-in date of the guest, the check-in control unit 303 sets the result of the check-in process to "Check-in successful".

[0130] In this case, the check-in control unit 303 determines the room to be assigned to the guest. The check-in control unit 303 refers to a database that manages the status of rooms and determines a room that is suitable for the type of room reserved by the guest.

[0131] The check-in control unit 303 reflects the results of the check-in process in the hotel reservation management database (updates the database; step S103).

[0132] The check-in control unit 303 stores the passport information (identification information) included in the check-in request received from the terminal 50 (step S104). The check-in control unit 303 stores the passport information (identification information) in a database other than the accommodation reservation management database, if necessary.

[0133] The check-in control unit 303 notifies the user of the result of the check-in process. Specifically, the check-in control unit 303 sends a response to the check-in request to the server device 40 (step S105).

[0134] If the check-in process results in "check-in failed," the check-in control unit 303 sends a negative response to the server device 40 indicating this. When sending a negative response to the server device 40, the check-in control unit 303 discards the passport information obtained from the server device 40.

[0135] If the check-in process is successful, the check-in control unit 303 sends an acknowledgment to the server device 40. This acknowledgment includes the room number assigned by the check-in process, the reservation number corresponding to the reservation for which remote check-in has been completed, and hotel information.

[0136] Furthermore, the check-in control unit 303 performs processing according to the user identification information (reservation number) received from the hotel terminal 20. The check-in control unit 303 searches the hotel reservation management database using the acquired reservation number as a key and identifies the user (the user who has completed remote check-in). The check-in control unit 303 updates the status of the identified user to "checked in".

[0137] The memory unit 304 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the hotel server 10.

[0138] [Server equipment] Figure 13 is a diagram showing an example of the processing configuration (processing module) of a server device 40 according to the embodiment disclosed herein. Referring to Figure 13, the server device 40 comprises a communication control unit 401, a user registration control unit 402, a check-in control unit 403, and a storage unit 404.

[0139] The communication control unit 401 is a means for controlling communication with other devices. For example, the communication control unit 401 receives data (packets) from terminal 50. The communication control unit 401 also transmits data to terminal 50. The communication control unit 401 passes the data received from other devices to other processing modules. The communication control unit 401 transmits the data acquired from other processing modules to other devices. In this way, other processing modules transmit and receive data with other devices via the communication control unit 401. The communication control unit 401 has the function of a receiving unit that receives data from other devices and the function of a transmitting unit that transmits data to other devices.

[0140] The user registration control unit 402 is a means for executing control related to user registration. The user registration control unit 402 obtains the user's name, gender, date of birth, address, login information (ID, password), and contact information (telephone number, email address, etc.) on the user registration page.

[0141] The user registration control unit 402 stores the acquired names and other information in the user management database (see Figure 14). Note that the user management database shown in Figure 14 is an example and is not intended to limit the items to be stored.

[0142] The check-in control unit 403 is a means for performing control related to check-in (remote check-in).

[0143] The check-in control unit 403 includes functions as a requesting means, a generating means, and a providing means.

[0144] As a requesting means, the check-in control unit 403 requests the hotel server 10 of the hotel booked by the user to perform the check-in procedure for that user, in response to a request from the user. As a generating means, the check-in control unit 403 generates first presentation information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second presentation information to be presented to the hotel booked by the user, once the hotel server 10 has successfully completed the check-in procedure. As a providing means, the check-in control unit 403 provides (notifies) the user of the generated first presentation information (request presentation information; request 2D code) and second presentation information (receipt presentation information; receipt 2D code).

[0145] Figure 15 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the check-in control unit 403 according to the embodiment disclosed herein. The operation of the check-in control unit 403 will be explained with reference to Figure 15.

[0146] When the check-in request is received from terminal 50, the check-in control unit 403 forwards the received check-in request to the hotel server 10 of each hotel (step S201). The check-in control unit 403 requests the hotel to allow the user to check in remotely by sending the check-in request to the hotel server 10.

[0147] The check-in control unit 403 receives responses (affirmative responses, negative responses) to check-in requests from each hotel server 10 (step S202).

[0148] If the received response does not include an affirmative response (step S203, No branch), the check-in control unit 403 sends a negative response to the terminal 50 (step S204).

[0149] If the received response includes an affirmative response (step S203, Yes branch), the check-in control unit 403 generates a luggage ID to identify the user's luggage (step S205). The luggage ID can be any information that uniquely identifies the luggage. For example, the check-in control unit 403 may assign a unique value each time it processes a check-in request and use that as the luggage ID.

[0150] Once the luggage ID is generated, the check-in control unit 403 generates the information to be presented at the time of the request (step S206). Specifically, the check-in control unit 403 generates the information to be presented at the time of the request, which includes the hotel information contained in the acknowledgment received from the hotel server 10 and the luggage ID generated above. Furthermore, the check-in control unit 403 converts the hotel information and luggage ID into a two-dimensional barcode.

[0151] The check-in control unit 403 generates information to be presented upon pickup (step S207). Specifically, the check-in control unit 403 generates information to be presented upon pickup, including the room number, user identification information (reservation number) included in the acknowledgment received from the hotel server 10, and the luggage ID generated above. Furthermore, the check-in control unit 403 converts the room number, reservation number, and luggage ID into a two-dimensional barcode.

[0152] When the request information and the receipt information are generated, the check-in control unit 403 sends an acknowledgment to the terminal 50 (step S208). At that time, the check-in control unit 403 sends an acknowledgment to the terminal 50 that includes the generated request information and receipt information (request 2D code, receipt 2D code).

[0153] In this manner, the check-in control unit 403 sends a check-in request to the hotel server 10 that includes identification information relating to the user's identification document. When the hotel server 10 successfully completes the check-in, the check-in control unit 403 generates first presentation information (request presentation information) that includes hotel information and a luggage ID for identifying the luggage. Furthermore, the check-in control unit 403 generates second presentation information (receipt presentation information) that includes the room number assigned to the user by the hotel server 10's check-in procedure, the luggage ID, and user identification information that identifies the user. The check-in control unit 403 converts each of the first and second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode and sends the first two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the first presentation information and the second two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the second presentation information to the terminal 50 held by the user.

[0154] The memory unit 404 is a means for storing information necessary for the operation of the server device 40.

[0155] <Hotel Terminal> Examples of hotel terminals 20 include portable devices such as tablets and computers (personal computers, laptops). Hotel terminals 20 can be any device or equipment as long as it can receive operations from hotel staff and communicate with the hotel server 10. Furthermore, the configuration of hotel terminals 20 is obvious to those skilled in the art, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0156] <Delivery terminal> Examples of delivery terminals 30 include portable devices such as tablets and computers (personal computers, laptops). The delivery terminal 30 can be any device or equipment as long as it can receive operations from employees of the delivery company and print shipping labels. Furthermore, the configuration of the delivery terminal 30 is obvious to those skilled in the art, so a detailed explanation is omitted.

[0157] [System operation] Next, the operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described.

[0158] Figure 16 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation of the information processing system according to the embodiment disclosed herein. The operation of the information processing system according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 16.

[0159] Terminal 50 performs identity verification of the user in response to the user's actions (step S01).

[0160] If identity verification is successful, terminal 50 sends a check-in request to server device 40 (step S02).

[0161] The server device 40 forwards the check-in requests to the hotel server 10 of each hotel (step S03).

[0162] Each hotel server 10 performs the check-in process (step S04).

[0163] Each hotel server 10 sends a response to the check-in request according to the result of the check-in process (step S05). A hotel server 10 that successfully completes the check-in sends an affirmative response to the server device 40. A hotel server 10 that fails to complete the check-in sends a negative response to the server device 40.

[0164] Upon receiving an affirmative response (check-in successful), the server device 40 generates the information presented at the time of request and the information presented at the time of receipt (steps S06 and S07).

[0165] The server device 40 sends a response to the check-in request to the terminal 50 (step S08).

[0166] If there is a hotel server 10 that has successfully completed the check-in, the server device 40 sends an acknowledgment to the terminal 50 indicating that the remote check-in was successful. At that time, the server device 40 sends an acknowledgment to the terminal 50 that includes the two pieces of information generated above (information to be presented at the time of request and information to be presented at the time of receipt).

[0167] If no hotel server 10 exists that has successfully completed the check-in, the server device 40 sends a negative response to the terminal 50 indicating that the remote check-in failed.

[0168] Terminal 50 notifies the user of the remote check-in result (step S09).

[0169] Next, a modified example of the first embodiment will be described.

[0170] <Example 1> In the above embodiment, the case where the server device 40 transmits two 2D barcodes (a 2D barcode for request and a 2D barcode for receipt) to the terminal 50 was described. However, the server device 40 may transmit one 2D barcode to the terminal 50.

[0171] Specifically, the check-in control unit 403 converts the first presented information (information presented at the time of request) and the second presented information (information presented at the time of receipt) into a two-dimensional barcode.

[0172] More specifically, the check-in control unit 403 converts hotel information, luggage ID, room number, and user identification information (reservation number) into a two-dimensional code. The check-in control unit 403 then transmits an acknowledgment (response to the check-in request) containing the two-dimensional barcode to the terminal 50 held by the user.

[0173] Terminal 50 displays a 2D barcode received from server device 40 in response to user operations at the reception counter or hotel front desk.

[0174] The hotel terminal 20 obtains information necessary for the handover of keys and luggage from the displayed 2D barcode. Similarly, the delivery terminal 30 obtains information necessary for generating shipping labels from the displayed 2D barcode.

[0175] <Modification 2> In the above embodiment, the case was described in which the server device 40 generates a two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the information presented at the time of request and the information presented at the time of receipt. However, the two-dimensional barcode may also be generated by the terminal 50.

[0176] In this case, the server device 40 only needs to send an acknowledgment to the terminal 50 that includes hotel information, room number, luggage ID, reservation number, etc. The terminal 50 then uses the hotel information etc. received from the server device 40 to generate and display a request-based 2D code and a pickup-based 2D code.

[0177] <Variation 3> In the above embodiment, a case was described in which information is exchanged between terminal 50, hotel terminal 20, and delivery terminal 30 using a two-dimensional barcode. However, this information may also be transmitted and received between terminal 50 and hotel terminal 20, etc., using short-range wireless communication means such as Bluetooth® or NFC (Near Field Communication).

[0178] <Modification 4> The above embodiment describes a case where a remote check-in request is made from a terminal 50 held by the user. However, such a request may be made from a device or apparatus other than the terminal 50. For example, a remote check-in request may be made from an airport terminal (not shown in Figure 3, etc.) installed at the airport.

[0179] In this case, the airport terminal retrieves the passport information from the passport held by the user. The airport terminal sends a check-in request containing the retrieved passport information to the server device 40. When the hotel server 10 successfully performs the remote check-in of the user, the server device 40 sends two 2D barcodes (a 2D code at the time of request and a 2D code at the time of receipt) to the airport terminal.

[0180] The airport terminal prints each of the two received 2D barcodes.

[0181] The user presents one of the two printed 2D barcodes to the staff waiting at the reception counter when making a request. The user then presents the other 2D barcode to the staff waiting at the hotel front desk when receiving their item.

[0182] Alternatively, the request for remote check-in may be made by a delivery terminal 30 installed at the reception counter. In this case, the delivery terminal 30 should print a delivery slip using the information received from the server device 40, and also print a 2D code (a 2D barcode to be presented to the hotel upon receipt).

[0183] <Modification 5> When the hotel server 10 receives a room reservation from a user, it may notify the server device 40 of the user's reservation information (e.g., hotel name, reservation number) and the user's name. The server device 40 may identify the user who made the hotel reservation based on the name and store the reservation information in the account of the identified user.

[0184] In this case, the server device 40 does not need to send check-in requests to each hotel server 10 included in the information processing system, but rather needs to send check-in requests to the hotel server 10 of the hotel where the user made the reservation.

[0185] More specifically, the check-in control unit 403 should send a check-in request, including the user's name, reservation number, passport information (identification information), etc., to the hotel server 10 of the hotel where the user made the reservation.

[0186] The hotel server 10 can then perform the check-in process using the acquired reservation number and passport information.

[0187] <Variation 6> The above embodiment described a case where the information processing system includes a server device 40. However, the information processing system does not necessarily have to include a server device 40. In this case, it is sufficient for each hotel's hotel server 10 to have all or part of the functions of the server device 40.

[0188] Specifically, when a user makes a room reservation, the user's terminal 50 stores information about the hotel where the reservation was made (such as the address of the hotel server 10) and the reservation number. If the user requests remote check-in, the terminal 50 (application) sends a check-in request, including the reservation number and passport information, to the hotel server 10 of the reserved hotel.

[0189] The hotel server 10 identifies the user who made the reservation using the reservation number, etc., and performs the check-in process. The hotel server 10 determines the room to be assigned to the user and generates information to be presented at the time of request and information to be presented at the time of receipt.

[0190] Upon successful remote check-in, the hotel server 10 transmits the generated request information and pickup information (two 2D barcodes) to the terminal 50.

[0191] As described above, in the information processing system according to the first embodiment, when a user completes remote check-in, a luggage ID is issued to identify the user's luggage. The server device 100 generates two 2D barcodes, including the luggage ID, and transmits them to the user's terminal 50. The user visits a reception counter at the airport with their luggage and presents a 2D barcode for luggage delivery service (request 2D code) to the staff waiting at the reception counter. The staff operates the delivery terminal 30 and prints a shipping slip containing the luggage ID from the presented 2D barcode. When the user arrives at their hotel, they present a 2D barcode for receiving their luggage and key (receive 2D code) to the staff waiting at the hotel front desk. The staff operates the hotel terminal 20 and obtains the luggage ID and room number from the presented 2D barcode. The staff hands the user the luggage with a shipping slip containing the same luggage ID and the key corresponding to the room number. In this way, the server device 40 creates information to be presented to the delivery company and information to be presented to the hotel, so users do not need to manually write their name, nationality, etc. on shipping slips or hotel ledgers. As a result, the convenience for the user is improved.

[0192] Furthermore, terminal 50 verifies the user's identity before they can use the luggage delivery service or remote check-in. Through this identity verification, terminal 50 ensures that the name on the passport submitted to the hotel matches the name on the operator of terminal 50. As a result, fraudulent check-ins using someone else's passport information are prevented.

[0193] Next, we will describe the hardware of each device that makes up the information processing system. Figure 17 shows an example of the hardware configuration of server device 40.

[0194] The server device 40 can be configured using an information processing device (a so-called computer), and has the configuration illustrated in Figure 17. For example, the server device 40 includes a processor 311, memory 312, input / output interface 313, and communication interface 314, etc. The components of the processor 311, etc., are connected by an internal bus or the like and are configured to communicate with each other.

[0195] However, the configuration shown in Figure 17 is not intended to limit the hardware configuration of the server device 40. The server device 40 may include hardware not shown, and it may not have to have an input / output interface 313 if necessary. Also, the number of processors 311 etc. included in the server device 40 is not intended to be limited to the example in Figure 17; for example, multiple processors 311 may be included in the server device 40.

[0196] The processor 311 is a programmable device such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), MPU (Micro Processing Unit), or DSP (Digital Signal Processor). Alternatively, the processor 311 may be a device such as an FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array) or ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit). The processor 311 executes various programs, including an operating system (OS).

[0197] Memory 312 includes RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), SSD (Solid State Drive), etc. Memory 312 stores the OS program, application programs, and various data.

[0198] The input / output interface 313 is an interface for a display device or input device (not shown). The display device is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The input device is, for example, a device that accepts user input such as a keyboard or mouse.

[0199] The communication interface 314 is a circuit, module, etc., that communicates with other devices. For example, the communication interface 314 includes a NIC (Network Interface Card), etc.

[0200] The functions of the server device 40 are realized by various processing modules. These processing modules are realized, for example, by the processor 311 executing a program stored in memory 312. The program can also be recorded on a computer-readable storage medium. The storage medium can be a non-transitory material such as semiconductor memory, hard disk, magnetic recording medium, or optical recording medium. In other words, the present invention can also be embodied as a computer program product. Furthermore, the program can be downloaded via a network or updated using the storage medium on which the program is stored. Moreover, the processing module may be realized by a semiconductor chip.

[0201] Furthermore, the hotel server 10, hotel terminal 20, delivery terminal 30, and terminal 50 can also be configured using information processing devices, similar to the server device 40. Since their basic hardware configuration is the same as that of the server device 40, a detailed explanation will be omitted.

[0202] The server device 40, which is an information processing device, is equipped with a computer, and its functions can be realized by having the computer execute a program. Furthermore, the server device 40 executes a control method for the server device 40 using this program.

[0203] [Differentiation] The configuration and operation of the information processing system described in the above embodiment are illustrative examples and are not intended to limit the system configuration.

[0204] The above embodiment described a case where the information presented at the time of request includes hotel information and a luggage ID. However, the information presented at the time of request may also include information that identifies the user (for example, name). In this case, the delivery terminal 30 may print a shipping slip containing the user's name, etc.

[0205] In the above embodiment, a case was described in which an account is created on the server device 40 in order for the user to enjoy the luggage delivery service and remote check-in service. However, such account creation may not be necessary. Alternatively, the server device 40 may perform identity verification using an identification document such as a passport when creating an account.

[0206] When transmitting passport information to the server device 40, the user's terminal 50 may obtain the user's consent to transmit the passport information. If the user's consent is not obtained, the terminal 50 will not transmit the check-in request including the passport information to the server device 40. In this case, the terminal 50 will notify the user that they will not be able to use the remote check-in service or baggage delivery service unless they transmit their passport information.

[0207] In the above embodiment, the case where the server device 40 receives an acknowledgment (successful check-in) from one of the multiple hotel servers 10 was described. However, it is also conceivable that the server device 40 may receive multiple acknowledgments due to reasons such as the user having booked multiple hotels on the same day. In this case, the server device 40 may inform the user via the terminal 50 that it has received notifications of successful check-in from multiple hotels and suggest that the user contact the hotel with the reservation.

[0208] The above embodiment describes a case where a hotel room is unlocked with a physical key. However, a hotel room may be a biometrically-enabled room that does not require a physical key for entry. In this case, when the hotel server 10 performs the check-in process, it stores the user's (booked guest's) facial image and the features generated from the facial image in the booked guest management database. The hotel server 10 can then obtain the biometric information (facial image) of the user attempting to enter the room from the authentication module installed in the room and authenticate the user using the biometric information stored in the booked guest management database.

[0209] The delivery terminal 30 may be managed and installed by multiple delivery companies. In this case, the delivery terminal 30 may select the most suitable delivery company to transport the user's luggage based on the acquired hotel information. For example, the delivery terminal 30 may select a delivery company according to the delivery destination and time slot.

[0210] The hotel server 10 may process the guest's checkout and settle the luggage delivery service fee along with the accommodation fee. The hotel server 10 can calculate the amount to be charged to the guest based on whether or not the luggage delivery service was used. In this case, the user can specify whether or not they want to use the luggage delivery service when making a room reservation.

[0211] In the above embodiment, the operation of the information processing system was explained assuming that the user is carrying one package. If a user is carrying multiple packages and these multiple packages are to be delivered by the package delivery service, the user informs the delivery company accordingly. The delivery company's staff can then operate the delivery terminal 30 to print the same number of delivery slips as the number of packages. Alternatively, the delivery terminal 30 may print delivery slips that include the number of packages received from the user and their sub-numbers. For example, if two packages are to be delivered by the package delivery service and the server device 40 notifies the delivery ID of "A001", then package IDs with sub-numbers such as "A001-1" and "A001-2" may be printed.

[0212] In the above embodiment, the case was described in which the server device 40 notifies the terminal 50 of information to be presented at the time of pickup (a 2D code for pickup) including the room number. However, the server device 40 may also notify the terminal 50 of information to be presented at the time of pickup that does not include the room number. More specifically, the server device 40 may transmit information to be presented at the time of pickup, including user identification information (reservation number) and luggage ID, to the terminal 50. In this case, the hotel terminal 20, which has obtained the information to be presented at the time of pickup (a 2D code for pickup), may obtain the room number assigned to the user (the person who made the reservation) by transmitting the user identification information to the hotel server 10.

[0213] The above embodiment describes a case where a room reservation is made by the hotel server 10. However, such room reservations may also be made through an OTA (Online Travel Agent).

[0214] In the embodiments described above, we assumed a foreigner entering Japan and explained the case in which luggage delivery services and remote check-in services are provided. However, the information processing system disclosed in this application can also be applied to providing luggage delivery services and remote check-in services to entrants entering countries other than Japan.

[0215] The above embodiment describes a case where the delivery terminal 30 is included in the information processing system. However, the information processing system does not necessarily have to include the delivery terminal 30. In this case, the terminal 50 may directly transmit the hotel information and package ID to the delivery company's server. The delivery company's server may notify the delivery company's employees (using terminals held by the employees) of the acquired hotel information and package ID. The employees use the acquired information to carry out the package delivery work.

[0216] In the above embodiment, it was explained that terminal 50 generates passport information from the passport held by the user. Terminal 50 may also transmit the image data of the passport itself or text information (text data) containing the passport information to the hotel server 10 as passport information. In this case, the hotel server 10 may extract the passport information from the image data of the passport.

[0217] The room number may be determined when the user arrives at the hotel, rather than during remote check-in. Specifically, the user may be assigned a room when they present the QR code at the hotel front desk upon receipt. The hotel server 10 obtains the reservation number via the hotel terminal 20 and identifies the guest based on the obtained reservation number. The hotel server 10 assigns a room to the identified guest and notifies the hotel terminal 20 of the room number of the assigned room.

[0218] Information regarding the delivery status of the package may be notified to the user. For example, the server device 10 periodically or at predetermined intervals transmits the package ID to the delivery company's server (not shown in Figure 3, etc.) to obtain the status of the package corresponding to that package ID (in transit, arrived at the hotel, etc.). The server device 10 sends the obtained package status to the user's contact information (telephone number, email address). The user's terminal 50 notifies the user of the received package status. In addition, if the user's terminal 50 has received the above package status and the user has been assigned a room, it obtains whether the user wishes to have the package delivered to the assigned room using a GUI, etc. The terminal 50 (dedicated application) notifies the hotel (hotel server 10, hotel terminal 20) of the user's wishes (wish to have the package delivered to the room, wish not to have the package delivered to the room) via the server device 40. For example, when the hotel staff receives the 2D barcode from the user upon receipt, if the user's package has been delivered to the room, they hand the room key to the user.

[0219] The room key may be a card with an integrated circuit (IC) chip or a 2D barcode. Furthermore, these keys may not be handed out by staff but automatically distributed from a kiosk terminal or similar device. Alternatively, a 2D barcode equivalent to the room key may be stored on the user's device 50 (smartphone), or an application other than a dedicated application may function as a digital key.

[0220] In the above embodiment, the case in which the hotel reservation management database is configured inside the hotel server 10 was described, but the database may be built on an external database server or the like. In other words, some functions of the hotel server 10 may be implemented on another server. More specifically, it is sufficient that the "check-in control unit (check-in control means)" etc. described above is implemented on any device included in the system.

[0221] The form of data transmission and reception between each device (server device 40, hotel server 10, terminal 50, etc.) is not particularly limited, but the data transmitted and received between these devices may be encrypted. Passport information and the like are transmitted and received between these devices, and it is desirable that encrypted data be transmitted and received in order to properly protect this information.

[0222] In the flowcharts (sequence diagrams) used in the above description, multiple processes (processes) are shown in order, but the execution order of the processes performed in the embodiment is not limited to the order in which they are shown. In the embodiment, the order of the illustrated processes can be changed to the extent that it does not impair the content, for example, by executing each process in parallel.

[0223] The embodiments described above are explained in detail to facilitate understanding of the disclosure, and it is not intended that all the configurations described above are necessary. Furthermore, when multiple embodiments are described, each embodiment may be used individually or in combination. For example, it is possible to replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with those of another embodiment, or to add configurations from other embodiments to the configuration of one embodiment. In addition, it is possible to add, delete, or replace parts of the configuration of one embodiment with those of another.

[0224] As described above, the industrial applicability of the present invention is clear, and it is particularly suitable for application to information processing systems that provide services such as package delivery and remote check-in services to users.

[0225] Some or all of the above embodiments may also be described as follows, but are not limited to the following:

[0226] [Note 1] A request means that, in response to a request from the user, requests the hotel server of the hotel reserved by the user to perform the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, a generation means generates a first presentation information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and a second presentation information to be presented to the hotel that the user has booked. A means for providing the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user, A server device equipped with the following features.

[0227] [Note 2] The generation means is a server device according to Appendix 1 that generates the first presentation information, which includes hotel information relating to the hotel and a luggage ID for identifying the luggage.

[0228] [Note 3] The server device described in Appendix 2 generates the second presentation information, which includes the room number assigned to the user by the check-in procedure, the luggage ID, and user identification information that identifies the user.

[0229] [Note 4] The generation means converts each of the first and second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode. The providing means is a server device as described in Appendix 3, which transmits a first two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the first presentation information and a second two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the second presentation information to a terminal held by the user.

[0230] [Note 5] The generation means converts the first presentation information and the second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode. The aforementioned means of providing the information is the server device described in Appendix 3, which transmits the two-dimensional barcode to a terminal held by the user.

[0231] [Note 6] The request means is a server device according to any one of the appendices 1 to 5, which transmits a check-in request including identification information relating to the user's identification document to the hotel server.

[0232] [Note 7] A request mechanism that sends a request to the server device for the user to check into the hotel they have booked, An acquisition means for acquiring, from the server device, first presentation information presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second presentation information presented to the hotel that the user has booked. A terminal equipped with the following features.

[0233] [Note 8] The terminal according to Appendix 7, further comprising a display information control means for displaying the first display information in response to a first operation by the user and displaying the second display information in response to a second operation by the user.

[0234] [Note 9] A request process in which, in response to a request from the user, the system requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to execute the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, it generates a first presentation information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and a second presentation information to be presented to the hotel that the user has booked, in a generation process. A provision step of providing the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user, A control method for a server device, comprising the following features.

[0235] [Note 10] The control method for the server device described in Appendix 9, wherein the generation step generates the first presentation information, which includes hotel information relating to the hotel and a luggage ID for identifying the luggage.

[0236] [Note 11] The generation step is a control method for a server device as described in Appendix 10, which generates the second presentation information including the room number assigned to the user by the check-in procedure, the luggage ID, and user identification information that identifies the user.

[0237] [Note 12] The generation process converts the first presentation information and the second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode, The method for controlling the server device as described in Appendix 11, wherein the provision step involves transmitting a first two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the first presentation information and a second two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the second presentation information to a terminal held by the user.

[0238] [Note 13] The generation process converts the first presentation information and the second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode. The aforementioned provisioning step is a control method for the server device described in Appendix 11, which involves transmitting the two-dimensional barcode to a terminal held by the user.

[0239] [Note 14] The request step is a control method for a server device according to any one of the appendices 9 to 13, which involves sending a check-in request including identification information relating to the user's identification document to the hotel server.

[0240] [Note 15] The computer installed in the server device Request processing, which, in response to a request from the user, requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to execute the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, it generates a first presentation information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and a second presentation information to be presented to the hotel that the user has booked. A provision process that provides the generated first presentation information and second presentation information to the user, A computer-readable storage medium that stores a program for executing a computer.

[0241] [Note 16] The storage medium described in Appendix 15 generates the first presentation information, which includes hotel information relating to the hotel and a luggage ID for identifying the luggage.

[0242] [Note 17] The storage medium described in Appendix 16 generates the second presentation information, which includes the room number assigned to the user by the check-in procedure, the baggage ID, and user identification information that identifies the user.

[0243] [Note 18] The generation process converts the first presentation information and the second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode, The storage medium described in Appendix 17 transmits a first two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the first presented information and a second two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the second presented information to a terminal held by the user.

[0244] [Note 19] The generation process converts the first presentation information and the second presentation information into a two-dimensional barcode. The aforementioned provision process involves transmitting the two-dimensional barcode to a terminal held by the user, using the storage medium described in Appendix 17.

[0245] [Note 20] The storage medium described in any one of the appendices 15 to 19 transmits a check-in request, including identification information relating to the user's identification document, to the hotel server.

[0246] Furthermore, some or all of the configurations described in Appendices 2 to 6, which are subordinate to Appendice 1 above, may also be subordinate to Appendices 9 and 15 in the same way as those described in Appendices 2 to 6. Moreover, not limited to Appendices 1, 9 and 15, some or all of the configurations described as appendices may also be subordinate to various hardware, software, various recording means for recording software, or systems, without departing from the embodiments described above.

[0247] Furthermore, each disclosure of the above-mentioned prior art documents cited herein is incorporated herein by reference. Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments. It will be understood by those skilled in the art that these embodiments are merely illustrative and that various modifications are possible without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. That is, the present invention naturally includes the entire disclosure, including the claims, and various modifications and alterations that can be made by those skilled in the art in accordance with the technical idea. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0248] 10 Hotel Servers 20 Hotel Terminals 30 Delivery terminals 40 Server Devices 50 devices 100 Server Devices 101 Request means 102 Generation means 103 Means of provision 201 Communication Control Unit 202 User Registration Section 203 Department for Acquiring Identity Document Information 204 Hotel Reservations Department 205 Identity Verification Department 206 Remote Check-in Control Unit 207 Information Display Control Unit 208 Storage section 301 Communication Control Unit 302 Reservation Management Department 303 Check-in Control Unit 304 Storage section 311 Processors 312 memory 313 Input / Output Interfaces 314 Communication Interface 401 Communication Control Unit 402 User Registration Control Unit 403 Check-in Control Unit 404 Storage section

Claims

1. A request means that, in response to a request from the user, requests the hotel server of the hotel reserved by the user to perform the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, it acquires the following: first information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second information to be presented to the hotel that the user has booked. Output means for outputting the acquired first presentation information and second presentation information, An information processing device equipped with the following features.

2. The information processing device according to claim 1, wherein the output means outputs the first presentation information including hotel information relating to the hotel and a luggage ID for identifying the luggage.

3. The information processing device according to claim 2, wherein the output means outputs the second presentation information, which includes the room number assigned to the user by the check-in procedure, the luggage ID, and user identification information that identifies the user.

4. The acquisition means acquires a two-dimensional barcode obtained by converting the first presentation information and the second presentation information, respectively. The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the output means outputs a first two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the first presentation information and a second two-dimensional barcode corresponding to the second presentation information.

5. The acquisition means acquires a two-dimensional barcode that has been converted to include the first presentation information and the second presentation information, The information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the output means outputs the two-dimensional barcode.

6. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the request means transmits a check-in request including identification information relating to the user's identification document to the hotel server.

7. A request means that, in response to a request from the user, requests the hotel server of the hotel reserved by the user to perform the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, a control means enables the user to utilize a service in which the user's luggage is delivered to the hotel by a delivery company. An information processing device equipped with the following features.

8. A request process in which, in response to a request from the user, the system requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to execute the user's check-in procedure, Upon successful completion of the check-in procedure, the hotel server acquires the following: a first presentation information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and a second presentation information to be presented to the hotel with which the user made a reservation. Output step, which outputs the acquired first presentation information and second presentation information, A control method for an information processing device, comprising the above.

9. A request process in which, in response to a request from the user, the system requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to execute the user's check-in procedure, A control step, in which, upon successful check-in by the hotel server, enables the user to utilize a service in which the user's luggage is delivered to the hotel by a delivery company. A control method for an information processing device, comprising the above.

10. The computer installed in the information processing device, Request processing, which, in response to a request from the user, requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to execute the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, it performs an acquisition process to acquire: first information to be presented to the delivery company that delivers the user's luggage to the hotel, and second information to be presented to the hotel that the user has booked. Output processing to output the acquired first presentation information and second presentation information, A program to execute.

11. The computer installed in the information processing device, Request processing, which, in response to a request from the user, requests the hotel server of the hotel booked by the user to execute the user's check-in procedure, When the hotel server successfully completes the check-in procedure, it performs a control process that enables the user to use a service in which the user's luggage is delivered to the hotel by a delivery company. A program to execute.

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