Grouping program, grouping storage medium, grouping method, and grouping device

Abstract

This process involves the arbitrary grouping of multiple devices. [Solution] The grouping program is characterized by causing the computer of the terminal device 30 to perform the following: a grouping signal distribution process which broadcasts a self-grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and identifies the self-device; a group candidate setting process which, when a grouping signal of a predetermined strength or greater that identifies the other device is continuously obtained from another device for a predetermined time, sets the other device as a group candidate; a group identification information issuance process which sends a group approval request to the other device that has become a group candidate and issues group identification information to the other device that has given an approval response; and an approval reply process which sends an approval response when a group approval request is obtained from another device.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a grouping program for grouping multiple devices, a storage medium for grouping, a grouping method, and a grouping device.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a technique for performing grouping between a master unit of a wireless system arranged in a building of a facility and a plurality of slave units is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1). According to such a technique, information sharing and the like between a plurality of devices can be efficiently performed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003] ]>

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Here, in recent years, for example, for the use of group privilege information such as group discounts in stores, there is a desire to freely group a plurality of devices such as terminal devices of a plurality of users moving outdoors or the like without the need for the above-described master unit or the like. And there is a desire to receive distribution of content information corresponding to such grouping. However, at present, no effective proposal has been made for technologies that meet these demands.

[0005] Therefore, an example of the problem of the present invention is to provide a grouping program for free grouping of a plurality of devices, a storage medium for grouping, a grouping method, and a grouping device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] It should be noted that in the provided text, there is an error in the original "

特許文献

特許文献1

[0007] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objectives, the grouping storage medium of the present invention is characterized by storing the above-mentioned grouping program.

[0008] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objective, the grouping method of the present invention is a grouping method performed by a grouping device, comprising: a grouping signal distribution processing step of broadcasting a self-grouping signal usable for grouping with other devices; a group candidate setting processing step of setting the other device as a group candidate when a grouping signal from another device is obtained from the other device; an issuance processing step of sending a group approval request to the other device that has become a group candidate, and issuing group identification information to the other device that identifies the group and identifies the constituent devices of the group when an approval response is obtained from the other device; and a group approval request from the other device. The system includes an approval response processing step which returns the approval response upon receiving an approval request, and the grouping signal distribution processing step which distributes group identification information that identifies the group as the self-machine grouping signal if the self-machine belongs to the group, and distributes individual identification information that identifies the self-machine as the self-machine grouping signal if the self-machine does not belong to the group, and the group candidate setting processing step and the issuance processing step which are processing steps which set the group candidates and issue the group identification information according to the type of other-machine grouping signal obtained from the other machine.

[0009] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objectives, the grouping device of the present invention comprises: a grouping signal distribution processing unit that broadcasts a self-grouping signal usable for grouping with other units; a group candidate setting processing unit that sets the other unit as a group candidate when it receives a grouping signal from another unit; an issuing processing unit that sends a group approval request to the other unit that has become a group candidate and issues group identification information to the other unit that has received an approval response, identifying the group and the units that make up the group; and an approval response processing unit that returns the approval response when it receives the group approval request from the other unit. The grouping signal distribution processing unit distributes group identification information that identifies the group as the self-grouping signal when the self-grouping unit belongs to the group, and distributes individual identification information that identifies the self-grouping signal when the self-grouping unit does not belong to the group. The group candidate setting processing unit and the issuing processing unit set the group candidate and issue the group identification information according to the type of other-unit grouping signal received from the other unit.

[0010] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objectives, the content distribution program is characterized in that it causes a computer to perform a group benefit generation process that generates group benefit information relating to benefits for using the specific store within the group, upon obtaining from a terminal device content identification information relating to a specific store, along with group information indicating that the terminal device is part of a group with other terminal devices, and to perform a content delivery process that sends the content information of the specific store and the group benefit information to the terminal device.

[0011] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objectives, the storage medium for content distribution is characterized by storing the above-mentioned content distribution program.

[0012] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objectives, the content distribution method is characterized by comprising: a group benefit generation step, which generates group benefit information relating to benefits for use of the specified store within the group, when a terminal device acquires from the terminal device content identification information relating to a specific store, along with group information indicating that the terminal device is part of a group with other terminal devices; and a content delivery step, which sends the content information of the specific store and the group benefit information to the terminal device.

[0013] Furthermore, in order to solve the aforementioned problems and achieve the objectives, the content distribution device is characterized by comprising: a group benefit generation unit that generates group benefit information relating to benefits for use of the specified store within the group when it obtains from a terminal device content identification information relating to a specific store, along with group information indicating that the terminal device is part of a group with other terminal devices; and a content transmission unit that sends the content information of the specific store and the group benefit information to the terminal device. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an information distribution system for delivering content information from stores. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of a device constructed by a computer executing a program on the server shown. [Figure 3] This is a schematic diagram showing the primary content ID and secondary content ID. [Figure 4] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of user information. [Figure 5] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of store usage history information. [Figure 6] This is a schematic diagram showing an example of store information. [Figure 7] This is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of additional information. [Figure 8] This is a schematic diagram showing various types of information used to update the distribution conditions. [Figure 9]It is a schematic diagram showing how the distribution conditions are updated based on various information shown in FIG. 8. [Figure 10] It is a schematic block diagram showing functional blocks of a device constructed by a computer in the store terminal device shown in FIG. 1 executing a program. [Figure 11] It is a schematic block diagram showing functional blocks of a device constructed by a computer in the terminal device shown in FIG. 1 executing a program. [Figure 12] It is a diagram showing from the start to the middle of a flowchart representing information distribution processing. [Figure 13] It is a diagram showing from the continuation of FIG. 12 to the middle of a flowchart representing information distribution processing. [Figure 14] It is a diagram showing from the continuation of FIG. 13 to the middle of a flowchart representing information distribution processing. [Figure 15] It is a diagram showing from the continuation of FIG. 14 to the middle of a flowchart representing information distribution processing. [Figure 16] It is a diagram showing from the continuation of FIG. 15 to the end of a flowchart representing information distribution processing. [Figure 17] It is a diagram showing a flowchart representing processing related to the start of grouping among a plurality of terminal devices in the information distribution system shown in FIG. 1. [Figure 18] It is a diagram showing from the start to the middle of a flowchart representing grouping. [Figure 19] It is a diagram showing from the continuation of FIG. 18 to the end of a flowchart representing grouping. [Figure 20] It is a flowchart representing group confirmation / exclusion processing executed after grouping. [Figure 21] It is a flowchart representing grouping signal distribution processing.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below. The grouping program according to the embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to perform grouping signal distribution processing, group candidate setting processing, group identification information issuance processing, and approval reply processing. The grouping signal distribution processing is the process of broadcasting a local grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and identifies the local device. The group candidate setting processing is the process of setting another device as a group candidate when a grouping signal of another device of a predetermined strength or higher that identifies the other device is continuously obtained from that device for a predetermined time. The group identification information issuance processing is the process of sending a group approval request to the other device that has become a group candidate and issuing group identification information that identifies the group to the other device that has given an approval response. The approval reply processing is the process of sending an approval response when a group approval request is obtained from another device.

[0016] According to the grouping program of this embodiment, the local device can perform grouping by issuing group identification information based on the strength and continuity of the grouping signal distributed to other devices via broadcast, and the group approval request and approval response to other devices. Furthermore, it is also possible to have other devices perform grouping based on the local device's distribution of the grouping signal via broadcast and the approval response to the group approval request from other devices. In other words, according to the grouping program of this embodiment, multiple devices running the program can be freely grouped without requiring a specific master device or the like. Thus, the grouping program of this embodiment is a program related to the free grouping of multiple devices.

[0017] In this embodiment, the grouping program causes the computer to further execute a content acquisition process. The content acquisition process involves acquiring content identification information related to a specific store and then sending group information indicating that it constitutes a group to the store terminal or server of that specific store. Furthermore, this content acquisition process acquires content information for the specific store and benefit information related to benefits for use within the group of specific stores.

[0018] This configuration is preferable because it allows users to obtain benefit information related to the benefits of use within a group, depending on the group's structure.

[0019] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the group identification information is identification information that identifies the group and also identifies the constituent machines of that group. The grouping signal distribution process distributes the group identification information as a machine grouping signal if the machine belongs to a group. Furthermore, if the machine does not belong to a group, the process distributes individual identification information that identifies the machine as a machine grouping signal. The group candidate setting process and group identification information issuance process set group candidates and issue group identification information according to the type of other machine grouping signal obtained from other machines.

[0020] This configuration allows for more flexible grouping, depending on the type of grouping signal, such as setting up groups with individual units, adding individual devices to groups, and setting up even larger groups with other groups.

[0021] Furthermore, the grouping program of this embodiment causes the computer to perform a group exclusion setting process and a confirmation reply process. The group exclusion setting process is a process that sends a confirmation request to all components of the group to confirm the existence of a component if group identification information of a predetermined strength or higher is not obtained from one of the components of the group within a predetermined time. Furthermore, if no confirmation reply is obtained from any of the components, this group exclusion setting process excludes the aforementioned component from the group. The confirmation reply process is a process that sends a confirmation reply when a confirmation request is obtained from any of the components of the group.

[0022] This configuration allows for efficient removal from a group via group identification information if a user of any of the constituent machines physically leaves the group. Furthermore, by sending an acknowledgment request to all constituent machines in the group, if a user of one constituent machine has moved away unintentionally, another user of a constituent machine can notice this and send an acknowledgment on their behalf. Thus, the above configuration allows for efficient and flexible removal of a constituent machine from a group.

[0023] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the group identification information issuance process discards the group identification information of a group when a component is excluded from the group by the group exclusion setting process. In addition, if there are other component units in the group besides the current unit, the group identification information issuance process issues new group identification information that identifies the new group excluding the aforementioned component unit.

[0024] This configuration allows for flexible group management; for example, when one component unit leaves, the group can be dissolved depending on whether other components exist besides the unit itself, or a new group can be formed with the remaining components.

[0025] Furthermore, the grouping storage medium according to the embodiment of the present invention stores the above-described grouping program.

[0026] According to the storage medium of this embodiment, free grouping can be performed by reading the above-mentioned grouping program and executing it on a computer. In other words, the storage medium of this embodiment is a storage medium related to free grouping of multiple devices.

[0027] Furthermore, the grouping method according to the embodiment of the present invention comprises a grouping signal distribution step, a group candidate setting step, a group identification information issuance step, and an approval reply step. The grouping signal distribution step is a step of broadcasting a local grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and identifies the local device. The group candidate setting step is a step of setting another device as a group candidate when a grouping signal of another device of a predetermined strength or higher that identifies the other device is continuously obtained from the other device for a predetermined time. The group identification information issuance step is a step of sending a group approval request to the other device that has become a group candidate and issuing group identification information that identifies the group to the other device that has given an approval response. The approval reply step is a step of sending an approval response when a group approval request is obtained from the other device.

[0028] According to the grouping method of this embodiment, a device can perform grouping based on grouping signals distributed by other devices, and can also cause other devices to perform grouping based on grouping signals distributed by the device. In other words, according to the grouping method of this embodiment, multiple devices performing the method can be freely grouped without requiring a specific master device. Thus, the grouping method of this embodiment is a method for freely grouping multiple devices.

[0029] Furthermore, the grouping device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a grouping signal distribution unit, a group candidate setting unit, a group identification information issuing unit, and an approval reply unit. The grouping signal distribution unit broadcasts a self-grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other units and identifies the self-unit. The group candidate setting unit sets another unit as a group candidate when it continuously receives a grouping signal from another unit of a predetermined strength or higher that identifies the other unit for a predetermined period of time. The group identification information issuing unit sends a group approval request to the other unit that has become a group candidate and issues group identification information that identifies the group to the other unit that has given an approval response. The approval reply unit replies an approval response when it receives a group approval request from another unit.

[0030] According to the grouping device of this embodiment, the device itself can perform grouping based on grouping signals distributed by other devices, and can also cause other devices to perform grouping based on grouping signals distributed by the device itself. In other words, according to the grouping method of this embodiment, multiple devices, each acting as a grouping device, can freely perform grouping without requiring a specific master device. Thus, the grouping device of this embodiment is a device for freely grouping multiple devices.

[0031] Furthermore, the content distribution program according to the embodiment of the present invention causes a computer to perform a group benefit generation process and a content delivery process. The group benefit generation process generates group benefit information when it obtains from a terminal device content identification information related to a specific store, along with group information indicating that the terminal device is part of a group with other terminal devices. The group benefit information is information relating to benefits for group use of a specific store. The content delivery process sends the content information of the specific store and the group benefit information to the terminal device.

[0032] According to the content distribution program of this embodiment, in response to the acquisition of group information from a terminal device, group benefit information related to benefits for group use can be provided to the terminal device along with the content information. In other words, according to the content distribution program of this embodiment, content information can be distributed according to the grouping on the terminal device. Thus, the content distribution program of this embodiment is a program that allows for flexible grouping of multiple devices.

[0033] Furthermore, the storage medium for content distribution according to the embodiment of the present invention stores the above-mentioned content distribution program.

[0034] According to the storage medium of this embodiment, content information can be distributed according to grouping by reading the above-mentioned content distribution program and executing it on a computer. In other words, the storage medium of this embodiment is a storage medium that allows for flexible grouping of multiple devices.

[0035] Furthermore, the grouping method according to the embodiment of the present invention comprises a group benefit generation step and a content delivery step. The group benefit generation step is a step of generating group benefit information when a terminal device receives content identification information related to a specific store, along with group information indicating that the terminal device is part of a group with other terminal devices. The group benefit information is information relating to benefits related to group use of a specific store. The content delivery step is a step of sending the content information of the specific store and the group benefit information to the terminal device.

[0036] According to the content distribution method of this embodiment, in response to the acquisition of group information from the terminal device, group benefit information relating to benefits for group use can be provided to the terminal device along with the content information. In other words, according to the content distribution method of this embodiment, content information can be distributed according to the grouping on the terminal device. Thus, the content distribution method of this embodiment is a method for freely grouping multiple devices.

[0037] Furthermore, the content distribution device according to an embodiment of the present invention comprises a group benefit generation unit and a content delivery unit. The group benefit generation unit generates group benefit information when it obtains from a terminal device content identification information relating to a specific store, along with group information indicating that the terminal device is part of a group with other terminal devices. The group benefit information is information relating to benefits related to group use of a specific store. The content delivery unit sends the content information of the specific store and the group benefit information to the terminal device.

[0038] According to the content distribution device of this embodiment, in response to the acquisition of group information from a terminal device, group benefit information related to benefits for group use can be provided to the terminal device along with the content information. In other words, according to the content distribution device of this embodiment, content information can be distributed according to the grouping on the terminal device. Thus, the content distribution device of this embodiment is a device that allows for flexible grouping of multiple devices. [Examples]

[0039] The following describes an embodiment that solves the problem of performing processing related to the free grouping of multiple devices, with reference to the figures.

[0040] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing an information distribution system for delivering store content information.

[0041] The information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1 comprises a server 10, store terminal devices 20 installed in each of the multiple stores SH, multiple terminal devices 30 each carried by users, and a wireless / wired communication network 40 connecting these devices.

[0042] Here, regarding multiple store SHs, in the following explanation, when we focus on one store SH, we will refer to it as "Specific Store SH1," and when we refer to all stores, we will simply refer to it as "Store SH." Also, regarding multiple terminal devices 30, when we focus on one terminal device 30, we will use the designations "First Terminal Device 31" and "Second Terminal Device 32."

[0043] In the information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1, the store terminal device 20 broadcasts information for store and product promotion both inside and outside the store. When a user passes near the store SH, the terminal device 30 receives the broadcast information from the store terminal device 20 and, after exchanging various information with the server 10 via the communication network 40, acquires electronic coupons and other items related to store use. In addition, information is exchanged via broadcast between multiple terminal devices 30, and electronic coupons and other items can also be acquired through the exchange of various information between these terminals and with the server 10. Furthermore, grouping of multiple terminal devices 30 into a group is possible through the exchange of information via broadcast between terminals.

[0044] First, in this information distribution system 1, the server 10 constructs a device having the following functional blocks by having the computer on the server 10 execute a program.

[0045] Figure 2 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of the device constructed by the computer in the server shown in Figure 1 executing programs.

[0046] Server 10 constructs a server-side content distribution device 100 having the following functional blocks by having its computer execute a program. The server-side content distribution device 100 includes a secondary content ID sending unit 101, a secondary content sending unit 102, a reward sending unit 103, a primary content sending unit 104, a judgment processing unit 105, and a group reward generation unit 106. Furthermore, the server-side content distribution device 100 includes a user information storage unit 107, a store usage history storage unit 108, an information memory 109, an update processing unit 110, an additional information generation unit 111, a condition setting unit 112, a location / time acquisition unit 113, and a store visit information acquisition unit 114.

[0047] The computer of server 10 executes a server-side content distribution program to operate as each functional block of the server-side content distribution device 100. This server-side content distribution program is stored on a storage medium such as a hard disk installed in the computer of server 10. However, the storage medium for storing the server-side content distribution program is not limited to this; it may also be a storage medium installed in another computer connected to the computer of server 10 or in an external storage device, or any portable storage medium.

[0048] The secondary content ID sending unit 101 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes the secondary content ID sending process. The secondary content ID sending process is the process of sending the secondary content ID, described below, to one of the first terminal devices 31.

[0049] Furthermore, while the term "ID" used in the following explanation refers to a code as identification information, the identification information referred to herein is not limited to this ID (code). It does not specify the form of the information as long as it is information used to identify the subject.

[0050] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the primary content ID and secondary content ID.

[0051] The primary content ID 20a is a unique ID for each store SH that is broadcast from the store terminal device 20 of each of the multiple store SHs that constitute the information distribution system 1 in Figure 1 to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30. The primary content ID 20a is associated with the content information 20b in each store SH.

[0052] Content information 20b is information pre-registered with the server 10 via the communication network 40 from the store terminal devices 20 of multiple stores SH that constitute the information distribution system 1 in Figure 1, and is stored in the information memory 109. The content information 20b for each store SH includes information such as advertising information for that store SH, store genre, coupons that can be used when using the store, etc.

[0053] Each of the multiple store SHs is assigned a primary content ID 20a, and the information memory 109 stores each primary content ID 20a associated with the content information 20b of each store SH. This storage of primary content IDs 20a is performed together with the pre-registration of each content information 20b.

[0054] In the information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1, the primary content ID 20a is broadcast from the store terminal device 20 of store SH. When a user's terminal device 30 passing through the broadcast area receives and acquires the primary content ID 20a, the terminal device 30 sends the primary content ID 20a to the server 10. The server 10 searches the information memory 109 using the received primary content ID 20a, and the content information 20b associated with this primary content ID 20a is sent to the terminal device 30. When a user who has seen the content information 20b acquired in this way on the terminal device 30 visits the store indicated by that content information 20b, after determining whether certain conditions are met, the secondary content ID 101a is then sent to the terminal device 30 via the server 10.

[0055] The secondary content ID 101a is associated with the content information 20b and the individual ID 30a that identifies the terminal device 30 involved in the series of information distributions described above, and is information generated within this series of information distributions.

[0056] The secondary content ID sending unit 101 shown in Figure 2 is responsible for sending the above-mentioned secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31 when it obtains primary visit information regarding a user's visit from the store terminal device 20 of a specific store SH1. This primary visit information also indicates whether or not a coupon included in the content information 20b has been used. The acquisition of primary visit information by this secondary content ID sending unit 101 is performed via the visit information acquisition unit 114, which will be described later.

[0057] In the information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1, the first terminal device 31, which has acquired the secondary content ID 101a, broadcasts the secondary content ID 101a to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30 while being carried by a user and in transit. Then, when any of the second terminal devices 32 receive and acquire the secondary content ID 101a, that second terminal device 32 sends the secondary content ID 101a to the server 10.

[0058] The secondary content delivery unit 102 shown in Figure 2 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes a secondary content delivery process. The secondary content delivery process is the process of obtaining a secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32 and sending content information 20b related to the said secondary content ID 101a to the second terminal device 32.

[0059] Furthermore, the secondary content delivery unit 102 acquires and records location / time information from the second terminal device 32, along with the secondary content ID 101a, which represents both the location and time at which the second terminal device 32 acquired the secondary content ID 101a. This acquisition of location / time information by the secondary content delivery unit 102 is performed via the location / time acquisition unit 113, which will be described later.

[0060] The reward delivery unit 103 is constructed when the computer on server 10 executes the reward delivery process. The reward delivery process involves obtaining secondary visit information regarding a user of the second terminal device 32's visit to a specific store SH1, indicated by content information 20b related to the secondary content ID 101a, from the store terminal device 20, and then sending the reward information to the first terminal device 31. The secondary visit information, like the primary visit information described above, also indicates whether or not a coupon was used. Furthermore, the acquisition of this secondary visit information by the reward delivery unit 103 is also performed via the visit information acquisition unit 114, which will be described later.

[0061] The reward information is information relating to coupons, points, and other benefits related to the use of the specific store SH1, which is returned to the first terminal device 31 as a reward for encouraging the user of the second terminal device 32 to visit or use the specific store SH1 by distributing the secondary content ID 101a. This reward information will become available when the first terminal device 31 next visits the specific store SH1.

[0062] The primary content transmission unit 104 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes the primary content transmission process. The primary content transmission process is executed when the first terminal device 31, which receives and acquires the primary content ID 20a distributed by broadcast from the store terminal device 20 of a specific store SH1, sends the acquired primary content ID 20a to the server 10. The primary content transmission process involves sending content information 20b corresponding to the primary content ID 20a to the first terminal device 31 after acquiring the primary content ID 20a from the first terminal device 31.

[0063] The decision processing unit 105 is constructed by the computer of the server 10 executing a decision process. The decision process determines whether or not to send the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31, which is the sender of the primary content ID 20a. The decision criteria used in this decision process are set for each of the multiple stores SH and pre-registered with the server 10 along with the content information 20b. Examples of these decision criteria include whether the number of times a user has visited the store SH is above a threshold, whether the amount of goods purchased by the user at the store SH is above a predetermined amount, and the number of times a user has been granted a benefit.

[0064] When the secondary content ID sending unit 101 acquires the primary visit information mentioned above, it sends the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31 according to the judgment result of the judgment processing unit 105.

[0065] In the information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1, as described above, it is possible to group multiple terminal devices 30 together through the exchange of information via broadcast between terminals. When users of the terminal devices 30 that make up this group visit the store SH together, they can receive benefits such as group discounts.

[0066] The group benefit generation unit 106 shown in Figure 2 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes a group benefit generation process. The group benefit generation process generates group benefit information when it obtains group information from the terminal device 30 along with the primary content ID 20a or secondary content ID 101a related to the specific store SH1. The group information indicates that the terminal device 30 that sent this information is part of a group with other terminal devices 30. Here, "group" means that users carrying terminal devices 30 are acting together. The group benefit information is information related to benefits such as group discounts related to group use of the specific store SH1.

[0067] The user information storage unit 107 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes user information storage processing. User information storage processing is the process of storing user information regarding the attributes of any given user.

[0068] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing an example of user information.

[0069] The user information 107a shown as an example in Figure 4 includes information about the user's attributes, such as the individual ID 30a of the terminal device 30 owned by the user, gender, and age.

[0070] The user information storage unit 107 in Figure 2 acquires such user information 107a and stores it in the information memory 109. This user information 107a is sent from the user's terminal device 30 to the server 10, either via the store terminal device 20 or directly, when the user visits the store SH or registers for a service, and is stored in the information memory 109.

[0071] The store usage history storage unit 108 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes store usage history storage processing. Store usage history storage processing is the process of storing store usage history information that shows the history of stores SH used by each user.

[0072] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of store usage history information.

[0073] The store usage history information 108a shown as an example in Figure 5 is associated with each user's individual ID 30a and contains information about the store SH used by the user, including the store genre, store name, number of visits, and time of each visit. This store usage history information 108a is generated based on the visit information sent to the server 10 in response to the exchange of information between the store terminal device 20 and the terminal device 30 when a user visits a store, and is stored in the information memory 109.

[0074] In this embodiment, the store usage history storage unit 108 stores the store usage history information 108a described above, as well as the store information described below.

[0075] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram showing an example of store information.

[0076] The store information 108b shown as an example in Figure 6 is stored for each store SH and includes basic information 108c and update information 108d. The basic information 108c is advertising information and store genre information, which are also used in the store SH's content information 20b. The update information 108d is information indicating the individual ID of each customer terminal, each customer's visit time, each customer's gender and age group, and each customer's number of visits, and is updated as appropriate based on visit information from the store terminal device 20.

[0077] The information memory 109 shown in Figure 2 is a memory area within the storage medium installed in the server 10 computer that is used to store various information related to the execution of the server-side content distribution program.

[0078] The update processing unit 110 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes an update process. The update process involves obtaining visit information, including user information 107a of any terminal device 30, from the store terminal device 20 of a specific store SH1, and then updating the contents stored in the information memory 109 based on this visit information.

[0079] The additional information generation unit 111 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes the additional information generation process. The additional information generation process is the process of generating the additional information described below when a secondary content ID 101a is obtained from the second terminal device 32.

[0080] Figure 7 is a schematic diagram showing an example of additional information.

[0081] The additional information 111a shown as an example in Figure 7 is information based on at least one of the user information 107a and store usage history information 108a related to the first terminal device 31 of the individual ID 30a associated with the secondary content ID 101a. The additional information 111a is information indicating the gender, age group, and the number of times the user of the first terminal device 31, which is the source of the secondary content ID 101a, has visited the store SH related to the secondary content ID 101a.

[0082] The additional information generation unit 111 shown in Figure 2 generates such additional information 111a in response to the acquisition of the secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32.

[0083] Then, when the secondary content sending unit 102 sends content information 20b of a specific store SH1 to the second terminal device 32 in response to the acquisition of secondary content ID 101a, it sends this content information 20b with the above-mentioned additional information 111a attached.

[0084] The condition setting unit 112 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes a condition setting process. The condition setting process is the process of setting delivery conditions related to both the delivery area and delivery time of the primary content ID 20a associated with the content information 20b of a specific store SH1.

[0085] The secondary content ID sending unit 101 then sends the secondary content ID 101a along with the above-mentioned distribution conditions to the first terminal device 31.

[0086] The location / time acquisition unit 113 is constructed when the computer of the server 10 executes a location / time acquisition process. The location / time acquisition process is the process of acquiring location / time information from the second terminal device 32 that represents both the location and time at which the second terminal device 32 acquired the secondary content ID 101a from the first terminal device 31. The location / time information acquired by this location / time acquisition unit 113 is passed to the condition setting unit 112 and also to the secondary content delivery unit 102. In this way, the acquisition of location / time information by the secondary content delivery unit 102 is performed via the location / time acquisition unit 113.

[0087] The customer visit information acquisition unit 114 is constructed when the computer on server 10 executes a customer visit information acquisition process. The customer visit information acquisition process is the process of acquiring secondary customer visit information, which represents the visit of a user of the second terminal device 32, from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1. The customer visit information acquisition process is also the process of acquiring primary customer visit information, which represents the visit of a user of the first terminal device 31, from the store terminal device 20 of the specific store SH1. The primary and secondary customer visit information acquired by this customer visit information acquisition unit 114 is passed to the condition setting unit 112. The primary customer visit information is also passed to the secondary content ID sending unit 101, and the secondary customer visit information is also passed to the reward sending unit 103. Thus, the acquisition of primary customer visit information by the secondary content ID sending unit 101 and the acquisition of secondary customer visit information by the reward sending unit 103 are performed via the customer visit information acquisition unit 114.

[0088] The condition setting unit 112 updates the distribution conditions for the secondary content ID 101a in the first terminal device 31 based on the location / time information and store visit information described above.

[0089] Figure 8 is a schematic diagram showing the various types of information used to update the delivery conditions, and Figure 9 is a schematic diagram showing how the delivery conditions are updated based on the various types of information shown in Figure 8.

[0090] Figure 8 shows in a table format the individual ID 30a, secondary content ID 101a, location / time information 113a, and store visit information 114a of the terminal device 30 used to update the distribution conditions. From this information, it is possible to determine the effectiveness of the distribution by finding out at what location and time a user who acquired the secondary content ID 101a visited the store SH related to that secondary content ID 101a. In this embodiment, based on the effectiveness determined in this way, at least one of the distribution area 112a and distribution time 112b of the secondary content ID 101a in the distribution conditions is updated as needed, as shown in an example in Figure 9.

[0091] In the example shown in Figure 9, first, a predetermined circular area 112a-1 as the default distribution area 112a and all day as the default distribution time 112b are pre-registered as default distribution conditions from the store terminal device 20 of each store SH. Subsequently, after various information shown in Figure 8 is aggregated over a certain period, statistical processing is performed on the aggregated information to determine the effectiveness score 112c for the distribution area and distribution time. Then, the distribution conditions are updated based on this effectiveness score 112c. In the example shown in Figure 9, based on the daytime effectiveness score 112c, the distribution conditions are updated to daytime distribution conditions consisting of distribution area 112a-2 corresponding to daytime distribution time 112b-1, and nighttime distribution conditions consisting of distribution area 112a-3 corresponding to nighttime distribution time 112b-2.

[0092] The secondary content ID sending unit 101 in Figure 2 sends the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31 along with the latest distribution conditions, which are updated as described above. The first terminal device 31 then broadcasts the secondary content ID 101a, which has a high validity rating based on the latest distribution conditions.

[0093] Figure 10 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of the store terminal device shown in Figure 1, which are constructed by the computer executing a program.

[0094] Although Figure 10 only shows the functional blocks related to content distribution, if the store terminal device 20 is also connected to a payment device, various other functional blocks related to store operations, such as receiving payments, will also be constructed. The store terminal program for constructing these functional blocks is stored on a storage medium installed in the computer of the store terminal device 20. However, the storage medium for storing the store terminal program is not limited to this; it may also be a storage medium installed in another computer or external storage device connected to the computer of the store terminal device 20, or any portable storage medium.

[0095] The following description focuses on the functional blocks related to content distribution and explains the store terminal device 20.

[0096] This store terminal device 20 includes a primary content ID sending unit 201, a customer visit information generation unit 202, and a customer visit information sending unit 203.

[0097] The primary content ID sending unit 201 is constructed when the computer of the store terminal device 20 executes the primary content ID sending process. The primary content ID sending process is the process of broadcasting the primary content ID 20a associated with the content information 20b of the store SH to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30 inside and outside the store, which are within the communication range of the store terminal device 20.

[0098] The customer visit information generation unit 202 is constructed when the computer of the store terminal device 20 executes the customer visit information generation process. The customer visit information generation process involves obtaining user information 107a through information exchange with the terminal device 30 when a user of any terminal device 30 visits the store, and generating customer visit information by adding the time of visit and the number of visits if the user has visited before to this information.

[0099] The customer visit information sending unit 203 is constructed when the computer of the store terminal device 20 executes the customer visit information sending process. The customer visit information sending process is the process of sending the customer visit information generated by the customer visit information generation unit 202 to the server 10.

[0100] Figure 11 is a schematic block diagram showing the functional blocks of the device constructed by the computer executing a program in the terminal device shown in Figure 1.

[0101] Furthermore, the computer in terminal device 30 refers to the combination of one or more processors, communication unit, display screen, and other hardware installed in terminal device 30 such as a smartphone or tablet.

[0102] The terminal device 30 constructs three types of devices, each having a functional block described below, by having its computer execute a program. Specifically, the terminal device 30 constructs a terminal-side content distribution device 310 by executing a terminal-side content distribution program. The terminal device 30 also constructs a content acquisition device 320 by executing a content acquisition program. And the terminal device 30 constructs a grouping device 330 by executing a grouping program.

[0103] The above-mentioned programs executed by the computer of terminal device 30 are stored in a storage medium installed in the computer of terminal device 30. However, the storage medium for storing these programs is not limited to this; it may also be a storage medium installed in another computer or external storage device connected to the computer of terminal device 30, or any portable storage medium.

[0104] First, let's explain the terminal-side content distribution device 310. This terminal-side content distribution device 310 includes a primary content acquisition unit 311, a secondary content ID acquisition unit 312, a secondary content ID distribution unit 313, and a secondary content acquisition unit 314.

[0105] The primary content acquisition unit 311 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes the primary content acquisition process. The primary content acquisition process is the process of obtaining a primary content ID 20a from the store terminal device 20 of a specific store SH1, sending that primary content ID 20a to the server 10, and obtaining the content information 20b associated with the primary content ID 20a.

[0106] The secondary content ID acquisition unit 312 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a secondary content ID acquisition process. The secondary content ID acquisition process is the process of acquiring the secondary content ID 101a related to the specific store SH1 from the server 10, along with the distribution conditions for the secondary content ID 101a.

[0107] The secondary content ID distribution unit 313 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes secondary content ID distribution processing. The secondary content ID distribution processing is the process of broadcasting secondary content ID 101a when the location and time of the device meet the distribution conditions. Furthermore, as described above, the secondary content ID distribution processing is also the process of distributing secondary content ID 101a based on the distribution conditions that are updated in the server 10.

[0108] The secondary content acquisition unit 314 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes secondary content acquisition processing. When secondary content ID 101a distributed by another device is acquired, the acquired secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server 10 and content information 20b associated with the secondary content ID 101a is acquired. The secondary content acquisition processing also includes attaching location / time information 113a related to the acquisition of secondary content ID 101a when sending it to the server 10. The secondary content acquisition unit 314 is substantially equivalent to the content acquisition device 320 described below.

[0109] Next, the content acquisition device 320 will be described. This content acquisition device 320 includes a secondary content ID acquisition unit 321, a secondary content ID transmission unit 322, and a secondary content acquisition unit 323.

[0110] The secondary content ID acquisition unit 321 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a secondary content ID acquisition process. The secondary content ID acquisition process is the process of acquiring a secondary content ID 101a sent by broadcast from any terminal device 30.

[0111] The secondary content ID sending unit 322 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes the secondary content ID sending process. The secondary content ID sending process is the process of sending the secondary content ID 101a to the server 10.

[0112] The secondary content acquisition unit 323 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a secondary content acquisition process. The secondary content acquisition process is the process of acquiring content information 20b associated with the secondary content ID 101a together with the additional information 111a described above.

[0113] Next, the grouping device 330 will be described. This grouping device 330 includes a grouping signal distribution unit 331, a group candidate setting unit 332, a group ID issuance unit 333, a received data memory 334, and a group memory 335. The grouping device 330 also includes an approval reply unit 336, a secondary content acquisition unit 337, a group exclusion setting unit 338, and a confirmation reply unit 339.

[0114] The grouping signal distribution unit 331 is constructed by the computer of the terminal device 30 executing grouping signal distribution processing. The grouping signal distribution processing is the process of broadcasting a local grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and identifies the local device.

[0115] The group candidate setting unit 332 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a group candidate setting process. The group candidate setting process sets another device as a group candidate when it continuously acquires a grouping signal from another device of a predetermined strength or greater for a predetermined period of time. At this time, the progress until the acquisition of the grouping signal from the other device reaches the predetermined time is stored in the received data memory 334.

[0116] The group ID issuing unit 333 is established when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a group ID issuance process. The group ID issuance process involves sending a group approval request to other machines that have become group candidates, and issuing a group ID to identify the group to the other machines that have given approval. In this group ID issuance process, the issued group ID and the individual IDs 30a of the other machines that constitute the group together with the own machine are stored in the group memory 335.

[0117] In this embodiment, the group ID is identification information that identifies the group and also identifies the constituent machines of that group. The grouping signal distribution unit 331 distributes the group ID as the machine grouping signal if the machine belongs to a group. On the other hand, if the machine does not belong to a group, the grouping signal distribution unit 331 distributes an individual ID 30a that identifies the machine as the machine grouping signal.

[0118] Furthermore, the group candidate setting unit 332 and the group ID issuing unit 333 set group candidates and issue group IDs according to the type of other-device grouping signal obtained from other devices.

[0119] The received data memory 334 is a memory area within the storage medium installed in the computer of the terminal device 30 that is used to store intermediate results of the above-mentioned grouping signals from other devices.

[0120] The group memory 335 is the memory area in the storage medium installed in the computer of the terminal device 30 that is used to store the group ID and the individual IDs 30a of other machines.

[0121] The approval response unit 336 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes the approval response process. The approval response process is the process of sending an approval response when a group approval request is received from another device.

[0122] The secondary content acquisition unit 337 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a secondary content acquisition process. The secondary content acquisition process involves acquiring a secondary content ID 101a related to a specific store SH1 and sending group information indicating that it constitutes a group to the server 10. Furthermore, the secondary content acquisition process also involves acquiring content information 20b for the specific store SH1 and benefit information related to benefits such as group discounts for use within a group at the specific store SH1.

[0123] The group exclusion setting unit 338 is established when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a group exclusion setting process. The group exclusion setting process involves sending a confirmation request to all components of the group to confirm the existence of a component if a group ID of a predetermined strength or higher is not obtained from one of the components of the group within a predetermined time. If no confirmation response is received from any of the components, the group exclusion setting process excludes the component from the group.

[0124] The confirmation reply unit 339 is constructed when the computer of the terminal device 30 executes a confirmation reply process. The confirmation reply process is the process of sending back a confirmation response when it receives the above confirmation request from any of the constituent machines of the group.

[0125] Furthermore, when a component is excluded from a group by the group exclusion setting unit 338, the group ID issuing unit 333 discards the group ID of that group. If there are other component units in the group besides itself, the group ID issuing unit 333 issues a new group ID that identifies the new group excluding the aforementioned component unit.

[0126] Next, the information distribution process performed by the information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1 will be explained with reference to the flowcharts in Figures 12 to 16.

[0127] Figure 12 is a flowchart representing the information distribution process, showing the process from the start to partway through. Figure 13 is a flowchart representing the information distribution process, showing the process from where Figure 12 left off to partway through. Figure 14 is a flowchart representing the information distribution process, showing the process from where Figure 13 left off to partway through. Figure 15 is a flowchart representing the information distribution process, showing the process from where Figure 14 left off to partway through. Figure 16 is a flowchart representing the information distribution process, showing the process from where Figure 15 left off to the end.

[0128] The flowcharts shown in these figures start when the program related to information distribution processing is launched on each of the following: server 10, store terminal device 20, and multiple terminal devices 30. In Figures 12 to 16, the flowcharts for terminal devices 30 focus on two of the multiple terminal devices 30, namely the first terminal device 31 and the second terminal device 32.

[0129] When processing starts, the first step is the primary content ID transmission process (step S11) performed on the store terminal device 20. In the primary content ID transmission process (step S11), the primary content ID 20a is broadcast to outside the store.

[0130] When a terminal device 30 enters the broadcast distribution area of ​​the store terminal device 20, it is designated as the first terminal device 31, and the primary content ID acquisition process (step S12) is executed at this first terminal device 31. In the primary content ID acquisition process (step S12), the primary content ID 20a from the store terminal device 20 is received and acquired. Next, the first terminal-side group determination process (step S13) is executed. In the first terminal-side group determination process (step S13), it is determined whether the device is part of a group with other devices by referring to the group memory 335 shown in Figure 11. If the device is part of a group (YES determination in step S13), the primary content ID sending process with group information (step S14) is executed. In this primary content ID sending process (step S14), the primary content ID 20a is sent to the server along with group information indicating that the device is part of a group. On the other hand, if a group is not formed (NO determination in step S13), the primary content ID sending process without group information (step S15) is executed. In this primary content ID sending process (step S15), only the primary content ID 20a is sent to the server. The sending of the primary content ID 20a by these primary content ID sending processes (steps S14 and S15) is performed by unicast.

[0131] When these processes are executed on the first terminal device 31, the server 10 first executes the primary content ID acquisition process (step S16). In the primary content ID acquisition process (step S16), the primary content ID 20a from the first terminal device 31 is received and acquired. Next, the server-side group determination process (step S17) is executed. In the server-side group determination process (step S17), it is determined whether or not the first terminal device 31 is part of a group based on the presence or absence of group information. If it is part of a group (YES determination in step S17), the group benefit generation process (step S18) is executed, followed by the primary content delivery process (step S19). In the group benefit generation process (step S18), group benefit information related to benefits for group use is generated. In the primary content delivery process (step S19) following the group benefit generation process (step S18), content information 20b corresponding to the primary content ID 20a is sent to the first terminal device 31 along with the group benefit information. On the other hand, if a group is not formed (NO determination in step S17), the group benefit generation process (step S18) is omitted and the primary content delivery process (step S19) is executed. In this case, only the content information 20b is sent to the first terminal device 31. Information delivery in the primary content delivery process (step S19) is also performed by unicast.

[0132] When content information 20b is sent from server 10 in this manner, the first terminal device 31 executes the primary content acquisition process (step S20). In the primary content acquisition process (step S20), content information 20b is acquired from server 10. The processing in steps S12 to S14 and step S20 in the first terminal device 31 constitutes a content acquisition process in which content information 20b is acquired via the primary content ID 20a.

[0133] Subsequently, when a user of the first terminal device 31 visits the specific store SH1 indicated by the content information 20b, the first terminal device 31 executes the store visit / check-in process (step S21). In the store visit / check-in process (step S21), the first terminal device 31 connects to the store terminal device 20 via a short-range wireless communication means such as the store's Wi-Fi (Local Area Network) or Bluetooth®, and user information 107a, etc., is sent from the first terminal device 31 to the store terminal device 20. The store visit / check-in process may also be a coupon usage (application) process.

[0134] Then, the store terminal device 20 executes a visit information generation / sending process (step S22) based on the received user information 107a, etc. In the visit information generation / sending process (step S22), primary visit information, including user information 107a, representing the visit of the user of the first terminal device 31, is generated and sent to the server 10. Note that although the visit / check-in process in step S21 is described as sending the visit information from the first terminal device 31 to the store terminal device 20, it may also be sent from the first terminal device 31 to the server 10. In this case, the ID of the store terminal device or the location information of the first terminal device 31 may be used as proof of visit. Furthermore, if the primary content ID is set to be unique to the store terminal device, the primary content acquisition operation (S14, S15~S19) itself can be used as the visit / check-in process.

[0135] On the server 10, a user information storage step (step S23) and a store usage history storage step (step S24) are executed based on the initial visit information from the store terminal device 20. In the user information storage step (step S23), user information 107a included in the initial visit information is stored. If the current user information 107a is for the same person as the user information 107a already stored, it is updated to the latest user information 107a. In the store usage history storage step (step S24), if the current visit is a new visit to store SH for the user, new store usage history information 108a for this store SH is stored. Also, if it is a return visit to store SH that has been visited in the past, the store usage history information 108a is updated.

[0136] Next, the server 10 executes a condition setting process (step S25) related to the distribution conditions of the secondary content ID 101a for the specific store SH1 that the user of the first terminal device 31 visited this time. Furthermore, the server 10 executes an additional information generation process (step S26). In the additional information generation process (step S26), additional information 111a to be added to the secondary content ID 101a is generated based on the user information 107a and store usage history information 108a included in the primary visit information described above.

[0137] Next, the server 10 executes a decision process (step S27) regarding the sending of the secondary content ID 101a. In the decision process (step S27), it is determined whether or not to send the secondary content ID 101a based on the decision criteria set at the specific store SH1. If sending is not possible (NO judgment in step S27), the process returns to immediately after the server 10 starts and is repeated. On the other hand, if sending is possible (YES judgment in step S27), the secondary content ID sending process (step S28) is executed. In the secondary content ID sending process (step S28), the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the first terminal device 31 by unicast along with the distribution conditions.

[0138] In the first terminal device 31, the secondary content ID acquisition process (step S29) is executed. In the secondary content ID acquisition process (step S29), the secondary content ID 101a and distribution conditions sent from the server 10 are acquired. Next, the condition determination process (step S30) is executed. In the condition determination process (step S30), it is determined whether the device's position and time satisfy the distribution conditions. If the distribution conditions are not satisfied (NO determination in step S30), the condition determination process (step S30) is repeated until the distribution conditions are satisfied due to user movement and the passage of time. Then, if the distribution conditions are satisfied (YES determination in step S30), the secondary content ID distribution process (step S31) is executed. In the secondary content ID distribution process (step S31), the secondary content ID 101a is broadcast to an unspecified number of terminal devices 30. Note that the system may be configured to query the server for the latest distribution conditions during the condition determination process.

[0139] If another terminal device 30 enters the broadcast distribution area of ​​the first terminal device 31, this terminal device 30 becomes the second terminal device 32, and the secondary content ID acquisition process (step S32) is executed at this second terminal device 32. In the secondary content ID acquisition process (step S32), the secondary content ID 101a from the first terminal device 31 is received and acquired. Next, the second terminal group determination process (step S33) is executed. In the second terminal group determination process (step S33), it is determined whether the device is part of a group. If it is part of a group (YES determination in step S33), the secondary content ID sending process with group information (step S34) is executed. In this secondary content ID sending process (step S34), the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server along with the group information. In this case, during the secondary content ID transmission process (step S34), location / time information 113a representing the location and time when the second terminal device 32 acquired the secondary content ID 101a is attached and sent to the server together. On the other hand, if a group is not formed (NO determination in step S33), the secondary content ID transmission process without group information (step S35) is executed. In this secondary content ID transmission process (step S35), only the secondary content ID 101a and location / time information 113a are sent to the server. The transmission of the secondary content ID 101a, etc. by these secondary content ID transmission processes (steps S34 and S35) is performed by unicast.

[0140] Next, the server 10 obtains the secondary content ID 101a from the second terminal device 32 through the secondary content ID acquisition process (step S36), and determines whether the second terminal device 32 is part of a group in the server-side group determination process (step S37). If it is part of a group (YES determination in step S37), group benefit information is generated in the group benefit generation process (step S38), and the content information 20b and group benefit information are sent to the second terminal device 32 in the secondary content delivery process (step S39). On the other hand, if it is not part of a group (NO determination in step S37), the group benefit generation process (step S38) is omitted, and only the content information 20b is sent to the second terminal device 32 in the secondary content delivery process (step S39). Information is also sent via unicast in the secondary content delivery process (step S39).

[0141] When content information 20b is sent from server 10 in this manner, the second terminal device 32 executes a secondary content acquisition process (step S40) to acquire content information 20b from server 10.

[0142] Subsequently, when a user of the second terminal device 32 visits the specific store SH1 indicated by the content information 20b, the second terminal device 32 executes the store visit / check-in process (step S41). In the store visit / check-in process (step S41), user information 107a, etc., is sent from the second terminal device 32 to the store terminal device 20 via short-range wireless communication such as Wi-Fi (Local Area Network) or Bluetooth (registered trademark). The store visit / check-in process may also be a coupon usage (application) process.

[0143] In the store terminal device 20, a visit information generation / transmission process (step S42) is executed based on the received user information 107a, etc. In the visit information generation / transmission process (step S42), secondary visit information, including user information 107a, representing the visit of the user of the second terminal device 32, is generated and sent to the server 10. Note that in the visit / check-in process of step S41, the visit information is sent from the second terminal device 32 to the store terminal device 20, but it may also be sent from the second terminal device 32 to the server 10. In this case, the ID and location information of the store terminal device may be used as proof of visit.

[0144] When server 10 obtains secondary visit information from store terminal device 20, the reward delivery process (step S43) is executed. In the reward delivery process (step S43), reward information such as coupons related to the use of a specific store is generated and sent to the first terminal device 31 as a reward for content distribution.

[0145] Next, the server 10 executes a user information storage step (step S44) and a store usage history storage step (step S45) based on the secondary visit information from the store terminal device 20. In the user information storage step (step S44), the user information 107a of the second terminal device 32 included in the secondary visit information is stored. If the current user information 107a is for the same person as the user information 107a already stored, it is updated to the latest user information 107a. In the store usage history storage step (step S45), if this visit is a new visit to store SH for the user, new store usage history information 108a for this store SH is stored. Also, if it is a return visit to store SH that has been visited in the past, the store usage history information 108a is updated.

[0146] Next, on server 10, a condition update process (step S46) is executed for the secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1 that the user of the second terminal device 32 has visited. In the condition update process (step S46), the distribution conditions for the secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1 are updated based on the location / time information 113a sent from the second terminal device 32 in step S34 or step S35.

[0147] Subsequently, the server 10 executes a termination determination step (step S47). In the termination determination step (step S47), it is determined whether or not an instruction has been given to terminate the program related to the information distribution process or to turn off the power. If no instruction has been given to terminate the program or turn off the power (NO determination in step S47), the process returns to immediately after the start and is repeated. If an instruction has been given (YES determination in step S47), the processing on the server 10 related to the information distribution process is terminated.

[0148] In the store terminal device 20, after sending secondary customer information in step S42, the termination determination step (step S48) is executed. In the termination determination step (step S48), it is determined whether or not an instruction has been given to terminate the program related to the information distribution process or to turn off the power. If no instruction has been given to terminate the program or turn off the power (NO determination in step S48), the process returns to immediately after the start and is repeated. If an instruction has been given (YES determination in step S47), the processing in the store terminal device 20 related to the information distribution process is terminated.

[0149] In the first terminal device 31, after receiving bonus information from the server 10 in step S43, a reception confirmation process (step S49) is performed for the secondary content ID 101a related to any store SH that has been broadcast from another device. If reception is confirmed (YES determination in step S49), the device then becomes the second terminal device 32 and proceeds to the secondary content ID acquisition process (step S32) in the processing of the second terminal device 32, and thereafter processing as the second terminal device 32 continues.

[0150] On the other hand, if no secondary content ID 101a is received from another device (NO determination in step S49), the first terminal device 31 performs a reception confirmation step (step S50) for the primary content ID 20a from the store terminal device 20 of another store SH. If reception is confirmed (YES determination in step S50), the process returns to the primary content ID acquisition step (step S12), and the subsequent processing is repeated. If no primary content ID 20a related to another store SH is received (NO determination in step S50), the termination determination step (step S51) is performed. In the termination determination step (step S51), it is determined whether an instruction has been given to terminate the program related to the information distribution process or to turn off the power. If no instruction has been given to terminate the program or turn off the power (NO determination in step S51), the process returns to the condition determination step (step S30) regarding the distribution of secondary content ID 101a of the specific store SH1, and the subsequent processing is repeated. If an instruction is given (determination in step S47, 50), the processing at the first terminal device 31 related to information distribution processing is terminated.

[0151] In the second terminal device 32, after the customer arrival / check-in process (step S41), a confirmation process for receiving the primary content ID 20a from the store terminal device 20 of any store SH is performed (step S52). If reception is confirmed (YES determination in step S52), the device then becomes the first terminal device 31 and proceeds to the primary content ID acquisition process (step S12) in the processing of the first terminal device 31, and thereafter continues processing as the first terminal device 31.

[0152] On the other hand, if the primary content ID 20a is not received (NO determination in step S52), the second terminal device 32 performs a second reception confirmation step (step S53) for the secondary content ID 101a. If reception occurs again (YES determination in step S53), the process returns to the secondary content ID acquisition step (step S32), and the subsequent processing is repeated. If reception does not occur again (NO determination in step S53), the termination determination step (step S54) is executed. In the termination determination step (step S54), it is determined whether an instruction has been given to terminate the program related to the information distribution process or to turn off the power. If an instruction has not been given to terminate the program or turn off the power (NO determination in step S54), the process returns to immediately after the start of the second terminal device 32, and the subsequent processing is repeated. If an instruction has been given (YES determination in step S54), the processing at the second terminal device 32 related to the information distribution process is terminated.

[0153] Of the information distribution processes described above, the processing at server 10 corresponds to an example of a server-side content distribution method. Similarly, the processing at the first terminal device 31 corresponds to an example of a terminal-side content distribution method. And the processing at the second terminal device 32 corresponds to an example of a content acquisition method.

[0154] Next, the grouping performed among multiple terminal devices 30 in the information distribution system 1 shown in Figure 1 will be explained with reference to the flowcharts in Figures 17 to 21.

[0155] Figure 17 is a flowchart illustrating the process for initiating grouping among multiple terminal devices in the information distribution system shown in Figure 1.

[0156] The flowcharts shown in these figures start when any of the multiple terminal devices 30, each running a grouping program, receives a grouping signal from another device that identifies that other device.

[0157] When terminal device 30 receives a grouping signal from another device, an ID verification step (step S61) is performed. In the ID verification step (step S61), if the local device is part of any group, it is determined whether the received grouping signal from another device has a group ID that indicates the same group as the local device. If the group ID is the same (YES determination in step S61), the process is terminated, assuming that grouping has already been completed.

[0158] On the other hand, if the group ID is not that of the same group (NO determination in step S61), it means that the other device grouping signal is the group ID of another group, or that the other device grouping signal is not a group ID but an individual ID 30a. In these cases, the radio wave strength confirmation step (step S62) is performed first. In the radio wave strength confirmation step (step S62), it is checked whether the radio wave strength of the other device grouping signal is above a threshold corresponding to a predetermined strength. If the radio wave strength is less than the threshold (NO determination in step S61), the process is terminated because the other device is a terminal device 30 of a completely different user located far away from the own device and grouping is unnecessary.

[0159] If the radio wave strength is above a threshold (YES determination in step S61), a continuity check is performed in the following steps to determine whether or not this other-device grouping signal has continued for a predetermined time.

[0160] First, in the first confirmation step (step S63), it is checked whether the same grouping signal as the one from another device is stored in the received data memory 334. If the same signal is not stored (NO determination in step S63), the new storage step (step S64) is executed. In the new storage step (step S64), the current grouping signal from another device and its reception time are stored in the received data memory 334. In this case, it is determined that it is premature to group the signals, and the process is terminated to wait for the next reception.

[0161] If the same data is already stored in the received data memory 334 (YES determination in step S62), the second confirmation step (step S65) is executed. In the second confirmation step (step S65), it is confirmed whether the current reception occurred within a predetermined step time T_a since the previous reception of the same other-device grouping signal. If it is not within step time T_a (NO determination in step S65), the continuity of the other-device grouping signal is considered broken, and the memory reset step (step S66) is executed. In the memory reset step (step S66), the previous stored contents of the current other-device grouping signal in the received data memory 334 are discarded, and the current other-device grouping signal and its reception time are newly stored. After that, the process ends and the system waits for the next reception.

[0162] If the current reception occurred within step time T_a from the previous reception (YES judgment in step S65), the third confirmation step (step S67) is executed. In the third confirmation step (step S67), it is checked whether the time from the reception time of the first of the series of other-device grouping signals stored in the received data memory 334 to the current reception time exceeds the continuity guarantee time T_b. If the continuity guarantee time T_b is not exceeded (NO judgment in step S67), it is determined that it is premature to group the signals, and the process is terminated to wait for the next reception.

[0163] On the other hand, if the continuity guarantee time T_b is exceeded (YES determination in step S67), grouping (step S100) is initiated assuming that the user of the terminal device 30 that is the source of this other-device grouping signal is acting together with the user of the terminal device 30 of the own device.

[0164] Figure 18 shows the flowchart representing grouping from the start to partway through. Figure 19 shows the flowchart representing grouping from the continuation of Figure 18 to the end. Note that the flowcharts in Figures 18 and 19 show that the terminal devices 30 involved in grouping are two devices: a first terminal device 31 owned by the first user and a second terminal device 32 owned by the second user. Furthermore, for the sake of simplicity in the explanation below, the other-device grouping signal received in the process of Figure 17 will be assumed to be an individual ID 30a that individually identifies the terminal devices 30.

[0165] At the start of the flowcharts in Figures 18 and 19, both the first terminal device 31 and the second terminal device 32 have decided to start grouping. In this state, the first terminal device 31 executes the group candidate setting process (step S101) and the approval request process (step S102) before the second terminal device 32. In the group candidate setting process (step S101), the second terminal device 32, which corresponds to the other device grouping signal received in the process in Figure 17, is set as a group candidate. Once a group candidate is set, in the approval request process (step S102), a group approval request is sent to the second terminal device 32, which has become a group candidate. Then, the approval rejection process (step S103) is executed in the first terminal device 31, and the first terminal device 31 becomes the master device for grouping and does not accept group approval requests from other devices, i.e., the second terminal device 32. Furthermore, the terminal device that sends the group approval request in S102 may be selected by the user from a list of group candidates, automatically selected based on pre-configured conditions, or sent to all terminal devices if they are candidates.

[0166] When the second terminal device 32 receives a group approval request from the first terminal device 31, a request destination confirmation step (step S104) is performed for this group approval request. The group approval request includes the individual ID 30a of the requesting first terminal device 31 and the individual ID 30a of the requesting second terminal device 32. In the request destination confirmation step (step S104), it is confirmed whether or not this group approval request was sent to the second terminal device 32 by referring to the individual ID 30a indicating the requesting destination in the group approval request. If it was not sent to the second terminal device 32 (NO determination in step S104), the second terminal device 32 terminates processing, indicating that the group was not formed.

[0167] If the group approval request is sent to the second terminal device 32 (YES determination in step S104), the response confirmation step for the second user (step S105) is executed. In the response confirmation step (step S105), a message asking whether to form a group with the first user is displayed on the display screen of the second terminal device 32, and a response confirmation is made based on the second user's operation. If the group is not formed (NO determination in step S105), the second terminal device 32 terminates the process, indicating that the group was not formed.

[0168] If a group is to be formed (YES determination in step S105), the approval reply step (step S106) is executed. In the approval reply step (step S106), an approval response is sent from the second terminal device 32 to the first terminal device 31. This approval response also includes the individual ID 30a of the first terminal device 31 and the individual ID 30a of the second terminal device 32. Then, the request rejection step (step S107) is executed in the second terminal device 32, and the second terminal device 32 becomes a slave device of the first terminal device 31 that does not accept group approval requests from any device other than the first terminal device 31, which is the master device in this grouping.

[0169] In the first terminal device 31, after the approval request step (step S102) and the approval rejection step (step S103), the response confirmation step (step S108) is executed after waiting for a predetermined response confirmation time T_c. In the response confirmation step (step S108), it is confirmed whether or not an approval response was received within the response confirmation time T_c. If no approval response is received (NO determination in step S108), the first terminal device 31 terminates the process, determining that the group was not formed.

[0170] If an approval response is received within the response confirmation time T_c (YES determination in step S108), the first terminal device 31 executes the group ID issuance process (step S109). In the group ID issuance process (step S109), a group ID that identifies the current group is issued from the master device, the first terminal device 31, to the second terminal device 32, which is a slave device that is a component of the group. A sequential number is assigned to each component device of this group ID. The group number is assigned starting with "1" for the master device, the first terminal device 31, and then in ascending order according to the order in which the approval responses are received. In this example, there is only one slave device, the second terminal device 32, so the group ID of the second terminal device 32 is assigned the group number "2". Such a numbered group ID is identification information that identifies the group and also identifies the component devices of that group.

[0171] In the second terminal device 32, after the approval reply process (step S106) and the request rejection process (step S107), the ID issuance confirmation process (step S110) is executed after a predetermined waiting period. In the ID issuance confirmation process (step S110), it is checked whether or not a group ID was received during the waiting period. If a group ID was not received (NO determination in step S110), the second terminal device 32 terminates the process, determining that the group was not formed.

[0172] If a group ID is received within the waiting time (YES determination in step S110), the second terminal device 32 executes the group ID sending process (step S111) for confirmation of receipt. In the group ID sending process (step S111), the numbered group ID of the second terminal device 32 is sent to the first terminal device 31.

[0173] On the other hand, the first terminal device 31 issues group IDs for all group members (in this example, only the second terminal device 32), and then the group ID reception confirmation step (step S112) is executed. In the group ID reception confirmation step (step S112), it is confirmed whether the reception of group IDs from all members (in this example, only the second terminal device 32) has been completed within a predetermined confirmation time T_d. If it has not been completed (NO judgment in step S112), the regrouping confirmation step (step S113) is executed. In the regrouping confirmation step (step S113), a message asking whether to reconfigure the group is displayed on the display screen of the first terminal device 31, and a response confirmation is made based on the operation of the first user. If the response is that reconfiguring the group is not necessary (NO judgment in step S113), the first terminal device 31 terminates processing as the group was not formed. If the response is that the group will be reconfigured (YES judgment in step S113), processing returns to immediately after the start of grouping in the first terminal device 31, and the subsequent processing is repeated.

[0174] On the other hand, if the group ID reception confirmation step (step S112) confirms that the reception of group IDs from all members has been completed within a predetermined confirmation time T_d (YES determination in step S112), the group ID sending step (step S114) on the master unit side is executed. In this group ID sending step (step S114), the group ID of the first terminal device 31 with the number "1" attached is sent to the second terminal device 32.

[0175] Following this, the first terminal device 31 performs a group registration process (step S115). In the group registration process (step S115), the group ID of the second terminal device 32, which will now form a group, is stored in the group memory 335 of the first terminal device 31, with the number "2" attached to it. The first terminal device 31 then completes the grouping process with this group registration process (step S115).

[0176] On the other hand, the second terminal device 32 performs a group registration process (step S116) for the group ID with the number "1" sent from the first terminal device 31. In this group registration process (step S116), the group ID with the number "1" from the first terminal device 31 is stored in the group memory 335 of the second terminal device 32. The second terminal device 32 also terminates the grouping process with this group registration process (step S116).

[0177] After grouping is complete, each terminal device 30 that constitutes the group will check whether the group has been established and remove any users who leave the group. This group confirmation / removal process is performed by each terminal device 30 that constitutes the group periodically distributing its own numbered group ID.

[0178] Figure 20 is a flowchart illustrating the group confirmation / exclusion process performed after grouping.

[0179] In this group confirmation / exclusion process, the group ID confirmation step (step S201) is executed first. In the group ID confirmation step (step S201), it is checked whether a group ID of a predetermined strength or higher has been received from another device within a predetermined confirmation time T_e since the last confirmed reception. The reception time of the group ID from each component device of the group is stored in the group memory 335, and the reception of the group ID is confirmed by referring to the contents of this group memory 335. If reception is confirmed (YES determination in step S201), the group ID confirmation step (step S201) continues.

[0180] On the other hand, if the receipt of the group ID is not confirmed (a NO determination in step S201), the confirmation request process (step S202) and confirmation rejection process (step S203) are executed for other members of the group. In the confirmation request process (step S202), a confirmation request is sent to all members of the group other than the current member to confirm the existence of members for whom the receipt of the group ID was not confirmed. In the confirmation rejection process (step S203), confirmation requests from other members are rejected.

[0181] After this, the response confirmation step (step S204) for the above confirmation request is executed. In the response confirmation step (step S204), it is determined whether or not an acknowledgment has been received from any of the components within a predetermined response time T_f after the confirmation request. If an acknowledgment has been received (YES determination in step S204), the memory update step (step S205) is executed. In the memory update step (step S205), the latest reception time of the group ID for the component to be confirmed in the group memory 335 is updated to the reception time of the acknowledgment. After the memory update step (step S205), the processing from the group ID confirmation step (step S201) onward is repeated.

[0182] If no acknowledgment is received from any of the components within the response time T_f (NO determination in step S204), the exclusion notification step (step S206) is executed. In the exclusion notification step (step S206), the user of the component (i.e., its user) is notified of the exclusion by displaying a message asking whether or not to exclude the component (i.e., its user) from the group. Following this exclusion notification step (step S206), the exclusion confirmation step (step S207) is executed. In the exclusion confirmation step (step S207), the exclusion is confirmed based on the user's actions after receiving the above notification. If the user chooses not to exclude (NO determination in step S207), the process goes through the waiting step (step S208) and then returns to the confirmation request step (step S202), and the subsequent processes are repeated.

[0183] If the user performs an operation to exclude a machine (YES determination in step S207), the member confirmation step (step S209) is executed. In the member confirmation step (step S209), it is checked whether the group IDs of other components are stored in the group memory 335 in addition to the current machine and the machine to be excluded. In other words, it is checked whether there are other components in the group besides the current machine. If there are no other components (NO determination in step S209), the group ID discard step (step S210) is executed. In the group ID discard step (step S210), the group ID in the group memory 335 is discarded and the group is dissolved.

[0184] On the other hand, if other components exist (YES determination in step S209), the regrouping step (step S211) is executed. In the regrouping step (step S211), the group ID in the group memory 335 is discarded, and then regrouping is performed to issue a new group ID that identifies the new group excluding the components to be excluded. The processing at this time is the grouping process shown in Figures 18 and 19.

[0185] The group confirmation / exclusion process is completed with either the group ID discarding step (step S210) or the regrouping step (step S211).

[0186] Here, as described above, each terminal device 30 performs a grouping signal distribution process that broadcasts a self-grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices and identifies its own device. This grouping signal distribution process is performed as follows.

[0187] Figure 21 is a flowchart illustrating the grouping signal distribution process.

[0188] This grouping signal distribution process starts when power is turned on to each terminal device 30.

[0189] When processing starts, the group confirmation step (step S301) is executed first. In the group confirmation step (step S301), it is confirmed whether the machine belongs to a group or not. If it belongs to a group (YES determination in step S301), the first distribution step (step S302) is executed; if it does not belong to a group (NO determination in step S301), the second distribution step (step S303) is executed. In the first distribution step (step S302), the numbered group ID described above is distributed as the machine grouping signal. On the other hand, in the second distribution step (step S303), the individual ID 30a that identifies the machine is distributed as the machine grouping signal.

[0190] After any of the distribution processes are completed, the progress confirmation process (step S304) is executed. In the progress confirmation process (step S304), it is confirmed whether a predetermined elapsed time T_g has elapsed since the distribution of the self-grouping signal. The elapsed time T_g at this time corresponds to the step time T_a in the second confirmation process (step S65) in Figure 17 and the confirmation time T_e in the group ID confirmation process (step S201) in Figure 20.

[0191] If the elapsed time T_g has not elapsed (NO determination in step S304), the elapsed time confirmation step (step S304) is repeated. If the elapsed time T_g has elapsed (YES determination in step S304), the termination confirmation step (step S305) is executed. In the termination confirmation step (step S305), it is confirmed whether or not a power cut-off has been instructed. If a power cut-off has been instructed (YES determination in step S305), the process is terminated. If it has not been instructed (NO determination in step S305), the process returns to the group confirmation step (step S301) and the subsequent processes are repeated.

[0192] According to the server-side content distribution in the embodiment described above, content information 20b can be distributed via the first terminal device 31, which is owned by a user who is freely moving around. Then, when a user of the second terminal device 32, which has received the content information 20b, visits the store, special offer information is sent to the first terminal device 31, which is the source of the distribution. This can increase the motivation of the user of the first terminal device 31 to distribute content, leading to further distribution. Thus, according to this embodiment, content information 20b can be widely distributed via the terminal device 30.

[0193] In this embodiment, when the server 10 obtains the primary content ID 20a associated with the content information 20b from the first terminal device 31, the content information 20b corresponding to the primary content ID 20a is sent to the first terminal device 31. This configuration is preferable because it allows the sending of content information 20b to the first terminal device 31 to encourage the user of the first terminal device 31 to visit the store, which serves as a trigger for sending the secondary content ID 101a.

[0194] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server 10 determines whether or not to send the secondary content ID 101a to the first terminal device 31. When the server 10 acquires the primary visit information, the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the first terminal device 31 according to the above determination result. This configuration is preferable because, by determining whether or not to send the secondary content ID 101a, it is possible to select users who want to receive content information 20b in exchange for special offer information, in other words, users who will benefit from the advertising, and provide services accordingly.

[0195] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the decision on whether or not to send the secondary content ID 101a is made based on the criteria set at the specific store SH1. With this configuration, it becomes possible for the store SH to set criteria for determining which users they want to receive content information 20b in exchange for special offer information, such as users who have visited the store multiple times in the past and are expected to visit again.

[0196] Furthermore, in this embodiment, content information 20b includes information related to the use of a specific store SH1, and the first visit information and second visit information also indicate whether or not the coupon was used. With this configuration, it is possible to confirm whether or not the coupon distributed as content information 20b was effectively used, which can be used to plan advertising strategies such as determining what kind of coupon would be effective to distribute as content information 20b.

[0197] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server 10 acquires and records location / time information 113a from the second terminal device 32, along with the secondary content ID 101a, which represents both the location and time at which the secondary content ID 101a was acquired. This configuration makes it possible to verify the effectiveness of content information distribution, such as determining the location and time at which the user of the second terminal device 32 visited the store, which can be useful in planning advertising strategies.

[0198] Furthermore, according to the grouping method of this embodiment, the local device can perform grouping by issuing a group ID based on the strength and continuity of the grouping signal distributed to other devices via broadcast, and the group approval request and approval response to other devices. It is also possible to have other devices perform grouping based on the local device's distribution of the grouping signal via broadcast and the approval response to the group approval request from other devices. In other words, according to this embodiment, multiple terminal devices 30 can freely perform grouping without requiring a specific master device or the like. Thus, this embodiment relates to a free and simple grouping method for multiple terminal devices 30.

[0199] In this embodiment, when a terminal device 30 acquires a primary content ID 20a and a secondary content ID 101a related to a specific store SH1, group information indicating that it constitutes a group is sent to the server 10. Then, the terminal device 30 acquires content information 20b for the specific store SH1 and benefit information related to benefits for group use from the server 10. This configuration is preferable because, depending on the group's configuration, the terminal device 30 can obtain benefit information related to benefits for group use.

[0200] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the group ID is a numbered ID that identifies both the group and the constituent devices of that group. The grouping signal distribution process shown in Figure 21 distributes the group ID as the device grouping signal if the device belongs to a group. If the device does not belong to a group, it distributes an individual ID 30a that identifies the device as the device grouping signal. When grouping is performed at the terminal device 30, group candidates are set and group IDs are issued according to the type of other device grouping signal obtained from other devices. With this configuration, more flexible grouping can be performed according to the type of grouping signal, such as setting up groups with individual devices, adding individual devices to a group, or setting up larger groups with other groups.

[0201] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when a component unit is removed from a group if a group ID of a predetermined strength or higher cannot be obtained within a predetermined time, a confirmation request to verify the existence of that component unit is sent to all components in the group. If no confirmation response is received from any of the components, the component unit is removed from the group. With this configuration, if the user of any component unit leaves the group physically, removal from the group can be efficiently performed via the group ID. Also, by sending a confirmation request to all components in the group to verify existence, if the user of a component unit does not intend to leave the group but has accidentally moved away, another user of a different component unit can notice this and send a confirmation response on their behalf. Thus, with the above configuration, the removal of a component unit from a group can be performed efficiently and flexibly.

[0202] Furthermore, in this embodiment, when one component is removed from a group, the group ID of that group is discarded. If there are other components in the group besides the original component, a new group ID is issued to identify the new group excluding the original component. This configuration allows for flexible group management; when a component leaves, the group can be dissolved or a new group can be created with the remaining components, depending on whether other components exist.

[0203] Furthermore, according to the server-side content distribution in this embodiment, as described above, group benefit information related to benefits for group use can be provided from the server 10 to the terminal device 30 along with the content information 20b. In other words, according to this embodiment, content information 20b can be distributed according to the grouping on the terminal device 30. In this respect as well, this embodiment relates to the free grouping of multiple terminal devices 30.

[0204] Furthermore, according to the server-side content distribution in this embodiment, the second terminal device 32 acquires additional information 111a along with the content information 20b. This additional information 111a allows the user of the second terminal device 32 to understand what kind of user the first terminal device 31 associated with the content information 20b is. It also allows the user to understand the extent to which that user uses the store SH in the content information 20b. The various circumstances understood from the additional information 111a then serve as useful information for the user of the second terminal device 32 to make informed decisions about which store to choose. Thus, this embodiment enables content distribution that is effective for store selection. In other words, this embodiment relates to content distribution that can be effectively used for store selection.

[0205] In this embodiment, when the server 10 acquires visit information of a visiting user from the store terminal device 20 of a specific store SH1, the stored contents of past user information 107a and store usage history information 108a are updated based on the visit information. With this configuration, the stored contents of user information 107a and store usage history information 108a are updated each time various users visit the specific store SH1, so content distribution that can be used more effectively for store selection can be provided.

[0206] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server 10 identifies the user of the first terminal device 31 based on the secondary content ID 101a, and generates additional information 111a related to that user. This generated additional information 111a is then sent to the second terminal device 32 along with the content information 20b. With this configuration, the content information 20b that the server 10 sends to the second terminal device 32 is accompanied by the additional information 111a related to the user of the first terminal device 31 that triggered the second terminal device 32 to acquire the content information 20b. This enables content distribution that can be used more effectively for selecting stores.

[0207] In this embodiment, the second terminal device 32 acquires the content ID distributed by broadcast from the first terminal device 31. Then, the content information 20b is accompanied by additional information 111a and sent from the server 10 to the second terminal device 32 by unicast. With this configuration, the information distributed by broadcast to an unspecified number of people from the first terminal device 31 is a secondary content ID 101a that does not have additional information 111a related to the individual user of the first terminal device 31. Since such additional information 111a is sent to the second terminal device 32 by a highly confidential unicast, this embodiment is suitable from the standpoint of protecting personal information.

[0208] Furthermore, in this embodiment, content acquisition on the terminal side allows additional information 111a, which serves as useful information for selecting a store, to be acquired by the second terminal device 32 along with the content information 20b. Thus, this embodiment enables the acquisition of content that is useful for selecting a store. In other words, the content acquisition on the terminal side in this embodiment relates to the distribution of content that can be effectively used for selecting a store.

[0209] Furthermore, according to the terminal-side content distribution in this embodiment, secondary content ID 101a associated with content information 20b can be distributed via the terminal device 30 held by a user who is moving around freely. Since the distribution of secondary content ID 101a is performed appropriately based on the user's location and time using distribution conditions acquired in advance from the server 10, highly effective content distribution can be achieved on the terminal side. Moreover, by using distribution conditions, content distribution can be performed with low power consumption without continuous distribution. Additionally, by acquiring content information 20b via secondary content ID 101a distributed from another device, highly effective content distribution can also be received. Thus, the terminal-side content distribution in this embodiment relates to highly effective content distribution.

[0210] In this embodiment, when the secondary content ID 101a is sent to the server 10, location / time information 113a representing both the location and time at which the secondary content ID 101a was acquired is attached and sent together. This configuration is preferable because it allows the server 10 to perform an effectiveness evaluation, such as determining at what location and time the content information 20b based on the secondary content ID 101a acquired on the terminal side was effectively utilized.

[0211] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the server 10 updates the distribution conditions based on the usage status of a specific store SH1 using location / time information 113a and content information 20b. Then, the secondary content ID 101a is distributed from the first terminal device 31 based on the distribution conditions updated by the server 10. This configuration is preferable because it allows the terminal to distribute the secondary content ID 101a based on distribution conditions with high accuracy regarding effectiveness.

[0212] Furthermore, according to the server-side content distribution in this embodiment, the server 10 sets distribution conditions for appropriate distribution at the first terminal device 31, which is the source of the secondary content ID 101a, and sends these conditions to the first terminal device 31. As a result, the first terminal device 31 appropriately distributes the secondary content ID 101a based on the distribution conditions. Consequently, the second terminal device 32 acquires content information 20b via such secondary content ID 101a, enabling highly effective content distribution. Thus, the server-side content distribution in this embodiment relates to highly effective content distribution.

[0213] In this embodiment, the server 10 updates the distribution conditions based on the location / time information 113a related to the acquisition of the secondary content ID 101a in the second terminal device 32 and the customer visit information of the second terminal device 32. With this configuration, the acquisition location and time of the secondary content ID 101a when the customer of the second terminal device 32 visits the store and the content information 20b is effectively utilized are reflected in the distribution conditions at any time, thereby enabling more effective content distribution.

[0214] Furthermore, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, and includes other configurations that can achieve the objectives of the present invention, as well as the following modifications.

[0215] For example, in the embodiment described above, a configuration is illustrated in which the first terminal device 31 distributes a secondary content ID 101a obtained from the server 10, starting from a primary content ID 20a distributed by the store terminal device 20. However, the starting point for obtaining secondary content identification information in the first terminal device is not limited to primary content identification information from the store terminal device. For example, the distribution of primary content identification information by the store terminal device may not be performed, and secondary content identification information may be sent to the first terminal device based on visit information when a user of the first terminal device randomly visits the store, or when the number of visits exceeds a predetermined number. Furthermore, the starting point may be the use of a coupon obtained from a website, etc., instead of the primary content ID 20a obtained from the store terminal device. In other words, the content information indicated by the primary content ID and the secondary content ID does not have to be the same.

[0216] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, individual ID 30a and group ID are given as examples of grouping signals in grouping. However, the grouping signals are not limited to these, and any signal that can be used for grouping and identifies the machine is acceptable, regardless of its specific form.

[0217] Furthermore, the above-described embodiment illustrates a form in which the approval response in grouping is made in response to user operation on the terminal device 30. Also, the form in which the confirmation request for exclusion from a group and the confirmation response thereto are made in response to user operation on the terminal device 30 is illustrated. However, these processes are not limited to those performed in response to user operation; they may also be performed automatically on the terminal device 30.

[0218] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, a configuration is shown in which group information sent from the terminal device 30 to the server 10 in order to receive group benefit information at the terminal device 30 is sent. However, the destination of the group information is not limited to the server; it may also be a store terminal device. In that case, the group information may be sent from the store terminal device to the server.

[0219] Furthermore, in the embodiments described above, additional information 111a indicating gender, age group, and number of visits is given as an example of additional information attached to content information 20b, but the additional information is not limited to this. The specific content of the additional information is not limited as long as it is based on at least one of user information and store usage history information.

[0220] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the distribution conditions for the secondary content ID 101a include conditions relating to both the distribution area 112a and the distribution time 112b. However, the distribution conditions are not limited to these, and any conditions relating to at least one of the distribution area and the distribution time are sufficient. Also, setting distribution conditions is not mandatory, and it is not necessary to set any distribution conditions at all. In addition, the first terminal may be configured to allow arbitrary setting or modification of the distribution conditions.

[0221] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, location / time information 113a relating to both location and time is exemplified as location / time information. However, the location / time information is not limited to this, and any information representing at least one of location and time is sufficient.

[0222] Furthermore, the store terminal device may be, for example, the beacon itself, or it may include a device that connects the beacon to a terminal or server that controls the beacon.

[0223] Furthermore, although the above-described embodiment was explained as referring to the same store (same store terminal device), it is not limited to the same store if the same content information, such as coupons, can be used for chain stores or affiliated stores, for example.

[0224] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the broadcast distribution of the secondary content ID is determined based on distribution conditions, but this can also be controlled by, for example, a distribution ON / OFF switch provided in the distribution application. In this case, a timer function may be provided that allows the time to be arbitrarily set, such as distributing for one hour after turning ON and then turning OFF.

[0225] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the benefits are coupons or points related to the store, but coupons, points, or services that are not directly related to the store may also be offered.

[0226] Furthermore, regarding distribution conditions, it may be possible to allow users to arbitrarily set them if they wish to expand the distribution area or change the effective area or time for events, etc. In that case, the effectiveness of distribution based on the settings can be checked from the historical information.

[0227] Furthermore, regarding updates to the distribution area, it may be possible to periodically expand the area outward by a predetermined distance, or, if a highly effective area is located at the edge of the distribution area, to expand that part of the area outward as well. By repeatedly expanding and narrowing the area, it becomes possible to determine a distribution area that is more appropriate to the highly effective area.

[0228] Furthermore, it is possible to pre-set limits on the number of coupons distributed or used as secondary content. In this case, the server counts the number of distributed or used coupons from the history information, and when the limit is reached, it sends information to the first terminal device to stop distribution. Alternatively, the distribution stop information may be sent in response to an inquiry from the first terminal device regarding updates to the distribution conditions. When a content request is made from the second terminal device while the limit has been reached, information notifying the system that the limit has been reached is sent, and the second terminal device deletes the corresponding content ID upon receiving this information.

[0229] Furthermore, the division of functions between the server and terminal device described in the above-mentioned embodiment is just one example, and it is possible to partially or entirely replace specific functions based on common technical knowledge. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0230] 1. Information distribution system 10 servers 20 Store terminal devices 20a Primary Content ID 20b Content Information 30 Terminal devices 30a Individual ID 31. First Terminal Device 32. Second Terminal Device 100 Server-side content distribution device 101,322 Secondary Content ID Sending Department 101a Secondary Content ID 102 Secondary Content Delivery Department 103 Special Offer Delivery Department 104 Primary Content Delivery Department 105 Decision Processing Unit 106 Group Benefit Generation Department 107 User Information Storage Unit 107a User Information 108 Store usage history storage unit 108a Store usage history information 108b Store Information 108c Basic information 108d Update Information 109 Information Memory 110 Update Processing Unit 111 Additional Information Generation Unit 111a Additional Information 112 Condition Setting Section Distribution area 112a, 112a-2, 112a-3 112a-1 Circular area 112b Delivery time 112b-1 Daytime streaming time 112b-2 Nighttime distribution time 112c Effectiveness 113 Position / time acquisition section 113a Location / time information 114 Customer Information Acquisition Department 114a Store Visit Information 201 Primary Content ID Sending Department 202 Customer Visit Information Generation Department 203 Customer Information Sending Department 310 Terminal-side content distribution device 311 Primary Content Acquisition Unit 312 Secondary Content ID Acquisition Section 313 Secondary Content ID Distribution Department 314,323,337 Secondary Content Acquisition Section 320 Content Acquisition Device 321 Secondary Content ID Acquisition Section 322 Secondary Content ID Sending Department 330 Grouping device 331 Grouping Signal Distribution Unit 332 Group Candidate Setting Section 333 Group ID Issuance Department 334 Received data memory 335 Group Memory 336 Approval Reply Section 338 Group Exclusion Settings Section 339 Confirmation Reply Section SH Store SH1 Select Stores

Claims

1. On the computer, A grouping signal distribution process that broadcasts the self-grouping signal that can be used for grouping with other devices, When a grouping signal is obtained from another device, a group candidate setting process is performed to set that other device as a group candidate, The process involves sending a group approval request to the other machines that have become candidates for the group, issuing group identification information to the other machines that have given approval, and identifying the group and the machines that make up the group. An approval response process that, upon receiving the group approval request from the aforementioned other device, returns the approval response, Make it run, The grouping signal distribution process is a process that, if the machine belongs to the group, distributes group identification information that identifies the group as the machine grouping signal, and if the machine does not belong to the group, distributes individual identification information that identifies the machine as the machine grouping signal. The group candidate setting process and the issuance process are processes that set the group candidates and issue the group identification information according to the type of the other-device grouping signal obtained from the other device. A grouping program characterized by the following features.

2. When the computer acquires content identification information related to a specific store, the group The group information indicating that it constitutes the group is sent to the store terminal or server of the specified store. , content information of the aforementioned specific store and benefits related to the use of the aforementioned specific store within the aforementioned group. This is characterized by further executing a content acquisition process to obtain bonus information related to the bonus information. The grouping program according to claim 1.

3. To the aforementioned computer, If the group identification information cannot be obtained from one of the components of the group within a predetermined time, a confirmation request to confirm the existence of that component is sent to all components of the group, and if no confirmation response is received from any of the components, a group exclusion setting process is performed to remove the component from the group. When the confirmation request is received from any of the components of the group, a confirmation response process is performed to return the confirmation response, The grouping program according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that it further performs the following.

4. The grouping program according to claim 3, characterized in that the issuance process is a process in which, when one of the components is excluded from the group in the group exclusion setting process, the group identification information of the said group is discarded, and if there are other components in the said group besides the said unit, new group identification information is issued to identify the new group excluding the one component.

5. A storage medium characterized by storing a grouping program according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. A grouping method performed by a grouping device, A grouping signal distribution process that broadcasts a grouping signal of the own machine that can be used for grouping with other machines, When a grouping signal is obtained from another machine, a group candidate setting process is performed to set that other machine as a group candidate, A processing step which involves sending a group approval request to the other machines that have become candidates for the group, and issuing group identification information to the other machines that have given approval, which identifies the group and identifies the machines that make up the group, An approval response processing step which, upon receiving the group approval request from the aforementioned other machine, returns the approval response, Includes, The grouping signal distribution processing step is a process that, if the machine belongs to the group, distributes group identification information that identifies the group as the machine grouping signal, and if the machine does not belong to the group, distributes individual identification information that identifies the machine as the machine grouping signal. The group candidate setting process and the issuance process are processing steps that set the group candidates and issue the group identification information according to the type of the other-device grouping signal obtained from the other device. A grouping method characterized by the following:

7. A grouping signal distribution processing unit that broadcasts its own grouping signal, which can be used for grouping with other units, When a grouping signal is obtained from another device, a group candidate setting processing unit sets that other device as a group candidate, An issuing processing unit sends a group approval request to the other machines that have become candidates for the group, and issues group identification information to the other machines that have given approval, which identifies the group and identifies the machines that make up the group. An approval response processing unit that, upon receiving the group approval request from the aforementioned other machine, returns the approval response, Equipped with, The grouping signal distribution processing unit distributes group identification information identifying the group as the self-unit grouping signal if the self-unit belongs to the group, and distributes individual identification information identifying the self-unit as the self-unit grouping signal if the self-unit does not belong to the group. The group candidate setting processing unit and the issuance processing unit set the group candidates and issue the group identification information according to the type of grouping signal from the other machine obtained from the other machine. A grouping device characterized by the following features.

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